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This book changed Seth's life and it will help you too! In todays ep of Anatomy of Change podcast, Seth hangs out with Hal Elrod, author of The Miracle Morning, discussing the transformative power of morning routines and personal growth. They explore the SAVERS method, the importance of affirmations, visualization techniques, and the necessity of acceptance in overcoming adversity. Hal shares personal stories of resilience, including his battle with cancer and the lessons learned from his experiences. The conversation emphasizes the potential for change within everyone and the tools available to facilitate that change. Takeaways The Miracle Morning is a six-part routine that sets the tone for the day. Acceptance is crucial for emotional freedom and overcoming adversity. Affirmations should be rooted in truth and clarity about one's commitments. Visualization is about mentally rehearsing the actions needed to achieve goals. Resistance to reality causes emotional pain; acceptance leads to peace. Everyone has the potential to change their life regardless of past beliefs. The SAVERS method includes silence, affirmations, visualization, exercise, reading, and scribing. Gratitude should be heartfelt, not just intellectual. Daily practices can lead to significant personal growth over time. Community and support are vital in the journey of change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Emotional fatigue can leave you feeling worn down, overwhelmed, or emotionally empty — even when you've been doing everything "right." In today's meditation, we gently explore what emotional fatigue is, why it happens, and how to allow your emotional system to rest. You'll learn how prolonged emotional self-regulation affects the nervous system and why rest — not effort — is essential for emotional balance. This episode includes a calming guided meditation designed to help your nervous system soften, release emotional exhaustion, and restore a sense of ease. As part of the 7 Days to Emotional Reset series, today's practice builds on yesterday's release and supports you in moving from emotional holding into emotional rest. ✨ In this episode, you'll: Understand what emotional fatigue is and how it impacts your nervous system Learn why emotional rest is different from distraction Practice allowing emotions to move through you with ease and compassion Experience a gentle guided meditation for emotional restoration
You do not have to absorb the stress of the people around you.Welcome to Day 3 of The Holiday Sanctuary. As we move deeper into the week, social obligations—office parties, family calls, and crowded shops—often increase. For those of us who are sensitive, this contact can feel draining. We often leave these interactions feeling exhausted, not because we did too much, but because we felt too much.In today's episode, Protecting Your Energy Field, we are building a boundary. We are learning the difference between empathy (understanding someone) and absorption (taking on their emotions).In this session, you will experience:The Cleansing Breath: A visualization-based breathwork technique where you inhale clear, restorative light and exhale the grey smoke of other people's tension.The "Glass Wall" Visualization: A powerful mental exercise to construct a transparent shield around you. This allows you to see and hear the world clearly, but ensures that negativity simply bounces off your field rather than sinking in.Affirmations for Boundaries: "I observe stress without absorbing it." "I am the guardian of my own energy."Carry this shield with you into every room you enter today.Next Up: Join me tomorrow for the final session, Day 4, where we will focus on "The Celebration"—finding genuine joy in the season on your own terms.
Segment #59 of The Daily Alignment w/ Grant Mitt, affirmations to start your day. A Segment of the Grant Mitt Podcast. Apply for business mentorship (Book a call) https://grantmittconsulting.com/b2b-vsl Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/grantmitt/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You Don't Have to Go Home for Christmas
Spotify is adding even more ads.We're protecting your peace.Affirmations shouldn't be interrupted.
Spotify is adding even more ads. We're protecting your peace.Affirmations shouldn't be interrupted.
Step Into Clarity. What once defined you and the decisions you made are the past. Dare to live as who you are today with "Those Days Are Over." If this episode was helpful and you want to leave a tip, simply go to AffirmationPod.com/TipJarThe sister episode to this one is Episode 146 Not Who I Used to be https://AffirmationPod.com/NotWhoIUsedToBeThis episode is brought to you by AquaTru. AquaTru is a water purifier that transforms your tap water! AquaTru removes 15x more contaminants than ordinary pitcher filters and AquaTru filters last from 6 months to 2 years! I use mine daily for drinking and cooking!AquaTru also comes with a 30-day Money-Back Guarantee. Use promo code AFFIRMATION to get 20% OFF any AquaTru purifier at AquaTru.comReady to change the way you think and start seeing real results?Want to start thinking more positively and feel more confident?Secure your one-on-one affirmations coaching spot at AffirmationPod.com/Coaching WANT MORE EPISODES LIKE THIS ONE?Episode 578 Creating Growth and Change https://AffirmationPod.com/CreatingGrowthAndChange Episode 559 Finishing Unfinished Business https://AffirmationPod.com/FinishingUnfinishedBusiness Episode 543 Rebuilding Your Foundation https://AffirmationPod.com/RebuildingYourFoundation Episode 442 Starting Over https://AffirmationPod.com/StartingOver Episode 437 I am Just Getting Started https://AffirmationPod.com/JustGettingStarted Episode 436 Changing Something in Your Life https://AffirmationPod.com/ChangingSomethingInYourLife Episode 401 Finding Your Groove During Change https://AffirmationPod.com/FindingYourGroove Episode 389 Starting a New Chapter https://AffirmationPod.com/StartingANewChapter LISTENER LOVE ❤️"I feel so good this morning because I'm getting back to a routine. I found Affirmation Pod that I listen to and it's really relaxing." - Jen Stancill "Can't get enough of Affirmation Pod. Thank you Josie!" - Nicole Chaput"I listen every morning" - Chriselle LimWhat's in your self-care toolbox?
The world outside is speeding up. Today, we give you permission to slow down.Welcome to Day 2 of The Holiday Sanctuary. As we hit the middle of December, we often enter the "manic week"—that frantic rush to get everything done before the holidays arrive. The pressure to hurry can trigger adrenaline spikes and leave us feeling overwhelmed and breathless.In today's episode, The Art of Slowing Down, we are opting out of the urgent energy of the world. We are reclaiming our own pace.In this session, you will experience:Box Breathing (4-4-4-4): A tactical breathwork technique used to instantly regulate the nervous system and halt the adrenaline response.The Deep Snow Visualization: A guided mental journey where you walk through deep, soft snow. Every step is slow, deliberate, and silent, muffling the noise of the chaotic world around you.Affirmations for Pacing: Powerful reminders that your peace is more important than your to-do list.This is your antidote to the rush. You do not have to match the frantic energy around you.Next Up: Join me tomorrow for Day 3, where we will focus on "The Shield," learning how to protect your energy from difficult family dynamics and social drains.
Thank you to our lovely sponsors : *SHOPIFY: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at https://www.shopify.com/habitsofagoddess *MasterClass x Kim Kardashian: The New Rules of Business: The 10 Kimmandments is available exclusively on MasterClass starting on 12/4. “MasterClass always has great offers during the holidays, sometimes up to as much as 50% off. Head over to https://www.materclass.com/GODDESS for the current offer.” *BETTERHELP: Get matched today with a licensed therapist when you visit https://www.betterhelp.com/habitsofagoddess . * Follow and connect with me here: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jasminerasco1?_t=ZT-90xO4XoWDSH&_r=1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/habitsofagoddess and Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@habitsofagoddess/videos *Here's how to support the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/habitofagoddess *Book a Goddess Chat session with me: https://habitofagoddess.com/products/goddess-chat-calls Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Paper piles don't have to follow you into the new year. In this solo episode of Got Clutter? Get Organized!, I'm sharing 5 practical, no-stress strategies to tame the paperwork chaos in your home or office. Whether you're dealing with unopened mail, receipts, or outdated to-do lists, these tips will help you declutter what's no longer useful, digitize what matters, and set boundaries for the paper that comes into your life moving forward. Plus, I'll share a personal story of helping a client clear her late mother's paperwork—a moment that reminded us how freeing it is to get clarity, closure, and control. What You'll Learn: *Why sorting by category is more effective than by date *How to create a simple “paper triage” system that works *Exactly what you can toss right now (no guilt) *Tools to digitize receipts, forms, and more *How to create a clear 2026 paper policy that supports your life Taylor's Tip Time: Set aside 15 minutes and start with one paper pile today. Progress—not perfection—is what matters.
