Starting Right

Have you ever considered that sometimes our most profound spiritual insights come from the most unexpected sources? In this episode of Starting Right, we explore a touching story of a young father and his four-year-old son at bedtime prayers. When the little boy accidentally reversed the traditional bedtime prayer to say "If I should wake before I die," what seemed like a mistake revealed a powerful truth: God's desire isn't merely for us to make it to heaven someday—it's for us to truly live before we die.
This simple mix-up illuminates the vast difference between merely surviving an...

What happens when ordinary people choose extraordinary compassion? Today's episode tells the deeply moving story of Billy, a six-year-old boy with terminal leukemia whose simple wish to become a fireman triggered an unexpected chain of events.
When a heartbroken mother in Phoenix approached her local fire department asking if her dying son could simply ride around the block in a fire engine, Fireman Bob's response changed everything: "We can do better than that." What followed wasn't just the fulfillment of a child's dream but a profound demonstration of humanity at its finest. 
 Proverbs 3:27 tells us: "Never walk aw...

Kay Arthur's powerful story from the streets of Jerusalem introduces us to a beggar who deliberately maintained his infected leg wound to receive charity from tourists. Despite having access to medical care, he chose to remain unwell because he had built his entire livelihood around his injury. This modern parallel to the biblical account in John 5 – where Jesus encounters a man who had been ill for 38 years – raises a profound question for all of us.
Jesus asked the man beside the pool of Bethesda if he wanted to be made well, he presented him with a choice: continue in f...

Have you ever wondered what happens when a powerful Mexican fighting bull meets a stubborn South Dakota buffalo? The answer holds a surprising spiritual lesson that might just transform how you face today's challenges.

Danny Mac brings us a fascinating historical account from 1907, when cattle rancher Scotty Phillip bet that his buffalo could defeat the supposedly unbeatable fighting bulls of Juarez, Mexico. The story of eight-year-old buffalo Pierre's showdown in the arena unfolds with unexpected turns and comic moments that captivate the imagination. But beneath this entertaining tale lies a profound spiritual truth about standing firm when...

Have you ever made a mistake so embarrassing you wanted to hide forever? The story of Roy Regals might just give you the courage to face your second half.
During the 1929 Rose Bowl, Roy Regals became infamous for scooping up a fumble and running the wrong way down the field. Stopped just shy of scoring for the opposing team, he was devastated. At halftime, overcome with shame, he told his coach he couldn't possibly return to the field. "I've ruined you, I've ruined myself, I've ruined the University of California," he lamented. His coach's response changed everything: "Roy...

What happens when a simple thank-you note travels far beyond its intended recipient? Today's episode explores the remarkable ripple effect of gratitude through the story of Emerson Weber, a young letter writer who changed hundreds of lives with a single note of appreciation to her mail carrier.
 I share how Emerson's thank-you letter to her postal worker Doug sparked an unexpected chain reaction. After being published in the USPS internal newsletter, her message resonated so deeply that over 200 postal workers from across the western United States sent heartfelt responses. These weren't just polite acknowledgments—they were deeply human exc...

Do you ever feel like your life lacks significance? Like you're just a small note in a grand symphony that no one would notice if it went missing? Today's episode challenges that notion with a powerful story about a piccolo player in Michael Costa's London Philharmonic Orchestra who thought his contribution didn't matter—until the moment he stopped playing and the renowned conductor immediately halted everything, asking "Where's the piccolo?"
This compelling story perfectly illustrates the biblical truth found in 1 Corinthians 12, where Paul explains how every part of the body has essential significance, regardless of its size or vi...

