Starting Right

Have you ever considered the vast potential that remains untapped within you? Today's episode dives into the astonishing reality that most people only utilize 10-30% of their capabilities—leaving a staggering 70% of God-given potential waiting to be discovered.
What untapped potential is waiting to be unleashed in your life? Take five minutes each morning with us and discover how to live more fully into the person God designed you to be.

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Have you ever rushed past something extraordinary without noticing? That's exactly what happened when Joshua Bell, one of the world's greatest violinists, played his $3.5 million Stradivarius in a Washington DC metro station during rush hour. Out of 1,100 commuters, only six stopped to listen. The children noticed—they tried to stop—but parents hurried them along, focused on schedules and destinations rather than the masterful performance unfolding before them.
This fascinating social experiment raises profound questions about our perception. If we can't pause to appreciate world-class music when it's right in front of us, what else are we missing? Toda...

What happens when someone blessed with every advantage—looks, privilege, and opportunity—loses their way because of vanity and poor character? The biblical story of Absalom serves as a powerful warning across the centuries.
Through this compelling narrative, we uncover three crucial life lessons: the danger of letting conceit and appearance mask a corrupt heart, the devastating consequences of surrounding ourselves with poor advisors who tell us what we want to hear rather than what we need to hear, and the painful reality of parental blindness that prevents us from seeing our children's true character. David's inability to reco...

What does unconditional love look like in the face of unimaginable suffering? The answer arrives in the form of a father's letter that will break your heart and rebuild it in the same reading.
The letter reveals something profound about love's true nature. "Bristol, you taught me how to love," the father writes, acknowledging that he learned to love her through every difficulty – when she could no longer speak, when her body contorted, when she needed diapers for ten years. He loved her "when I was close to God and when He seemed far away, when I was fu...

Ever wonder why some people find joy in the most challenging circumstances while others struggle to see blessings even in abundance? Today's episode explores the powerful connection between our expectations and our experiences.
Today I remind us all that while painful circumstances are inevitable in our lives, God l can and wants to help us experience His peace even on the midst of those difficulties.
Whether you're facing challenges at work, in relationships, or in your spiritual journey, this five-minute devotional offers valuable perspective on retraining your mind to expect good things from God. When we focus...

Ever wonder how childhood rebellion transforms into steadfast faith? The journey of Billy Graham offers a powerful dose of hope for anyone concerned about raising faithful children in today's challenging world.
As he was growing up, young William Franklin Graham was just a baseball-obsessed boy who despised everything about church. He couldn't stand the stillness required during services, hated missing baseball games with friends, and openly mocked preachers at summer Bible camp. In fact, young Will frequently declared there were two professions he would absolutely never pursue – preacher and mortician – as both seemed too focused on the afterlife when...

Have you ever considered that today wasn't randomly assembled but specifically crafted for you? In this refreshing five-minute reflection, we explore the powerful truth behind Psalm 118:24 - "This is the day that the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it."

The journey begins with some much-needed laughter as we share hilariously misguided questions that real lawyers have asked in courtrooms.  These genuine courtroom bloopers remind us not to take ourselves too seriously. 
But beneath the humor lies a profound message about joy that transcends circumstances. When the psalmist declares "This is the da...

What does it mean to truly forgive? Today's episode takes us to the heart of one of the most powerful examples of forgiveness in recent memory - the response of the Amish community to the 2006 Nickel Mines schoolhouse shooting.
When Charles Roberts walked into an Amish schoolhouse and fatally shot five young girls before taking his own life, the world expected outrage. Instead, within hours, an Amish man visited the gunman's mother with an astonishing message: "We do not see you as enemies. We see you as parents grieving the loss of your child too." As the story...

What invisible thread connects Canada's first schoolteacher, the author of a world-famous hymn, and our first Prime Minister? Faith—the golden strand woven throughout Canadian history that's often overlooked during national celebrations.
Today's special Canada Day episode takes us on a journey through "Canada Portraits of Faith," a collection of 52 remarkable individuals whose spiritual convictions shaped our nation in profound ways.  But the episode also delivers a gentle challenge: not to become a "land of forgetfulness" where conversations about righteousness vanish. Drawing from Matthew 5:13, we're reminded that today's citizens are called to be "salt of the earth," preserving wha...

