BecomeNew.Me

Why is gratitude so difficult to sustain?In this teaching on Psalm 100, John Ortberg explores the deeper source of genuine gratitude and why thankfulness cannot simply be forced through willpower.Using reflections from Robert Hayden and his poem Those Winter Sundays, John reflects on the hidden acts of love that quietly sustain human life every day — often without being noticed or thanked.This episode explores:- Why gratitude begins with awareness- The hidden acts of love around us- Psalm 100 and worship- “Know that the Lord, He is God”- Gratitude, creation, and ordinary beauty- Learning to “connect the dots” back to GodThis is a thoughtful, moving reflection on gratitude, worship, attention, and the goodness of God.Scriptures:- Psalm 100- Genesis 3 (allusion)- John 10 imageryResources referenced:- Those Winter Sundays — Robert Hayden#Psalm100 #JohnOrtberg #Gratitude #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #Thankfulness #Worship #BibleStudy #Psalms

Why would God include violent prayers in the Bible?In this deeply challenging teaching on Psalm 137, John Ortberg explores anger, injustice, enemies, suffering, and why the Psalms are far more emotionally honest than most modern spirituality.John begins with a provocative statement: “You should stop having a quiet time.”Using reflections from Eugene Peterson, this episode explores the difference between prayer that merely calms us down and prayer that honestly confronts evil, grief, and the brokenness of the world.This episode explores:- Why Psalm 137 feels so disturbing- The role of anger and indignation- Why suppressed hatred is spiritually dangerous- Prayer as honesty before God- Jesus, enemy-love, and the Psalms- “Our hate needs to be prayed, not suppressed”Featuring reflections on:- Eugene Peterson- C.S. Lewis- René GirardScriptures:- Psalm 137- Ephesians 6:12- Matthew 5:44#Psalm137 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #Psalms #EugenePeterson #Justice #Forgiveness #BibleStudy

Why do we avoid uncomfortable truth?In this teaching on Psalm 42, John Ortberg explores self-awareness, attention, distraction, procrastination, and the deep spiritual thirst at the center of the human soul.Using Psalm 42's famous image — “As the deer pants for streams of water…” — John reflects on how human beings often distract themselves from the deeper realities happening inside them. Why do we avoid certain thoughts? Why do difficult truths fade when we procrastinate? And what does prayer have to do with attention?This episode explores:- The soul's longing for God- Why humans avoid painful truth- Self-deception and attention management- Procrastination as a spiritual issue- The relationship between awareness and transformation- “The greatest freedom of human life”Featuring reflections from:- William James- Flannery O'Connor- Gregg Ten ElshofScripture:- Psalm 42#Psalm42 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #SelfAwareness #ChristianFaith #Psychology #Attention #BibleStudy #Psalms

Why is self-awareness so difficult?In this teaching on Psalm 19, John Ortberg explores self-deception, blind spots, hidden faults, and the surprising difficulty of honestly seeing ourselves.The Psalmist asks: “Who can discern their own errors?”That question launches a fascinating exploration of:- Freud and the unconscious mind- Cognitive bias and self-deception- Why humans protect their image- The role of feedback and mirrors- Spiritual growth through honesty- Grace, confession, and healingThis episode explores how Scripture and modern psychology intersect around one central truth: human beings are remarkably good at hiding truth from themselves.And yet real freedom begins when we become willing to see.Scriptures:- Psalm 19:12–14- Romans 1- Obadiah 1:3Resources mentioned:- Freud- George Eliot- Gregg Ten Elshof- Awakenings#psalm19  #JohnOrtberg #SelfAwareness #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #Psychology #Prayer #BibleStudy #BlindSpots #Psalms

What does bowling have to do with spiritual life?In this teaching on Psalm 19, John Ortberg explores anxiety, surrender, creation, grace, and the deep human longing for soul rest.Using a surprisingly powerful bowling illustration, John reflects on how most people continue trying to control outcomes long after the “ball” has already left their hands. Psalm 19 offers another way: let go, trust God, delight in creation, and allow your soul to rest.This episode explores:- Why modern people struggle with rest- The connection between anxiety and control- Creation as medicine for the soul- Why the law of God is actually a gift- Soul fragmentation and divided living- How love restores wholenessFeaturing reflections on:- Dallas Willard- Theodore Roosevelt- Martin Luther- Psalm 19Scriptures:-Psalm 19-Matthew 22:37–39-James 2:8#Psalm19 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #DallasWillard #SoulRest #Anxiety #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Psalms

