Morning Conversation: MyBridge Radio

When Walter Hill first encountered Jesus as a teenager, it changed everything. He came from a broken home –– a father who wanted nothing to do with faith, a mother who passed away when he was just 15, and a season of deep anger and confusion. But thanks to the persistence of a friend, Walter found himself at a youth event where the Gospel reached past his hurt and brought him home to Jesus. That initial, transformative encounter sparked a lifelong journey of faith that he now hopes to pass on to others. In this episode, Walter shares his powerful story, including the mentors who shaped him, the spiritual lessons he's learned along the way, and the faith that still fuels his ministry today.Walter also shares about the heart behind his book, Amazed Again: Reclaiming Christ's Fading Fire. It began as a message to his son, who had recently expressed interest in ministry, but quickly grew into a call to all believers. Walter reflects on the challenges of keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the reality of spiritual warfare, and the dangers of allowing our relationship with church to replace our relationship with Christ. He also speaks to the everyday distractions that can slowly draw our hearts away from the joy we once knew in Jesus –– and how we can rediscover it. With insights from John 15 and his own journey of abiding in Christ, Walter offers a refreshing reminder to stay close to the true source of our strength and hope.

Cade Thompson has been singing for as long as he can remember, but his journey into Christian music goes deeper than just a love for melody. Growing up in the church, Cade gave his life to Christ at a young age, surrounded by family and mentors who modeled what it meant to follow Jesus. In this episode, Cade reflects on those early days, the lessons he's learned from seasoned artists, and the moments that solidified his calling to use music as a tool for ministry. From leading worship as a teenager in South Dakota to touring with artists like TobyMac and Chris Tomlin, Cade shares how his faith has shaped his music and how he's learning to keep his eyes fixed on the One who called him.Hear about the challenges of staying faithful on the narrow road, the powerful moments he's experienced on stage, and why he's committed to making music that moves the heart of God. Whether you're a young artist or someone who simply loves worship, this conversation is full of encouragement to stay grounded, stay faithful, and trust God's timing.

When life feels overwhelming and hope feels out of reach, it can be tempting to hide our hurt — or even believe we're failing if we can't push through the pain. In today's conversation, Linda Dillow invites us into a different way. Drawing from her new book, Hope for My Hurting Heart: Eight Heart Skills to Help You Cling to God and Not Give Up, Linda shares from her lifetime journey of heartache, loss, and deep trust in God. From forgiving past wounds to facing unimaginable grief, Linda's story reminds us that even in the hardest moments, God's mercy and comfort are real.Through powerful stories and practical encouragement, Linda offers wisdom for navigating sorrow, learning to lament, and anchoring our hearts in God's promises. She reminds us that freedom begins when we bring our hurt honestly to Him — and that our pain, when surrendered, can be used for His glory. If you're weary, anxious, or simply needing hope for today, Linda's words will help you cling to the One who never lets go.Learn more about Linda's new book here: https://www.amazon.com/Hope-My-Hurting-Heart-Skills/dp/1641589299

Jeremy Camp joins us for a heartfelt conversation about what God's been teaching him lately—and how those lessons are showing up in both his music and his everyday life. From a youth camp encounter that shifted everything to walking through physical heart surgeries that sparked deeper spiritual reflection, Jeremy shares how surrender has been a theme throughout his journey. He opens up about trusting God with his heart—literally and figuratively—and the powerful realization that came from that experience.In this episode, Jeremy also unpacks the stories behind songs from his Deeper Waters album, including “Again” and “Better.” He talks about writing from a place of honesty and how real-life moments—including arguments, healing, and surrender—have shaped his music. We also talk about worship, purpose, and what he hopes people take away from this tour. Whether you've followed Jeremy's story for years or you're hearing from him for the first time, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to dive deeper in your walk with God.

Mike Donehey—lead voice of Tenth Avenue North—joins us to talk about life, music, and learning to listen for God's voice in the middle of it all. He shares reflections on the band's 20-year journey, the decision to call it quits, and the unexpected nudge to return to the road with a new band and a new perspective. From his Nebraska roots to the deep relationships that have shaped him, Mike opens up about the interruptions that became invitations from God, including a powerful season of being home with his family during a time of personal struggle for one of his daughters.In this conversation, Mike talks candidly about ambition, identity, purpose, and the rhythms of life that keep him grounded. He shares the inspiration behind songs like “Kind to Myself” and how learning to speak kindly to ourselves aligns with how God approaches us—with grace and gentleness. Whether he's reflecting on discipleship, parenting, or playing basketball at the Y, Mike offers honest insight into what it means to live out the Gospel—not just from a stage, but in the everyday moments that matter most.

