top of page
Pivot Driven Devo eBook Signup
FREE eBOOK!
Pivot Driven Devotions
By Arnie Cole & W. Terry Whalin
Bible Selections to Move You Closer to Jesus
PIVOTS
Take a tiny step in a different direction...
When was the last time you changed direction to follow the Holy Spirit’s lead? This is a prime example of a “pivot”—those tiny changes we can easily make for our spiritual life and the needs of others.
Maybe it’s the effort of going an additional step—to take notice, to listen or to open up—that create tremendous opportunities to bring Jesus to those who need Him.
Pivots are intentionally small so they’re not overwhelming to begin or add to along the way. Nor will all pivots will bear immediate fruit. They are intended as actions done today that change our course to produce future results. They make up a process of planting seeds, watering them and watching them grow just like 1 Corinthians 3:6-9.
Bookmark this page and come back regularly. These blog articles will help you keep learning and challenging yourself. You’ll also stay up-to-date about what the social scientists at the Center for Spiritual Fitness are discovering.
One sentence. One Scripture. One saved life. Yours too?
Your daily narrative shapes your spiritual life. This Sunday Review invites readers to replace old, limiting identities with one Scripture-anchored sentence that guides their story through 2026 and draws them closer to Jesus each day.
Arnie Cole
4 hours ago
Know Your Bible - Romans - Day 6 - December 7
As big as the Bible is, it simply cannot offer guidance on every situation we as believers might face. So, how do we know how to act when it comes to matters not mentioned in the Bible? As Paul neared the end of his letter to the Romans, he gives some advice on how to behave within the community of believers.
Back to the Bible
5 hours ago
A Prayer for Love and Discernment - December 7
Doug is here to lead our daily prayer as we ask God for a growing heart of love.
Back to the Bible
5 hours ago
The Power of a Soft Word - December 7
We've all learned that when someone challenges us, we should stand up for ourselves and "fight fire with fire." But so often that just leads to a lot of hurt feelings and ruined friendships. Shannon is here to share some biblical wisdom about a better way to respond the next time we feel the need to "put 'em' up."
Back to the Bible
5 hours ago
The Whisper Test - December 7
In today’s episode, Coach Donna Amidon opens our eyes to the power of our words. How might you change someone’s day—even their destiny—with the words you say to them? Find one person today and say something specific to encourage them. It may be your pastor, or someone in your home, at work or school, or even a stranger at the store. Remember, we all need encouragement, so share Christ’s love!
Back to the Bible
5 hours ago
Your Daily Spiritual Work Out - December 7
STEP 1 - RECEIVE (Receive God's Word and Grow in Bible Knowledge) As big as the Bible is, it simply cannot offer guidance on every situation we as believers might face. So, how do we know how to act when it comes to matters not mentioned in the Bible? As Paul neared the end of his letter to the Romans, he gives some advice on how to behave within the community of believers. STEP 2 - REFLECT (How does this Scripture Apply to your life?) We've all learned that when someone chal
Back to the Bible
5 hours ago
More Than Sober: How God’s Mercy and the 12 Steps Lead to a Life Truly Alive
It takes more than willpower to find lasting freedom. Discover how faith, radical honesty, and God’s transforming mercy move you from merely sober to fully alive.
Back to the Bible
1 day ago
What Have We Learned? - December 6
It's important to be always learning from God's Word. And it's important to be sharing what we have learned. Karmin prays for us today that God will help us learn, understand and share His wonderful words with others.
Back to the Bible
1 day ago
Your Daily Spiritual Work Out - December 6
STEP 1 - RECEIVE (Receive God's Word and Grow in Bible Knowledge) "What now?" That's a question many answer after coming to know Christ. Is salvation only about the afterlife? Not at all! As Paul continues his letter he describes the life of the Christian, lived in gratitude for the sacrifice God has made. We'll learn a little about our responsibility to earthly authorities and to other believers as well. STEP 2 - REFLECT (How does this Scripture Apply to your life?) A lot of
Back to the Bible
1 day ago
Good Enough - December 6
A lot of people live life constantly afraid that some day they'll stand before God and find out that they weren't good enough. And, well, they're right. We'll never be good enough to meet God's standards. But that's the bad news. Justus is here today to share with you the Good News that will allow us all to look forward to that day standing before God with anticipation instead of dread.