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Leadership is a state of mind. These affirmations will help you embody the core qualities of great leadership, empowering you to inspire your team, communicate with clarity, and lead with unwavering confidence and integrity. Unwind now with our positive sleep affirmations podcast. Our soothing affirmations relax the mind and prepare the body for rest. Hit play, and drift into Good Sleep... Listen to more positive sleep affirmations by subscribing to the audio podcast in your favorite podcast app: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-sleep-positive-affirmations/id1704608129 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3OuJvYoprqh7nPK44ZsdKE And start your morning with Optimal Living Daily! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/optimal-living-daily-mental-health-motivation/id1067688314 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1hygb4nGhNhlLn4pBnN00j?si=ca60dcfd758b44b4 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Leadership is a state of mind. These affirmations will help you embody the core qualities of great leadership, empowering you to inspire your team, communicate with clarity, and lead with unwavering confidence and integrity. Unwind now with our positive sleep affirmations podcast. Our soothing affirmations relax the mind and prepare the body for rest. Hit play, and drift into Good Sleep... Listen to more positive sleep affirmations by subscribing to the audio podcast in your favorite podcast app: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-sleep-positive-affirmations/id1704608129 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3OuJvYoprqh7nPK44ZsdKE And start your morning with Optimal Living Daily! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/optimal-living-daily-mental-health-motivation/id1067688314 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1hygb4nGhNhlLn4pBnN00j?si=ca60dcfd758b44b4 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today's Morning Affirmation is: I am grateful for this new day.Visit sponsors www.rellalifestyle.com and www.pineholm.ca to help support these daily morning affirmations. You can also subscribe to ad-free affirmations for $0.99/month on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Listen to my Morning Monologue: I'm sharing my take on pressing issues, enlightening research on human behavior, answering questions I get by email, and my favorite, most instructive interactions with callers. Everything you'll hear is designed to help you become a better spouse, parent, family member, co-worker, friend, and human being. It's the free therapy you need! Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.comFollow me on social media:Facebook.com/DrLauraInstagram.com/DrLauraProgramYouTube.com/DrLauraJoin My Family!!Receive my Weekly Newsletter + 20% off my Marriage 101 course & 25% off Merch! Sign up now, it's FREE!Each week you'll get new articles, featured emails from listeners, special event invitations, early access to my Dr. Laura Designs Store benefiting Children of Fallen Patriots, and MORE! Sign up at DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Does the mid-December energy feel louder and more frantic, while you just crave silence?Welcome to The Holiday Sanctuary, a special four-part series designed to ground your energy, protect your peace, and help you navigate this season on your own terms.Sunday evenings in December can feel heavy, and seeing images of "perfect" gatherings can make us feel incredibly lonely.In Day 1: Embracing Solitude & Finding Connection, we shift the narrative. We are reframing loneliness into restorative solitude, reminding you that even in the quiet, you are never truly alone.In this episode, you will experience:Heart Coherence Breathing: A powerful breathwork technique (Inhale 5, Exhale 5) to bridge the gap between your mind and emotions.The Golden Web Visualization: A guided journey to connect your inner light with thousands of others listening right now, weaving a web of support across the world.Affirmations for Belonging: Anchoring the belief that your solitude is a sanctuary, not a sadness.Whether you are on your own or surrounded by people but feeling misunderstood, this session offers a safe container to breathe and reconnect.Next Up: Join me tomorrow for Day 2, where we will learn the art of slowing down when the world tries to speed up.
Segment #58 of The Daily Alignment w/ Grant Mitt, affirmations to start your day. A Segment of the Grant Mitt Podcast. Apply for business mentorship (Book a call) https://grantmittconsulting.com/b2b-vsl Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/grantmitt/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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❤️ Calm Relationship Anxiety with these relaxing affirmations designed will help you restore your sense of self-love.Lie back and relax as you move through gentle, calming affirmations to help you release fear, rebuild trust in your relationship, and learn to feel secure in love.Whether you're struggling with anxious attachment, overthinking, or low self-esteem, these affirmations for relationship anxiety will help calm the mind and restore your inner confidence.Perfect When You Need To:• Soothe relationship anxiety and overthinking.• Boost self-esteem and build self-worth.• ease your body back into relaxation.Press play now, breathe deeply, and remind yourself: you are enough just as you are. Listen before sleep or whenever doubt surfaces.✨✨✨✨If you are struggling with anxiety, and feel you're in need of a little extra support, download my course From Panic To Peace, by clicking the link below now.From Panic To Peace | A Meditation Course to Ease Anxiety: https://breathingspace.gumroad.com/l/udobcz✨✨✨✨Thank you for listening,Sam Jarvis,Host @ Breathingspace ✨ Tags: relationship anxiety, self love, self esteem, calming affirmations, relationship healing, sleep meditation, anxiety relief, mindfulness, mental health
Today's Morning Affirmation is: My mind is calm under pressure.Visit sponsors www.rellalifestyle.com and www.pineholm.ca to help support these daily morning affirmations. You can also subscribe to ad-free affirmations for $0.99/month on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Segment #57 of The Daily Alignment w/ Grant Mitt, affirmations to start your day. A Segment of the Grant Mitt Podcast. Apply for business mentorship (Book a call) https://grantmittconsulting.com/b2b-vsl Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/grantmitt/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Did you know there's MAGIC in your Meditation Practice? Say Goodbye to Anxiety and Hello to More Peace & More Prosperity! Here Are the 5 Secrets on How to Unleash Your Meditation Magic https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/5secrets Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player. Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Let yourself relax and settle, Taking a few deep breaths to wake you, Cleanse you, And replenish you. PAUSE Let your body begin to unwind. Let your breath steady. And allow yourself to drop into stillness… Right here in this moment. LONG PAUSE This is your sacred pause. A quiet return to your heart. To the ease that's already here. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life. If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want! Namaste, Beautiful,
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Make your future a priority. These affirmations will help you stay focused and motivated on your long-term retirement goals, encouraging consistent savings and wise financial planning for a secure and prosperous future. Unwind now with our positive sleep affirmations podcast. Our soothing affirmations relax the mind and prepare the body for rest. Hit play, and drift into Good Sleep... Listen to more positive sleep affirmations by subscribing to the audio podcast in your favorite podcast app: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-sleep-positive-affirmations/id1704608129 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3OuJvYoprqh7nPK44ZsdKE And start your morning with Optimal Living Daily! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/optimal-living-daily-mental-health-motivation/id1067688314 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1hygb4nGhNhlLn4pBnN00j?si=ca60dcfd758b44b4 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Make your future a priority. These affirmations will help you stay focused and motivated on your long-term retirement goals, encouraging consistent savings and wise financial planning for a secure and prosperous future. Unwind now with our positive sleep affirmations podcast. Our soothing affirmations relax the mind and prepare the body for rest. Hit play, and drift into Good Sleep... Listen to more positive sleep affirmations by subscribing to the audio podcast in your favorite podcast app: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-sleep-positive-affirmations/id1704608129 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3OuJvYoprqh7nPK44ZsdKE And start your morning with Optimal Living Daily! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/optimal-living-daily-mental-health-motivation/id1067688314 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1hygb4nGhNhlLn4pBnN00j?si=ca60dcfd758b44b4 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Feeling Stressed & Anxious? Get our FREE 3 Day Stress & Anxiety Detox here -> https://womensmeditationnetwork.com Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player. Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Rest deeply now, As these affirmations wash over you tonight, Relaxing you, And welcoming you into deep sleep. Breathe, It's time to come inside. Away from the noise of the day, Away from the noise in your head. And deep into the center of you. The beautiful soul who is ready to be nourished, Ready to restore herself, Ready to sleep. PAUSE… So drop your shoulders, And soften your face. Let your arms and legs fall heavily into your bed. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life. If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want! Namaste, Beautiful,
