364. Making This Life Count: Lessons From a Lifetime of Faith with Douglas Jacoby

🎙️ The Rob Skinner Podcast — Featuring Douglas Jacoby In this wide-ranging and deeply thoughtful conversation, Rob Skinner sits down with longtime teacher, author, and global church leader Douglas Jacoby to reflect on nearly five decades of faith, ministry, and leadership across continents. From becoming a Christian at Duke University, to helping plant churches in London and Scandinavia, to pioneering an international teaching ministry, Doug shares lessons learned from decades of evangelism, writing, church leadership, and global travel. This episode explores how faith matures over time, why humility and lifelong learning matter, and what it truly means to make this life count. 🧭 Episode Highlights How Doug became a Christian through campus ministry at Duke University Moving from the U.S. to London, Sweden, and beyond for global church planting The early days of the Boston Church movement and international missions Why theological education and teaching matter deeply for the church Writing over 35 books while serving in full-time ministry Lessons from going independent after 2003 and navigating ministry without institutional support Building resilience, focusing on strengths, and sustaining ministry long-term Reflections on autonomy, unity, and connection within the ICOC Thoughts on leadership, humility, church history, and learning from others Advice for disciples who want to live faithfully and finish well 📚 About Douglas Jacoby Douglas Jacoby is a longtime Bible teacher, author, and speaker who has served churches around the world for over 45 years. He has written more than 35 books, leads teaching tours and conferences globally, and continues to equip disciples through writing, podcasting, and training. 🎯 Key Takeaway Spiritual impact isn't built overnight—it's forged through decades of faithfulness, humility, learning, and relationships. 📢 Support the Podcast If this episode encouraged you: Share it with a friend Subscribe to The Rob Skinner Podcast Leave a rating or review 📘 Learn more about Rob's book The 10x Christian at RobSkinner.com or on Amazon. Live a no-regrets life. Make this life count. Multiply disciples, leaders, and churches.

🎙️ Faith Fail Fridays: Lost in Tokyo 📖 Scripture Proverbs 3:5–6 (NIV) "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." 📌 Episode Summary In this Faith Fail Fridays episode, Rob Skinner shares a memorable (and slightly terrifying) moment from his time in Japan—when a simple sunrise run before preaching turned into getting completely lost in rural Tokyo just minutes before his sermon. What started as a confident shortcut became a humbling reminder of how easily we can lose our way when we rely on our own understanding instead of God's direction. Through humor, honesty, and Scripture, Rob draws a powerful spiritual lesson about trust, humility, and slowing down long enough to ask God for guidance. 🔑 Key Takeaways Faith fails often happen when confidence replaces dependence on God Being lost spiritually usually starts with assuming we "know the way" God hasn't abandoned us—we've just stopped asking for direction God is always ready to straighten paths when we turn back to Him Even detours can become lessons that strengthen faith and humility 🔥 Faith Fail Story Highlights A sunrise run before preaching in Japan goes wrong A "shortcut" through a golf course leads to being lost for hours Asking for directions at a 7-Eleven—and hearing the word "far" Sprinting back just in time to preach while the church worried A powerful reminder that preparation includes spiritual direction 🎯 10X Takeaway A short detour becomes a long disaster when we stop trusting God's direction. 🙌 Call to Action If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend who needs a reminder to slow down, ask God for direction, and trust Him with their path. Support the podcast by: Subscribing and leaving a review Sharing the episode with others Reading Rob's book The 10X Christian, available at RobSkinner.com or on Amazon 🎧 About the Podcast The Rob Skinner Podcast exists to help you: Live a no-regrets life Make this life count Multiply disciples, leaders, and churches Have a great day—and make this life count.

