The Westside Podcast—featuring Jonathan Hansen

Have you ever wondered what God is doing when your life doesn’t look anything like you thought it would? David understood that tension. God promised that David would be king, but it would be years before that promise became reality. Between the anointing and the throne came Goliath, betrayal, uncertainty, caves, and years of waiting. And yet, God was working. In this message, we explore what David’s story teaches us about trusting God’s process when His timing doesn’t match our timeline. We’ll talk about waiting on God, surrendering our plans to His purposes, walking by faith when we can’t see what’s ahead, and learning to worship God in the middle of pain and uncertainty. You may not understand what God is doing right now—but you can trust who He is. If you’re walking through a season of waiting, disappointment, uncertainty, or wondering whether God has forgotten His promises, this message is for you. The cave may not be a detour from God’s plan. It may be part of how God is preparing you for what comes next. Scripture references: Psalm 31:14–15; Psalm 57:2, 7; Proverbs 3:5; John 16:33; 2 Corinthians 4:17–18; Philippians 1:6. God is not finished with your story. Listen, share this episode with someone who needs encouragement, and keep trusting God—even when you don’t understand His process.

How to Find Peace When Anxiety Feels Overwhelming What do you do when anxiety feels overwhelming, and your mind won't stop thinking about everything that could go wrong? Anxiety has a way of pulling us out of the present and into a future filled with worst-case scenarios. We carry tomorrow's worries today, replay conversations, anticipate problems, and find ourselves asking an endless stream of “what if” questions. But in Matthew 6:25–34, Jesus gives us a different way to approach anxiety. He doesn't dismiss the reality of life's difficulties or simply tell us to stop worrying. Instead, He redirects our attention from “what if?” to “who?” Who is your Father? Who is the One who is good, sovereign, faithful, and already present in the future you're worried about? In this episode of The Westside Podcast, we explore what Jesus teaches about anxiety, worry, fear, and finding peace in uncertain times. Through Jesus' teaching and the story of God's provision of manna in the wilderness, we discover that God has always invited His people to trust Him one day at a time. We'll also talk about practical ways to respond when anxiety begins to take over—from honest prayer and speaking truth over anxious thoughts to gratitude, slowing down, staying present, and finding trusted people who can walk with us. And at the center of it all is the gospel. Our confidence in God isn't based on wishful thinking. It is rooted in His character and demonstrated through Jesus, who was rejected so that we could be received and forsaken so that we would never be forsaken. Peace doesn't come from knowing what tomorrow holds. It comes from knowing the One who holds tomorrow. Whether you're exploring faith, struggling with anxiety, carrying the weight of an uncertain future, or simply looking for encouragement, this episode offers biblical truth, practical help, and the hope of Jesus. In this episode: What Jesus teaches about anxiety and worry in Matthew 6 Why anxiety keeps pulling us into the “what ifs” What it means to trust God one day at a time What the story of manna teaches us about God's provision How prayer and Scripture can interrupt anxious thoughts How to speak truth over fear and worry The role of gratitude and staying present Why trusted relationships and counseling can be part of a healthy response to anxiety How the gospel gives us a foundation for lasting peace 📖 Matthew 6:25–34 | Psalm 42 If you've been searching for Christian answers to anxiety, biblical peace, ways to overcome worry, ways to trust God, or ways to find faith in difficult seasons, we hope this conversation encourages you. Westside Family Church

What does the Bible actually say about lust? In this episode, Jonathan Hansen walks through Matthew 5:27-30, where Jesus addresses one of the most personal and misunderstood struggles people face. Instead of merely condemning outward behavior, Jesus reveals that lasting freedom begins with the condition of the heart. Together, we'll explore the difference between temptation and lust, why Jesus says adultery begins long before an action is taken, and how the biblical framework of the heart, the eye, and the hand provides practical wisdom for overcoming sexual temptation. You'll also hear how the story of King David and Bathsheba serves as a powerful reminder of how unchecked desire can gradually lead us away from God's best. Whether you're personally battling pornography, lust, or unwanted temptation—or you're simply seeking a deeper understanding of biblical sexuality and the teachings of Jesus—this episode offers practical encouragement, biblical truth, and genuine hope. Freedom isn't found through trying harder. It begins by bringing hidden struggles into the light, inviting Jesus into the deepest places of our hearts, and taking faithful steps alongside trusted community. No matter where you've been or what you're facing, there is hope, healing, and freedom in Christ. In this episode: What the Bible says about lust Lust vs. temptation Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:27-30 Sexual purity and the Christian life Pornography, accountability, and healing King David and Bathsheba Practical steps toward lasting freedom