May you have the courage to stand in your own knowing.May you find the grace to let go of striving for perfection, and instead embrace the sacredness of your imperfect, human journey.May luminous moments of optimism and possibility guide you,even as you move through gray times of despair and doubt.May you have the wisdom to choose differently, to prioritize what truly matters,creating a legacy that lingers. May you always find solace in the holy ground beneath your feet,the sacred presence that dwells within and all around you.Shine your light, dear one,your small, precious gifts are needed in this world.Happy Spring Equinox! I hope you are enjoying a gentle leap into a new season. Our own weather has been erratic and wild, including nearby tornadoes that wreaked havoc on our town. And, then, today, as I work on the newsletter, sporadic power outages at our house cutting off my internet. As such, this newsletter will be a little shorter than usual with only a brief audio edition. I've gotten very off schedule this week! Our shop update today is an eclectic one, featuring assorted divine imperfections, “Luna” one-of-a-kind goddesses, and some red winged Nemesis goddesses (by customer request).We also still have assorted goddesses in our very special spring pigment—a beautiful lilac with small flowers. We are using this pigment to honor Áine, the Irish Fairy Queen, who is this year's featured goddess at Gaea Goddess Gathering. We do know that she is a summertime goddess, but we felt like this pigment was an excellent match for the spring equinox/Ostara and our month of Persephone as well, so we went forward with it!This week's magic:* 8 minute video: beholding delight.Resource Reminders:* New free series: An Introduction to Goddess Studies* 1. getting started* 2. printable journal* 3. affirmation card set* 4. portable altar space* 5. introduction to thealogy* 6. influential authors in goddess studies* 7. audio retreat: spots of time (note: publishing Saturday)Blog Posts:* Ritual Reading for Spring Equinox (A Spring Ritual of Returning)* Clarity and the CrossroadsBeholding DelightReminder: Let us be open to delight. Let us be open to wonder. Let us allow joy. Let us be open to the possibility of bliss.Journal prompts for the week:* What is calling to you? What doorway are you sensing?* What are you saying yes to? What is your ritual of returning?Affirmations for this week:* Happiness and ecstasy flow through me wildly and freely.* I am open to joy.* I say yes to life.* I listen to the call.* I allow an expansive dream or creative quest to emerge.* I find the small sacred moments in my daily life and let them sustain me.* I walk my path with presence and intention.Goddess of quiet knowing,help me to make a space for stillness,to guard a place for peace.Remind me that stillness and motionare a constant interplay,the beat between notes,the space between raindrops,the pause between breaths,the silence between heartbeats.The nature of the body is to be in motion,the constant unfolding of a whole universewhirling within our cells,the still spaces in betweensomehow holding the whole together,as in stillnesswe move.Much love,Molly, Mark, + Family This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit goddessmagic.substack.com/subscribe
Today's Morning Affirmation is: I embrace all opportunities for self-improvement.Visit sponsors www.rellalifestyle.com and www.pineholm.ca to help support these daily morning affirmations. You can also subscribe to ad-free affirmations for $0.99/month on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Rebroadcast Get your copies of all my books on Amazon Author: Sharron Downs they make great gifts or to keep for yourself . New books are available on sale as well. Blessings thanks of the support.
I AM Beautiful Wild Free: A Guided Affirmation and Meditation Podcast
[Season 6, Episode 22 ] In this uplifting episode of the I AM Beautiful Wild Free Podcast, we declare with a full heart: I AM Thankful and Grateful.
Reformed Brotherhood | Sound Doctrine, Systematic Theology, and Brotherly Love
In this solo episode of The Reformed Brotherhood, Jesse Schwamb explores the profound theological underpinnings of Jesus' parables in Luke 15. With co-host Tony Arsenal absent due to illness, Jesse takes listeners through the "deleted scenes" – insights and reflections that often occur off-mic – about the parables of the Lost Sheep and Lost Coin. These stories reveal God's relentless pursuit of sinners and set the stage for the upcoming discussion of the Prodigal Son parable. Jesse unpacks how these parables demonstrate not just God's willingness to receive sinners, but His active seeking of them – a grace that doesn't merely find us willing but makes us willing. This episode serves as a theological bridge, slowing listeners down to fully appreciate the scandal of God's love before diving into Jesus' most famous parable. Key Takeaways Context Matters: The parables of Luke 15 are Jesus' response to the Pharisees' grumbling about Him receiving sinners and eating with them. This historical context reveals the radical nature of Christ's ministry compared to the religious establishment. Grace Makes Us Willing: Drawing from Thomas Watson's quote, Jesse explains that God's grace doesn't find us willing to repent but actually creates that willingness in us – a foundational concept in Reformed theology. The Initiative of God: In all three parables, God is portrayed as the active seeker. The shepherd searches for the sheep, the woman sweeps for the coin, demonstrating that salvation begins with God's initiative, not ours. The Scandalous Love of Jesus: Christ's approach to sinners appeared scandalous to religious leaders because it violated their understanding of who deserved God's attention. Christ's Sympathetic Identification: Jesus doesn't just save us from a distance but enters into our suffering, identifying with us in our pain while remaining sinless. Heaven's Joy Over Salvation: The parables reveal God's extraordinary joy over each individual sinner who is saved, showing that the entire cost of redemption would be worth it even for just one person. From Death to Life: Drawing from Colossians 2, Jesse emphasizes that Jesus didn't come to make bad people good but to make dead people alive, canceling our certificate of debt through His cross. The Scandal of Divine Initiative The religious establishment of Jesus' day operated on the principle that religion was for "good people" – those who could maintain moral standards and ritual purity. When tax collectors and sinners were drawn to Jesus, the Pharisees were scandalized not just by Jesus' association with them, but by the possibility that these "hopeless cases" might be included in God's kingdom. This context sets up the revolutionary nature of Jesus' parables. As Jesse explains, "Religion by itself cannot help any of those people. Can't help pariahs in that way, and so it did no good then to command the good people to mix with the bad people, and then to treat them kindly and tell them of new possibilities." What makes Christianity utterly unique is that it begins not with human initiative but with divine pursuit. God in Christ actively seeks those who are lost, not waiting for them to clean themselves up or take the first step. This complete reversal of religious expectations demonstrates why these parables were and remain so radical. Grace That Transforms Our Unwillingness The Reformed theological principle that Jesse highlights through Thomas Watson's quote – "Grace does not find us willing, but grace makes us willing" – strikes at the heart of human pride and misconception about salvation. Left to ourselves, we don't merely lack the ability to come to God; we actively resist Him. Jesse elaborates: "How good of God that He would send His Son unto us while we were yet His enemies. In other words, while that clenched fist was within us, while we saw God as only a threat, while we wanted to be covenant breakers, that's what we wanted. We want to rebel against Him." The wonder of grace is not just that God forgives when we repent, but that He creates the very repentance within us. This is why the shepherd leaves the ninety-nine to find the one – the sheep doesn't find its own way home. This is the beating heart of Reformed soteriology: salvation is entirely of the Lord, from first to last, which makes it secure and gives all glory to God alone. Memorable Quotes "God seeking us is the foundation of seeking Him. Grace does not find us willing, but grace makes us willing, and I think that's exactly what we're getting in this first advent of Christ. By way of these stories, of course, this grace that makes us willing. That is the Reformed theology." "He's not this like sinless Superman. What I mean by that is... it takes out the humanity of Christ. It takes out this feeling heart of Christ as if to like separate him so much from us. But the beauty of these parables is... Christ puts himself close to us in that he feels like us, though he is not us, and that is the heart. That is where his power of coming to save is brought into our lives." "Having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us. He also has taken it out of the way. Having nailed it to the cross. How good is that sentence?" Full Transcript [00:00:08] Jesse Schwamb: It reminds me of this quote from. Thomas Watson who said, God seeking us is the foundation of seeking him. Grace does not find us willing, but grace makes us willing, and I think that's exactly what we're getting in this first advent of Christ. By way of these stories, of course, this grace that makes. Us willing. That is the reform of theology. How good of God that he would send his son unto us while we were yet his enemies. In other words, while that clenched fist was within us, while we saw God as only a threat, while we wanted to be covenant breakers, that's what we wanted. We want to rebel against him. Welcome to episode 473 of The Reformed Brotherhood. I'm Jesse, and this is the podcast for Lost Sheep and Lost Coins. Hey, brothers and sisters, you're listening to