BecomeNew.Me

What if the key to gratitude is realizing that none of us is self-made?In this reflection on Psalm 136, John Ortberg explores the repeated refrain:"His love endures forever."Through a powerful exercise inspired by philosopher Rebecca Konyndyk DeYoung, John invites us to trace the hidden network of people and gifts behind the things we enjoy every day—and ultimately back to God Himself.This episode explores:- Psalm 136 and enduring love- Gratitude as a way of life- The myth of self-sufficiency- Celebrating dependence rather than independence- The web of generosity behind everyday gifts- Becoming a more grateful and generous personScriptures:- Psalm 136#Psalm136 #JohnOrtberg #Gratitude #Thankfulness #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Dependence #GodsLove

How do you process painful emotions without letting them control your life?In this conversation on Psalm 30, John Ortberg sits down with counselor and friend Rick Blackmon to explore one of the most practical lessons in the Psalms:Own your emotions—but don't enthrone them.Together they discuss anxiety, grief, anger, praise, humor, counseling, and the hope found in God's presence.This episode explores:- Psalm 30 and emotional healing- The journey from the pit to praise- Why naming emotions helps- "What you name, you can tame"- Welcoming rather than suppressing difficult feelings- Building a trusted support team- The promise that weeping does not last foreverScriptures:- Psalm 30- Galatians 6:2#Psalm30 #JohnOrtberg #RickBlackmon #Prayer #EmotionalHealth #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Psalms #MentalHealth

How do you become a grateful person?In this reflection on Psalm 103, John Ortberg explores one of the great themes of spiritual life: gratitude.At the center of Psalm 103 is a simple command:"Forget not all His benefits."Drawing from philosopher Robert C. Roberts and the rich imagery of the Psalm itself, John explores why gratitude grows through remembering and why forgetting often leads to entitlement.This episode explores:- Psalm 103 and gratitude- The meaning of the soul- The logic of gratitude- God's forgiveness and compassion- Remembering God's benefits- Gratitude as a spiritual practiceScriptures:- Psalm 103- Luke 7- Deuteronomy 6- Leviticus 19#Psalm103 #JohnOrtberg #Gratitude #Thankfulness #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Psalms #Soul

Do you ever struggle with doubt?In this teaching on Psalm 91, John Ortberg explores faith, trust, doubt, works, and what it really means to believe.Drawing heavily from the teachings of Dallas Willard, John introduces a powerful framework for understanding belief and asks a challenging question:What do your actions reveal that you actually trust?This episode explores:- Psalm 91 and trusting God- Three different kinds of belief- The relationship between faith and works- Dallas Willard's concept of a mental map- Peter's denial of Jesus- What saving faith really means- How trust grows through practiceScriptures:- Psalm 91- James 2- Matthew 25- John 7#Psalm91 #JohnOrtberg #Faith #TrustGod #DallasWillard #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Psalms #SavingFaith

What if one of the greatest acts of love is simply paying attention?In this reflection on Psalm 8, John Ortberg and Laura Turner explore wonder, attentiveness, and the surprising connection between love and noticing.Drawing on insights from Marilynne Robinson, the film Lady Bird, and the writings of Simone Weil, they invite us to slow down and rediscover God's presence in the ordinary.This episode explores:- Psalm 8 and the wonder of creation- Why attention is an expression of love- Learning to pray with a wandering mind- The beauty hidden in everyday life- Seeing people as image-bearers of God- Waking up to God's presenceScriptures:- Psalm 8#Psalm8 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #Attention #Wonder #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #MarilynneRobinson #SimoneWeil

What if one of the greatest gifts you could give someone is helping them develop a taste for what is good?In this reflection on Psalm 34, John Ortberg revisits the famous invitation:"Taste and see that the Lord is good."But this time he explores a surprising idea: every one of us is a tastemaker.Through stories from Anthony Bourdain, insights from C. S. Lewis and G. K. Chesterton, and reflections on gratitude, beauty, and influence, John explores how our loves shape the people around us.This episode explores:- Psalm 34 and God's goodness- Anthony Bourdain's life-changing oyster- C.S. Lewis and The Weight of Glory- G.K. Chesterton on wonder and gratitude- How taste is formed- Becoming a tastemaker for goodnessScriptures:- Psalm 34#Psalm34 #JohnOrtberg #TasteAndSee #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #Prayer #Gratitude #CSLewis #Chesterton #Psalms