Have you ever wondered if the Bible's historical accounts are actually true? Today's episode examines compelling archaeological evidence that validates Scripture's accuracy through an unexpected source.
The discovery of a tiny clay seal in 1986 near Jerusalem's ancient temple site revealed something remarkable. This seal, belonging to a man named Elishama who served as a secretary in the king's palace around 600 BC, perfectly matches the biblical record found in Jeremiah 36. Though Elishama appears just once in Scripture, this archaeological find confirms both his existence and his exact role, demonstrating the Bible's historical precision even in its smallest details.
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Have you ever found yourself on your knees, completely out of options, crying out to heaven? Today's episode explores the raw power of desperate prayer through Jamie McDonald's moving song "Desperate."
The lyrics of "Desperate" emerged from another valley in Jamie's life—returning to Nashville after caring for her sick father, carrying immense grief and heartache. "Oh God, I'm desperate, down on my knees. Send help from heaven, because that's what I need," she sings, capturing the universal experience of reaching the end of ourselves. Jamie's powerful testimony reminds us that we can approach God boldly with our ne...

What happens when we faithfully plant seeds of God's truth in the hearts of our children? The answer might surprise and delight you.
The wisdom of Proverbs 22:6 reminds us to "train up a child in the way he should go," promising that these early teachings create lasting foundations. Many of us can still recall Bible verses and church songs from our childhood years, testimonies to the enduring power of early spiritual formation. These seeds of truth often remain dormant during seasons of wandering but can spring to life when most needed.
The highlight of today's episode comes...

Have you ever experienced a moment where divine timing seemed too perfect to be coincidence? This episode tells the trie story of two Florida teens who experienced exactly that kind of extraordinary intervention.
Tyler Smith and Heather Brown, high school students from Christ Church Academy, found themselves in a life-threatening situation when strong currents pulled them away from shore during an attempted swim to a nearby island. As they drifted further into the Atlantic, their situation grew increasingly desperate. Linking arms in the water, they turned to prayer as their final hope. 
This powerful story serves as t...

What if a blueprint for dismantling democracy had been hiding in plain sight since 1954? Judge Keith Elber's discovery of exactly that in his college political science textbook forms the centerpiece of today's compelling episode.
When Judge Elber first read about the nine steps to overthrow democracy as a law student at Napa College, he dismissed it as an impossible nightmare scenario. Yet nearly seven decades later, he felt compelled to sound the alarm when he recognized these same patterns unfolding in America. This isn't conspiracy theory—Snopes verified the judge's account, making his warning all the more sobering.

What does true character look like when victory is within reach? Spanish athlete Ivan Anaya answers this question through an extraordinary act of sportsmanship that challenges our understanding of winning and integrity.
When Kenyan Olympic bronze medalist Abel Mutai mistakenly stopped running 10 meters before the finish line during a 2012 cross-country race, second-place runner Anaya had a choice. Rather than seizing an easy victory, he guided his confused competitor to the actual finish line, ensuring Mutai crossed first. "I didn't deserve to win," Anaya later explained. "He was the rightful winner." While his own coach expressed disappointment at the...

Join me, Danny Mac, for this Monday edition of Starting Right as we dive into three powerful names of God from the Old Testament that continue to bring comfort, strength, and direction to believers worldwide. Inspired by Vicki Yohe's beautiful worship song "Because of Who You Are," we unpack how these divine names first appeared in pivotal biblical moments: Abraham's mountain-top test of faith, Israel's battle against the Amalekites, and Gideon's unlikely commissioning. Far from being ancient theological concepts, these names reveal profound truths about God's character and His promises that remain relevant today.
 "These names are not j...

Ever had that moment when you walk into a room and conversations suddenly stop? That feeling of being unwanted or disrespected cuts deep into our souls. From high school cliques to professional settings, most of us carry scars from times we've been made to feel worthless or unwanted by others.
These painful experiences shape how we view ourselves, especially when the rejection comes from someone we once respected. 
We need ton remember that we are created in God's image, giving us inherent value no matter how others treat us. When we understand who we are in Christ, w...

What happens to the pieces that no one wants? The scraps that others discard as worthless? My son Jon has taught me a powerful lesson through his woodworking that speaks directly to the heart of anyone who's ever felt broken beyond repair.
Despite soaring lumber prices, Jon creates beautiful furniture and art pieces using what others consider garbage – twisted, warped, or broken wood destined for the burn pile. With patience and vision, he strips away damaged layers to reveal pristine beauty beneath. "There isn't any piece of wood that is completely useless," he discovered. Each piece, no matter ho...