another episode of The Reformed Brotherhoodhood, but you've probably already noticed. That we are missing my co-host and my brother Tony, who regrettably was taken up ill this week, and so in his convalescence, I'm coming at you with a solo episode and what are you probably asking is worth listening to in the solo episode? Well, I have a proposal for you. So often what happens is when Tony and I sit down. And we record a beautiful, robust conversation, the definitive kind of talk on some topic. We shut off the microphone. And then of course he and I continue to talk to one another. And what often happens is somehow, like a second or a third episode basically starts because we go back to what we were talking about before and we have some kind of new insight or something new that we wanted to say that didn't make it into the episode. [00:01:56] Deleted Scenes and Parables Overview [00:01:56] Jesse Schwamb: And so this episode is gonna be about some of those deleted scenes if you were, were like the things that. We talked about, but didn't make it into some of our recent conversations about the parables, these three parables of the Lost Sheep, the lost coin, and now The Lost Son. Now I know what you're thinking, and I made a promise to Tony. We're not gonna get to the Prodigal son on this episode. That is something he and I are looking forward to discussing with one another and with you. So that will be next week. But on this little episode, I thought it was best to slow down just for a second and to give you, again, some of those things we've been talking about as we've been thinking about lostness, and to set that up as a precursor to wet your appetite just a little bit for this biggest of all of the parables, maybe the most well-known parable in the entire universe. The parable of the prodigal son, which again, is coming for you, but not on this one. Don't even get me started. How dare you. Now, normally if this were a traditional episode, you would hear that ous segue from me that goes something like this. Hey Tony, are you affirming with or denying again, something on this episode? And because it's just me, it'd be super weird to do something atenol with just myself. [00:03:17] Affirmations and Community Engagement [00:03:17] Jesse Schwamb: I figured it is high time for me to give you a particular affirmation, so here's what I'm gonna do. I am affirming with you like you brother and sister listening. I truly am affirming with you because as the year draws to close, I was thinking just again, how grateful I am for everybody who hangs out, everybody who listens, everybody who gives to the reformed brotherhood, because we all do it together. Nothing happens by accident. Nothing shows up in your podcast feed without somebody taking care of the attendant costs, without people lending their voices, without conversation around it. And if you're wondering, well, who are these other people? Because I thought it was just you too. There are brothers and sisters from all over the world who are looking to follow closely after Lord Jesus Christ, wanting to process theology and wanting to do so in a way that makes us better and more obedient toward our loving savior. And in serving those around us. And the good news is you also can just connect with us and with them. And the best way to do that, as we've said so many times before, but I'm gonna say it one more time for everybody in the back, is you can join our Telegram group. Telegram is just a messaging app, and we've carved out just a little corner of that app so that people that are listening to the podcast can come hang out and talk about. Whatever you want. So the way to do that is go to any browser, pick your favorite one, and just type in t me slash reform brotherhood, t me slash reform brotherhood, and that link will get you there. You can also do another thing. You can go to reform brotherhood.com. The podcast does have a website, believe it or not, and on that website, reform brotherhood.com live, all of the other episodes we have ever recorded. And so you can search those by topic about what's going on in them. You can find all kinds of different things to listen to. You'll also find a link there if in fact you would like to also support the podcast. So we are so grateful for so many brothers and sisters. Who have decided, you know what? I've been blessed by the conversations by the community, and I wanna make sure that it remains that way free of charge to everyone. And they're the ones along with us that are shouldering that burden, and I'm so grateful. So you can find a link there if in fact you are so inclined to give so. Brothers and sisters, I'm affirming with you it's time that I did that, and I'm so grateful for all of you. And again, the purpose of this little episode is to spend a little bit of time getting ready, getting after it. [00:05:42] The Parables' Context and Significance [00:05:42] Jesse Schwamb: For this, the biggest of all, the granddaddy of all the parables, the parable of the prodigal son and I, as I was thinking about this episode, it occurred to me it's a bit like, I don't know where you live. Where I live, there are these signs on the road that can script the speed at which you can travel on those roads at least legally. Right, and I was thinking about this as I was driving the other day, that I have a road with a speed limit. Say it's 50 miles an hour, but there is a bend in this road. And on that bend as I approach it, there's another sign of a different color that's more suggestive and it's a lower speed limit. It's as if to say, listen, I know you can travel at 50, but what might be wise right now is to slow it down so that you don't veer off the road because. As you take this turn, what's best practice, what's most safe for you is to slow down for a second. And I was kind of thinking about that as we were going into these parables. We wanna get to the parable of the prodigal sun. It's dramatic, it's dynamic. There's all kinds of lovely details in it. It's exciting. We've got people now finally, whereas we had intimate objects in agriculture, now we're getting to human family dynamics and interrelations and all this activity. And it's good. We should wanna get there, but I'm kind of feeling like it's a bit like that sign that says, you know what? We might wanna slow down for a second before you turn into this parable. Why don't you take this curve at a slightly slower speed? And so hence this little tiny episode to bring to you again, some of those deleted scenes. Some of the things that Tony, I've been talking about that never have quite made it into all of the recordings, because they probably happened before afterwards and the recording button had already been disabled. So. Let me give you the thing that I think, Tony, I've been talking about a lot and we've definitely been thinking about, and that is again, going back to like, why did these parables even come up? Like was it Jesus volition just to start talking about this stuff? Why is it that there are three versions of it? Why are they kind of escalating and growing in magnitude? There's clearly a crescendo coming. Hopefully you're hearing it. Like it's picking up, the pace is moving, the volume is increasing, and the stakes are getting higher and higher and higher. So what gives why all of this? And I think we gotta go back to Luke 15. Of course. We gotta look at just that first verse because to me. [00:08:00] The Heart of Reformed Theology [00:08:00] Jesse Schwamb: In Luke 15, this is some of like the best comfort food of the gospel, don't you think? I mean, in this, it's like the warmest, richest passage, almost all the gospels in terms of the presentation of this really good news. And you know, these stories aren't just sentimental tales. They actually reveal the beating heart of reform, theology, the beating, passionate love. And heart of Christ for his people. This truth that God is the one who seeks, saves, and rejoices over sinners. And so we gotta start in context because it's precisely because of that beating heart, that initiative, that volition, that Christ brings all of this up, but he brings it up in response to something that's happening. And that's where we get in verse one. Now, the tax collectors and sinners we're all drawing near to him. I think sometimes we run, at least I do way too past. Fast past that verse, the tax collectors and the sinners we're all drawing near to him. It should be the kind of thing like talk about things that make you go, Hmm, why? Why are we getting that now? That specific indicator here that they're drawing near. And then not only that it's being told to us, but of course what was it about Christ that drew these people? Because traditionally there, there was a lot of religion happening in Jesus' day. In some ways something special and different is happening here, that while the religion was not drawing these people, that the, the superstructures there, the participants, the leaders were not drawing this crowd by design. Instead, they're drawn to Jesus. There's something not just in the teaching but who he is, and Luke tells us tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to him. He goes on to say, and the Pharisees and the scribes grumbled saying, this man receives sinners and eats with them. As a result of this, Jesus tells then these three parables. It's almost like Jesus essentially saying to the Pharisees, listen, you're accusing me of receiving sinners. Yes, you are exactly right, but I want you to know why. What a beautiful thing for him to explain and then to explain it in these thrice kind of implications and stories and metaphors. It's a beautiful thing. It reminds me of this quote from. Period in Thomas Watson who said, God seeking us is the foundation of seeking him. Grace does not find us willing, but grace makes us willing, and I think that's exactly what we're getting in this first advent of Christ. By way of these stories, of course, this grace that makes. Us willing. That is the reform of theology. How good of God that he would send his son unto us while we were yet his enemies. In other words, while that clenched fist was within