What actually creates a peaceful life?In this teaching on Psalm 15, John Ortberg explores the ancient biblical vision of an “unshakable” life — a life rooted in goodness, grace, truth, and the presence of God.Psalm 15 asks:“Who may dwell on your holy mountain?”The answer turns out to be both beautiful and deeply challenging.Along the way, John reflects on:Why peace is more than a feelingThe connection between character and stabilityGossip, envy, greed, ego, and emotional formationPositive psychology and virtueWhat kind of people we become through daily choicesWhy “the good life is with God”This episode is practical, thoughtful, convicting, and hopeful all at once.Scriptures:Psalm 15Matthew 6:33Luke 23:39–43#Psalm15 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #Peace #Character #BibleStudy #Psalms #formation 

What's the one thing that would make today a good day?Psalm 16 says it's simpler—and deeper—than you think.In this teaching, John Ortberg walks through Psalm 16 and introduces a powerful idea: your life-scape—the inner world where your thoughts, desires, and attention live.Most of us drift through our days reacting to whatever comes. But Psalm 16 invites us to something different: “I have set the Lord always before me.”In this episode, you'll learn:- What shapes your inner life (your “life-scape”)- Why chasing “other gods” leads to restlessness- How to center your day around one transforming focus- What it means to live with a steady, unshaken heartThis is a practical invitation to live today with clarity, presence, and purpose.

Ever feel stuck in your thoughts… and don't know how to pray?Here's a simple, practical method that actually works.In this teaching, John Ortberg walks through a powerful and practical way to pray your emotions using Psalm 57.Adapted from psychological insights and grounded in Scripture, this ABCD prayer method helps you move from anxiety and rumination to clarity, trust, and peace.You'll learn how to:- Identify what's actually triggering you- Name the beliefs driving your emotions- Understand why your feelings feel so strong- Reframe your thoughts with truth- Move into a place of steadiness and actionIf you've ever felt overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to talk to God honestly—this gives you a clear path forward.

What do you do with anger you can't let go of?What if the Bible actually teaches you how to pray it?In Part 3 of this conversation, John Ortberg and Rankin Wilbourne tackle one of the most difficult emotions we face: anger.Psalm 109 is one of the most shocking passages in Scripture—full of raw, unfiltered anger. So why is it in the Bible?In this episode, you'll learn:- Why denying anger isn't spiritual maturity- How the Psalms give you permission to be honest with God- What it looks like to pray your anger instead of acting on it- How anger can actually be transformed into something healing- This is Part 3 of a 3-part convo on learning to pray your emotions.

What if the pain you're avoiding is actually the path to healing?And what if God already gave you the words for it?In Part 2 of this conversation, John Ortberg and Rankin Wilbourne explore one of the most overlooked practices in the Christian life: lament.If the Psalms are the prayer book of God's people, why are so many of them… sad? And why do we avoid praying that way?You'll discover:- Why lament is essential (not optional) in spiritual life- How lament becomes a bridge between pain and trust- Why avoiding pain actually deepens it- A practical way to pray honestly without getting stuck in despairThis is Part 2 of a 3-part conversation on learning to pray your emotions.

Most people don't know how to pray their emotions… even after years of faith.What if the Psalms were meant to teach you how?In this conversation, John Ortberg sits down with author and pastor Rankin Wilbourne to explore a life-changing idea: learning to pray your emotions.Many of us either suppress our feelings or let them control us—but the Psalms offer a better way. They give us language, permission, and structure to bring our real selves before God.In this episode, you'll learn:- Why most people struggle to pray honestly- The difference between suppressing, expressing, and praying emotions- A simple framework to process emotions with God (OWN: Observe, Welcome, Name)- What “pre-reflective prayer” means—and why it mattersThis is Part 1 of a 3-part conversation.