What does the good life actually look like? Every culture has its own answer. Wealth. Success. Comfort. Influence. Self-sufficiency. But in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus offers a completely different vision of what it means to be truly blessed. In this episode, we begin our journey through the Beatitudes in Matthew 5 and discover that the Christian life doesn't begin with achievement—it begins with surrender. Being poor in spirit means recognizing our complete need for God, letting go of the idea that we can earn His favor, and receiving the grace only Jesus can give. From there, Jesus unfolds a picture of Kingdom living that turns the world's values upside down. The mourners, the meek, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, and even those who are persecuted are all called blessed—not because life is easy, but because their hope is rooted in the unshakable Kingdom of God. As we're continually being shaped by culture, social media, and the voices around us, Jesus invites us into a different way of living—one that transforms our hearts, redirects our desires, and leads to lasting joy. Whether you're exploring faith or have been following Jesus for years, this conversation will challenge you to rethink what it means to live the good life. In this episode: The Beatitudes explained (Matthew 5:1–12) What it means to be poor in spirit The difference between worldly happiness and biblical blessing Spiritual formation and Christian discipleship How Jesus reshapes our desires and priorities Living according to Kingdom values today If you're in the Kansas City area, we'd love to welcome you to gather with us at Westside Family Church as we continue our Summer on the Mount series. Weekend Gathering Times Saturday: 5P Sunday • WFC Lenexa + Online: 8:00, 9:30 & 11A • WFC Speedway: 9:30 & 11A Thanks for listening to the Westside Podcast. If today's conversation encouraged you, be sure to follow the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who could use the reminder that the good life isn't found in what we achieve—it's found in Jesus.

What does it mean to truly live on fire for God? In this episode of The Westside Podcast, we dive into “Building Bonfires: Cultivating a Life Lived for God” — a powerful conversation about surrender, spiritual growth, and becoming the kind of man who brings strength, hope, and stability to his family and community. Too many people today feel spiritually exhausted, disconnected, or stuck in survival mode. But God never intended for us to simply go through the motions of faith. He calls us to a life fully alive in Him — a life fueled daily through Scripture, prayer, surrender, and dependence on Jesus. Together, we explore: • Why we must clear away the sin, distractions, and habits that keep us spiritually stuck • How surrendering to God’s will leads to freedom and transformation • Why spiritual fire requires fresh fuel every day • The role prayer and God’s Word play in cultivating lasting faith • How brokenness can become the place where God does His deepest work • What it looks like to become a spiritual lighthouse for your family during life’s storms Whether you’re exploring faith, rebuilding your relationship with God, or wanting to grow deeper spiritually, this episode offers practical encouragement and biblical truth for everyday life. Reflection Questions: • What specific areas of my life need surrender to God’s will right now? • How can I be more consistent in bringing fresh fuel to my spiritual fire through Scripture and prayer? • In what ways can I better serve as a lighthouse for my family, pointing them toward Jesus rather than trying to be their source of strength? • What would change in my home if I truly lived as a man on fire for God? Scriptures Referenced: Hebrews 12:1 Leviticus 6:12-13 John 5:35 Subscribe to The Westside Podcast for biblical teaching, practical encouragement, and conversations that help you stand firm in your faith and live fully for Jesus.

In this episode of The Westside Podcast, we continue our new series Stand Firm with a recap of Week 1: Three Battles Every Man Must Win: Standing Firm in Life’s Battlefields. Life isn’t a playground—it’s a battlefield. And the way we engage in these battles shapes the legacy we leave behind. In this conversation, we unpack three key areas every man must learn to stand firm in: • The Internal War — the battle for your soul, character, and spiritual health • The External War — work, calling, provision, and responsibility • The Relational War — fighting for marriage, family, and meaningful relationships We also explore the “snipers” that quietly take people out, the danger of small compromises, and why real transformation begins with a heart changed by Jesus—not just behavior modification. At the center of it all is this truth: Jesus doesn’t just improve us—He gives us new life. Whether you’re just beginning your faith journey or trying to stay faithful in the middle of life’s pressures, this conversation will help you stand firm where it matters most. Key Scriptures: Matthew 5 Genesis 3:17–19 Ezekiel 36 Psalm 128:1–3 If you’re fighting, it means you’re alive. Stand firm.

Honest Questions About Faith: Prayer, Christian Living, and God's Goodness Join Pastor Jonathan and Pastor Troy Kennedy for week three of the "Evidence" series from Westside Church, where they tackle some of the biggest questions and objections to the Christian faith. In this episode, they dive deep into three fundamental questions many believers wrestle with: Does God really hear my prayers? Exploring 1 John 5:14-15 and the Psalms, the pastors discuss how God's unlimited attention means He can hear billions of prayers simultaneously. They address the reality that God always answers prayer—with yes, no, or wait—and why sometimes the answer isn't what we hoped for in the moment. How do I live the Christian life without burning out? Both pastors share their personal struggles with trying to be "good boys" through sheer willpower. They unpack the difference between legalistic behavior modification and true transformation that flows from loving Jesus. As they put it: "God loves you as you are and not as you should be, but he also loves you enough not to leave you as you are." Where is God when life is painful? Through the lens of Romans 8:28 and the cross, they explore how God doesn't cause all things but redeems all things. The worst thing happened to the best person—and it produced the greatest good for everyone. God can walk with you through suffering and create something beautiful out of tragedy. This honest, grace-filled conversation creates space for doubt, questions, and real faith.