us, while we saw God as only a threat, while we wanted to be covenant breakers, that's what we wanted. We want to rebel against him. And it's an incredible thing. It's far better, not that grace finds us willing, but that grace makes us willing, that grace compels us because we do not even know what's the best for ourselves. And so here again, Jesus tells us these three parables, these three stories to convey this incredible point. And that is that there is surely hope for all. God's love extends even to these sinners. That the glorious truth, that glorious truth shines out in all of these parables, and it's meant to be impressed upon us in like increasing degree that God's amazing love is both in its scope and its reach, and especially contrast. The ideas of then these. Pharisees and the scribes on this subject, he comes at them hard with these series of events and these stories. Tony, I've been talking about that a lot. Like we just can't get beyond that. I can't even, I wish I could comprehend it in a more deep way. You know, the first two parables are, it's dying to impress upon us that the love of God. Is this activity. It is effort and fire and reach and going after and passion and love, and it seeks out the sinner and it takes like infinite trouble in order to find him and rescue him. It's willing to pursue all to love, all, to take up the cost of all, and then to show the joy of God and all the hosts of heaven when even just one. Soul is saved. So it's not even this massive effort undertaking, which weighs the benefits and the costs and says, well, it's gonna be worth it in the end because the dividends earned from making this investment will be far greater than the investment itself. And what God does in Christ is he sends his son not. Reservedly, not like arms reach, so he could snatch him back up when harm beel him, but he gives him so unreservedly in passive and active obedience so that the sinner might be saved. Even just one and one, just one is saved. All of heaven rejoices there. There is a full consummate expression of happiness and completeness and joy of just one. Being saved and brought into God's kingdom. In other words, if that entire cost were for just one, God would still be willing to bear it. Jesus would still come in his active and past obedience to accomplish that very thing. And it's all of this that's moving us, of course, to the parable of the prodigal son, but I cannot even get there. Don't, don't even try to get me to go there. I know you're all doing it. So there is this great and incredible outstanding point. [00:13:20] The Scandalous Love of Jesus [00:13:20] Jesse Schwamb: It's something else that Tony had been talking about is that there's a simplicity, of course in all of these accounts, but there's also like this great complexity, especially because of this context. And I think as well what we've been really. Settling on in our conversations outside of the podcast is just how scandalous this makes Jesus seem and appear like that Jesus does appear or he should appear to us like too good to be true, too loving, too kind, too recklessly spend thrift. And again, that's what we're gonna find in the next parable, but that that is for real and it doesn't make him weak. It might be an expression of meekness, a power under control, but it shows that the humility of God in Christ is really beyond our ability to comprehend in reach that is so thorough and so full, and so rich and so warm that Christ is, as it were, experiencing a great, great joy. In the sinner coming and being saved, and him identifying with the sinner to such a degree and going out and finding what was lost to bring it back in. That this act of even when we come to him in repentance over and over again, we do not exhaust him because so great is his love for us. That he's coming to save continually and always, that he doesn't have to save over and over again. There's no additional sacrifice that's necessary, but that, that sacrifice is so great, so grand, so complete that it continues to bring us back into the fold to save us as it were. Over and over again to restore us onto fellowship with him to restore the harmony of our relationship while never having to rescind or to rebuild again the initial identity that we have in Christ that was accomplished on the cross, but that this just seems too good to be true. It just seems so miraculous that my own sin. As it continues to compound day after day, that is like continue to do the things I don't wanna do, as Paul said. But the very things I don't wanna do, those are the things that I do. It seems like this. At some point God would just become thoroughly exhausted with, and that's not the case. And these parables prove that to us over and over. And over again. So this very context and setting of these parables shows. I think all of this like perfectly, and Tony and I have just been conversing about that a lot. We keep going back to it. Maybe we're a little bit afraid that if we keep talking about it, you're gonna be like, you already said that, say something different. But we can't help. We're really come back to this and. Again, I'm drawn to this line that these sinners, the publicans, if you're totally down with the King James version that they drew near unto him, they came to him. There was something about him that they were almost like compelled or constrained as, as Paul says, like God's love compels us or constraints us. That they themselves were feeling that almost this magnetism toward Christ to want to be in his presence toward what, hear what he has to say, and what a beautiful setup that they're being drawn into him. He's eating with them. He's doing this. Most intimate thing, spending time with the me, my shoulders, with 'em, and of course the Pharisees, the scribes, the religious leaders, they see this and it's recorded that they're grumbling. They're complaining, right, man, what an adventure in missing the point. But that's there for us. I really think to pick up here as we try to understand what these parables mean, again, it's not just like the teaching. The teaching is so good, it's so rich and juicy and, and full of so many things for us to consume and to understand and to meditate on and to metabolize. As well that we can just quickly mix Miss, like this incredible perspective of like the context of which it took place, like the literal environment and the circumstances of life, which in some ways were the progenitor, or at least were the very thing, the fertile soil, which gave Christ the opportunity to plant. Then these seeds of the story and what I'm raised by is they felt that. I think these sinners felt that there was a chance even for them, that like in these man's teachings, there was a new and fresh hope, and even the Pharisees and the scribes saw precisely that thing. I think that's why, that's why they're complaining, and they had regarded these sinners as being so utterly and entirely behind, beyond hope and redemption. I mean, that was really the Orthodox view. It was to say like, listen, they're so hopeless that they were to be entirely ignored. Religion was for good people. It had nothing to do with bad people. You know, unfortunately, that's so much I think of how people view even Christianity today, that this is a club for people who have it mostly together or wanna have it together or think that they can get it together. Religion is for the good people and it should have nothing to do with the bad people. And it certainly had nothing to. To give these sinners just in the in, in our own day. Religion, by and in of itself, has nothing to give anybody, certainly nothing to give those who are hurt. Who are feeling hopeless, who are down and out, who are the abused, who have been written off, who are marginalized, who are pariahs, who feel that the guilt is overwhelming in their lives, who have all of these regrets. Religion by itself cannot help any of those people. Can't help you oriah in that way, and so it did no good then. To command the good people, to mix with the bad people, and then to treat them kindly and tell them of new possibilities. Religion, even in Jesus day, didn't offer that. And so you can see then that the Pharisees of the scribes were annoyed by our Lord's teaching. Anyone who saw any hope for this public or sinner must to them be entirely wrong and a blasphemer, because that's not who religion was for. And yet the sinner here. I mean, can you only imagine loved one like the sinner here in seeing Jesus? And being with Jesus, and they were drawn to him by understanding that there was some kind of new and fresh hope for them. And that's what's delivered in these parables to us. That how scandalous love of God is, is that from the jump, those who are with him recognize the scandal and said, this is so otherworldly that it seems like. This could be for me. And that is exactly why Jesus came, right? He came to seek and to save those who are lost. The point is was not how he could be received back, but whether he could be received back at all, whether he deserved anything at all. And so the sinner coming and saying that, is it possible that even for me. There is hope that even for me, there could be restoration with God. That for all the things which I already know, that I'm far from God, that I see him as the one who has these incredible and high in standards that I have transgressed, is it possible that there is hope for me? You know, just this morning on our Lord's day, because that's time of year, one of the songs that we sang was Joy to the World, and I was thinking even as we were preparing to sing that what, what other people conceive of that? Him. You know, we might rightly ask, is there any joy in our world today? Is there any hope? Is there any peace? And the answer is, yes, there is. It's in Jesus. You know that he is the answer. But we sometimes need to start saying, what is the question? And the question is, who can come before God? What can I do to be saved? That is the question. And these sinners at least understood that. They're drawn to Jesus, they're drawn to come before him. And so this stands out to me. It's something that we've been