378. How to Break Through a Spiritual Plateau and Start Growing Again

How to Break Through a Spiritual Plateau and Start Growing Again Episode Description Have you ever felt stuck in your spiritual life—going through the motions, but missing the passion and freshness you once had? In this episode of the Rob Skinner Podcast, Rob talks about how to start growing again when you've hit a spiritual plateau. Drawing from Hosea 10:12, Rob unpacks the powerful biblical image of breaking up unplowed ground—and what it looks like to let God soften hardened areas of the heart so new growth can take place. Through a memorable personal story, practical spiritual insights, and honest encouragement, this episode will help you recognize when it's time for renewal and how God brings refreshment after repentance. If your faith feels dry, routine, or stalled, this message is for you. Key Scripture Hosea 10:12 "Sow righteousness for yourselves, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the Lord, until he comes and showers his righteousness on you." In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why spiritual growth often slows or stalls over time What "unplowed ground" looks like in the heart How disappointment, routine, and unconfessed sin harden us spiritually Why dryness doesn't mean failure—it means it's time to plow Practical ways to soften your heart again through prayer, fasting, confession, and reflection Why God always brings renewal after repentance How new seasons of growth often come after uncomfortable seasons of change Memorable Moments: A vivid story of turning a thorn-filled blackberry bramble into a fruitful garden Rob's personal experience of spiritual dryness after early zeal as a Christian The promise that God always "sends rain after the plowing" Encouragement for long-time disciples who feel worn down or discouraged Quotes from the Episode: "God always brings rain after the plowing." "Dryness doesn't mean you're failing—it means it's time to dig." "Every new season of growth begins with breaking up hardened ground." Takeaway Spiritual plateaus are not the end of growth—they're often the beginning of a new season. When God starts to plow the heart, it may feel uncomfortable, but it always prepares the soil for deeper grace, renewed passion, and lasting fruit. Let God break up what's grown hard—and watch what He grows next. Resources & Next Steps: 📩 Sign up for Rob's weekly newsletter: robskinner.com 📖 Read Rob's book, The 10X Christian (available on Amazon and robskinner.com) 🎧 Subscribe to the Rob Skinner Podcast for weekly encouragement Connect with Rob: Website: robskinner.com Email: [email protected] Make this life count.

🎧 Your Best Days Are Still Ahead Podcast: The Rob Skinner Podcast Episode Theme: Your Best Days Are Ahead of You Key Scripture: Psalm 92:12–15; 2 Corinthians 4:16 Episode Summary Are your best days behind you—or still ahead? In this encouraging and faith-filled episode, Rob Skinner dismantles the lie that aging means decline in God's kingdom. Drawing from Psalm 92, Rob reminds us that the righteous don't merely grow old—they flourish, continue to bear fruit, and stay fresh and green, no matter their age. Speaking personally at age 60, Rob reflects on time, legacy, and calling, sharing stories from his own life and from inspiring missionaries who bore incredible fruit well into their later years. This episode is a powerful reminder that when you're planted in the house of the Lord, your spirit is renewed daily—and God is far from finished with you. Whether you're in your 30s feeling tired, or in your 60s wondering what's next, this message will reignite your faith, stretch your vision, and help you believe again that your most impactful years may still be ahead. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why God's plan for your life is renewal, not decline What Psalm 92 teaches about bearing fruit in every season How Satan uses age and discouragement to limit faith Why spiritual impact has nothing to do with your stage of life How adopting an "evergreen" mindset changes everything Inspiring stories of believers who bore fruit into their 80s and 90s How to live a no-regrets life—starting right now Key Takeaway Your body may age, but your spirit does not. As long as you are planted in the house of the Lord, you can still grow, still serve, still save souls, and still make this life count. Resources Mentioned: Psalm 92:12–15 2 Corinthians 4:16 Rob Skinner's book: The 10X Christian Connect with Rob: 🌐 Website & Newsletter: RobSkinner.com 📘 Book: The 10X Christian (available on Amazon)