How long can you carry something before it breaks you?And what do you do when God feels… silent?In this teaching on Psalm 13, John Ortberg walks us through one of the most honest prayers in Scripture: “How long, O Lord?”When pain lingers, when answers don't come, and when God feels distant, we face a choice. We can grumble—turning inward in bitterness and withdrawal—or we can groan—bringing our pain honestly before God.This Psalm shows us how to lament in a way that leads somewhere. Not by denying pain, but by bringing it fully into God's presence.If you're carrying something heavy right now—a relationship, anxiety, loss, or a long unanswered prayer—this teaching will help you turn that pain into prayer.

Everyone's talking about mindfulness… but what if we've missed the most important part?What if the key isn't your mind being focused—but God's mind being focused on you?In this teaching on Psalm 8, John Ortberg explores a deeper kind of mindfulness—one that begins not with your attention, but with God's.While we often struggle with distraction, anxiety, and rumination, Psalm 8 reveals something surprising: God is fully, constantly mindful of you. His attention never drifts. His care never wavers.Through reflection, Scripture, and guided prayer, this teaching invites you to step into praise, re-center your mind, and experience what it means to live in the awareness of God's presence.You'll also learn how to pray the Psalm—turning your attention from distraction to delight, and from anxiety to awe.Music Credits:Vikersund by RØRE - MB01V0UASAACPKEAlta by RØRE - MB01IWZVJASGKHF

We live in a world obsessed with predicting the future… and terrified of it.So how do you actually live when everything feels uncertain?In this teaching on Psalm 3, John Ortberg explores one of the most universal human struggles: uncertainty. We don't know what's coming next—and instead of trusting God, we often try to control, predict, or even “gamble” on the future.But Psalm 3 offers a different way. It begins in fear and pressure—real enemies, real anxiety—and moves toward trust, surrender, and confidence in God's presence.This teaching will help you name the “foes” in your life (both internal and external), bring your honest thoughts to God, and discover what it means to live with courage—even when the future is unclear.You'll also be guided to pray the Psalm yourself, learning how to turn anxiety into conversation with God.

What if your life is already headed in a direction… and you didn't choose it?Psalm 1 says there are only two ways to live and only one leads to flourishing.In this opening teaching of a new series on the Psalms, John Ortberg invites us into one of the most important questions we can ask: What is my way of life leading to?Psalm 1 describes a person who is “blessed”—not just happy, but deeply rooted, steady, and flourishing. And it contrasts that life with another path we can slowly drift into without even noticing. Through reflection, story, and guided prayer, this teaching helps you examine your own direction and begin to re-center your life around God.You'll also be invited to actually pray the Psalm—to let it shape your thoughts, your desires, and your daily decisions.

Did you enjoy this teaching on Forgiveness? Download the free print and go study guide to experience the journey in its fullness: becomenew.com/study-guides Is reconciliation really possible… after betrayal?In one of the most powerful stories in the Bible, we see the answer: yes—but it's complicated.In today's teaching, we walk through the story of Joseph and his brothers—a story filled with jealousy, betrayal, suffering, and ultimately… forgiveness and reconciliation. This is not a neat or easy process. It's messy, emotional, and deeply human.But it reveals something extraordinary: God can bring healing even to the most broken relationships.Because forgiveness is powerful… but reconciliation? That's a miracle.

What is forgiveness… really? And what if most of us have been getting it wrong?In today's teaching, we define forgiveness in a clear and powerful way: replacing ill will with goodwill. But that raises big questions—Does forgiveness excuse wrongdoing? Does it ignore justice? Should we forgive everything?Drawing from Scripture, real-world examples, and the work of Everett Worthington, this message untangles the confusion and reveals a deeper, stronger, more honest vision of forgiveness.Because forgiveness isn't pretending something didn't matter it's choosing a different kind of response.