talking about a lot, this possibility of a new start, a new beginning for all, even for the most desperate, the ones that were so far off that they recognized that they couldn't probably even turn around. You know, sometimes like we colloquial say, listen, all you have to do is turn around and we use that language because we're tying it with this idea of repentance, you know, to turn. Toward God to to forsake that which is our natural selves by the power of the Holy Spirit and to come back into the family of Christ. And I think that is good, but I think the sinner also recognizes that the only prayer that we have is that Jesus have mercy on me. Have mercy on me that that's the right place to start. And I see in this, this idea, of course that's clearly articulated by our savior, that God is doing all the things that we are so lost. We're like that lost sheep that's just gone astray. That we desperately need help because we can't find our way back. I'm not sure we can even barely turn around. And I think if. What Thomas Watson is saying is correct. Then the beauty of Grace is that it does make us willing because I, for one, would go kicking and screaming all the way. But the fact that it makes us willing, it makes us come to our senses, which I have a feeling is something we will explore in a future, future episode, but that God is setting forward all of that initiative, you know. I like that John Rowan, John Owen also writes the sheep strays and knows not how to return, but Christ the good shepherd will lose none of his flock, but fetch them home. I love this idea. That's from his expedition on Hebrews. Actually, it's not even about this particular passage. The sheep does not seek the shepherd. The shepherd seeks the sheep. So even in this narrative, we see all these beautiful elements that. You know, Tony, I talked about before this total depravity, but it's just a narrative form that there's no one that seeks after God. And so what we find is that God is bringing forward election, choosing his own. He's bringing about definitive atonement, he's saving his own, and then there's a sexual calling he's bringing to himself his own. It's like the Westminster Larry Catechism says in. Uh, 59 Christ, by his intercession answers the demands of those for whom he has died and for them only. And all of this then brings about this like great and incredible rejoicing in heaven. I think, not just because it's like, it's great to find lost things, but it's also great to see that God has done the very thing that he said he was going to do, that he's the one that's, that he's the author and perfecter of salvation. And so God delights. In the work of redemption. So this is like the thing that I think is incredibly scandalous. [00:23:01] Christ's Compassion and Solidarity [00:23:01] Jesse Schwamb: This is the thing that Tony and I have talked a lot about, like privately, and that is how much Jesus has compassion and the ability, the true ability to sympathize. And that in these I, I think like underneath. All of these little parables and stories. The only reason there is an action of love. That love always leads to giving. Love always leads to going. Finding love always leads to drawing in that the only reason that is happening is because of this incredible ability of Christ to sympathize with us. You know, the burden of these verses, the anchor of these verses is Christ sheer an amazing solidarity with all of his people. All our natural intuitions tell us that Jesus is with us on our side present helping. When life is going well. It's easy to see that. It seems very clear, but in this text, we're finding that those who are drawn are the ones whose life are decidedly not going great, not doing that well. And so the opposite is being. Presented for us in this kinda stark relief. It's in our weakness that Jesus sympathizes with us. It's in our pain and our own destructive behaviors that he comes, not because he himself has experienced any sin, but because he is a savior whose heart is wide open to go after and to embrace those who are in that state, which seems incredible. Scandalous, like in our pain, Jesus is pained in our suffering. He feels the suffering as his own, even though it isn't. He's not this like invincible divinity. Well, lemme say it this way. It's not that his invincible divinity is threatened, but in the sense that his heart is feelingly drawn into our distress. Is that a word? Feelingly, like that. He literally wants to, he feels himself into our distress and, and in that doing so his joy is increased because he's identifying with his children because he is coming close to them because he is going after them. His love leads to that kind of feeling ness, so it's. It is not only that Jesus can reveal, relieve us and reveal, I suppose, but relieve us from our troubles like a doctor prescribing medicine. It's also that before any relief comes before, like a day of restoration comes before like that day of the shackles falling off before that time when the breakthrough happens, he's with us in our troubles like a doctor who has endured the same disease. That's what's wild. That's what makes all of this so different than any other religious worldview, than any other kind of conscription of how to think about the world and any other philosophy. And he's a sinless man, but he's not this like sinless Superman. And what I mean by that is I think some of you heard, if you've listened for any length of time, you know that there's this song. That is a children's song. That is something like Jesus is my superhero, and I always bristle that a little bit because it takes out the humanity of Christ. It takes out this feeling heart of Christ as if to like separate him so much from us that we want all of this power. Of course we want this. Alien power to come and to restore our lives, to intercede, to do the thing that we cannot do for ourselves. But the beauty of these parables is the thing that we cannot do for ourselves is still the thing that Christ puts, puts himself close to us in that he feels like us, though he is not us, and that is the heart. That is where his power of coming to save. Is brought into our lives. He comes and saves us because he knows us. And to know us is to become like us. And to become like us is to be humiliated, to come and to humble himself and to condescend to such degree that he is again, like this doctor who can heal. But before any of that comes, he's with us in the troubles. This is Emmanuel, this is God with us, that he is the one that comes and stands shoulder to shoulder with us in that pain that feels and empathizes and comes and ministers to us in that pain, and takes great joy in doing so. And in fact, his joy, as it were, is enlarged in doing that. [00:27:09] The Joy of Salvation [00:27:09] Jesse Schwamb: Our tendency, I think, is to feel intuitively that the more difficult life gets, the more that we're alone. We sink further into pain, we sink further into felt isolation, and these passages correct us. Our pain never outstrips what he himself shares in. That is what's remarkable. That is what drives and fuels, I think, in a way, this passionate heart of Christ towards us and then results in this kind of unbelievable, really loved ones. Incredible, outstanding, inconceivable good news that Christ has saved us, that he would come and in the midst of our great ugliness and sinfulness and unkindness and selfishness, that he would not only identify with that and say, you who are broken, I delight. To repair you, but that we receive then not just a restoration, but then all of the benefits that Christ himself has earned that are due him for his obedience. These also get credited to us. I think it's impossible for me not to conclude this little conversation that we're having without going to Colossians chapter two, which again, I've said this before, but as somebody who's worked in finance and banking, all of my adult life. Actually, I dunno why I would say it that way, because you really can't, shouldn't be working in finance or banking as a child. But for all of my life I just find this language so resonant. And if you're a person that's borrowed money for any length of time or maybe basically just worked in the world and had to endure, if that's your word, or interact with finance than you are probably gonna resonate with this. This too. But this is. An expression of what God has done for us in Christ. And I wanna begin reading in verse 13. And you being dead in your transgressions. Oh, man. Uh, sorry, I, I hate to do this. I often don't like to do this, but you're just gonna get my commentary, the Jesse commentary in between these in, in the midst of these verses because I, I should probably best practice to read the whole thing for y'all. But I just, I am dumbfounded. I keep getting dumbstruck by these words and thinking about these in light of, uh, the incarnation and of Christ coming and these parables that he's teaching us that are just showing like as if he's just opening up his heart to us, and I can't, but help but stop and pause and say, are, are you hearing this too? And you being dead in your transgressions. This is so horrible, isn't it? Like who wants this to be true of them? But this is, this is my story and your story that we were dead and it's not a who done it mystery. You know what killed us? Our transgressions, yours and mines our own work. That the minimum wage of sin is death and that your transgressions killed you and that you were in that state. You were in that state actually from the beginning, from the time that you were born. You were dead and you were dead in your transgressions. That is super bad. I mean, that's the understatement of this entire conversation. It, it's horrible. Uh, I can't think of anything worse. It's true of all us. So is it possible that it could get worse? It does actually. And you being dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your flesh, that is like you were not just, it would be worse enough that of course, like you the Law of Christ, but you love to do it. That was your jam in your flesh. The flesh that you wanted to embrace, the selfishness that was