🎧 You Haven't Gone Too Far: God's Love Never Leaves Have you ever wondered how God really feels about you? Have you ever doubted His love—or feared you've crossed a line you can't come back from? In this episode of The Rob Skinner Podcast, Rob unpacks one of the most powerful and comforting promises in all of Scripture: nothing can separate us from the love of God (Romans 8:39). Drawing from Romans 8 and personal stories from his own life as a father, Rob addresses the quiet lie many Christians believe—that God's love is fragile, conditional, or based on performance. It's not. You'll be reminded that: God's love does not rise and fall with your success or failure Shame does not push God away—it draws Him closer On your worst day, God is just as near as on your best day This episode is for anyone who feels distant from God, weighed down by guilt, or tempted to pull away spiritually. You'll be encouraged to stop turning away—and instead turn toward the God who never moved. 👉 Nothing can separate you from the love of God. Not sin. Not failure. Not weakness. Not pain. If you need reassurance, hope, and a fresh reminder of God's unchanging love, this episode is for you. Connect with Rob: Website & Newsletter: robskinner.com Book: The 10X Christian Thanks for listening. Make this life count.

🎧 Healthy Church Growth: Why We Need to Talk About It Again In this episode, Rob Skinner sits down with Kevin Miller to talk about the upcoming Church Builders Conference—and why now is the time to bring the conversation about church growth back to the forefront. Kevin shares the heart behind hosting a conference focused on the spread of the gospel, not competition, pressure, or numbers—but healthy, faithful growth rooted in unity, humility, and biblical conviction. Together, Rob and Kevin address why growth has become a complicated topic in many churches, how past wounds and unhealthy practices created fear, and why avoiding the subject altogether isn't the answer. They also unpack the remarkable story of the Boston Church, a nearly 50-year-old church that plateaued for decades and is now experiencing renewed momentum, revival, and conversion growth—without shortcuts or hype. Kevin explains how health and growth must go together, why churches of all sizes can grow again, and how leaders can move forward with faith rather than fear. This episode gives a behind-the-scenes look at: The vision and purpose of the Church Builders Conference Why growth and health are not opposites—but inseparable How unity between elders, evangelists, and leaders fuels momentum Why isolation keeps churches stuck What success would look like coming out of the conference Whether you lead a large church, a small church, a campus ministry, or you're an aspiring leader, this conversation is an invitation to dream again, talk openly about growth, and believe God can still move powerfully today. Conference Details: 📍 Location: Waltham, MA (outside Boston) 📅 Dates: April 23–26 💻 Registration: bostonchurch.org at the Church Builders Conference Rob's goal is simple: inspire you to live a no-regrets life and multiply disciples, leaders, and churches.

🎧 Libsyn Show Notes Episode Title: Gentle and Lowly: Finding Rest for Your Soul Podcast: The Rob Skinner Podcast In this episode, Rob Skinner unpacks one of the most comforting and life-changing invitations Jesus ever gave: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28–30) Rob continues his Power Pack of Scriptures series by diving deeply into what Jesus meant when He said His yoke is easy and His burden is light. In a world full of exhaustion, guilt, pressure, and performance, this passage reveals the true heart of Christ—and it may be very different from how many people imagine God. Rob explains what a "yoke" is, why every person carries one, and how Jesus doesn't merely remove our burdens—He replaces them with His own. Whether the weight you carry is sin, shame, fear, depression, or relentless striving, Jesus offers a lighter way forward. This episode also explores the profound truth that Matthew 11 is one of the only places in the New Testament where Jesus explicitly describes His own heart. Drawing insight from Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund, Rob highlights how Jesus defines Himself not as harsh or demanding, but as gentle and humble. You'll also hear a powerful reflection on Colossians 2 and what it means to know—deep in your soul—that your sins are nailed to the cross and no longer on your shoulders. If you're weary, discouraged, or feeling the weight of life, this episode is a reminder that following Jesus doesn't add pressure—it brings freedom, rest, and peace. Scriptures Referenced: Matthew 11:28–30 Colossians 2:13 Recommended Resource: Gentle and Lowly by Dane Ortlund To stay connected, sign up for Rob's weekly newsletter at robskinner.com and learn more about his book 10X Christian.

