Good morning, Stephen Schlabach here with today's Vision Forward!
Today’s message brings a vital truth: it’s not always what happens to us that determines our stress levels, but how we respond. Stephen invites us to take a deeper look within because the real peace we seek comes from the inside out. Jesus emphasized this in Matthew 23 when He spoke of cleaning the inside first. When we learn to respond to life with a calm and grounded perspective, external chaos loses its grip.
Discover how a change in your reactions can lead to a transformed, peaceful life.
Scripture Focus: Matthew 23:26 (NKJV)
And remember, "Be The Light."

Good morning, Stephen Schlabach here with today's Vision Forward!
Have you ever noticed how silence can sometimes give space to discouragement and negative thinking? In today’s episode, Stephen challenges us to speak up literally. There’s great power in the words we choose to say and sing. Whether it's affirmations, Scripture, or songs of praise, our spoken words can shift the atmosphere. Psalm 115 reminds us that praise belongs to the living, those who rise up, not shrink back in silence.
Use your voice to change the inner and outer climate of your life today.
Scripture Focus: Psalm 115:17
And remember, "Be The Light."

Good morning, Stephen Schlabach here with today's Vision Forward!
Are you feeling stuck because you can’t see the full path ahead? Today’s encouragement reminds us that we don’t need the entire roadmap, just clarity for the next step. Stephen uses the image of climbing stairs to illustrate how we progress: one step at a time. If we wait until we see everything, we may never move. Psalm 37 assures us that our steps are ordered by the Lord. You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just take the next faithful step. Be encouraged to begin today, trusting God with the journey.
Scripture Focus: Psalm 37:23
And remember, "Be The Light."

Good morning, Stephen Schlabach here with today's Vision Forward!
Today, we talk about something many people overlook celebrating our own wins. We often give praise to others, but we’re slow to acknowledge our own efforts. Yet consistent, positive reinforcement can be a powerful tool for growth. Whether it’s through encouraging self-talk or giving yourself small rewards, this practice helps make good habits stick. As Philemon 6 reminds us, acknowledging the good in us, especially the good that is in Christ empowers our faith and witness.
Let’s become intentional about recognizing the good and reinforcing it daily.
Scripture Focus: Philemon 6
And remember, "Be The Light."

Good morning, Stephen Schlabach here with today's Vision Forward!
In today’s episode, we examine the automatic responses in our lives those reflexive thoughts and reactions that are often rooted in negativity or insecurity. Stephen encourages us to identify those default patterns and challenge them with truth until the right response becomes our new normal. Drawing from Psalm 103, we see the Psalmist leading himself in truth, calling his soul to remember the goodness and benefits of God. You don’t have to be a prisoner of past habits; your mindset can be transformed.
Be inspired to replace old patterns with the truth of who you are in Christ.
Scripture Focus: Psalm 103:1-2 (NKJV)
And remember, "Be The Light."

Your voice carries more influence than you might think. In this impactful episode, Stephen explores the biblical principle that life and death are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21). From Jesus speaking to a tree to the way a ship is steered by a rudder, Scripture shows us that words shape outcomes. Stephen challenges you to speak with clarity and intention not just to others, but to your own heart and environment. Learn how your voice can direct your life, bring encouragement, and release faith into every area.

Courage is not the absence of fear it’s the presence of conviction. In this motivating episode, Stephen draws from Joshua 1:7 to reveal how essential courage is to fulfilling your calling. He highlights real-world examples of people who’ve demonstrated bravery in the face of opposition and shows how courage often rises from a deeper place than emotion it’s rooted in identity and purpose. Whether facing a challenge or stepping into something new, this episode is a voice of encouragement: be strong, be courageous, and keep moving forward.

Truth must be the anchor of your thoughts not appearances. In this episode, Stephen Schlabach speaks to the importance of aligning our minds with truth, especially in a world that often screams the opposite. Referencing 2 Corinthians 5:7 and Proverbs 23:7, he explores the biblical truth that as we think, so we become. Holding onto God’s truth like being unconditionally loved or living by faith and not by sight is a daily mental discipline. Be challenged to elevate your thinking and live from a place of spiritual truth rather than temporary impressions.