who you are, apart from Christ, which the Bible tells us is the opposite of being circumcised brought into the family. You were far away as far away as possible. You were so far out of the government that you were uncircumcised. That's who you were. You were dead. You were dead because of your transgressions, and then you were so far outside of the family of God, there was no hope for you. In your own self, there's nothing you could do to make a way. There was nothing that you could do to write yourself. You were dead in your transgressions, uncircumcision of your flesh. Sit on that for a second, and you being dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your flesh, Jesus made you alive with him having graciously forgiven us all our transgressions. So again, this is. Incredible. Not just that you would be forgiven, but that you'd be made alive in Christ. There's this falsity out there somewhere. Again, this is what religion teaches you, teaches us that Jesus came to make bad people good. I mean, that's really what the Pharisees were after in their own lives. There was their promulgating a system in which what religion does is it's for good people and at best what it can do is make maybe some bad people. Good. But if you're too bad, it's not for you. It's too bad. It's unfortunate, but it's not your thing. It won't work. But what the scripture tells us, what these parables press us with is not that Jesus came to make bad people good, but he came to make dead people alive. And so what we have here is a clear indication of that, that even in the midst of your, your horrible state, that that state, that it seemed hopeless, that here Jesus God, through Jesus made you alive with him having graciously forgiven all of our transgressions. Then here's the, here's the amazing part as if like, we didn't understand that, and I think like you and Paul here saying like, this should be clear, but I'm gonna double down on this. I'm gonna use some language that should be abundantly clear to you just how bad things were and then how much freedom you should feel, what your lightness, what the, the bounce in your steps should be like because you were once dead uncircumcised. Now you've been made alive and you've been having everything graciously forgiven in Christ. Here, here's what it's like having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us. He also has taken it out of the way. Having nailed it to the cross. How? How good is that sentence? Christ in his death canceled out the. Certificate of debt. Again, something that was codified against us. So other words, it was documented. These were not just, and they weren't just this little statement that said like, it's really bad for you. You owe something. There's something that's been heaped up against you. But they were decrees against us. They were hostile to us. They were literally the thing that was going to kill us for all and separate us from Christ. That thing, that certificate, he has taken it. Out out of the way, having nailed it to the cross, having disarmed the rulers and authorities, he made public display of them having triumphed over them. So it's this incredible sense that not only has Christ. Taking the certificate, cast it aside, paid for it in full. But then above and beyond that, he's disarmed the rulers and authorities. He's made a public display of them. He's triumphed over sin, death, and the devil in such a demonstrative and public way to show that he's the ruler of all the world. That he's the promise maker and he's the promise keeper, that he's just, and that he's justifier. And so Paul says to us, then Christian. How ought you to live? How ought you to behave? Is this not the best news that you could possibly hear? So all of that, I think is literally just the smallest backdrop to leading us into this final parable, this escalation really, of course, the three parables in one about the prodigal son and. I would admonish you to think on that. This little extra pause that we've had here I think is good because I need to at least to remember that this is what's leading us for Jesus to say, to start with a story that says A man had two sons. You know, after we've talked about sheep. We talked about coins and then he goes, and a man had two sons. What a beautiful like beginning what? What incredible language, what brilliance, all of this to show us his true heart for us. And I think it's always worthwhile to stop and to pause for a second. And to consider that heart as we make ourselves ready to receive this final and amazing parable. [00:35:13] Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser [00:35:13] Jesse Schwamb: So I hope that you will continue to hang out with us, that you yourself will not take my word for it or Tony's word for it, but you yourself, go to Luke 15 read. It takes maybe. I dunno, 45 seconds to read all three of these and to spend some time thinking about what it is that Christ has done for us. That we're the lost sheep, we're the lost coin. We're also this lost son, son, daughter, that this was all of our stories. At some point, we can't escape the fact that this really is our biography and. It hits close to home because we find that when we examine ourselves that we are the ones that were lost in our transgressions and dead. That we are the ones that were un circumcised, but God has made us alive together with Christ. I mean, read, read Colossians two and read Ephesians one, and what you're gonna find is we have every reason to rejoice, and these stories should compel us into. A life of constant rejoicing for what Christ has done for us. That's the reason for every season. It's the reason for the Christian life, and certainly so much of what we find reflected in reform theology proper. So you know what to do. Come hang out with us on the Telegram chat, continue to process with us alongside of us in conversation with us, these incredible parables, because I do believe there's so much here. We'll, we're never going to plumb the depths of these, and this is just our feeble attempt. To get us in the right place as we make that final hair point turn into this, that we slow down just a little bit and consider what great thing that Christ has done for us and what God, the Father and the Holy Spirit has wrought in our lives by way of this incredible salvation. So you know what to do. Come back next week and we'll get after the parable. Of the prodigal. But until you do that, until we chat again and Tony rejoins us safe and strong, and Lord willing, as great as ever, honor everyone. Love the brotherhood.
Pause for a breath you didn't know you were holding.This soft landing is for the woman who's been holding it together so well that no one thinks to ask if she's okay.This week's affirmation:"The strategies, steps, decisions that got me here served their purpose — I release them with grace."You don't have to carry what no longer fits. You don't have to make letting go mean you failed.What got you here won't always get you where you're going. And that's okay.This weekend, ask yourself: What am I holding onto simply because it once worked?Thank it. And let it go.New Soft Landings every Friday. Save this. Share it. Come back to it when you need the reminder.
Welcome to Vibe Vault: unlocked's meditation series. Today Vibe Guide Amy L leads us in a practice reminding us of the power of gratitude. Using our breath to ground us and visualization to inspire us, we take this moment as a reminder that gratitude is a daily practice from which true growth springs.Note: Please DO NOT add this audio content to the YouTube Content ID System. We have used background music which is owned by FesliyanStudios.Background music from http://www.FesliyanStudios.comWant to keep the conversation going? Connect with us online!Find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/vibevaultfit/Find us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/vibevaultfit/?hl=en (@vibevaultfit)Find us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAzvYko6QUxZf-Je2joUhnQConnect with Kristine on Instagram: @kristine.carrolllConnect with Dr B on Instagram: @bhavna_shyamalan
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Master your inner world. This session helps you develop key emotional intelligence skills, allowing you to better understand your own feelings and the feelings of others, leading to more profound and harmonious relationships. Unwind now with our positive sleep affirmations podcast. Our soothing affirmations relax the mind and prepare the body for rest. Hit play, and drift into Good Sleep... Listen to more positive sleep affirmations by subscribing to the audio podcast in your favorite podcast app: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-sleep-positive-affirmations/id1704608129 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3OuJvYoprqh7nPK44ZsdKE And start your morning with Optimal Living Daily! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/optimal-living-daily-mental-health-motivation/id1067688314 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1hygb4nGhNhlLn4pBnN00j?si=ca60dcfd758b44b4 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Master your inner world. This session helps you develop key emotional intelligence skills, allowing you to better understand your own feelings and the feelings of others, leading to more profound and harmonious relationships. Unwind now with our positive sleep affirmations podcast. Our soothing affirmations relax the mind and prepare the body for rest. Hit play, and drift into Good Sleep... Listen to more positive sleep affirmations by subscribing to the audio podcast in your favorite podcast app: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-sleep-positive-affirmations/id1704608129 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3OuJvYoprqh7nPK44ZsdKE And start your morning with Optimal Living Daily! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/optimal-living-daily-mental-health-motivation/id1067688314 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1hygb4nGhNhlLn4pBnN00j?si=ca60dcfd758b44b4 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today's Morning Affirmation is: I am grateful for the beautiful world I live in.Visit sponsors www.rellalifestyle.com and www.pineholm.ca to help support these daily morning affirmations. You can also subscribe to ad-free affirmations for $0.99/month on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