What happens when a pandemic and personal tragedy force musicians to question everything about their calling? For the Ward brothers of Consumed by Fire, these challenges led to a profound spiritual awakening captured in their song "First Things First."
The song draws inspiration from Revelation 2:4-5, which speaks of returning to our first love and doing the works we did at first. As the brothers discovered, this isn't about religious rules but about relationship—specifically, prioritizing our connection with God above everything else competing for our attention. The lyrics powerfully remind us: "Your kingdom's all I want to se...

Feeling drained by the demands of daily life? You're not alone. Even the strongest spiritual warriors experience moments of complete exhaustion.
In this powerful morning reflection, we explore the surprising story of the prophet Elijah's breakdown after his greatest spiritual victory. Despite witnessing God send fire from heaven and defeat 450 prophets of Baal, Elijah finds himself running for his life, collapsing under a tree, and asking God to let him die. This dramatic contrast between triumph and despair reveals profound truths about human resilience and divine restoration.
Take five minutes today to reset your perspective and discover...

Have you ever considered how a few casual words shared behind someone's back could potentially destroy their reputation, relationships, or even their life? Today's episode tackles what has sadly become "America's new favourite pastime" and how we can counter it.

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What would drive someone to chase a lion into a pit on a snowy day? Courage, desperation, or divine purpose? In this episode of Starting Right, we explore the fascinating biblical account of Benaiah, a valiant warrior who did exactly that—and how his story challenges our approach to risk, fear, and opportunity.
Today's episode highlights numerous biblical risk-takers who changed history by stepping out in faith. We share the compelling "Lion Chaser's Manifesto" that challenges listeners to "quit living as if the purpose of life is to arrive safely at death" and instead pursue God-given passions with bo...

What does peace really mean to you? Is it a serene lake with calm waters, or something deeper that persists even in life's storms? This episode tackles one of humanity's most universal desires – peace – while challenging our conventional understanding of it.
As we face today's inevitable challenges, remember that God offers a peace that transcends understanding – not by eliminating your problems, but by providing stillness within them. Take five minutes with this devotional to reframe your perspective and discover how to find genuine peace in whatever situations you're facing today. Ask God for this peace in your chaos, and ex...

Have you ever wondered about the power of remembrance in your spiritual journey? Today's devotional explores the fascinating biblical account of Joshua and the twelve memorial stones taken from the Jordan River.  God specifically commanded that twelve stones be gathered from where the priests' feet stood in the middle of the Jordan. These weren't just souvenirs—they were intentional markers designed to prompt questions from future generations. "When your children ask what these stones mean," God told them, the stories of divine faithfulness would be passed down.
 Similarly, each of us has experienced divine interventions—moments of healing, provis...

Have you ever done something so embarrassing you wanted to crawl under a rock and disappear? That moment when you realize what you've said or done, and desperately wish you could take it back or erase everyone's memory? Danny Mac tackles this universal human experience with warmth, humor, and spiritual insight.
Whether you're currently reeling from a recent embarrassing moment or simply preparing for the inevitable next one, this five-minute devotional offers the reassurance that God is never embarrassed by us, never rejects us, and always stands ready to comfort us when we most want to hide. Join...

What makes a true champion? Beyond the trophies and accolades lies something far more powerful – the ability to transform lives through love, faith, and unwavering principles.
Today we explore the extraordinary legacy of John Wooden, whose name towers above all others in college basketball history. What makes Wooden's story particularly compelling is how he demonstrated truth through actions before speaking it with words. His  example challenges us to become people who show God's love in tangible ways that impact those around us. 

How might our influence grow if people saw truth lived out in our lives befo...

What hidden talents are lying dormant within you? Uncle Gene's remarkable story might just inspire you to find out. At 86 years old and battling cancer for over a decade, Gene decided it was time to learn to read music and expand his trumpet-playing abilities beyond the limited songs he knew from his army days."If I don't start now," Gene reasoned, "a year from now I'll be 87 and I still won't know how to read music.".

No matter your age or circumstances, God has placed abilities within you that remain untapped—gifts that can bring joy not on...

Have you ever missed an important message because you weren't really listening? Today's episode of Starting Right with Danny Mac explores the lost art of truly hearing what's being communicated around us through a fascinating historical tale.

The episode delves into our modern listening challenges, highlighting research that shows most people are poor listeners who only hear what they want when they want it. Between constant digital distractions, environmental noise, and our own preoccupations, critical messages often go "in one ear and out the other." Danny connects this everyday challenge to spiritual wisdom from Proverbs 3:6: "Listen for...