Episode Title: According to Your Faith Podcast: The Rob Skinner Podcast Scripture: Matthew 9:29 Episode Summary Jesus' words in Matthew 9:29—"According to your faith it will be done to you"—reveal a profound spiritual truth: our faith shapes what God does in our lives. In this episode, Rob Skinner challenges listeners to expand their faith, stretch their expectations, and stop limiting God by small thinking. Through Scripture, practical teaching, and a powerful personal story from the Tokyo Church in 1994, Rob shows how bold faith leads to bold action—and how God responds when His people believe Him for more. This episode is an invitation to stop looking backward at past failures and start looking forward to what God can still do. Key Themes & Takeaways Faith determines the scope of what God will do in your life Small thinking leads to small results—but bold faith invites God's power Faith is forward-looking, not trapped by past disappointments God often moves when faith takes action, not just intention Expanding your faith expands your impact Episode Highlights Jesus' statement: "According to your faith it will be done to you" Why faith sets the ceiling, horizon, and direction of your life The danger of cynicism, fear, and limited imagination Rob's story of leading the Tokyo Church and believing God for the impossible How 31 baptisms in one month became reality through bold faith A personal challenge to raise expectations and trust God for more Scripture Focus Matthew 9:29 — "According to your faith it will be done to you." Reflection Questions Where might you be limiting God with small expectations? What would bold faith look like in your current situation? What step of faith is God asking you to take right now? Practical Challenge Choose one area of your life—faith, relationships, ministry, or purpose—and intentionally expand your expectations. Pray boldly. Act courageously. Trust that God can do more than you imagine. Final Encouragement God is not constrained by your past, your resources, or your failures. He responds to faith. Expand your faith—and watch what God will do. Thanks for listening to The Rob Skinner Podcast. If this episode encouraged you, please share it with a friend and help others live a no-regrets life, make this life count, and grow their faith.

🎧 Ed Anton: European Missions Update The Rob Skinner Podcast Guest: Ed Anton Topic: European Missions Update — Western Europe, Eastern Europe & Ukraine In this episode, Rob Skinner sits down with Ed Anton, Executive Director of the European Mission Society, for an in-depth and moving update on what God is doing across Western Europe, Eastern Europe, and Ukraine. Ed shares powerful stories of faith, sacrifice, growth, and perseverance—from thriving Schools of Missions and bold Revive teams, to the sobering realities facing disciples in war-torn Ukraine. This conversation offers both inspiration and a clear call to prayer, generosity, and global vision. 🌍 What You'll Hear in This Episode 👨‍👩‍👧 Family & Personal Update Ed shares memorable family milestones, including a dramatic car-delivery birth and two weddings in one year Reflections on gratitude, family, and readiness for the work ahead 🇪🇺 Western Europe Highlights Growth and impact of the European School of Missions Young disciples trained and eager to serve in one of the most atheistic regions of the world Encouraging story of a church in southern Spain rediscovering biblical discipleship Ongoing need for funding to support full-time ministry efforts 🧭 Ed Anton's Role in European Missions Executive Director of the European Mission Society Providing leadership training, shepherding development, and mission support Working to be a hands-on resource—not just administrative oversight Teaching and helping launch Schools of Missions, including in Ukraine 🌱 Eastern Europe & RevivEE Efforts Addressing the long-term effects of communism and institutional atheism Partnering closely with RevivEE teams across Eastern Europe Encouraging signs of renewal, baptisms, and emerging local leadership Churches beginning to flourish with homegrown disciples and shepherds 🇺🇦 Ukraine: Faith in the Midst of War Firsthand accounts of daily life amid power outages, freezing temperatures, and constant danger Stories of disciples gathering courageously for worship despite real risk Moving testimonies of sacrifice, including believers killed while serving others How simple acts of love, prayer, and encouragement from abroad deeply impact the churches A call for urgent prayer and support for Ukraine relief efforts 🇭🇷 New Work in Croatia & Beyond Updates on new Revive teams in Zagreb and Budapest Kai and Katie stepping into leadership roles in Croatia Bold evangelism efforts and street ministry bearing fruit Encouragement from seeing young and older disciples working side by side 🔮 The Future of European Missions Long-term vision: raising up local leadership, not dependence on outside missionaries Encouraging progress toward European-led churches and ministries First European evangelists and women's ministry leaders appointed in decades Hopeful outlook for sustainable growth and maturity 🙏 How You Can Pray Pray urgently for the disciples in Ukraine Pray for protection, endurance, faith, and peace Pray for wisdom and strength for leaders and missionaries across Europe Pray for the continued development of local leadership ✈️ Upcoming Travel & Ministry Focus Albania, Croatia (Zagreb), Hungary (Budapest), Germany (Munich), Bulgaria (Sofia), Romania (Bucharest), and Ukraine Teaching, preaching, encouraging churches, and supporting Schools of Missions 📬 Stay Connected Rob invites listeners to stay connected through his weekly newsletter and to share what God is doing in their lives. 👉 Sign up at: RobSkinner.com Rob's heart is simple: Live a no-regrets life. Make this life count. Multiply disciples, leaders, and churches.