Culture is doing its best to convince the world there is nothing special about Jesus. Sadly, too many Christians never get beyond a Sunday school understanding of their own faith. The result is that Christianity's most important historical fact –– the resurrection –– is often the most misunderstood.In Body of Proof, acclaimed apologist and scholar Dr. Jeremiah Johnston sets out to show why Jesus' victory over death is central to a believer's faith. In this conversation, we connect with Dr. Johnstons about the  latest archaeological and textual findings as he presents seven tangible, fresh reasons to believe Jesus really rose from the dead –– and why it matters today as the foundation of our hope in the face of suffering and grief. When you fully understand the implications of the resurrection, you will begin to understand the power of Christ in you. This changes everything!Learn more about Dr. Jeremiah Johnston's book here: https://a.co/d/3yDKlDu

Ellie Holcomb joins us for a heartfelt conversation about faith, family, and the beauty of new life in every season. She shares how growing up as the daughter of legendary producer Brown Bannister shaped her love for music, why she once swore she'd never marry a musician, and how she and her husband, Drew, navigate life on the road while staying grounded in community.We dive into Spring Sings, Ellie's new children's book and companion EP, and the deep personal journey behind it. Written in a season of loss, Spring Sings became a reflection on the hope of resurrection—how even in the coldest winters of our lives, new life is waiting to bloom. Ellie shares why she believes creation itself is singing this truth and how she hopes her book will spark conversations about the story of Easter in homes everywhere.From the power of singing through grief to the unexpected joy of writing books for kids, Ellie's words will encourage anyone longing for hope. Whether you're in a season of sorrow or simply looking for a reminder of God's faithfulness, this conversation will lift your heart.

MercyMe guitarist and founding member Mike Scheuchzer joins us for a fun and honest conversation ahead of the band's spring tour. He talks about hitting the road with Zach Williams, the joy of having Bart's son Sam out on tour—and even singing on one of their songs—and why they're so excited to be back in Lincoln with the body of Christ.Mike shares stories behind some of their new music, how a surprise text from Walker Hayes turned into a powerful song, and what it's like recording at their songwriting cabin. He also reflects on MercyMe's 30-year journey, staying grounded off stage, and how worship is really about honoring God in everything—yes, even scrubbing toilets!

What if generosity wasn't just an action we do, but a way we live—an overflow of trusting God with everything we have? In this episode, Bill and Dana Wichterman invite us into a different way of thinking about money—not as owners, but as stewards of all God has entrusted to us.Drawing from their book Stewards Not Owners, the Wichtermans share how their journey of financial stewardship began, how it's shaped their home, their habits, and even their parenting. From practical ideas like creating a generosity fund, to deeper conversations about legacy, obedience, and joy—they show how aligning our money with our faith leads to freedom, not restriction. Whether you're just starting out or rethinking your approach to giving, this conversation offers encouragement, wisdom, and hope for living with open hands and hearts.

Darren Mulligan of We Are Messengers shares what it's looked like to truly experience the joy of the Lord—after years of walking with Jesus without really feeling it. He talks about how time in God's Word and a desire to live like Jesus have brought joy he never found in success or comfort.Darren also opens up about the heart behind his music, the challenges of touring, and his passion for reaching broken people with the hope of Christ. From worship and transparency to stories behind the songs, you'll get an honest and encouraging glimpse into his life and faith.