Episode Title: A Christmas Thank You Host: Rob Skinner Scripture: 2 Corinthians 9:7 Episode Description: In this special Christmas message, Rob Skinner pauses to say thank you and wish listeners a very Merry Christmas. Reflecting on the true meaning of the season—Jesus, grace, generosity, and people—Rob shares his deep gratitude for everyone who has supported The Rob Skinner Podcast and the broader Go & Grow Ministry this past year. From moving to Boston to expanding the podcast, writing, teaching, and training leaders, Rob acknowledges how prayer, encouragement, and financial generosity have made it all possible. This episode is a heartfelt expression of appreciation for partners and supporters who are helping people grow closer to God, discover their purpose, and live a no-regrets life. Key Themes: The true meaning of Christmas Gratitude and generosity Cheerful giving and joyful faith Partnership in ministry Reflection on a year of growth and transition Vision and prayer for the year ahead Key Scripture: 📖 2 Corinthians 9:7 — "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." Special Thanks: Rob personally thanks supporters who have partnered financially in the ministry over the past year, recognizing named and anonymous donors for their generosity and faithfulness. Closing Encouragement: As the year comes to a close, Rob prays God's blessing over listeners and their families—peace, joy, hope, faith, courage, and lasting impact—and thanks them for helping make this life count. Support the Podcast: Subscribe and share the podcast Learn more about Rob's ministry and resources at RobSkinner.com Check out Rob's book The 10X Christian on Amazon or his website Mission Statement: Live a no-regrets life. Make this life count. Multiply disciples, leaders, and churches.

Episode Description In this powerful and deeply moving episode of The Rob Skinner Podcast, Rob sits down with Jordan and Caryn McLeod, longtime missionaries whose journey has taken them from New York City to Jerusalem, Cyprus, and back to the United States. Raised in Jewish homes, Jordan and Caryn share their personal faith journeys, how they became Christians, and what led them to leave everything behind to help plant the church in the Holy Land. They open up about cultural barriers, spiritual resistance, heartbreak, perseverance, and what it really takes to serve God in one of the most challenging mission fields in the world. This conversation goes far beyond missions—it's about marriage, parenting, generosity, resilience, and learning to make your life truly count in every season. If you've ever wondered what faith looks like when it's tested, stretched, and refined over decades, this episode will inspire and challenge you. In This Episode, You'll Hear: Jordan and Caryn's conversion stories and Jewish backgrounds What it's like to plant a church in Jerusalem from scratch Why faith in Israel requires a completely different approach The idea of "completion" rather than conversion for Jewish believers Cultural, religious, and emotional challenges of overseas missions How they stayed faithful during years of slow growth and discouragement Stories of God's provision, generosity, and miracles Raising faithful children on the mission field Transitioning from full-time missions to family-focused ministry Advice for anyone who wants to live a no-regrets life Key Scriptures Referenced: Galatians 5:6 Hebrews (faith and perseverance themes) Acts (church planting and endurance) About the Guests Jordan and Caryn McLeod served for over a decade as missionaries in Jerusalem and Cyprus. They are parents of four children, many of whom are now serving in missions around the world. Their story reflects decades of faithful service, adaptability, and deep trust in God. Resources & Links Learn more about Rob Skinner: RobSkinner.com Get Rob's book The 10X Christian on Amazon or RobSkinner.com Support the Podcast If this episode encouraged you: Subscribe to The Rob Skinner Podcast Share this episode with a friend Leave a review to help others discover the show Live a no-regrets life. Make this life count. Multiply disciples, leaders, and churches.