Back to the Bible
1 day ago
Know Your Bible - Romans - Day 5 - December 6
"What now?" That's a question many answer after coming to know Christ. Is salvation only about the afterlife? Not at all! As Paul continues his letter he describes the life of the Christian, lived in gratitude for the sacrifice God has made. We'll learn a little about our responsibility to earthly authorities and to other believers as well.
Back to the Bible
1 day ago
Five Choices - December 6
Loss of self-control doesn’t usually happen overnight. It is a series of small steps. Jon Winkelman alerts you to those steps, along with a plan involving 5 choices you can make to help you stand firm with self-control. Do not give room for compromise to grow in your life today. As soon as you are aware of something in your life that does not meet God’s standard, confess it. This is what self-control is all about.
Back to the Bible
1 day ago
About Face - December 6
Read 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10 For they themselves report concerning us the kind of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come. Reflect What did you turn to God from? Who were you serving before you served Him? Before we became believers, we were all serving something or someone. I’d venture to guess that some of
Back to the Bible
1 day ago
Stop Overtraining Your Faith: Why Head Knowledge Is Not Enough To Win Spiritual Battles
Are you studying the Bible more than you’re living it? This article explores why head knowledge alone can’t win spiritual battles, how obedience activates spiritual strength, and how to move from information to transformation one step at a time.
Back to the Bible
2 days ago
Too Good Not To Share - December 5
Read 1 Thessalonians 1:8 For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything. Reflect When you receive an amazing gift, do you usually want to share it with others or hoard it for yourself? Sometimes, when we know we have been given a good thing, our impulse is to hoard it or hide it. Maybe it’s because we’re selfish or maybe we are just afraid of running out an
Back to the Bible
2 days ago
Spirit-Led Control - December 5
Self-control, when it is fully self-powered, can quickly become a losing battle. Coach Celeste gives you a better perspective, a better way to cultivate willpower with spirit-led control. 1) Prioritize time with the Lord in the Bible and prayer so that you become familiar with His voice. 2) Target a specific area of your life where your self-control may be lacking and seek the Lord in this. 3) Write out some affirmations to remind you who God is and who He says you are. Ask t
Back to the Bible
2 days ago
Self-Control During the Holidays - December 5
It's not uncommon to find someone trying to exercise some self-restraint during the Christmas season--only one cookie; just one serving of pie. But have you ever considered the need for some spiritual self-restraint? Sherri is here to help us prepare for the spiritual temptations we may face this holiday season.
Back to the Bible
2 days ago
Your Daily Spiritual Work Out - December 5
INTRO: SPIRITUALLY FIT | TODAY Join Arnie Cole, Braden Pedersen, and Bruce A. on Spiritually Fit Today as they discuss the balance between Bible knowledge and action. Discover why spiritual growth isn’t about having perfect head knowledge, but about taking daily steps of faith. Learn practical ways to apply Scripture, build spiritual habits, and live out your faith in everyday life. Get inspired to put on the armor of God and make every day count for Christ. STEP 1 - RECEIV
Back to the Bible
2 days ago
Know Your Bible - Romans - Day 4 - December 5
"Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners." One of the surprising aspects of salvation is that it required a sacrifice. But why did Jesus have to die? Find out more about the severity of sin and the great love of God.
Back to the Bible
2 days ago
God's Listening - December 5
Do you ever stop just think about the fact that God actually listens to our prayers? Join Ben as we praise God for his attention to us today.
Back to the Bible
2 days ago
BTTB’S GIFT TO YOU— AND THE GLOBAL CHURCH
A Christmas reflection on how the SALT Index helps believers and churches worldwide make spiritual growth visible and grounded in God’s Word.
Back to the Bible
3 days ago
Know Your Bible - Romans - Day 3 - December 4
Since Jesus is such a critical factor in our salvation, how were the heroes of the faith from the Old Testament saved? Paul talks about some of these people and the faith they exhibited in God. From their example we'll learn how to put our faith in God and trust in Him for salvation.
Back to the Bible
3 days ago
You Can't Take It Back - December
If you've ever sent off a text message or email, or even spoke before thinking about what you were about to say, you know how damaging our words can be. Nick is here today to share some wisdom from the Bible about guarding our words to remember the next time we feel our anger start to bubble.
Back to the Bible
3 days ago
Still Our Anger - December 4
The Christmas season has a way of stirring up our emotions, both good and bad. Pray with Paula today as she prays for God's hand of peace to be over us this season.