Most of us think unforgiveness is something we choose.But what if it's actually something that slowly grows inside of us… without us even realizing it?In today's teaching, we explore the road to NOT forgiving—how small hurts turn into resentment, how rumination fuels bitterness, and how unforgiveness quietly takes hold of your heart.Drawing from Scripture, personal reflection, and the research of Everett Worthington, this message exposes the hidden patterns that keep us stuck—and offers hope that change is possible.Because unforgiveness doesn't just affect others…it shapes you. 

What does it take to forgive the unforgivable?In this powerful conversation, Everett Worthington shares his personal story of facing unimaginable loss—and the journey toward forgiveness that followed.Blending deep emotional honesty with practical wisdom, this teaching explores the darkness of the human heart, the reality of anger and rage, and the surprising path that leads to healing. You'll discover why forgiveness is not about excusing harm, but about transforming your own heart—and how even small steps can begin that process.Because forgiveness doesn't start with others… it starts within you.Welcome home. Change starts today.

Forgiveness sounds simple… until you actually have to do it.In today's teaching, we begin a powerful journey into forgiveness—not as a vague idea, but as a real, practical process that leads to healing and freedom. Because the truth is: we all carry wounds… and we all need to forgive.Drawing from Scripture, the teachings of Everett Worthington, and real-life experience, this message introduces a proven pathway to forgiveness—one that is honest, challenging, and deeply transformative.Because forgiveness isn't natural… it's supernatural.But it is possible.Welcome home. Change starts today.

Did you enjoy this teaching? We have a free study guide on this entire series if you'd like to walk through it with a friend or small group! Just download, print and go! Get it here... Becomenew.com/study-guidesSubmission.Just hearing that word can feel… uncomfortable.In a culture that prizes independence, autonomy, and “doing life your way,” the idea of submitting to someone else can sound outdated—or even dangerous. But what if submission, rightly understood, is actually a pathway to freedom?In today's teaching, we explore the spiritual discipline of submission—not as control or coercion, but as a humble, intentional decision to learn from those who are further along in wisdom and character. Drawing from Scripture, the wisdom of Dallas Willard, and real-life examples, this message reframes submission as a powerful tool for growth, accountability, and transformation.Because sometimes the fastest way forward… is learning to follow.Welcome home. Change starts today.

What if the thing you most want to hide… is the very thing keeping you stuck?In today's teaching, we explore the powerful (and often avoided) spiritual practice of confession—the act of telling the truth about your life to God and to a trusted person. It may feel uncomfortable, even painful, but it might also be the key to real freedom.Drawing from Scripture, the wisdom of Dallas Willard, and insights from recovery communities like AA, this message shows how confession breaks the cycle of shame, removes hidden burdens, and restores connection with God and others.Because healing begins the moment you stop pretending.Welcome home. Change starts today.

What if worship isn't just something you do at church… but something that could transform your entire life?In today's teaching, we explore the true meaning of worship—not as music or a moment, but as a way of seeing and responding to the goodness, beauty, and greatness of God in everyday life.Drawing from Scripture, the wisdom of Dallas Willard, and even the simple joy of things like coffee and nature, this message shows how worship awakens awe, restores your heart, and reconnects your life to what really matters.

What if the reason you feel anxious, exhausted, or constantly “on”… is because you're living for other people's approval?In today's teaching, we explore the powerful and often overlooked spiritual discipline of secrecy—doing good without anyone knowing. It sounds simple… but it might be one of the hardest things you'll ever try.Drawing from the teachings of Dallas Willard and the words of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, this message reveals how secrecy frees you from approval addiction, comparison, and the exhausting need to manage your image.Because the goal isn't to be seen as good…it's to become good—quietly, deeply, and freely.