What does it mean to be lit up with love in a world that's growing colder by the day? Dr. Derwin Gray joins us to talk about his journey from a football-obsessed kid in Texas to an NFL player whose life was radically changed by the Gospel. But he didn't stop at receiving the Good News—he became a messenger of it.In this conversation, Dr. Gray shares why so many believers struggle to share their faith, how relational evangelism can transform lives, and why revival starts with ordinary people embracing their role as everyday missionaries. He reminds us that grace meets us in our mess but doesn't leave us there—it turns us into a masterpiece. Plus, he unpacks themes from his new book, Lit Up With Love: Becoming Good News People to a Gospel-Starved World, challenging us to move beyond a transactional faith and step into a sacred romance with Jesus.If you've ever wondered how to share your faith in a way that feels natural and full of love, this episode is for you.Learn more about Dr. Gray's new book here: https://www.derwinlgray.com/litupwithlove

For more than three decades, Darlene Zschech has been a voice that has helped shape modern worship, but she never set out to be in the spotlight. In this conversation, Darlene shares how she wrestled with the responsibility of leading worship, learning to keep her heart focused on giving God glory rather than receiving it. She reflects on the early days of Hillsong, the unexpected journey of Shout to the Lord, and the unseen life of faith that fuels authentic worship.Darlene also opens up about some of the challenges she's faced—battling cancer, navigating the pressures of ministry, and learning to trust God in every season. She shares insights from her new devotional, Testament, written to mark the 30th anniversary of Shout to the Lord, and the importance of remembering God's faithfulness. This conversation is an encouragement to anyone seeking to live a life of worship—one that magnifies the worth of Christ and keeps the glory where it belongs.

It's easy for marriage to slip to the back burner in the midst of work, kids, and daily responsibilities—but that drift can lead to disconnection before couples even realize it. In this episode, Bob Paul, Vice President of the Focus on the Family Marriage Institute and co-founder of the Hope Restored program, shares how intentionality can make all the difference. From scheduling time together to handling conflict in a way that strengthens your relationship instead of creating division, Bob offers practical wisdom for couples at any stage of marriage.He also unpacks key mindsets that lead to long-term marital health, including why marriage is a team sport, how small resentments can build into bigger issues, and why continual growth is essential for keeping your relationship strong. Whether you're newly married or decades in, Bob's insights will encourage you to be proactive in building a marriage that not only lasts but thrives!If you need to connect to Focus on the Family's Hope Restored intensive, visit: https://hoperestored.focusonthefamily.com/

Grandparents hold a unique and powerful role in the spiritual lives of their grandchildren, yet many overlook their potential impact. In this episode, Larry Fowler, founder and CEO of Legacy Coalition, shares how Christian grandparents can embrace their God-given calling.  Larry offers practical insights on building meaningful, faith-centered relationships with grandchildren, including strategies for long-distance grandparenting and navigating complex family dynamics. He explains how grandparents can model grace and truth, even when their children aren't walking with the Lord, and emphasizes the power of prayer, storytelling, and intentional time together. With stories of transformed families, Larry casts a vision for how grandparents can make an eternal impact by sharing their faith and strengthening connections with their grandchildren. For more information on how to attend a simulcast of the Legacy Grandparenting Summit in February 2025, click: https://www.inciiteevents.com/lgs-alphabetical-list

WARNING TO PARENTS: The content of this episode contains conversations about cultural topics that young people may not be ready to hear. If listening with children, please note it could create uncomfortable conversations. Monique Duson grew up amid the challenges of a crime-affected neighborhood and the 1992 Rodney King riots. Her upbringing shaped her understanding of race and justice, but it was her faith that led her to found the Center for Biblical Unity. Monique's mission is to promote a vision for racial healing rooted in the Gospel, challenging cultural narratives with biblical truth. In this conversation, Monique shares her passion for equipping young people with the hope of Christ and dispels misconceptions about prejudice, justice, and humanity. She explains why Scripture is more relevant than ever to today's pressing cultural issues, offering a path to unity that transcends racial and societal divides.

Brant Hansen is convinced that, regardless of circumstances, you can have a deep sense of well-being. Not only is it possible, it's promised to all who follow Jesus. Our guest doesn't claim to follow a success plan. He just keeps simply showing up and taking Jesus very seriously. And by taking Jesus seriously in all of life, Brant has become more joyful, more peaceful and full of laughter.  In Life Is Hard, God Is Good, Let's Dance, Brant does what he does best—shares stories from around the world, as well as from his own heart and head, with a writing style that will likely make you laugh, cry, and rethink your outlook on life and the kingdom of God. Link to Brant's book: https://www.thomasnelson.com/p/god-is-good-book/?utm_source=brant_hansen&utm_medium=page&utm_campaign=god_is_good_book