Back to the Bible
3 days ago
Follow the Leader - December 4
Read 1 Thessalonians 1:6-7 And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with the joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. Reflect Are you more of a leader or a follower? Why is it important to be both in different seasons of life? Some say “imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” Does that hold true when it comes to spiritual matters? It turns out, the Bible do
Back to the Bible
3 days ago
Navigating Through Turbulent Times - December 4
Our actions and reactions, especially in the heat of anger, are not unnoticed by God. Spiritual Fitness Coach Nat Crawford gives you biblical pointers to help you navigate through turbulent times with the grace of God. Today, remember your ultimate accountability before Christ. Practice self-control, seek empathy, and commit to peaceful resolutions, even when you are provoked!
Back to the Bible
3 days ago
Your Daily Spiritual Work Out - December 4
INTRO: SPIRITUALLY FIT | TODAY Join Arnie Cole, Braden Pedersen, and Bruce A. as they explore Ephesians 6:13-17 and discuss why the armor of God is meant for action, not just knowledge. Discover how to move beyond studying Scripture to living it out daily, balancing grace and truth, and making your faith active in the world. Get spiritually fit today—because what you do now shapes your tomorrow. STEP 1 - RECEIVE (Receive God's Word and Grow in Bible Knowledge) Since Jesus i
Back to the Bible
3 days ago
THE GIFT THAT STILL GIVES
A Christmas reflection on the God who gives, the gift that keeps giving, and how sharing His Word continues the miracle of Bethlehem.
Arnie Cole
4 days ago
Why Fasting Matters So Much to Me
Discover why fasting has become a powerful spiritual discipline in the author’s life, how it deepens prayer, increases focus on God, and shapes spiritual growth, and why now is the best time to prepare for a faithful practice in the new year.
Chuck Lawless
4 days ago
Your Daily Spiritual Work Out - December 3
INTRO: SPIRITUALLY FIT | TODAY Join Arnie Cole, Braden Pedersen, and Bruce A. on Spiritually Fit Today as they explore James 1:22 and the balance between Bible knowledge and real-life action. Discover practical steps to move from hearing the Word to living it daily, with inspiring stories and actionable advice for spiritual growth. STEP 1 - RECEIVE (Receive God's Word and Grow in Bible Knowledge) Before you can talk about the good news, you need to know the bad news. That's
Back to the Bible
4 days ago
Why We Forgive - December 3
Why should you forgive when revenge is so acceptable in our culture? Coach Kate Dreesen gives you the biblical reasons and the encouragement to take action and extend forgiveness today! Who do you need to forgive? Today, if there’s someone in your life you need to forgive, take action! Extend forgiveness to them just as God has extended eternal and ultimate forgiveness to you. Who do you need to forgive?
Back to the Bible
4 days ago
The Power of Forgiveness - December 3
Forgiveness is one of the most powerful acts we'll ever experience. Join Jon today as he thanks God for the forgiveness He offers, and asks for the grace to extend forgiveness to the people in our lives.
Back to the Bible
4 days ago
What I Deserve - December 3
Have you ever had one of those days that was going perfectly until one little thing sets you off on a tantrum? We've probably all been there and been frustrated it is at how easy we can lose control. But Jonathan has an example from the Bible we can turn to for help next time we feel our temper slipping out of control.
Back to the Bible
4 days ago
Know Your Bible - Romans - Day 2 - December 3
Before you can talk about the good news, you need to know the bad news. That's what Paul does in these opening chapters of Romans. We'll find that everyone stands justly condemned before God for violating His laws and His holiness. But of course, this is not the end of the story, and before we end this message, we'll learn a bit about God's grace.
Back to the Bible
4 days ago
Powerful Words - December 3
Read 1 Thessalonians 1:4-5 For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. Reflect Has someone ever told you something that you knew were just empty words? Why didn’t you believe them? Have you ever met someone who is all talk? They make promises but never deliver and their words soun
Back to the Bible
4 days ago
A BACK TO THE BIBLE CHRISTMAS LEGACY
A personal Christmas reflection on how Back to the Bible’s teaching and music shaped a family’s spiritual journey for decades.