Have you ever prayed for something but secretly doubted it would happen? Today's episode explores the profound difference between casual hoping and genuine biblical expectation through the compelling story of a drought-stricken town and an 11-year-old girl's extraordinary demonstration of faith.
This simple yet powerful story illuminates the biblical truth found in Hebrews 11:1, where we discover that faith shows the reality of what we expect, not just what we casually hope might happen. I unpack how replacing our modern understanding of "hope" with biblical "expectation" transforms our prayer life and spiritual resilience. Whether you're facing financial mountains, relationship...

What do you do when disaster strikes? In today's episode, we explore Thomas Edison's remarkable response to catastrophe when a spectacular fire destroyed over half his laboratory complex in 1914.  Rather than mourning his losses, he gathered his employees the next morning and declared, "We're rebuilding." His perspective? "Thank goodness, our mistakes are burned up. Now we can start again fresh."
What would it look like if we could face our worst circumstances with unwavering faith? I share the incredible testimony of a woman diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer who, instead of surrendering to fear, surrounded herself with God's p...

Ever notice how certain worship songs seem to find you exactly when you need them most? That's what happened this weekend with "Take You at Your Word" by Ben Hastings and Cody Carnes. Despite hearing it countless times before, something about this particular moment made its message of unwavering trust in God's promises resonate more deeply than ever.
As Cody Carnes beautifully expressed, "We trust God regardless of circumstances. He's been there before and has made good on His promises. We have faith that He will do it again." When we choose to take God at His word—be...

Have you ever wondered where to find strength when your world collapses? In today's powerful episode, we explore an extraordinary testimony from Darlene Czech, former worship leader at Hillsong Church, that reveals the supernatural healing power of worship during life's most devastating moments.
Darlene's story takes us to that heart-wrenching day when a routine 12-week pregnancy checkup turned into unimaginable grief. Driving home alone after learning her baby had died, she heard the Holy Spirit whisper a seemingly impossible instruction: "sing." What happened next demonstrates how obedience in our darkest hours can open doorways to divine comfort that...

Ever noticed how what we expect tends to be exactly what we find? Take the father diving in Bora Bora who, despite swimming among reef sharks, experienced beauty rather than fear because of his perspective. This powerful principle lies at the heart of today's reflection.
Joy isn't the absence of problems—it's maintaining the right mindset regardless of circumstances. As Psalm 126:3 reminds us, "The Lord has done great things for us and we are filled with joy." Even through life's most difficult moments, God's peace and joy remain available to us. The question becomes: what are we focused on...

Ever wondered what would happen if your pet suddenly started talking back to you? In the Bible, one man found out—and surprisingly, wasn't even shocked by it.
Welcome to a fascinating journey through one of Scripture's most unusual encounters: Balaam and his talking donkey. This curious tale from Numbers 22 reveals powerful truths about listening to God's direction that remain startlingly relevant today. As we unpack this ancient story, we discover a prophet who could hear God's voice but struggled to follow divine guidance when money and prestige entered the picture.
How might God be trying to ge...

Have you ever felt overlooked or underestimated because of your position? Today's episode uncovers a powerful leadership lesson from one of the Bible's most overlooked characters.
Meet the unnamed Israeli servant girl from 2 Kings 5 - captured, enslaved, and yet remarkably influential. Despite her circumstances, this young slave demonstrated that leadership isn't about position but influence. When her master Naaman, a powerful Syrian commander, suffered from leprosy, she boldly suggested he visit Israel's prophet for healing. That simple act of courage changed history.
Today's episode challenges us to develop influence through integrity, regardless of our position. Whether you're...

Have you ever considered how your response to life's little imperfections affects those around you? Today's episode of Starting Right unpacks a heartwarming story about burnt toast that carries profound wisdom about compassion, marriage, and thoughtful communication.
We feature a story from Kevin Arthur, who witnessed his father's remarkable response to his mother's burnt toast dinner after a difficult day. 
Whether you're navigating family relationships, workplace dynamics, or everyday interactions, this five-minute devotional provides practical wisdom for showing Christ-like compassion when it matters most. Listen in, be encouraged, and discover how eating "burnt toast" without complaint might b...

