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. 

Doug Sherman discusses with TJ Morelli how a conversational relationship with God is not mystical or abstract—it’s a lived, ongoing dialogue shaped by Scripture, awareness, and love in the ordinary moments of life.

Doug Sherman on keeping your eye on God: Lessons from Flying a T-38

Key Points

  • 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.

Key Points

  • 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.

Key Points

  • Revelation 3:20 — “I stand at the door and knock…” Jesus invites believers to dine with Him, an image of two-way relationship and conversation.

    John 15 (Abiding in Christ) — A command to remain relationally connected with Christ, like a branch to a vine.

    Psalms (David’s example) — David’s continual setting of the Lord before him shows an ongoing awareness and delight in God’s presence.

    The goal is not religious activity but relational connection—savoring and enjoying God.

  • Early discipleship taught Doug to spend time with God and memorize Scripture (Joshua 1:8).

    True biblical meditation means keeping Scripture in your mouth and heart throughout the day—not just reading in the morning.

    Memorized verses become conversation starters with God during ordinary moments (e.g., walking to the store, driving).

    Process example:

    • Recall a verse (“I have set the Lord always before me…”).

    • Ask, “Lord, what are You saying to me through this?”

    • Reflect and respond in conversation.

  • God’s voice = His written Word (Scripture).

    Impressions = Inner nudges or thoughts that align with Scripture and the Spirit’s guidance.

    Example test: Does this impression honor God and serve others?

    It’s okay not to be certain; sincerity and willingness to listen please God.

    Hearing God is a skill developed over time—like learning an instrument.

  • Example from Ephesians 5: Husbands love your wives as Christ loved the Church.

    • Ask: “Lord, what can I say to encourage her?”

    • “What sacrifice can I make today for her?”

    • “Is there any self-centeredness I need to repent of?”

    Small impressions (write a note, speak a word) often have powerful results.

  • Many think they’re “too busy” to walk with God, but Doug heard from the Lord: “You’re not too busy, you’re too self-centered.”

    Use one-sentence prayers throughout the day to stay connected:

    • Before getting out of bed: “Jesus, thank You for all You’ve planned for us today.”

    • Washing hands: “Lord, cleanse my heart as I clean my hands.”

    • Entering a meeting: “Jesus, thank You for calling me here to serve.”

    Before / During / After rhythm:

    • Before a task: Ask who or what to pray for.

    • During a task: Praise or notice God’s presence.

    • After a task: Thank Him for His help or outcomes.

    The goal isn’t perfection but cultivating awareness and partnership with God through daily rhythms.

Key Points

  • 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.