🎙️ Rob Skinner Podcast Faith Fails Friday  "Don't Ever Lead Songs Again" Series: Faith Fails Friday Host: Rob Skinner 📖 Episode Summary In this episode of Faith Fails Friday, Rob Skinner shares one of his most personal and painful faith fails — a moment that nearly ended his engagement to his future wife, Pam. While serving in San Jose at a park service with no song leader, Rob stepped in to lead the singing and preach. Afterward, he asked Pam what she thought, expecting encouragement. Instead, her honest response — "I think you shouldn't ever lead songs again" — cut deeply and became a crossroads moment in their relationship. Through this vulnerable story, Rob reflects on the power of words, the difference between honesty and wisdom, and how careless speech can wound deeply — especially those we love most. Drawing from Proverbs 12:18, Rob challenges listeners to examine how they speak to their spouses, family members, and closest relationships, reminding us that words can either pierce like swords or bring healing. This episode is a reminder that faith fails don't have to define us — they can shape us, mature us, and teach us how to build rather than tear down. 📌 Key Moments & Talking Points Serving at a park service in San Jose with no song leader Stepping in to lead songs and preach The honest comment that nearly ended an engagement Insecurity, immaturity, and learning to handle words wisely The lasting impact words can have on relationships How God used this moment to teach humility and growth Why we often speak more carefully to strangers than to those we love 📖 Scripture Highlight Proverbs 12:18 (NIV) "The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." 💡 Main Takeaway Your words matter — especially with the people closest to you. Honesty without wisdom can wound deeply. God calls us to speak in ways that heal, encourage, and build up, not tear down. Faith fails often reveal areas where God wants to mature us — in humility, communication, and love. 🧭 Application & Reflection Pay close attention to how you speak to your spouse or closest relationships Ask yourself: Would I say this the same way to someone I'm helping spiritually? Choose words that heal instead of words that pierce Let God refine your speech so it reflects grace, wisdom, and love 🙌 Support the Podcast If this episode encouraged you: Share the podcast with a friend Read and review Rob's book "The 10X Christian" Available at RobSkinner.com or on Amazon 🎯 Rob's Mission To inspire you to: Live a no-regrets life Make this life count Multiply disciples, leaders, and churches Have a great day — and make this life count.

🎄 Why You Need a Christmas Plan 📖 Episode Summary What if one simple habit could make your Christmas less stressful—and a lot more joyful? In this episode of The Rob Skinner Podcast, Rob shares a surprisingly spiritual and practical idea that transformed his family's Christmas experience: having a plan. What started as a moment of desperation became a powerful way to reduce anxiety, increase peace, and protect joy during the holidays. Rob explains why planning doesn't kill joy—it actually creates space for it—and how a simple Christmas plan can help your family relax, connect, and truly enjoy the season together. 🔑 Key Takeaways Why "What's the plan?" is often an anxiety issue, not curiosity How a simple Christmas plan brought peace to Rob's family Why planning actually protects joy instead of ruining it Biblical wisdom on planning and order (1 Corinthians 14:40; Proverbs 16:3) How forethought and preparation communicate love Practical ideas for building margin, flexibility, and meaning into your holidays Why you don't need a perfect plan—just a helpful one 📖 Scriptures Referenced 1 Corinthians 14:40 – "Everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way." Proverbs 16:3 – "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans." 🎄 Practical Challenge You don't need an elaborate schedule—just a plan that serves people instead of stressing them out. This Christmas, create a simple plan that includes: Time for people Time for rest Time for service Time for joy And when someone asks, "What's the plan?" — you'll be ready. 📬 Want Rob's Christmas Plan Template? If you'd like a copy of Rob's family Christmas plan to spark ideas for your own, email him at: [email protected] 📚 Support the Podcast If you enjoyed this episode: Subscribe and share it with a friend Check out Rob's latest book, The 10X Christian, available at RobSkinner.com or Amazon 🎯 About the Podcast The Rob Skinner Podcast exists to inspire you to: Live a no-regrets life Make this life count Multiply disciples, leaders, and churches Have a great day—and make this life count.