Gospel legend CeCe Winans breathes new life into Bethel Music's beloved worship anthem "Goodness of God" in this soul-stirring Music Monday episode. When life takes detours through valleys of difficulty, pain, and uncertainty, it's natural to question where God's goodness can be found. The profound truth explored today is that divine goodness isn't diminished by our challenges—it often shines most brilliantly against them. As Psalm 34:8 invites us to "taste and see that the Lord is good," we're reminded this isn't merely intellectual understanding but experiential knowledge available even in our darkest moments.

Here is the youtube li...

The mighty Amazon River, spanning over 6,800 kilometers through nine South American countries, creates a remarkable phenomenon where fresh water extends nearly 200 miles into the ocean. When a ship's desperate crew signaled their dire need for water to a passing vessel, they received the cryptic message: "let down your buckets." Their initial confusion turned to amazement when they discovered life-saving fresh water directly beneath them.

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Have you ever found yourself laughing so hard it felt like spiritual medicine? That's exactly what we explore today through the remarkable life of comedy legend Tim Conway.
I recently finished reading Conway's biography, "What's So Funny," and discovered something fascinating – this comedy icon who delighted millions on The Carol Burnett Show was a committed Christian. His approach to humor reflected his faith: clean, joyful, and uplifting without ever resorting to vulgarity. Conway's comedy sketches with Harvey Korman created some of television's most unforgettable moments, particularly when Conway was given creative freedom to improvise beyond the script.
Re...

What happens when unwavering love meets an entrepreneurial dream? The extraordinary story of Reader's Digest reveals how genuine partnership can transform rejection into worldwide success.
When DeWitt Wallace developed his concept for a magazine featuring condensed articles in 1910, publishers everywhere rejected him. Facing discouragement and nearly abandoning his vision, everything changed when he met Lila Atchison, a Presbyterian minister's daughter who saw potential where others saw failure. Her steadfast belief in DeWitt's dream reignited his determination, leading him to try direct mail marketing to potential subscribers. They were more than spouses; they were true friends who encouraged, supported...

What happens when the truth becomes inconvenient for those in power? The story of Herodias and John the Baptist demonstrates the sharp contrast between those who scheme for personal gain and those who stand unwavering for what's right.
Today's devotional challenges us to consider which path we'll choose in our own lives. Will we pursue short-term victories through manipulation and compromise? Or will we be people of love, grace, and humble strength who refuse to bend when truth is at stake? Join us and be encouraged today.

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Have you ever felt lost in today's increasingly chaotic and hostile world? This episode offers a powerful reminder of the mutual relationship we share with God that becomes our anchor in tumultuous times.

Featuring Danny Gokey's moving song "I Got You," we explore the profound truth that not only does God have us, but we have Him as well. When confusion reigns and attacks come from all sides, our relationship with God provides the peace we desperately need. As Gokey sings, "The world might be shaking, but I stay in your presence, standing strong in your love...

Have you ever wondered why some people seem perpetually cheerful while others find negativity everywhere? The answer might be simpler than you think.
Drawing wisdom from 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ("Always be joyful, never stop praying, be thankful in all circumstances"), we unpack how our perspective colours everything we experience. . Your attitude affects not only your own experience but radiates outward to everyone you encounter, creating ripples that extend far beyond yourself.

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Have you noticed your to-do list constantly growing while your accomplishments struggle to keep pace? You're not alone. In this heartfelt exploration of time and priorities, we confront the jarring realization that half the year has vanished with only a fraction of our goals achieved—a phenomenon that seems to accelerate with each passing year.
Join us today as we talk about embracing life's fullness  and enjoying what God has given us.

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Have you ever felt like you didn't belong? Like society had already written your story before you had a chance to live it? The powerful tale of Ben Hooper will resonate deeply with anyone who's experienced rejection or longed for acceptance.
Join usw today for this wonderful reminder.

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A single glass of milk changed two lives forever. That's the remarkable true story at the heart of today's meditation on kindness and its unexpected returns. This story today will encourage and challenge you.  A small act of compassion might just set in motion events that will echo through your life for years to come.

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Music has a way of reaching our souls like nothing else, and today we're diving into Mercy Me's powerful new rendition of "Nothing but the Blood of Jesus" from their recently released Cabin Sessions. The veteran Christian band recorded this timeless hymn in their newly purchased log cabin outside Nashville—a sacred space they've dedicated to prayer, study, and creating music that speaks to the heart of faith.
What makes this recording particularly special is Mercy Me's inclusion of two often-omitted verses from the original hymn that speak to overcoming life's challenges and reaching our eternal home through Ch...