What happens when a young boy faces a challenge without his father's help? In this heartwarming episode, we explore the remarkable wisdom of eight-year-old Gilbert, who teaches us all a profound lesson about prayer, resilience, and finding strength in vulnerability.
This powerful story reminds us that true victory isn't always about winning. Sometimes it's about having the courage to show up, do your best with what you have, and trust God for the strength to handle the results with dignity. 

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What will your family remember about you when you're gone? Will they recall someone obsessed with turning off lights and maintaining the lawn, or will they reminisce about a person who made life wonderfully fun? This thought-provoking question emerges from today's reflection on the power of creating meaningful family memories.
I share the story of  a father who went to extraordinary lengths to surprise his family during their cross-country camping trip. By hitchhiking on the side of the road at the Great Divide, knowing exactly when his family would drive by, he created an unforgettable moment of joy a...

The boulder in your path might be hiding a treasure underneath. In this thought-provoking episode, Danny Mac shares a timeless parable about a curious king who placed a massive rock in the main road to his kingdom. While wealthy merchants and wise men simply walked around the obstacle, complaining loudly about the inconvenience, one humble peasant chose a different approach. Through persistent effort, he removed the boulder—and discovered a purse of gold coins left as a reward by the watching king.
This simple story brilliantly illuminates how we typically respond to life's challenges. Do we complain about ou...

Have you ever considered that your biggest annoyances might actually be blessings in disguise? Today's episode uncovers the remarkable true story of Corrie Ten Boom and her sister Betsy, whose experience in a Nazi concentration camp reveals an extraordinary lesson about gratitude.
When the Ten Boom family was arrested in 1944 for hiding Jews in Amsterdam, sisters Corrie and Betsy found themselves in the horrific conditions of Ravensbrück. Facing starvation, overcrowding, and a terrible flea infestation, Betsy challenged her sister to practice gratitude for everything—even the fleas. Corrie initially resisted this seemingly impossible task. How could anyone be...

What does it truly mean to be part of building God's kingdom? The answer might surprise you. This episode challenges the common misconception that God sits on His throne magically answering prayers at our demand. Instead, we explore how God works through people—His people—to accomplish His purposes.
The heart of today's message centers on the extraordinary life of R.G. LeTourneau, a 14-year-old school dropout who became one of history's most prolific inventors. With over 300 inventions including the bulldozer, scrapers, and the electric wheel, LeTourneau revolutionized construction worldwide. But what made him truly remarkable wasn't his mech...

Dreams can die in the desert. That's the powerful lesson from Kermit the Frog's journey in the original 1979 Muppet Movie—and it might just be the message you need to hear today.
Remember when Kermit's Studebaker broke down in the middle of nowhere? His friends were counting on him, his dream seemed impossible, and quitting felt like the only sensible option. That moment of crisis—when Kermit's conscience appeared to remind him of his purpose—mirrors our spiritual journeys with striking clarity. We all face desert moments when our God-given dreams feel too difficult to pursue.
What makes...

Ever noticed how your exhausted body betrays you the moment your head hits the pillow? Danny Mac tackles this universal frustration in today's episode, offering both spiritual wisdom and practical advice for those nights when your mind races at 100 miles per hour despite your physical fatigue.
Drawing from 2 Corinthians 10:5, Danny unpacks what it truly means to "take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ." With a vivid analogy of calf roping at a rodeo, he illustrates how we can lasso our runaway thoughts—those anxious worries about tomorrow's challenges or unfinished business that seem to accelerate ju...

Discover the unexpected power of seven simple words that sparked a revival at summer camp. This episode shares an unforgettable story from youth ministry legend Tony Campolo about Billy, a boy with cerebral palsy who became the target of merciless bullying at junior high camp. When Billy was mockingly chosen to lead devotions, something extraordinary happened that left hardened hearts broken open and changed lives forever.
This powerful testimony challenges us to examine our own hesitations in sharing faith. How often do we stay silent, fearing ridicule or judgment? God isn't looking for polished performers but authentic hearts...