Silence might be the most uncomfortable… and most transformative… practice in your life.In a world filled with constant noise, distraction, and the pressure to always say something, the discipline of silence feels almost impossible. But what if silence is actually the doorway to peace, trust, and deeper connection with God?In this teaching, we explore why silence matters, how it reshapes your inner life, and why learning not to speak can bring surprising freedom. Drawing from the wisdom of Dallas Willard and the example of Jesus, you'll discover how silence helps you let go of control, release the need for approval, and experience a deeper sense of being “at home” with God.If your life feels noisy, anxious, or driven by the need to prove yourself… this might be exactly what you need.ORIGINAL AIR DATE: 4.12.23ORIGINAL SERIES: Home

Enjoying these teachings on CHARACTER? Get the Free Study Guide: BecomeNew.com/study-guides - Download, print, and go!Is life actually fair? It's a question we all wrestle with—at home, at work, in culture, and deep in our own stories. But what if fairness isn't just something we demand… what if it's something we're called to become?In today's teaching, we explore the biblical vision of fairness and justice, tracing a powerful theme throughout Scripture: God does not show favoritism. From Cain and Abel to David to Jesus Himself, we see a God who consistently elevates the overlooked and challenges human systems of privilege and power.This message will challenge you to examine your own biases, confront favoritism in your life, and ask one simple but profound question:  Who am I overlooking?Because the way you treat people matters more than you think.

Why is self-control so hard? You're not alone. Research shows that among all character strengths, self-control ranks dead last in how people rate themselves. But what if the problem isn't just your willpower… what if it's how you're using it?In this teaching, we explore the deeper truth behind self-control—why willpower gets depleted, how habits shape your life, and why “white-knuckling it” isn't the solution. Drawing from Scripture, psychology, and spiritual wisdom, you'll discover a surprising secret:The key to self-control isn't trying harder… it's learning to surrender your will to something greater.If you feel stuck in cycles of frustration, temptation, or burnout, this message offers a better way forward.

Most of us think we're pretty good at reading people. Research says… we're not.In today's teaching, we explore the powerful and often overlooked skill of social intelligence, the ability to understand your own emotions and accurately read what's happening in others. From facial expressions to tone of voice to body language, this skill shapes every relationship you have. Through biblical insight (including the story of Joseph), practical exercises, and a powerful reflection practice, you'll learn how to grow in awareness, ask better questions, and become someone who truly sees people.Because when you learn to read faces…you learn to love people better.

Life doesn't always give you the path you would choose...There's a race set before you, shaped by your circumstances, your story, and the challenges you didn't ask for. The question isn't whether you chose it… the question is: will you run it with perseverance?In this powerful teaching, we explore what it really means to persevere—not just through willpower, but through purpose. Drawing from Scripture, philosophy, and real-life stories of suffering and resilience, this message shows how perseverance is fueled by hope, vision, and a deep sense that your life matters.If you're tired, discouraged, or wondering if it's worth it to keep going… this is for you.Because sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is just to take the next step.

What if the key to real character growth isn't fixing your weaknesses… but fully living into your strengths?In today's teaching, Dr. John Ortberg explores the idea of signature character strengths — those unique qualities God has wired into you that, when used intentionally, can transform your life and the lives of others. Drawing from research in positive psychology and the example of Barnabas, the “son of encouragement,” this message invites you to discover how you're uniquely designed to grow and make an impact.You'll hear a powerful story of quiet encouragement, learn how your daily choices shape who you are becoming, and be challenged to take one simple step: start using your God-given strengths on purpose today.Because change doesn't happen someday. Change starts today.ORIGINAL AIR DATE: July 24, 2023

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Take the No Condemnation Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NYQZHPDWhat if the biggest problem was never “them”… but what happens in us?In this final episode of the No Condemnation series, John brings us to a powerful turning point in Romans 1–2. Paul builds a case against “them” — their sin, their failure, their corruption — until the reader is fully on board.And then he turns it: “You, therefore, have no excuse—you who pass judgment…”In this episode, you'll learn:the difference between moral discernment and condemnationwhy labeling people as “them” distorts the hearthow contempt quietly takes root in everyday lifewhy humility is the starting point for real changehow to live with curiosity instead of judgmentThis isn't about ignoring sin. It's about refusing to let condemnation shape your soul. As the series ends, the invitation remains:See people as individuals.Release the need to judge.Choose curiosity.Practice love....because there is now no condemnation.