How do you move faith from your head to your heart?In this reflection on Psalm 34, John Ortberg explores one of the most famous invitations in Scripture:"Taste and see that the Lord is good."Many people know about God. Far fewer learn to experience God's goodness in everyday life.Drawing from the story of David, reflections from Augustine of Hippo, and a memorable scene from Prince Caspian, John shows how faith becomes real when it moves beyond ideas and into experience.This episode explores:Psalm 34 and the goodness of GodKnowing about God vs. knowing GodWhy praise matters during sufferingThe Lord's nearness to the brokenheartedExperiencing God in ordinary lifeLearning to taste and seeScriptures:Psalm 341 Samuel 21#Psalm34 #JohnOrtberg #TasteAndSee #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Psalms #Faith #godsgoodness 

What do you pray when life hurts so much that ordinary words no longer feel adequate?In this reflection on Psalm 69, John Ortberg explores one of the most emotionally intense prayers in all of Scripture.Drawing a surprising connection to Howl, John examines how the Psalms give voice to grief, despair, loss, betrayal, injustice, addiction, depression, and suffering.This episode explores:- Psalm 69 and honest prayer- The language of anguish- Why God welcomes our deepest pain- Jesus and "zeal for Your house"- The danger of bitterness and despair-  Protecting the soul in suffering- Learning to live in a howling worldFeaturing reflections on:- Allen Ginsberg- John Steinbeck's The Grapes of WrathScriptures:- Psalm 69- John 2:13–17#Psalm69 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #Suffering #Grief #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Hope #psalms

How do you actually learn to love God?In this reflection on Psalm 31, John Ortberg explores one surprising pathway to loving God more deeply: curiosity.Drawing from theologian Cornelius Plantinga Jr., relationship researcher John Gottman, and Dallas Willard, John invites us to think about building a "love map" for God.This episode explores:- Psalm 31 and loving God- Curiosity as a spiritual discipline- John Gottman's concept of love maps- Fascinating biblical images of God- The mystery and wonder of God's character- Learning to love God with all your mindScriptures:- Psalm 31- Deuteronomy 6:5- Matthew 22:37- Luke 23:46- Psalm 78#Psalm31 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #LoveGod #SpiritualFormation #DallasWillard #JohnGottman #BibleStudy #Psalms #ChristianFaith

What if grace has a rhythm?In this teaching on Psalm 46, John Ortberg explores stillness, spiritual disciplines, grace, and the river of life that flows throughout Scripture.Drawing from A River Runs Through It, John shares a powerful picture of spiritual formation through the practice of learning God's rhythms.This episode explores:- Psalm 46 and God's presence- The purpose of spiritual disciplines- Grace as power, not merely forgiveness- The river in Eden and Revelation- Jesus as the source of living water- The practice of stillness- Learning the rhythm of graceFeaturing reflections from:- Norman Maclean- Dallas WillardScriptures:- Psalm 46- Genesis 2- John 7- Revelation 22#Psalm46 #JohnOrtberg #Grace #SpiritualFormation #Prayer #DallasWillard #ARiverRunsThroughIt #Stillness #BibleStudy #Psalms

Do you matter?It may be one of the most important questions a human being can ask.In this teaching on Psalm 127, John Ortberg explores meaning, significance, anxiety, achievement, and what the Bible says about human worth.Drawing from the work of Rebecca Goldstein, John examines what she calls a "crisis of mattering" and why so many people feel insignificant despite living in an age of unprecedented progress.This episode explores:- Psalm 127 and the search for meaning- Why achievement cannot provide lasting significance- The lie that your life doesn't matter- Your story inside God's larger story- The Incarnation and human worth- How every act of faithfulness mattersIf you've ever struggled with purpose, significance, discouragement, or the feeling that your life doesn't make a difference, this conversation is for you.Scriptures:- Psalm 127- Genesis 1- Matthew 10#Psalm127 #JohnOrtberg #Meaning #Purpose #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #Prayer #BibleStudy #Significance #Psalms

