Look Fear in the Eye - 4.5.25

Look Fear in the Eye

 There is probably no one more controversial these days, than Elon Musk. Most folks either admire him or despise him. He certainly is a disrupter whether in his business enterprises or his involvement in government.

 Recently, he gave an interview where he was asked what advice he would give to a young person whose fear of failure kept them from taking risks that would enrich their lives.  His response was, “Look fear straight in the eye and it will disappear.”

 Regardless of one’s opinion of Elon, there is truth in his words. Fear is such a wicked and insidious adversary that can keep one frozen and oftentimes the fear is totally baseless. Satan is a deceiver and purveyor of fear. His desire is to keep us from stepping into opportunities where we might be able to thrive and experience God’s blessings.

 Hold on to the truth found in these Old and New Testament scriptures!

 Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6

 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

 Let the truth found in God’s Word dwell in you richly and overcome all fear.

 Steve

Steve's Conversation With Actor Joe Mantegna

Steve hosted a fascinating conversation with Actor Joe Mantegna whose stage, screen, and television credits are extensive. Joe is probably best known for his recent recurring role on CBS’s Criminal Minds. In addition to his television career, Joe is a Tony Award winner, has starred in numerous films and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Watch as Joe shares about his life in front of and behind the camera and talks about how he often thought, “Someone up there was watching out for me.”

Steve's Conversation With Gloria Gaither

Most of you know that Gloria is the wife of Gospel Singer Bill Gaither, and that she is a singer/songwriter in her own right. However, there is so much more to know about Gloria. The depth of her wisdom about life and faith, combined with her down-to-earth sense of humor made for a wonderful hour-long conversation with Steve. Take a listen. We promise, it will be time well spent.

A Conversation With Actor Kevin Sorbo

One of the people Steve has gotten to know over the course of several years and events is Actor Kevin Sorbo. Kevin is well-known for multiple roles such as starring in Hercules, the Legendary Journeys to the more recent faith based movie, God’s Not Dead.

Kevin wrote a book in 2012 titled, “True Strength: My Journey from Hercules to Mere Mortal and How Nearly Dying Saved My Life.” The memoir chronicles his near-death experience when he suffered three strokes and the battle to regain his life.

Kevin and Steve’s conversation in late October 2020 gave a look inside the life and faith of this well-known actor and will be well worth your time to watch.

Oh Rend The Skies

Through the years I’ve tried to be wise in selecting the songs that I record and sing. I typically select songs with a variety of styles, tempos and messages but the lyric has always been of primary importance to me. 

Steve Fry is a composer and recording artist that I have known for over 30 years. He now pastors a church known as The Gate in Franklin, Tennessee. In 1990, I recorded Steve Fry’s song, “Oh Rend The Skies.” When I recorded the song I was struck with the strong lyric and the soaring melody. The song is based on Isaiah 64 and is a passionate plea that God would open the heavens, come down, and heal our world.

The song was important when I recorded it and I believe that it has a special importance in these hyper-partisan times. Today we are addressing a physical virus and a spiritual virus and we need God to open the heavens, to rend the skies, and dwell with us. We need him now more than ever.  

I hope that "Oh Rend the Skies," will resonate with your heart as we pray for the healing of our nation and our world.

Steve

Steve's Conversation With Author Ruth Graham

Steve has gotten to know Ruth Graham at various concerts and conferences where they both appeared over the years. Recollections from their history at these events, as well as Ruth’s transparency about her own life story, made for an inspiring conversation on October 7, 2020.

Ruth is the third child of Billy and Ruth Bell Graham. She has authored several books where she talks openly about her pilgrimage through divorce, her teenage daughter's unplanned pregnancies, her other daughter's bulimia, and her son's battle with drugs. Out of her life experiences, Ruth seeks to minister God's grace and comfort to those who are hurting.

Enjoy this video of Steve’s conversation with Ruth Graham.