What makes the cross of Jesus different from every other story of sacrifice?In this episode, John explores the idea of scapegoating through the work of René Girard and how human societies have always dealt with conflict the same way: by finding someone to blame. We find ourselves at the cross. The cross of Jesus changes everything. For the first time, the scapegoat is truly innocent and instead of justifying the system, the cross exposes it.You'll learn:why humans instinctively assign blamehow rivalry and imitation lead to conflictwhat scapegoating looks like in everyday lifehow the cross reveals the truth about human systemswhy God responds to blame with graceIn a world that runs on blame, the cross offers a different way.Not more condemnation.Not more scapegoats.But grace.

Why doesn't shaming actually work?In this episode, Dr. John Ortberg explores two powerful reasons why condemnation and public shaming often backfire and what they do to both the person being judged and the one doing the judging.Drawing from The Scarlet Letter, John shows:- why we never truly know someone else's story- how shame distorts both identity and relationships- why condemnation corrodes the soul of the one who carries it- how modern culture reinforces division and estrangement- what Jesus offers insteadThen he introduces a different calling:The ministry of reconciliation.You'll learn:- why reconciliation is central to the life of Jesus- how to begin moving away from resentment- what to do when relationships feel broken- why prayer is often the first step- how to live without keeping scoreBecause the goal isn't just to avoid condemnation.It's to become someone who brings people back together.SAVE THE DATE: FORMATIONPODCAST.com launches April 22!

What if the biggest problem isn't “out there”… but is actually within?In this episode, John speaks directly to a familiar figure, “Uncle Billy," the person whose words are harsh, sarcastic, and condemning. Everyone knows an "Uncle Billy."But then he turns the question back on each one of us.Drawing from Ephesians 4 and the words of Jesus, John explores:- why condemnation often disguises itself as righteousness- how outrage and sarcasm shape our hearts- what the Bible really means by “unwholesome talk”- how our words can either rot or restore relationships- why kindness is central to following JesusYou'll learn:- how to recognize “unwholesome talk” in everyday life- why it's easier to judge others than examine ourselves- how to begin changing the tone of your words- what it looks like to speak in a way that builds others upBefore we send this message to someone else, we're invited to ask:“Is that me, Lord?”Because there is now no condemnation...even for the parts of us still being transformed.

We're living in a culture of division. So how do you follow Jesus…when you deeply disagree with someone?In this conversation, John Ortberg sits down with Condoleezza Rice to explore how faith shapes the way we navigate politics, disagreement, and relationships.Together, they unpack:- Why it's so hard to love your “opponents”- How to disagree without losing respect- The role of humility, curiosity, and friendship- And why prayer may be the most important habit of allBecause following Jesus doesn't remove disagreement…but it transforms how we live within it.

Why did Jesus have to die? What's the deal with sacrifice? Couldn't God just… forgive?In this Good Friday teaching, Dr. John Ortberg walks through the deeper meaning of the cross.A story that reveals:We all need helpThe real problem isn't “out there”… it's in usAnd the power of evil is not defeated by force…but by self-giving loveOn the cross, Jesus didn't just suffer.He absorbed evil without returning it.He out-loved hatred.He defeated sin by refusing to stop loving.And in doing so, he changed everything.The invitation is not just to believe in the cross…but to live it.

Not all condemnation is loud.Some of it is… sneaky.In this episode, John Ortberg walks through 10 passive-aggressive habits that quietly damage relationships—things like eye rolls, silence, sarcasm, and “I'm fine.”The twist?Jesus never used them.He was direct. Honest. Clear.And still… full of love.Because you can avoid conflict…and still be full of condemnation.So today, pay attention:Where are you being indirect instead of honest?Where is frustration leaking out sideways?And ask God to help you speak the truth—without condemnation.

Most people don't struggle with telling the truth…they struggle with how they say it.In this episode, John and Nancy Ortberg unpack what it really means to:“Speak the truth in love.”Through two powerful real-life stories, they show how condemnation quietly grows:- behind people's backs- inside groups- and in our own heartsAnd how it can be replaced with something better:- honesty without attack- truth without shame- connection instead of divisionBecause the goal isn't avoiding hard conversations…It's learning how to have them without condemnation.