What is the difference between being nice and being kind?In this reflection on Psalm 138, John Ortberg explores one of the most beautiful biblical ideas: God's loving kindness.Why does Scripture constantly praise God for His kindness but never describe Him as "nice"? What is the difference? And how might understanding God's kindness transform the way we live?This episode explores:- Psalm 138 and God's loving kindness- The Hebrew idea of hesed- Niceness versus kindness- Compassion, courage, and truth-telling- Naomi Shihab Nye's poem Kindness- The Incarnation as God's ultimate act of kindnessFeaturing reflections on:- Naomi Shihab Nye- Cecil RhodesScriptures:- Psalm 138- Philippians 2- John 13#Psalm138 #JohnOrtberg #Kindness #LovingKindness #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Hesed #Psalms

What is the secret to deep relationships?In this teaching on Psalm 133, John Ortberg explores intimacy, connection, loneliness, and the small daily habits that strengthen relationships.Drawing from the work of relationship researcher John Gottman, John explains the powerful idea of "bids for connection"—the small invitations people make every day to share life together.This episode explores:- Psalm 133 and unity- What intimacy really means- The epidemic of loneliness- John Gottman's relationship research- Turning toward connection- Jesus as the master of connection- God's invitation to relationship throughout ScriptureFeaturing reflections on:- John Gottman- Dallas Willard- Robert PutnamScriptures:- Psalm 133- Genesis 2- Genesis 3- Genesis 4#Psalm133 #JohnOrtberg #Relationships #Connection #Intimacy #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #JohnGottman #BibleStudy #Psalms

What if unity is one of the things God cares about most?In this teaching on Psalm 133, John Ortberg explores unity, reconciliation, the Trinity, and Jesus' remarkable prayer that His followers would be one.Moving from Psalm 133 to Ephesians 4 and John 17, John shows how unity is not merely a church strategy or relational ideal. It is rooted in the very nature of God Himself. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit live in perfect love, mutual submission, delight, and harmony.This episode explores:- Psalm 133 and unity- Ephesians 4 and "one"- The Trinity as a model for relationships- Jesus' prayer for His followers- Inclusion and reconciliation- Becoming a builder of harmonyFeaturing reflections on:- Dale Bruner- Greg Ten Elshof- Dallas Willard- William Shakespeare- Bill GaitherScriptures:- Psalm 133- Ephesians 4:3–6- John 17:20–23#Psalm133 #JohnOrtberg #Unity #Trinity #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #John17 #Psalms

What do you do when your soul feels downcast?In this conversation, John Ortberg sits down with Kevin Palau to explore Psalm 42, anxiety, discouragement, emotional honesty, and hope.Kevin shares candidly about his own struggles with anxiety, the pressures of leadership, and why Psalm 42 has become one of the most important prayers in his spiritual life.This episode explores:- Anxiety and spiritual formation- Psalm 42 and emotional honesty- The pressure to appear spiritually strong- Faith and discouragement- Sabbath, rest, and slowing down- Learning to put our hope in GodOne of the great gifts of Psalm 42 is that it reminds us that faith is not pretending everything is fine. Faith is bringing our real selves before God and placing our hope in Him anyway.Scriptures:- Psalm 42Featuring:- Kevin Palau- John Mark Comer (referenced)#Psalm42 #JohnOrtberg #KevinPalau #Prayer #Anxiety #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #Hope #BibleStudy #Psalms

Can you really live without lack?In this reflection on Psalm 23, John Ortberg draws from Life Without Lack to explore one of the most beloved passages in all of Scripture.What does it mean to say, "The Lord is my shepherd"? What if "I shall not want" is not a promise that life will be easy, but an invitation to stop being driven by fear, scarcity, and unsatisfied desire?This episode explores:- Psalm 23 and the Kingdom of God- Dallas Willard's vision of life without lack- Freedom from fear and anxiety- God's presence as the center of the spiritual life- Green pastures, still waters, and restored souls- Goodness and mercy following us every dayFeaturing reflections from:- Dallas Willard- Charles Spurgeon- C.S. Lewis- Walter BrueggemannScriptures:- Psalm 23- Matthew 6:33- John 4:14- Matthew 5:44#Psalm23 #JohnOrtberg #DallasWillard #LifeWithoutLack #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Psalms #KingdomOfGod