Have you ever witnessed a classroom lesson so powerful it left students in tears? Today's episode of Starting Right shares a remarkable story that will transform how you understand sacrifice and grace.
Danny Mac tells "The Parable of the Donuts," where a religion professor orchestrates an unforgettable demonstration. Steve, a freshman football player, agrees to perform push-ups so his classmates can enjoy donuts. As each student receives their treat, Steve must complete ten push-ups—regardless of whether students want the donut or not. 
This powerful illustration challenges us to recognize the tremendous gift we've been offered and the...

Sacred melodies possess a remarkable ability to transcend time, speaking to our hearts across centuries. In today's five-minute devotional, we uncover the fascinating story behind the beloved hymn "Nearer My God to Thee," written by Sarah Adams in 1841—a journey that takes us from London's theatrical stage to the depths of the Atlantic Ocean.
The hymn's journey through history takes unexpected turns—from allegedly being played as the Titanic slipped beneath the waves to Ted Turner commissioning a special recording for CNN to broadcast when "the end of the world is confirmed." Yet beyond these cultural touchpoints lies the...

Ever find yourself drowning in worry, doubt, or fear? You're not alone. Today's episode dives into the powerful antidote God has already provided us through His promises.
We explore the profound message behind "Take You at Your Word," a worship song by Ben Hastings and Cody Carnes that serves as a beautiful reminder of God's faithfulness. As Cody himself puts it, "We trust God regardless of circumstances. He's been there before and has made good on His promises. We have faith that He will do it again."
Whether you're facing impossible circumstances or simply need a spiritual...

Ever wonder what makes the Bible such a remarkable book beyond its spiritual significance? Today's episode uncovers ten fascinating facts about Scripture that highlight its extraordinary nature as a historical and literary achievement. From its impressive scale (600,000-800,000 words depending on translation) to its diverse authorship (over 40 writers from kings to farmers), the Bible's composition spans 1,500 years across three continents and three languages. 
Whether you're a lifelong Bible reader or simply curious about this influential text, today's episode offers a fresh perspective on Scripture's enduring relevance. Join me every weekday morning for five minutes of inspiration and insight t...

Have you ever wondered how God works through your difficult times? The ancient process of silver refinement offers a profound spiritual metaphor that illuminates God's purpose in our trials.
As Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, "We are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works." The refining process, though often painful, prepares us for these divine purposes. Whatever challenges you're facing today, remember they aren't random or meaningless. God is attentively watching, removing what doesn't belong, and shaping you into a vessel that clearly reflects His character to a world desperately in need of seeing the genuine article.<...

What happens when every external support is stripped away, and all you have left are the resources stored in your mind and heart? Danny Mac explores this profound question through the remarkable story of Major Daniel Whittle, a Vietnam War pilot whose life was literally saved by the Bible verses and hymns he had memorized as a child.
The turning point came during a violent monsoon rainstorm when the entire prison was plunged into darkness. As thunder crashed and rain pounded the building, Whittle suddenly recalled his 37th hymn—"Showers of Blessing," based on Ezekiel 34:26. The divine timing of...

Have you ever felt so discouraged that even getting out of bed seemed impossible? We all face seasons when disappointment and setbacks crush our spirits. Today's devotional explores how to move forward when everything inside you wants to give up.
The remarkable story of Nehemiah offers a powerful blueprint for battling discouragement. As a Jewish exile serving in the Persian king's court, Nehemiah learned his homeland lay in ruins—Jerusalem's walls destroyed and his people demoralized. Instead of accepting this reality, he embarked on what seemed impossible: rebuilding both the physical walls and the broken spirit of a na...

Have you ever wondered about the stories behind the hymns we've sung for generations? Today, we uncover the fascinating and unlikely origin of "Oh How I Love Jesus," a beloved hymn with a surprisingly divided history.
What many don't realize is that Whitefield originally wrote nine verses, though most hymnals only include four. The five forgotten verses contain some of the most beautiful imagery in the hymn, speaking of God's guidance through darksome paths, His comfort in our deepest sorrows, and the promise of joining "the blood-bought throng" in heaven. These lost lyrics enrich our understanding of the...