In today's world, where the Bible is more accessible than ever, the idea of memorizing Scripture can feel unnecessary or outdated. In his book Remember the Words, Dakota Lynch challenges that perception by offering compelling reasons why committing God's Word to memory is as relevant now as ever. Our guest serves as the executive director of Scripture Memory Fellowship.  Whether you're someone who struggles with memorization or a seasoned veteran of Scripture memory, Dakota offers practical tips, encouragement, and inspiration to make this spiritual discipline a consistent and enjoyable part of your life. Learn more about Dakota's book here: https://scripturememory.com/remember  Join the MyBridge Radio challenge to Memorize ‘25 by committing to memorize 25 Bible passages in 2025:  https://mybridgeradio.net/memorize/ 

You are meant for more. God has called you to live a radical life for Him—one that makes a lasting impact on this world. Like Jesus did. From the way that He prayed, to how He interacted with sinners, to His sacrificial death on the cross, there's never been anyone in history as radical as Jesus. As His followers, we are called to be like Him. It's not just something we should aspire to—it's a reality every Christian should strive for every day. We can live as Jesus did—be radical like He was—because Jesus lives in us and wants to live through us.  The founder of a worldwide evangelism ministry, Greg Stier has nearly four decades of ministry to back up how he's challenging us in his new book, Radical Like Jesus For more information about Greg's book, visit: https://store.dare2share.org/products/radical-like-jesus

We are so grateful for Susie Larson! She has such a big heart for Jesus and sharing her God given gifts. Join the conversation today to learn more about Advent and Susie's newest book, “Prepare Him Room.”

If you know Nebraska Football, you likely know the name Ron Brown. As an assistant coach with the Huskers, Ron was on the staff for three National Championship teams and numerous conference title winners. Since his arrival in Lincoln in the 1980s, he has served under six different Husker head coaches –– a testament to how coaches view the value of having Coach Brown's influence on young men. But, Ron is more than a football coach. Our guest truly believes God has placed him –– a man who grew up in and around East Coast cities –– into the wide open spaces of Nebraska to serve as a missionary to the state by sharing the Gospel of Jesus to as many as will listen. A former state director for Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Ron Brown is the co-founder of Kingdom Sports   https://kingdomsports.online/

In the genre of contemporary Christian music, no artist has won more awards than Steven Curtis Chapman. 59 Gospel Music Association “Dove” awards, five Grammy awards, a historic 50 No. 1 singles and recent induction into the Grand Ole Opry are evidence of a long career noted by many blessings.  Over the four decades that encompass the career of this CCM icon, Steven Curtis and his wife, Mary Beth, have also experienced heartache, including the tragic loss of their daughter, Maria at the age of five. It was a tragedy that God used to launch a ministry to care for orphans by engaging the Church to reduce barriers to adoption. Get to know the heart of this husband, daddy and “pop-pop” as he shares his love for Christmas music and what God has taught him in years singing and writing songs that point to God.

With all the excitement of Christmastime—the twinkling lights, festive sounds, and the rush of holiday preparations—it's easy for families to lose sight of the true meaning of the season: celebrating the birth of Jesus. Katie Trent understands the challenge of balancing the joy of traditions with keeping Christ at the center. In her new book, Katie offers families a creative way to slow down, connect, and make the Advent season meaningful. This unique devotional blends Bible lessons, fun activities, and hands-on traditions to bring faith-filled moments into your home. A Merry and Bright Adventure provides tools to deepen your family's relationship with Jesus—and with each other. Daily themes explore the history behind beloved Christmas traditions while inviting families to create their own, from crafting ornaments and singing carols to baking together. Designed with flexibility in mind, Katie encourages families to use this devotional as a joyful resource to enhance their season while making lasting memories. Learn more about Katie's new book here: https://katiejtrent.com/preorder

In life's pitch-black moments, our prayers can often resemble last-minute cries rather than first-response chats. Facing her own desperate moments, Rachel Wojo discovered that throughout the Old Testament, we find those in crisis using three-word pleas in their cries to God. That discovery brought life to her prayer journey, guiding it from frenzied desperation to dependent faith. In Rachel's latest book, Desperate Prayers: Embracing the Power of Prayer in Life's Darkest Moments, she shares personal experiences of heartbreak and loss, opening up about how desperate prayers can be powerful pathways to peace. Those panicked, last-minute cries can deepen our faith and draw us closer to God.  Link to her book: https://amzn.to/3SZ5HQj