Steve's Conversation With Terry Fator, AGT winner Season 2

Steve had the fun job of interviewing Terry Fator, the winner of America’s Got Talent (AGT) Season 2. Terry is an extremely talented ventriloquist, singer, comedian and impressionist. Most of all, Terry is a believer in Jesus Christ and he is the same person when the camera is rolling as when it turns off (as experienced by a little technical glitch after the interview).

Enjoy watching Steve’s conversation with Terry that took place on September 25, 2020. A few of Terry’s “friends” made special appearances.

Steve's Conversation With Actress Patricia Heaton

Patricia Heaton is an Emmy-winning actress who has played not one, but two beloved TV moms; first on “Everybody Loves Raymond” and most recently starring in “Carol’s Second Act.” 

Steve and his friend, Patty, had a Zoom conversation about Hollywood and faith. Patty was not shy sharing her faith in this interview or the set. You will enjoy getting to know more about this recognizable and highly accomplished woman. Her life, whether on stage, screen or at home, is a testimony of strong personal conviction mixed with a lot of talent and humor.

Sit back and enjoy Steve’s conversation with Patty that took place on September 3, 2020.

Steve's Conversation with Kelly Shackelford About Religious Freedom

Kelly Shackelford is President and CEO of First Liberty Institute, the largest legal firm in the nation dedicated exclusively to protecting religious freedom for all Americans. (Kelly's bio is below.)

Kelly is a compelling speaker and on September 3, 2020, Steve and Kelly sat down (via Zoom) to discuss the realities of defending religious freedom in the United States today. This was an important conversation that will likely leave you feeling like you’ve learned more about how laws impact your core beliefs and what you can do in response.

Steve's Conversation With Michael Reagan

Steve hosted a conversation with Michael Reagan, the eldest son of former President Ronald Reagan and first wife, Actress Jane Wyman. During the interview, Steve and Michael discussed his personal story growing up as an adopted child in the Reagan family, his views on our nation, and his work with the Reagan Legacy Foundation.

This was a terrific conversation that with a member of a famous American family. Steve’s interview with longtime friend, Michael Reagan, took place on August 27, 2020. The story Michael shares about one of his final conversations with his father will be one you won’t soon forget.

Steve's Conversation With Dr. Steve Weinberg About COVID-19

Steve has been good friends with Dr. Steve Weinberg, an attorney and medical doctor, for many years. Dr. Weinberg served as the Associate Director and Acting Medical Director of the Peace Corps for five years in the early 2000s. In that role, he was responsible for the health care of more than 8,000 volunteers in 80 countries on 6 continents.

Having dealt with the SARS pandemic and numerous epidemics, Dr. Weinberg is a respected expert on the topic of COVID-19. With the world dealing for many months with the pandemic, Steve’s conversation with Dr. Weinberg on August 20, 2020, laid out facts, dispelled fiction, and gave hope.

Hidden Is Not Forgotten

2 Chronicles 16:9 - For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.

I’m not sure where the phrase came from but recently I heard the words, “Hidden is not forgotten.” It resonated with me.

How often have you wondered if God has forgotten you? You try to do right. You try to be faithful and yet it might seem like God has forgotten your name. Nothing could be further from the truth. It could be that God is saving you for a greater purpose.

A few weeks ago, a friend mentioned that they see on Facebook that I make trips to Washington, DC. Along with that they made some assumptions about what I do on Capitol Hill. She thought that my presence there was political. She had no concept that I am there to encourage people from both parties, to pray and to lead a worship service in the Capitol. She thought I should post details about my trips on Facebook and to a wider audience.

I had to explain to her that doing so could actually hinder my work there. I share details of my trips with folks like you. People who understand that my time with members of Congress is to encourage and remind them that there are people like you praying for them and counting on them to represent them faithfully. I don’t really want the camera pointed at me.

So while others might be getting credit for the work you have done in your job, and while you might think that you are forgotten, remember that God’s eyes are wide open. He sees you. Your work and what you do for others might be hidden, but you are not forgotten.

Press on.

Steve