Evidence for Christianity: A Conversation with Gavin Ortlund What if the toughest questions about faith actually lead us to the most compelling answers? In this episode, we sit down with Gavin Ortlund, creator of the popular YouTube channel Truth Unites, to explore some of the biggest objections to Christianity—and discover why the Christian worldview not only holds up under scrutiny but offers profound hope for our deepest longings. In This Conversation, We Explore: • Does God Really Exist? We discuss the evidence from creation, the fine-tuning of the universe, and why the more science discovers, the more it points toward an intelligent Creator. • The Problem of Suffering How do we reconcile a good God with the reality of evil and pain? Christianity offers a unique answer that no other worldview can match. • Science vs. Faith Are they really in conflict? We unpack why this tension is often artificial and how both can coexist beautifully. • Objective Truth in a Relativistic Culture In a world where "your truth is yours and mine is mine," what does it mean to claim that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life? • What About Those Who've Never Heard? One of the hardest questions believers face—and why we can trust God's justice while still feeling urgency about sharing the gospel. • Why Christianity Is Such Good News The hope of resurrection and why, for believers, the best days are always ahead. About Our Guest: Gavin Ortlund is a pastor, author, and apologist known for his gracious yet uncompromising approach to defending the Christian faith. His YouTube channel, Truth Unites, has become one of the premier resources for thoughtful Christian apologetics. His upcoming book, Why Christianity Makes Sense: A Book About Jesus, the Mysteries of the World, and the Longings in Your Heart, releases September 2026. Who This Episode Is For: Whether you're a skeptic with honest questions, a believer wrestling with doubts, or someone curious about what Christianity really offers, this conversation is for you. We believe every question deserves a thoughtful answer, and every person deserves to be heard with love and respect. Connect With Us: If this conversation resonated with you, we'd love to hear your thoughts. What questions are you wrestling with? Share them with us on social media or leave a comment. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of our Evidence series, where we're tackling the top objections to the Christian faith with grace, truth, and intellectual honesty. Resources Mentioned: • Truth Unites YouTube Channel - Subscribe for more thoughtful Christian content • Why Christianity Makes Sense by Gavin Ortland (September 2026) • The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self by Carl Trueman Additional Resources: Books: Evidence That Demands a Verdict: Life-Changing Truth for a Skeptical World - By Josh McDowell & Sean McDowell Mere Christianity - By C.S. Lewis Is Atheism Dead? - By Eric Metaxas I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist - By Norman L. Geisler & Frank Turek The Case for Christ: A Journalist's Personal Investigation of the Evidence for Jesus - By Lee Strobel Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest Religion - By Rebecca McLaughlin YouTube: Gavin Ortlund - If Christianity Is True… Why So Many Religions? Dr. Frank Turek - Does Truth Exist || Project 3:15

The Existence of God: Why Faith and Reason Go Hand in Hand Is faith in God irrational—or is there real evidence behind it? In this episode, we explore one of life’s biggest questions: Does God exist? Through the lens of both science and philosophy, we unpack compelling reasons why belief in God is not just a leap of faith, but a thoughtful and reasonable conclusion. You’ll hear about: Why every human has a built-in sense of right and wrong What the beginning of the universe reveals about a possible Creator How the fine-tuning of the universe points to intentional design What DNA and the complexity of life suggest about intelligence behind creation Whether you’re skeptical, searching, or looking to strengthen your faith, this conversation will challenge you to think deeper and consider the evidence for yourself. Faith and reason aren’t enemies—they may actually point to the same truth. 👉 Subscribe for more episodes from our Evidence series as we continue exploring questions about God, truth, and what it means to believe.

The conversion of Saul on the Damascus road is one of the most dramatic transformations in all of Scripture. In this episode, we explore how a man who was passionately committed to persecuting Christians encountered the risen Jesus—and everything changed. Saul was a highly educated Pharisee who believed he was defending God’s truth. But in a powerful and unexpected moment, Jesus confronted him with grace. That encounter not only transformed Saul’s life, but also redirected the course of Christian history as he became the Apostle Paul. In this message recap, we unpack what this story reveals about the difference between religion and relationship with God, how our mental picture of God shapes our faith, and why true spiritual conversion happens through encountering Jesus personally. We also look at how God uses ordinary people—like Ananias—to participate in His extraordinary plans. Paul’s story reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Whether someone sees themselves as religious or far from God, the transforming power of Christ is available to all. Join us as we reflect on the life-changing moment when Paul was confronted by grace and what it means for our own faith journey today.