In 2013, Jodi Blick embarked on a journey after facing the unthinkable. After a tragic car accident claimed the life of her son and two others, Jodi experienced a depth of pain she didn't know could even exist.  Jodi is thankful today that she had done some things before the tragedy that God would ultimately use to help her face the tragedy. While the pain was still strong and there were times she wondered if it would ever be okay to smile again, she was eventually able to cling to what she knew was true about God. As she walked her grief journey, she watched God provide for her every step of the way. Learn more about Jodi's story and her podcast, “Fighting For Joy” here: https://fightingforjoypodcast.fireside.fm/episodes

A movement called ‘deconstruction' is sweeping through our churches, and it's affecting our loved ones. It has disrupted, dismantled and destroyed the faith of so many. Former member of the early 2000s Christian ‘girl band' ZOEgirl, Alisa Childers had her own faith deconstructed through the influence of a minister she trusted who was teaching her to believe that which is not orthodox Christian truth.  Co-authored with Tim Barnett, The Deconstruction of Christianity: What It Is, Why It's Destructive and How to Respond was written to tell Alisa's story and help you not only understand what's happening, but also to stand your ground and respond with clarity and confidence. Link to learn more about her book: https://alisachilders.com/the-deconstruction-of-christianity/  Alisa Childers will be a featured speaker at the STINT Discipleship Weekend for teens, March 21-22, 2025 in Kearney, Nebraska: https://stint.toddbecker.org/discipleship-weekend

Whether you're facing the ordinary, daily pressures of squaring away today's to-do list or an unexpected season of suffering that seems to have no end, sometimes it feels like Jesus' promise of “overflowing joy” is simply not within reach for your real life. But it doesn't have to be that way. Author and Bible teacher Tara Dew takes us to Jesus' words in John 15 to reveal three surprising paths to a truly joy-filled life. If you're willing to take Jesus up on His teaching, you'll find that God's pruning, God's presence, and persevering in God's commands have the power to deliver not just a taste of joy as a fruit God is developing in your life, but an overflowing bushel of it.

While God does allow suffering, there's nothing He allows that He doesn't redeem. That's a truth author and podcaster Susie Larson had to come to grips with when she processed her emotion over what God had allowed her to face. Disappointment comes naturally when the "good life" lets us down. Discouragement is understandable when we face life's struggles. In all of that, the goodness of God is trustworthy, life-giving, and everlasting. Jesus wants to lead you on a healing path to redeem your story and to make you whole. Susie's latest resource is a 40-day devotional called, Waking Up to the Goodness of God: 40 Days Toward Healing & Wholeness. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BYYYD158?ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_3JBJQ8VX0ZVBB4N566K9&tag=mobilea0e898c-20&linkCode=kpe

Over the past six years, Kristine Fischer has become the face of bass fishing. She's been on television, her social media following is massive and she is always a favorite to win any kayak fishing competition But, Kristine Fischer is catching more than prize-winning fish. She's catching attention and drawing an audience that's not necessarily familiar with how to win a fishing tournament. Why? It's how she carries herself. Fischer has been called a force for good.  What caught our attention about Kristine? It was her very proud dad who told us how this bass angler who grew up in small town Nebraska always gives glory to God when she has an audience on her growing platform. As a fisher of fish, God may also be using her to point others to THE fisher of souls.

We live in a possession and money obsessed culture where the average American has far more than they need. Yet, many of us feel incredibly insecure, and we grasp tightly to what we have and continue trying to gain more. This impacts both how we think about our God-given resources and our willingness to be generous with what God has given us to steward. In his book, Gospel Generosity, Nathan Harris points to the Gospel as the source of life transformation that enables us to turn our focus from ourselves to others and to follow the way of Jesus.  Harris calls Gospel generosity a way of giving that is rooted in the saving work of Jesus Christ. It is the Christian's joyful awareness of what Christ has done for us and how we are privileged to participate in proclaiming that work through giving and advancing the Gospel.

As a coach and mentor to hundreds of pastors, Chris Sonksen has a front-row seat to watch churches that were once in trouble and in danger of closing their doors start to thrive through coaching and by applying one or two ideas that could cause a church to...boom.  Sonksen is the founder of Church Boom, where he helps pastors and churches achieve their desired growth by providing personalized coaching, a supportive community, and practical resources. Sonksen knows: when the pastor grows, the church grows, and he's helping hundreds of pastors who are experiencing the health and growth that comes from the coaching and community provided by Church Boom.