🎙️ The Secret of Contentment What if the peace you're searching for isn't found in getting more—but in realizing you already have enough? In this episode of The Rob Skinner Podcast, Rob Skinner explores one of the most underrated and powerful virtues of the Christian life: contentment. Drawing from 1 Timothy 6:6–8, Rob challenges the cultural narrative that fulfillment comes from accumulation, status, or success—and points instead to the quiet strength of godliness with contentment. Rob shares a personal story from his early years as a Christian, when owning very little didn't feel like lack at all—but freedom. With God, purpose, and meaningful relationships, he discovered that true richness has nothing to do with possessions and everything to do with perspective. This episode will encourage you to slow down, take inventory of what God has already given you, and rediscover joy, peace, and gratitude right where you are. 📖 Key Scripture 1 Timothy 6:6–8 "Godliness with contentment is great gain…" 🎯 In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why contentment has nothing to do with how much you own How comparison and pressure quietly steal joy Why appreciation leads to peace, freedom, and gratitude How realizing "nothing is missing" changes everything What it means to live richly—even with very little 💭 Reflection Question What's missing in your life right now—and is it really missing at all? 🙌 Takeaway Contentment isn't found in accumulation—it's found in appreciation. When you have God, you already have everything that truly matters. If this episode encouraged you, consider sharing it with someone who needs a reminder that they already have enough. Thanks for listening to The Rob Skinner Podcast. Have a great day—and make this life count.

Preach the Gospel, Die, and Be Forgotten Scripture: Acts 20:22–24 In this episode of The Rob Skinner Podcast, Rob Skinner challenges us to live with one clear, eternal purpose: making Jesus known. Drawing from the life of the apostle Paul and a powerful quote from missionary leader Count Nikolaus von Zinzendorf, Rob unpacks what it really means to live a no-regrets life focused on the mission of the gospel. This message is a call away from comfort, recognition, and self-promotion—and toward obedience, sacrifice, and finishing the race God has set before us. Episode Highlights The meaning behind the quote: "Preach the gospel, die, and be forgotten" Why Paul's life in Acts 20 shows radical focus and courage The difference between living for comfort vs. living for calling How making Jesus famous creates a legacy that outlives us What it looks like to be a 10X Christian in everyday life Key Scripture Acts 20:22–24 (NIV) "However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace." One Big Takeaway When we live for our own name, our impact ends with us. When we live for Jesus' name, our legacy multiplies for eternity. Reflection Question Are you living for comfort—or for calling? For recognition—or for obedience? Call to Action You may not be a preacher or missionary, but you are a messenger. Live the mission. Share your faith. Finish the race. If this episode encouraged you: Share it with a friend Subscribe to the podcast Sign up for Rob's weekly newsletter at RobSkinner.com Make this life count.

The Power of Contentment Scripture: Hebrews 13:5 In a world that constantly pushes us to want more, true contentment has become rare—but it's also incredibly powerful. In this episode of The Rob Skinner Podcast, Rob Skinner explores how contentment is not found in possessions, success, or upgrades, but in the unshakable presence of God. Using Hebrews 13:5, Rob reminds us that God's promise—"Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you"—means we already have everything we truly need. This episode challenges listeners to shift their focus from what's missing to who is with them. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why chasing "more" often steals our peace instead of giving it The difference between healthy ambition and misplaced desire How the love of money can quietly pull our hearts away from Jesus Why God's presence—not success—is the true source of contentment A simple reflection that can restore peace and clarity Key Scripture: "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'" — Hebrews 13:5 Main Takeaway: Contentment doesn't come from what you achieve or accumulate—it comes from trusting that Jesus is enough. When we anchor our lives in God's presence, we stop striving for the wrong reasons and start living with peace, joy, and purpose. Reflection Question: What do you believe is missing in your life right now—and how might that answer change if you truly believed that Jesus is enough? Call to Action: If this episode encouraged you, please share it with a friend and subscribe to the podcast. Your support helps spread the message of living a no-regrets life and growing as a 10X Christian. Connect with Rob: Website & Newsletter: robskinner.com Book: The 10X Christian Thanks for listening. Make this life count.