🎙️ Episode: What Makes You Come Alive? Scripture: Romans 15:17–20 Podcast: The Rob Skinner Podcast  📌 Episode Summary In this episode, Rob Skinner explores what it means to come alive in the calling God has placed on your life. Too many people ask, "What does the world need from me?" when the better question is, "What has God ignited inside me?" Drawing inspiration from John Eldredge's famous quote and the passion-filled ministry of the apostle Paul, Rob challenges listeners to identify and pursue their God-given ambition—not for comfort, not for approval, but for purpose. If you're feeling stuck, hesitant, or unsure of your next step, this episode will help you listen to the Spirit's prompting and step boldly into the calling God has prepared for you. 🔥 What You'll Learn Why coming alive spiritually is essential for making a kingdom impact How Paul's ambition in Romans 15 shapes our understanding of calling The difference between playing it safe and following the Spirit How to identify what God has uniquely placed in your heart Why obedience to your calling leads to joy, courage, and fulfillment Practical steps to begin pursuing your God-given purpose today 📖 Key Scripture Romans 15:17–20 — Paul's declaration of his mission and ambition to preach Christ where He was not known. 💡 Key Quote "Don't ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and go do that, because what the world needs is people who have come alive." — John Eldredge, Wild at Heart 🧭 Application / Challenge This week, ask yourself: What has God placed in my heart that I've been ignoring? What makes me come alive spiritually, creatively, or missionally? What step of faith can I take—today—to pursue my calling? Give yourself permission to follow the Holy Spirit's prompting, even if the path isn't perfect or fully clear. God brings life to those who obey His call. 🙌 Support the Podcast If this episode encouraged you: ✔️ Share it with a friend ✔️ Subscribe for your 5-minute daily faith boost ✔️ Leave a review to help others find the podcast 🎯 About Rob Skinner Rob's mission is to help you: Live a no-regrets life Make this life count Multiply disciples, leaders, and churches

Nick Kaplan:  Mission Update Hungary Guest: Nick Kaplan Keywords: mission, Hungary, faith, discipleship, Revive Eastern Europe, cultural adaptation, church, spiritual growth, God, community Episode Summary In this inspiring episode, Rob sits down with Nick Kaplan, a recent college graduate who stepped out in faith and moved across the world to serve as a missionary in Hungary. Nick shares how God placed this calling on his heart, the unexpected affirmations that confirmed his decision, and the powerful ways he has seen God working through the Revive Eastern Europe program. Nick opens up about the challenges of crossing cultures, the beauty of Hungarian hospitality, and the spiritual growth he's witnessed among the local church. He also offers practical encouragement for anyone feeling drawn toward mission work—reminding us all that God does extraordinary things when we simply decide to go in faith. Key Takeaways Calling Confirmed: Nick sensed a clear call from God to serve in Hungary—and received multiple confirmations along the way. Revive Eastern Europe: The program partners with existing churches to strengthen, support, and revive the region spiritually. Spiritual Growth: Nick has witnessed inspiring growth among Hungarian disciples and has seen God answer his prayers specifically and powerfully. Cultural Adaptation: Moving to a new country hasn't been easy, but it has been deeply grounding and transformative. Hungarian Hospitality: Hungarians are warm, welcoming, and open to spiritual conversations. Youthful Church Culture: The church in Hungary has a strong, vibrant group of young disciples. Mission's Impact: Nick believes stepping away to serve—even temporarily—can transform your faith and life. Final Encouragement: "Go in faith and trust God's plan." Sound Bites "I want to become this thing." "It's just been so inspiring." "Go in faith." Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Nick Kaplan's Mission Journey 04:41 — The Call to Mission in Hungary 10:25 — Experiencing God's Work in Hungary 14:15 — Challenges of Adapting to a New Culture 18:04 — Life in the Hungarian Church 21:55 — Reflections on the Mission Experience 24:39 — Advice for Aspiring Missionaries 💬 Connect and Grow For books, blogs, podcasts, and resources to help you make this life count, visit 👉 RobSkinner.com If you'd like to support this program and help Rob continue his mission to multiply disciples, leaders, and churches, please consider buying him a coffee here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/robskinner— Support the Rob Skinner Podcast If you are interested in learning more about Revive Eastern Europe, contact Shawn at Shawn Revivee linkfly      