Danny revives his traditional Friday Roundup format by summarizing the week's spiritual lessons,Whether you're facing challenges, rediscovering old dreams, or seeking spiritual grounding, this episode offers practical wisdom for your faith journey. 

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What if the most fundamental question about our existence has been approached from the wrong angle? The debate between creation and evolution continues to captivate minds across science, philosophy, and theology—yet perhaps we've overlooked something profound in our search for origins.
Today, listen to the testimony of Wernher von Braun, NASA director and father of the American space program, as he provides a fascinating counterpoint to those who claim science and faith are incompatible.  

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Ever had one of those moments when life knocks you completely off balance? Today's episode tells the story of Sparky the parakeet, who suffered the unfortunate fate of being vacuumed up, washed under a faucet, and blow-dried—all in quick succession. Poor Sparky survived but "doesn't sing much anymore" and "just sort of sits there staring at the wall."
Like Sparky, many of us have experienced times when we feel "sucked in, washed up, and blown over" by circumstances beyond our control. These moments can steal our song and leave us feeling lost. What's powerful is that right no...

Dreams don't come with expiration dates. Giuseppe Paterno's remarkable journey proves this in spectacular fashion. At 96 years old, this Italian man graduated with first-class honors in philosophy, becoming Italy's oldest university graduate. His story serves as both inspiration and challenge to anyone who has abandoned their God-given dreams.
What dream has God planted within you that you've allowed to fade? What vision once burned brightly but has dimmed with time, responsibilities, and disappointment? The dreams God gives us come with the divine capacity to fulfill them, regardless of our age or circumstances.  Perhaps today is the perfect time t...

Ever wonder how beautiful hymns emerge from life's darkest moments? Today we unpack the extraordinary story behind "'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus," written in 1882 by missionary Louisa Stead after watching her husband drown while attempting to rescue a boy at Long Island beach.
Louisa's journey takes us from her teenage calling to missionary work, through devastating personal tragedy, to faithful service in Africa. Has a hymn ever spoken directly to your circumstances? Share your story or favorite hymn in the comments—I'd love to hear how music has shaped your faith journey.

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"A friend is always loyal and a brother is born to help in time of need." These timeless words from Proverbs capture the essence of today's heartfelt exploration into the vital role friendship plays in our spiritual and emotional wellbeing.
Reflecting on Chuck Swindoll's profound observation that friendship fills our hearts with joy, we journey through some of television's most iconic friendships—from the complementary partnership of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson to the hilarious shenanigans of Lucy and Ethel; from the medical dramas featuring Meredith and Christina to the beloved bromance of Joey and Chandler. These pop cu...

Parental wisdom often comes wrapped in quirky, illogical packages that somehow still make perfect sense. From "If you're going to kill each other, do it outside—I just finished cleaning" to the classic "Make sure you wear clean underwear in case you get hit by a truck," these sayings might not pass a logic test, but they've shaped generations of children nonetheless.
Join me in exploring how God teaches us through His Word and our experiences, encouraging us not with "goofy instructions" but with love, grace, and mercy as we grow into who we're meant to become.

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Have you ever felt like you're just going through the motions in life? In today's episode, we explore a powerful story about a dancing toll booth attendant who found joy and purpose in what others considered a mundane job. While sixteen of his colleagues stood lifeless in what he called "vertical coffins," this one attendant transformed his daily work into dance practice, truly living while others were merely existing. The question is: will you merely exist in your "vertical coffin," or will you choose to dance through life with purpose? Subscribe now and join us each weekday morning to...

Ever catch yourself formulating a response while someone is still talking? You're not alone. In this brief but powerful episode, we explore the vanishing art of genuine listening and why it matters more than ever in our relationships and spiritual lives.
The simple practice of listening without interruption or premature response has transformative power. It strengthens family bonds, deepens friendships, and brings peace to our homes. In just five minutes each day, you can begin developing this crucial skill that seems to be disappearing from our distracted world. Start today by creating space for others to be fully...

When life's storms rage all around you, where do you turn for peace? This episode of Starting Right with Danny Mac dives deep into Hope Darst's powerful worship anthem "Peace Be Still," exploring both its biblical foundation and the personal struggles that birthed this transformative song.
Whether you're facing relationship struggles, health concerns, financial pressure, or inner turmoil, this five-minute devotional will center your day on the Prince of Peace. The God who commanded the wind and waves stands ready to speak calm into your chaos. 

Here is the YouTube link to Peace Be Still
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