In the world of Gospel Music, few groups are more well-known and loved than the Gaither Vocal Band. A group that, for more than four decades, has toured the world, bringing the Gospel to audiences through amazing harmonies. The list of men who have comprised the Gaither Vocal Band reads like a “Who's Who” among the gospel music industry's best-loved voices, including: Steve Green, Larnelle Harris, Mark Lowry, Michael English, David Phelps and many others. Not only that, Bill Gaither –– known as the “Godfather of Modern Christian Music” –– is responsible for discovering the likes of Steven Curtis Chapman, TobyMac, Russ Taff and many others. Through an unexpected journey, Wes Hampton landed the spot of “tenor voice” for the GVB in 2005 and is currently the longest-tenured voice in the group, other than Bill Gaither himself.

Pastors and ministry leaders are some of the hardest-working people in the world--and they have a high rate of burnout to prove it. Leaders that aren't operating at peak efficiency and, also taking care of themselves, are setting themselves up for a crash. The reality is, few in ministry feel they have the time to take a sabbatical or tend to their own physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. But healthy rhythms of work and rest are the key to a thriving, long-term ministry. In their book, Don't Burn Out, Burn Bright, Jason Young and Jonathan Malm put their years of ministry leadership and consulting experience together to show us how to fine-tune leadership and organize life in such a way that you can become a high-capacity leader without the exhaustion and discouragement so many feel.

Church is a place for meaningful connection—a like-minded community which worships, prays, and participates together for the singular purpose of glorifying God. If King David's words from Psalm 133:1 are to be believed –– “How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity!” –– unity can exist. Attaining and maintaining this isn't easy. The apostle Paul had to remind the church to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). In his book, Life-Minded, Pastor Brady Boyd draws our attention to the reality of that text by pointing out it does take effort to stay unified with our spiritual family. Effort takes commitment. It takes persistence. It takes hope. Speaking both truth and grace, Pastor Brady offers 8 practical challenges to put peaceable unity into action. Book info: https://ourdailybreadpublishing.org/life-minded.html

Many of us long for the abundant life Jesus promised, but instead we feel stagnant and frustrated in our faith. More of us cultivate our view of God from our family of origin than from the pages of the Bible—and a faulty view of God will always be a barrier to a satisfying spiritual life. Bryan Clark has served in pastoral ministry in Nebraska for more than 40 years. In that time, he's observed a lot of, as he says, “messed up” views of God. In his unique and interactive book God's Not Like That, our guest returns us to Scripture on a step-by-step journey to identify and then correct our misconceptions about God.  Listen for specific ways our childhood influences our beliefs today and how to distinguish truth from fiction when it comes to personal beliefs. Order Bryan's book here: https://www.christianbook.com/not-like-redeeming-inherited-beliefs-finding/bryan-clark/9780830784394/pd/784395?event=ESRCG

The fact that you're about to press play on this podcast says you're aware of technology and some of its benefits. However, technology also has a darkside, especially for our children. Tech is directly responsible for increased teenage anxiety and depression, exposure to explicit material, online predators, screen addiction, and more. Along comes David Tucker, a former pastor and current tech exec, offering parents a framework for safely navigating these dangers. Through an approachable (and Biblical) 7-step process, his guidebook equips parents with the easy to apply tools and relevant guidance needed to protect their families, while still having the benefits of technology in their lives.

Many of us want to talk about our faith with others, but we feel unprepared and uncomfortable.  Babbie Mason knows that feeling. Feeling convicted of how little she was sharing her own faith, this popular singer and songwriter asked Jesus to help her change her ways. Out of that journey came a book that shares the title of one of her most well-known songs. Each One Reach One is about finding your own unique style of talking about Jesus and approaching sharing your faith with enthusiasm rather than a sense of obligation. Babbie believes sharing our story of Jesus doesn't have anything to do with rote lines, preachy words, or guilty feelings. It has everything to do with listening well, practicing compassion, and demonstrating Christ's joy.