Shamed people… shame people.So what do you do with the shame you carry?In this episode, John Ortberg shows how Jesus faced shame—and refused to let it define him.From rejection and ridicule to the cross itself, Jesus endured it all…but scorned the shame.And that changes everything for us.Because shame says:“You're not enough.”“You don't belong.”“You are what went wrong.”But Jesus tells a different story.Today's invitation is simple:Notice when shame shows upRefuse to let it define youLet Jesus tell your storyBecause you were never meant to live under shame.

How does Jesus change the world? Not through force. Not through control. Not by winning arguments.It's through the cross.In this episode, John looks at a quote from Jesus during one of his most painful moments: “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” He draws people in not by power, but by self-giving love.Drawing from John 12, Luke 23, and the story of Jesus' final hours, John shows how the cross reveals character under pressure:not retaliation, but surrendernot condemnation, but forgivenessnot control, but trustThe truth is, the cross is more than a teaching. It's a story. Even when life gets disappointing, or people let us down, or we feel hurt beyond measure, we can choose to double down on the cross. Remember: There is now, therefore, no condemnation. 

Why do so many conversations leave people feeling worse instead of better?In this episode, John walks through a powerful framework for communicating without condemnation, based on the work of Marshall Rosenberg:observe without evaluatingname your feelingsidentify your needsmake clear requestsThen he shows what it looks like in real life through one of Jesus' most famous conversations — His encounter with the Samaritan woman in John 4.Instead of judging or correcting her, Jesus:crosses social and relational barrierslistens beneath the surfacespeaks truth without shamecreates connection before correctionAnd the result?A woman who felt fully known… and still accepted.You'll learn:why most communication quietly damages relationshipshow to speak truth without condemnationwhat it means to listen for deeper needshow curiosity can transform difficult conversationswhy being known and accepted changes everythingBecause the goal isn't to win the conversation.It's to love the person.

We live in a cancel culture.Accountability matters — but somewhere along the way, accountability became condemnation. Not just “that was wrong,” but “you are done.”In this episode, John explores:the rise of cancel culture and public shamingwhy shame and condemnation rarely lead to real changethe difference between calling people out and calling them inthe surprising place the word “cancel” shows up in the New Testamentand what Jesus actually does with sin and peopleDrawing from voices like Jon Ronson, Adam Grant, and Loretta Ross, John points to a deeper truth:God does not cancel people. God cancels sin.At the cross — the ultimate place of public shame — Jesus absorbs condemnation and disarms it.Which means: Your sin can be canceled… but you are not.And neither is anyone else.There is now no condemnation.

What if you've been reading the Bible… the wrong way?In this episode, John shares three unexpected tools for giving up condemnation:lighten upbring your shadow (your own capacity for failure)read everything in the shadow of the cross Drawing on insights from Phillip Cary and the story of Jonah, John challenges a common habit: reading ourselves as the “good” characters while judging everyone else.Instead, we're invited to identify with the ones who get it wrong.You'll learn:why moralistic Bible reading fuels judgmenthow humor and humility can disarm condemnationwhat it means to “bring your shadowhow the cross reshapes the way we see otherswhy identifying with failure leads to freedom Because the goal isn't to prove we're better than Jonah…It's to realize we're not.And that's where grace begins.And there is now no condemnation. 

How does someone go from being full of condemnation… to writing, “There is now no condemnation”?In this episode, John explores the transformation of Paul — a man driven by zeal, judgment, and certainty — who encounters the risen Jesus and sees everything differently.Drawing on insights from What Saint Paul Really Said, John unpacks what Paul actually meant by “justification by faith” — and why it's not about earning salvation or simply believing a doctrine.You'll learn:what Paul's zeal was really aboutwhy “justification” means being vindicated, not just forgiventhe difference between trusting Jesus and believing about Himhow Jesus redefines who belongswhy seeing Jesus in others changes everythingAs you move through your day, you're invited into a simple but powerful practice:“It could be the Lord.”Because when you begin to see people that way, condemnation starts to fall away.And there is now no condemnation.