What's your story today?In this teaching on Psalm 59, John Ortberg explores one of the most important lessons of the Psalms: prayer is always prayed from inside a story.Drawing from Answering God, John challenges the idea of "spiritualized prayer" — prayer that removes the conflict, fear, anger, disappointment, and messiness of ordinary life.Psalm 59 was written in the middle of David's crisis. Men were sent to kill him. His prayer wasn't polished. It wasn't neat. It was real.This episode explores:- Why every prayer comes from a story- The danger of spiritually correct prayer- Psalm 59 and David's honesty- Fear, trust, and emotional authenticity- Eugene Peterson's insights on prayer- Bringing your whole self before GodFeaturing reflections from:- Eugene Peterson- David's life in 1 SamuelScriptures:- Psalm 59- Psalm 3- 1 Samuel 19#Psalm59 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #EugenePeterson #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Psalms #Authenticity #Faith

What if refuge was something you practiced?In this conversation, John Ortberg talks with therapist and trauma specialist Lisa Cuss about anxiety, church hurt, attachment theory, the nervous system, and Psalm 31.Lisa shares how reading the Psalms through the lens of the nervous system helped her understand David's prayers in a completely new way. His cries of fear, confusion, and desperation suddenly felt deeply human and surprisingly familiar.This episode explores:- Trauma and attachment theory- Church hurt and emotional healing- Psalm 31 and the image of refuge- Why God is called a fortress- Right-sizing reality through prayer- Making refuge an active spiritual practiceFeaturing reflections on:- David's prayers- The nervous system- Martin Luther- A Mighty Fortress Is Our God#Psalm31 #JohnOrtberg #LisaCuss #Prayer #Trauma #AttachmentTheory #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #Anxiety #Psalms

What if your imperfections are not your greatest problem?In this teaching on Psalm 138, John Ortberg explores the difference between perfection and perfectionism, the beauty of human weakness, and why God has so much compassion for imperfect people.Drawing from Psalm 138, Psalm 103, the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, and the image of cracked pottery repaired with gold, John shows how God often creates beauty through what we would rather hide.This episode explores:- The difference between perfection and perfectionism- Why God remembers we are dust- Fear, anxiety, and self-worth- Wabi-sabi and the beauty of imperfection- Jesus retaining His scars after resurrection- Learning to accept imperfect peopleFeaturing reflections on:- Brené Brown- Gordon Flett- Psalm 138- Psalm 103Scriptures:- Psalm 138- Psalm 103:13–14- Isaiah 53#Psalm138 #JohnOrtberg #Perfectionism #Grace #WabiSabi #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #Prayer #BibleStudy #Psalms

How do you calm and quiet your soul?In this deeply practical conversation on Psalm 131, John Ortberg and Steve Cuss explore anxiety, emotional awareness, prayer, soothing, and learning to rest in the presence of God.Psalm 131 offers one of the gentlest images in all of Scripture: “I have calmed and quieted myself, like a weaned child with its mother.”This episode explores:- Anxiety and emotional awareness- “Trying to worry your way to peace”- How to notice what's happening internally- Connected vs. disconnected prayer- Relaxing into God's presence- Psalm 131 and soothing the soulThis conversation is honest, calming, psychologically insightful, and deeply encouraging.Scriptures:- Psalm 131#Psalm131 #JohnOrtberg #SteveCuss #Prayer #Anxiety #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #Peace #BibleStudy #Psalms