With a blend of worship, vulnerability, and grit, the sound of We The Kingdom is birthed out of decades of musical influences and a shared difficult experience that brought them together as a band. Made up mostly of the Cash family, the band members had been involved behind-the-scenes in songs that have been sung around the world. That is until they came together to share their own story. Andrew Bergthold serves as the producer and guitarist (and today, spokesman) for the band whose other members include Ed, Scott and Martin Cash.  We The Kingdom will be part of Livin' Out Loud in Gothenburg, Nebraska on Saturday, August 17, 2024. Throughout this conversation, Andrew will share what to expect from their appearance that evening. For more information: livinoutloud.org

Lisa Anderson is accustomed to taking on a variety of challenging assignments with deadlines and late nights.However, when she took on the unexpected role of being a caregiver for her mom who was battling dementia, it was the hardest — yet most rewarding — role of her life. Lisa never anticipated how the Lord was writing a story of hope and inspiration amid some very dark days. Today, as she reflects on her role as a caregiver, Lisa clearly sees how the Lord's faithfulness and His grace were on display — allowing her to spend quality time with her mom and reminding her about the sanctity of life.

When was the last time you had a real and meaningful conversation? Especially with someone who holds a worldview that differs from yours?  Differences of opinion have always been part of life. For decades, spouses, family members, co-workers, and neighbors have had spirited conversations about politics, social issues, religion, current events, and even sports. But what was different in the past is that these disagreements wouldn't sever ties between family and friends. Today, we live in an argumentative “cancel” culture that has led to nearly a third of people reporting they have stopped talking to a friend or family member due to a disagreement. Nearly two-thirds of people say they stay quiet about their beliefs due to the fear of offending others. From cyberbullying to hate speech, demonizing political language, verbal abuse, and intolerance, the vast majority of us―eighty-seven percent―no longer feel safe in public places to share our opinions. Tim Muehlhoff and Sean McDowell are calling Jesus-followers higher. Can we End the Stalemate and have meaningful conversations? https://a.co/d/0eZ3dmhf

Think of your toughest relationship. Think of a relationship that is good but could be great. Think of a group of people that drives you nuts. You want to show more kindness and generosity, but sometimes you're just tired, stretched, and frustrated. Besides, would small actions make that big a difference? Shaunti Feldhahn says, “Yes!”   This social researcher did years of extensive research, and concluded that kindness is a superpower! It can change any relationship, make your life easier and better, and transform our culture. Turns out, you really can show kindness when you don't feel like it.   Listen in and find out how The Kindness Challenge can make your toughest relationships better and your good relationships great—starting today. For more information on Shaunti's book: https://www.jointhekindnesschallenge.com/book

As a parent, your role changes drastically after your kids grow up… at least, it should.  Too many of us have faced heartache and strained relationships when our children choose difficult--even seemingly wrong--paths. In, Love, Pray, Listen: Parenting Your Wayward Adult Children with Joy, Mary DeMuth shares a gracious, practical resource for navigating the rocky terrain of parenting grown-ups. If you've wondered: What do I do when my kids make choices that don't align with my values? Or, how do I keep communication lines open with my grown children? When do I speak, and when do I listen? And, how do I avoid the temptation of meddling in my kids' lives? ...this conversation will help. This is your invitation for spiritual growth and a path toward fulfilling relationships with your adult children.

48 million Christ followers will approach retirement age over the next two decades. Most have no real plan for impact in their retirement years. Unfortunately, too many Christ-followers have embraced the world's retirement plan: it's all downhill, then you die, so jam as much leisure as you can into those years.   In, The Retirement Reformation Bruce Bruinsma changes the way we think about what our culture calls retirement. While acknowledging the reality of longevity, Bruce challenges both individuals and faith-based organizations to reexamine, reshape, reform, and revitalize the fastest-growing segment of our society. God has a unique call for each of our lives, and it does not stop at sixty-five or seventy.

When life hurts, you need more than bubbly inspiration. To get through life's storms, you need a God who meets you in the blurry confusion of heartache and carries you through to the other side. In her book, You Can Trust God When Life Hurts, Amber Albee Swenson helps you see how you can find faith when things don't make sense, adopt a hope-filled perspective in hard times, receive grace for when you fail, and so much more!  Whether you're navigating hurt right now or fortifying your faith for the days to come, our guest wants to help you see how you can hope in God no matter what comes your way.