What if our biggest barrier with God isn't sin, but politeness?In this episode, John Ortberg explores a surprising truth from Scripture: God isn't looking for polished prayers. He's inviting honest relationship. Through the story of Job, we discover something shocking:Job rages. Questions God. Speaks words that feel almost dangerous. And yet—God says Job spoke what is right. Why? Because honesty draws us closer to God while polite distance keeps Him far away.Even Jesus cried out on the cross: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”So if you've ever felt:confuseddisappointedhurtunsure what God is doingYou're not alone, and you don't have to hide it.Today's invitation is simple: Be real with God.Because the path to deeper faith isn't pretending—it's honesty.

We don't throw stones anymore.Except… we do.Online.In conversations.With a look, a tone, a pause.In this episode, John Ortberg unpacks one of the most famous and unsettling teachings of Jesus:“Let the one without sin cast the first stone.”Through a powerful contrast between ancient scapegoating and the story of the woman in John 8, we see what Jesus is really doing:Not denying sin.Not ignoring truth.But interrupting condemnation.Because there is something in every human heart that wants:someone to blamesomeone to shamesomeone to bring downBut Jesus offers a different way.A way where:truth is spokensin is taken seriouslybut people are not crushedThe invitation today is simple—and hard:Put down the stone.Because the moment you release condemnation,you make space for grace.There is now… therefore… no condemnation.

Criticism is inevitable.Condemnation is optional.In this episode, John Ortberg explores one of the most important distinctions for spiritual growth: how to receive criticism without absorbing condemnation.Drawing from the life of King David, we see a man who:Refused to take revenge when attackedIgnored false condemnationYet humbly received painful truth when it mattered mostThe Bible consistently teaches us:Listen to criticism.Learn from correction.But do not internalize condemnation.Because condemnation attacks your identity—while healthy criticism can transform your life.So what do you do when criticism comes?Instead of getting defensive…lean in.“Is there anything else?”This simple posture can turn even hard conversations into opportunities for growth.Because when you are rooted in God's love,you don't have to protect your ego—you're free to grow.There is now… therefore… no condemnation.

Condemnation doesn't start with what we say.It starts with how we see people.In this episode, John Ortberg explores the root of condemnation and a critical distinction that can change the way we live: observation vs. evaluation.Drawing from insights in Nonviolent Communication, John shows how easily our minds move from simply noticing behavior to assigning judgment, criticism, or contempt. And once that shift happens, condemnation begins to grow.Jesus addressed this problem directly in the Sermon on the Mount when he said:“First take the plank out of your own eye.”The real issue isn't just our words — it's our perception.When we learn to see people the way Jesus sees them — as bearers of God's image — our responses change. Curiosity replaces contempt. Love replaces judgment.Today's practice is simple but powerful:As you move through your day, pause and ask:What would Jesus see when he looks at this person?Because when we change how we see,we change how we love.And in Christ, there is now… therefore… no condemnation.

What do you do with the anger that keeps replaying in your mind?The conversations.The injustice.The words you wish you could say back.In this episode, John Ortberg looks at the remarkable life of Saint Patrick — a man who was kidnapped, enslaved for six years, and yet chose a path almost no one would expect.Instead of revenge, Patrick returned to the people who enslaved him with a message of love and forgiveness.His life raises a hard question for all of us:What do we do with the pain that makes condemnation feel justified?John explores two deeply practical practices that help us escape the prison of bitterness:• Stop ruminating about the person who hurt you• Stop gossiping about themThese small decisions can redirect the entire trajectory of your heart.Because the voice you rehearse in your mindwill eventually shape the life you live.And the way of Jesus — even in the face of deep injustice — is the way of blessing.

There's a voice in your head that never stops talking.But not every voice deserves to be trusted.In this episode, John Ortberg explores the difference between self-condemnation and conviction. Drawing on insights from Ignatius of Loyola, Marshall Rosenberg, and Michael Singer, John shows how comparison and inner criticism can spiral into despair.But the voice of God works differently.Self-condemnation attacks your identity.Conviction speaks to your actions.Self-condemnation leads to hiding.Conviction leads to hope and change.Learning to recognize the difference may be one of the most important spiritual skills you ever develop.Because the voice you listen to insideis usually the voice you use with others.There is now… therefore… no condemnation.