What is social media doing to your soul?In this conversation, John Ortberg and Steve Cuss explore Psalm 1, online outrage, anxiety, reactivity, and the emotional formation happening through social media.Why do platforms like Twitter/X, Facebook, and Instagram so easily pull people toward outrage, contempt, comparison, and self-righteousness? And what do the Psalms have to say about it?This episode explores:- Psalm 1 and “the company of mockers”- Reactivity and self-righteousness online- Why Steve deactivated Twitter- Social media algorithms and outrage- Meditation, attention, and spiritual formation- “Relaxing into God's presence”This is an honest, thoughtful, and deeply practical conversation about technology, attention, anxiety, and the health of the human soul.Scriptures:- Psalm 1- Psalm 55#Psalm1 #JohnOrtberg #SteveCuss #SocialMedia #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #Anxiety #Twitter #Psalms

Why should we pray the Psalms slowly?In this reflective teaching, John Ortberg explores the nature of Hebrew poetry, the structure of the Psalms, and why the language of prayer was never meant to be rushed.Using Psalm 90 and several other Psalms, John unpacks the beauty of biblical parallelism — repetition, pivots, refrains, and poetic movement that deepen meaning and slow the soul down enough to notice God.This episode explores:- Why the Psalms are poetry, not prose- Hebrew parallelism explained simply- Why repetition matters spiritually- Psalm 23, Psalm 88, and Psalm 90- Jesus' use of poetic teaching- Prayer as attentiveness rather than efficiencyFeaturing reflections from:- Eugene Peterson- C.S. Lewis- Robert LowthScriptures:- Psalm 90- Psalm 23- Psalm 88- Matthew 7#Psalms #Prayer #JohnOrtberg #SpiritualFormation #HebrewPoetry #BibleStudy #Psalm90 #ChristianFaith #EugenePeterson #CSLewis

Why do other people's lives always seem better?In this teaching on Psalm 73, John Ortberg explores envy, comparison, resentment, worship, and the deep human struggle of feeling overlooked while others seem to prosper.The psalmist honestly confesses:“I envied the arrogant.”What follows is one of the most emotionally honest prayers in the Psalms — a prayer about jealousy, discouragement, unfairness, and the exhausting habit of comparing our lives to everyone else around us.This episode explores:- Why comparison distorts reality- Social media, envy, and modern dissatisfaction- Worship as perspective restoration- The turning point of Psalm 73- Why gratitude disappears when envy grows- “It is good to be near God”This teaching is deeply practical, psychologically insightful, and spiritually grounding.Scriptures:- Psalm 73#Psalm73 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #Worship #Envy #Comparison #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Psalms

Is it possible laughter could be a form of prayer?In this joyful and surprisingly profound teaching on Psalm 126, John Ortberg explores joy, humor, delight, neuroscience, and why laughter may be far more spiritual than many people realize.Why do children laugh so much more than adults? Why does spontaneous laughter feel healing? And what does it mean that God Himself laughs?This episode explores:- Psalm 126 and joy- Why laughter matters spiritually- The neuroscience of laughter- Spontaneous vs. social laughter- Joy, humility, and human connection- Sarah laughing at God's promise- Why the Gospel itself can feel wonderfully absurdFeaturing reflections from:- Eugene Peterson- C.S. Lewis- Carl Jung- Frederick BuechnerScriptures:- Psalm 126- Psalm 2- Genesis 18#Psalm126 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #Joy #Laughter #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #Psalms #CSLewis #BibleStudy

Why does memory matter spiritually?In this reflective teaching on Psalm 77, John Ortberg explores remembrance, gratitude, grief, forgiveness, healing, and why memory itself can become a form of prayer.Using deeply personal family stories, Memorial Day reflections, and Psalm 77's call to “remember the deeds of the Lord,” John reflects on the spiritual importance of remembering honestly and hopefully.This episode explores:- Gratitude and memory- Remembering sin and forgiveness- God's faithfulness through suffering- Augustine's Confessions- René Girard and mimetic desire- Why Jesus told us to rememberThis teaching is thoughtful, moving, deeply personal, and filled with hope.Scriptures:- Psalm 77- Luke 22:19Resources referenced:- Eugene Peterson- Augustine's Confessions- René Girard#Psalm77 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #Memory #Gratitude #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Healing #Psalms

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.