Back to the Bible
5 days ago
Your Daily Spiritual Work Out - December 2
INTRO: SPIRITUALLY FIT | TODAY Join Arnie Cole, Braden Pedersen, and Bruce A. on the Spiritually Fit Today podcast as they explore the importance of knowing the real Jesus through the Bible, balancing knowledge and action, and discerning God’s guidance. Discover how the "belt of truth" keeps your faith grounded and learn practical steps to grow as a Christ follower. STEP 1 - RECEIVE (Receive God's Word and Grow in Bible Knowledge) Paul's letter to the Romans is one of the m
Back to the Bible
5 days ago
A Prayer to Live in Harmony and Peace - December 2
Join Paula today as she leads our daily prayer group. Join us as we pray for God's guidance as we seek to live at peace and with joy.
Back to the Bible
5 days ago
A Peace Promise - December 2
Ever feel like peace at Christmas time is more of a myth than a reality? It's easy to get lost in the hustle of the holidays. But there is an escape. Join Donna today as she shares some wisdom from the Bible and God's plan for a peaceful Christmas.
Back to the Bible
5 days ago
Chosen and Loved - December 2
Read 1 Thessalonians 1:4 See with what large letters I am writing to you with my own hand. It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh who would force you to be circumcised, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For even those who are circumcised do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh. Reflect For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you… All thro
Back to the Bible
5 days ago
Know Your Bible - Romans - Day 1 - December 2
Paul's letter to the Romans is one of the most doctrinally significant Books of the Bible. In this letter, Paul explains in great detail the Gospel message and makes it clear that salvation is not through human effort, but by the grace of God alone. As we study Paul's opening statements, we'll be reminded of the great power of God's Word.
Back to the Bible
5 days ago
Set On Christ - December 2
While the wars of the world rage, perhaps some of the most disturbing battles are fought within our minds. Today Coach Zane trains us in how to guard our minds and know God’s peace! Get into the Word and spend some time in prayer today. Pray with thanksgiving! These good spiritual disciplines aim our perspective toward God, and when we are set on Him, peace will overflow into our lives.
Back to the Bible
5 days ago
When Faith Feels Fragile: Learning to Trust God When You’re Full of Questions
Struggling with doubt or unbelief? Discover how Jesus responds with compassion in Mark 9:24—and how honest faith grows stronger through struggle.
Arnie Cole
6 days ago
Your Daily Spiritual Work Out - December 1
INTRO: SPIRITUALLY FIT | TODAY Join Arnie Cole, Braden Pedersen, and Bruce A. on Spiritually Fit Today as they discuss the balance between biblical knowledge and action. Explore Ephesians 6:13 and discover why putting on the full armor of God means stepping into the battlefield, not just studying. Learn how to move from equipping your faith to living it out daily. STEP 1 - RECEIVE (Receive God's Word and Grow in Bible Knowledge) Paul's final journey was in chains to the cit
Back to the Bible
6 days ago
Know Your Bible - Acts - Day 13 - December 1
Paul's final journey was in chains to the city of Rome. But it wasn't an easy journey. We'll learn about the shipwreck Paul endured and then learn about his final days under house arrest preaching and teaching the good news to anyone who would hear.
Back to the Bible
6 days ago
Christmas Hope - December 1
Christmas for the believer is all about hope. Sarah explains more in this encouraging message as we draw near to Christmas.
Back to the Bible
6 days ago
Christmas: Joy - December 1
There is joy in the Lord... Mark is here today to pray with us as we seek God's joy in our lives.
Back to the Bible
6 days ago
The Evidence of Salvation - December 1
Read 1 Thessalonians 1:3 …remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. Reflect We know that we can’t earn our salvation (Romans 3:20) and that are saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). Given that, what is the relationship between true saving faith and works? Imagine that someone close to you repeatedly hurt, offended, and opposed you. Understandably, your relationship with that individ
Back to the Bible
6 days ago
Call Out the Blessing of Joy - December 1
There are days when joy comes easily. Other days, not so much! Yet, we are given this fruit of the Spirit to be used and enjoyed. Spiritual Fitness Coach Lydia Robertson shares how to call out the blessing of joy in your life! Call out the blessing of joy in your life by talking, singing, or writing about the goodness you experience from God. As we call out these blessings, we are cultivating joy in our lives!
Back to the Bible
6 days ago
You Are Not Your Struggle - A Message for 2026
Learn how to stop defining yourself by your struggles and embrace the story God is writing through grace and resilience.
If you want, I can tailor it to be more emotional, more data-driven, or more explicitly tied to Spiritually Fit Today.
Arnie Cole
Nov 30
bottom of page