In her latest book, Recipes for a Sweet Child: Creative Bible-based Activities to Help Your Family Thrive, author Katie Trent combines her counseling and ministry expertise with her own parenting experiences to provide you with a creative guide to work past challenging childhood issues in a winsome way. Searching for answers to help turn your children's grumbling into gratitude? Trying to navigate ongoing issues like sibling rivalry, tattling, unforgiveness, peer pressure, or bullying? Katie will help you teach your kids how to apply biblical wisdom in any situation. Discover simple tools to bring peace and joy into your home with easy, interactive activities and Bible lessons and enjoy making delicious recipes with your kids.

The world needs young men to grow up into real men. But with young men receiving so many conflicting messages about what it means to be a man, they find it hard to know what masculinity looks like when men are at their absolute best. Brant Hansen paints a refreshingly specific, compelling picture of what men are designed to be in a world of cultural confusion.

We were created to work, and our work provides unique meaning and purpose in our lives. Yet today, we are living in a crisis of apathy and ignorance regarding work's theological and existential nature. David Bahnsen believes our understanding of work and its role in our lives is deeply flawed—we are unmoored from what he calls “created purpose". It is in work—effort, service, striving—of every kind, that we discover our meaning and purpose; a significant and successful life is one rooted in full-time productivity and cultivation of God's created world.

Cultivating within kids a heart for generosity and wise habits around earning, saving, investing, and spending money will impact every aspect of their lives—their relationship with Jesus, their future marriage, their ability to make a difference with their lives, and much more. Matt Bell shares stories, motivation, and the guidance you need to help your kids develop powerfully effective biblical money-management attitudes and behaviors. Matt's book, Trusted will equip you to teach your kids the purpose of money and how to pursue biblical financial priorities—everything they need to get on the right path for a lifetime of effective, joyful, God-glorifying money management.  For more information about Matt's book: https://mattaboutmoney.com/trusted-preparing-your-kids-for-a-lifetime-of-god-honoring-money-management/

Whether you're facing the ordinary, daily pressures of squaring away today's to-do list or an unexpected season of suffering that seems to have no end, sometimes it feels like Jesus' promise of “overflowing joy” is simply not within reach for your real life. But it doesn't have to be that way. Author and Bible teacher Tara Dew takes us to Jesus' words in John 15 to reveal three surprising paths to a truly joy-filled life. If you're willing to take Jesus up on His teaching, you'll find that God's pruning, God's presence, and persevering in God's commands have the power to deliver not just a taste of joy as a fruit God is developing in your life, but an overflowing bushel of it!

Do you want well-behaved kids? Or, kids with good character? Ideally, both. How do we get there? Too often, parents misguidedly prioritize behavior. Behavior modification does not guarantee g ood character qualities.  In her latest book, Parent Differently, Kathy Koch says it's character that influences decisions. It shows up in our speech, actions and attitudes. It's about who we are and what we do. As Christians, we want to see the character of Jesus Christ in our children. We want our kids to be brave, compassionate and joyful. Whether a parent, grandparent or teacher, we all want to see our children grow in humility, gratitude and respect—for others and themselves.  The founder of Celebrate Kids, Dr. Kathy Koch will help us define character and why it matters as she unpacks the crisis of character in our culture today. Listen for some great tips on steps we can take to teach and develop character in our kids.

Taking on the moniker “Purveyors of Good News,” Rend Collective is a band that seeks to be authentic while delivering the Gospel in a simple old-fashioned manner.  Amid so much heaviness consuming events of today's world, Rend Collective is sharing good news as a response to that brokenness. The five-member group identifies as a worship band with nothing to prove… just being faithful.

We live in a possession and money obsessed culture where the average American has far more than they need. Yet, many of us feel incredibly insecure, and we grasp tightly to what we have and continue trying to gain more. This impacts both how we think about our God-given resources and our willingness to be generous with what God has given us to steward. In his book, Gospel Generosity, Nathan Harris points to the Gospel as the source of life transformation that enables us to turn our focus from ourselves to others and to follow the way of Jesus.  Harris calls Gospel generosity a way of giving that is rooted in the saving work of Jesus Christ. It is the Christian's joyful awareness of what Christ has done for us and how we are privileged to participate in proclaiming that work through giving and advancing the Gospel.