Conversations with Doug Sherman

Speaking engagements. Q&As. Teachings. Messages from the heart.

TJ Morelli interviews Doug Sherman about the doctrinal basis and core concepts of a conversational relationship with God.

Doug Sherman and TJ Morelli talk about scripture memory, quiet time with God, and the practice of gratitude.

Keeping Your Eye on God: Lessons from Flying a T-38

Moralist – Defines faith as following rules (especially around sin). This leads to a relationship with rules, not with God.
Intellectualist – Elevates right doctrine above all else. While important, it reduces faith to an idea, not a relationship.
Relational – The biblical model: a loving, conversational relationship with God.
Deuteronomy 6; Mark 12
Love God with heart (feelings + will), soul (everything of value), and mind (anchored in truth).
God calls us to love this way because He first loves us fully.
Even demons know correct doctrine (James 2).
Jesus taught that truth only sets you free when lived relationally, not just acknowledged intellectually.
Conversations include things like talking, asking, listening, gratitude, repentance, and adoration.
Jesus emphasized careful listening (Luke 8:18).
Without listening, truth fades and doesn’t transform.
Produces moral behavior (holiness) and grounded doctrine.
But these are outcomes, not the foundation. The foundation is ongoing dialogue with God.

Pick a verse you love (e.g., Joshua 1:8).
Write it out in phrases multiple times.
Meditate on it daily.
Review 3x a day for 3 weeks until word-perfect.
Ask a friend to check you for accountability.
Essential tools: Bible, pen, and paper.
Write out prayers to stay focused.
Pray Scripture (e.g., Psalm 119:18 – “Open my eyes…”).
Read a short passage and ask God what He wants you to change.
Write down what you sense God is saying for later reflection.
Gratitude is not just a habit, but a way of seeing.
God’s glory is everywhere (creation, daily life, even ordinary things).
When we notice His goodness and thank Him, our hearts grow more grateful and we see God more clearly.

Just as a wingman must trust the lead aircraft in disorienting weather, we must trust God even when life feels uncertain.
Our senses can deceive us, but following God’s guidance keeps us on course.
Life’s challenges such as loss, illness, or fear require us to rely on God’s wisdom and care.
Thank God not for the trial itself, but for the good He will bring through it.
Keeping our focus on God, like a wingman keeps eyes on the lead, ensures we stay on the path He sets.