Friday Fail Series: Locked Out of Church Episode Title: Friday Fail Series: Locked Out of Church Host: Rob Skinner Podcast: The Rob Skinner Podcast 🎙️ Episode Summary In today's episode of the Friday Fail Series, Rob Skinner cracks open the vault once again and shares one of his most unforgettable ministry mishaps — the day he got locked out of his own church on Neighbor Day. Freshly appointed as an evangelist, visitors driving in from miles away, rain pouring down, and a Korean memorial service happening inside… what could possibly go wrong? Well — everything. Rob walks through the chaos, the embarrassment, the steam literally rising from Pam, and the leadership lesson this moment taught him: Don't freak out — it will get better. 🔑 Key Moments & Lessons • Newly appointed as an evangelist Rob sets the stage with enthusiasm, vision, and… an unlocked building that should be open. • Neighbor Day gone sideways Guests traveled from as far as Eugene — only to be greeted by locked doors and rain. • The Korean memorial conflict A perfectly timed (or mistimed) ceremony inside the building meant Rob and the mission team were stuck outside for five long minutes. • Pam's reaction Let's just say: if steam could measure frustration, the gauge was redlining. • Public apology Rob shares how he apologized to the mission team and what he learned as a young leader. • Scripture insight — Ecclesiastes 10:4 "If a ruler's anger rises against you, do not leave your post; calmness can lay great offenses to rest." (NIV) "If your boss is angry at you, don't quit! A quiet spirit can overcome even great mistakes." (NLT) This verse became a grounding reminder: calmness, not panic, leads to better leadership — even in the middle of a fail. 💡 Episode Takeaway Every leader has moments they wish they could erase. But faith, maturity, and resilience grow the most through embarrassment, mistakes, and unexpected challenges. Don't freak out. Stay calm. It will get better. 📚 Resources Mentioned The 10x Christian — Get your copy at RobSkinner.com or on Amazon. 🙌 How You Can Support the Podcast If today's episode encouraged or entertained you: Share it with a friend Leave a review Pick up a copy of The 10x Christian Your support helps inspire more people to: ✔ Make this life count ✔ Live a no-regrets life ✔ Multiply disciples, leaders, and churches 🚀 Final Encouragement Thanks for listening today. Have a great day — and make this life count!

The Great I AM Is With You Scripture: Matthew 28:20 The Rob Skinner Podcast | The 10X Christian In today's episode, Rob Skinner shares an encouraging message about courage, calling, and the powerful promise Jesus gave His disciples: "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." — Matthew 28:20 If you've ever felt nervous, inadequate, or afraid while stepping out in faith, this episode will strengthen your confidence and remind you that you never walk alone. 🎙️ In This Episode Rob discusses: His first time leading a Bible discussion—and the fear that came with it Why Matthew 28:20 was the anchor that steadied him The connection between Jesus' words and God's name in Exodus 3 — "I AM WHO I AM" How the presence of the Great I AM empowers ordinary believers to do extraordinary things Why God's presence—not comfort or ease—is His greatest gift to us A practical challenge to step boldly into whatever scares you right now 📖 Key Scripture Matthew 28:19–20 — The Great Commission Exodus 3:13–14 — God reveals His name: I AM ✨ Big Idea God doesn't just send you— He goes with you. The same God who stood with Moses and empowered the first disciples stands with you in every challenge, calling, and step of obedience. 🔥 Highlights "I AM with you always" is more than comfort—it's power. Fear fades when you realize who is standing beside you. You don't do the heavy lifting—God does. Courage grows when you trust the presence of the Great I AM. 🧭 Challenge for This Week Identify one thing in your life that scares you: ✔️ Sharing your faith ✔️ Leading a group ✔️ Starting something new ✔️ Having a hard conversation Then step into it—knowing you are not alone. 🙌 Support the Mission If this episode encouraged you, you can help by: ⭐ Subscribing to the podcast 📤 Sharing this episode with a friend 📝 Leaving a review 📚 Reading Rob's new book The 10X Christian ❤️ Supporting the ministry  🎯 About Rob Skinner Rob's mission is to inspire you to: Live a no-regrets life Make this life count Multiply disciples, leaders, and churches