Did you know there's MAGIC in your Meditation Practice? Say Goodbye to Anxiety and Hello to More Peace & More Prosperity! Here Are the 5 Secrets on How to Unleash Your Meditation Magic https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/5secrets Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player. Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Close your eyes, And soften your face. Breathe… Relax your shoulders, Soften your belly, And feel your arms and legs get heavy, And relax. PAUSE… Melt into your bed, Slowing down your breathing, Slowing down your mind, And bring yourself here. Sleep comes naturally to me. Sleep rejuvenates me I am ready to sleep PAUSE… I welcome deep rest. My body heals while I sleep My dreams are happy and harmonious Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life. If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want! Namaste, Beautiful,
Segment #56 of The Daily Alignment w/ Grant Mitt, affirmations to start your day. A Segment of the Grant Mitt Podcast. Apply for business mentorship (Book a call) https://grantmittconsulting.com/b2b-vsl Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/grantmitt/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Segment #55 of The Daily Alignment w/ Grant Mitt, affirmations to start your day. A Segment of the Grant Mitt Podcast. Apply for business mentorship (Book a call) https://grantmittconsulting.com/b2b-vsl Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/grantmitt/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, we discuss how affirmations interrupt harmful internal narratives. We explain how replacing thoughts weakens old mental patterns.https://selfpause.com/app/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, we share affirmation quotes centered around success and achievement. In this episode, we explain how affirmations help align goals with action.https://selfpause.com/app/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Links & resources:To follow more info about the podcast@levelup.debbienealCheck out my personal instagram account@debbie_neal
This birth story is such a beautiful reminder that preparation, prayer, and unwavering partner support can truly transform the labor experience. In this episode, Kaitlyn and her husband Kale share their faith-filled home birth journey — from unexpected pregnancy challenges and prenatal depression to the incredible moment Kale caught their baby in the birth tub.You'll hear the raw realities of third-trimester pain, mental health struggles, intentional birth prep as a couple, and the powerful role prayer played when their birth took an unexpected turn. This episode is packed with encouragement for moms preparing their bodies and minds for birth — and for dads learning how to show up with strength and confidence when it matters most.This was such a meaningful birth story to record, and I truly hope you absolutely love it.Here's some highlights from the episode: • Unexpected pregnancy symptoms and fears surrounding possible cholestasis • The reality of severe third-trimester pain and prenatal depression • How Kaitlyn chose a home birth and found the right midwife • How they prepared for labor together as a couple • What labor looked like from both the mom and dad perspective • Natural pain relief methods used during home labor • The moment Kale caught their baby • A delayed placenta and the powerful role prayer played • What it was like emotionally for both of them to experience a home birth • Their best advice for expectant moms and dads preparing for birthThis episode is a beautiful reminder that birth is not just a physical experience — it's emotional, spiritual, relational, and transformational. Whether you're planning a home birth, a hospital birth, or trying to figure out each of your roles during pregnancy and birth, this is the perfect episode for moms AND dads! ❤️ Don't forget to RATE & FOLLOW the Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy Podcast! Leave a Review! ⭐️ Here's how >> On Apple Podcasts Find “Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy” podcast Select “Ratings and Reviews” Click the stars! Select “Write a Review” and tell us what was the most amazing, comforting, eye-opening thing that you loved! On Spotify Find "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" podcast Click the 3 dots "..." Select "Rate podcast" Click the stars and write a quick review! FOLLOW "Pregnancy & Birth Made Easy" so you never miss an episode that makes pregnancy & birth feel easier! Here's how to do it in just 2 seconds: On Apple Podcasts → Tap the “+” Follow button in the top right corner of the show page. On Spotify → Tap the “Follow” button right under the show titles Let's Connect!Join the Course! https://www.myessentialbirth.com/getstartedEmail: hello@myessentialbirth.com. Follow @myessentialbirth on INSTAGRAM!
With the release of Absolute Batman #15 and the big reveal of Absolute Joker, we're excited to welcome artist Jockonto the show for the first time. We would consider this comic an event even without the gnarly origin story at its center. This is also a big reunion for the artist and his writer collaborator, Scott Snyder. They've been delivering killer Batman comics since The Black Mirror, and have already re-invented the Joker concept in The Batman Who Laughs. However, the Absolute Universe allows them to swing for the fences in a way that the main continuity never could. And, as you'll hear, this required a little recalibration from Jock. Thankfully, Jock grew up consuming some of the most radical comics on the planet, 2000 AD. These Mega-City One stories, often featuring the iconic Judge Dredd, shaped Jock's imagination and taught him the unique power of a visual narrative. They also revealed why we must never be too enamored of the characters and stories we adore. Conformity is abhorrent. Toys are meant to be broken because that's the direct result of good, continuous, serious play. If you keep them precious on the shelf, they get dusty and stiff. To understand characters like Batman and Judge Dredd, we must constantly redefine them, whittling them down to their defining characteristics. We discuss with Jock how he had to recalibrate his idea of Batman and Joker before taking on Absolute Batman #15. We talk about his new 2000 AD release, The Art of Judge Dredd by Jock. We examine how 2000 AD continues to influence his work, including Absolute Joker, and how he crafts certain two-page spreads in this comic. Absolute Batman #15 is out now from DC Comics. It's written by Scott Snyder, illustrated by Jock, colored by Frank Martin, and lettered by Clayton Cowles. You can continue this conversation with Jock by following him on Blue Skyand Instagram. This Week's Sponsors Are you ready to face the future? Look no further than 2000 AD – it's the Galaxy's Greatest Comic! Every week 2000 AD brings the best in sci-fi and horror, featuring characters like Judge Dredd, Rogue Trooper and more! Get a print subscription to 2000 AD, and it'll arrive at your mailbox every week, and your first issue is free. You'll also receive the HUNDRED PAGE 2000 AD Christmas Special this December at no extra cost! Or, subscribe digitally, and you can download DRM-free copies of each issue for only $9 a month. That's 128 pages of incredible comics every month for less than $10! Head to 2000AD.com and click on ‘subscribe' now – or download the 2000 AD app and start reading today! This Winter, from IDW Publishing, the Heroes in a Half-Shell take on the King of the Monsters! Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Godzilla #1 crashes into comic shops on November 12th. Written by Godzilla Kei-Sei Scribe Tim Seeley and illustrated by the brilliant Turtle artist behind the Nightwatcher series, as well as the Stranger Things/TMNT crossover, Fero Pe, this new series finally brings two of our favorite franchises together. How can this reptilian miracle be? Long before the organization was corrupted by Shredder, the Foot Clan's original purpose was to save Japan from Kaiju! Now, in the present day, Godzilla and its fellow monsters have reappeared. Not only is the Foot not prepared to stop them…it would seem Shredder himself is behind the attacks! The Turtles are always crossing over into rad nerd realms, but this one might be the king crossover of them all. Other Relevant Links to This Week's Episode: Subscribe to The Stacks, Comic Creators Name Their Favorite Comics Previously on CBCC: Daniel Warren Johnson on Absolute Batman Annual Previously on CBCC: Scott Snyder and Nick Dragotta on Absolute Batman Comic Book Film Club: 30 Days of Night at the Alamo Drafthouse Winchester on 12/14 Final Round of Plugs (PHEW): Support the Podcast by Joining OUR PATREON COMMUNITY. The Comic Book Couples Counseling TeePublic Merch Page. And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook, on Instagram, and on Bluesky @CBCCPodcast, and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren. Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-star Review on Apple Podcasts. Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website, where we have reviews, essays, and numerous interviews with comic book creators. Podcast logo by Jesse Lonergan and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou.
10-Minute Guided Meditation for Stress and Anxiety Relief: Body Scan, Affirmations, and Quick ResetHi Friend, ready for a 10-Minute Calming Meditation to genuinely release stress and anxiety? This practice is your quick reset to help you drop the weight of the day and reaffirm your inherent peace.In this session, we focus on total body relaxation using a mindful body scan to soften your jaw, release your shoulders, and let go of any tightness in your chest or abdomen. We then transition into repeating empowering positive affirmations like, "I am safe," and "I trust myself".Start your day or end your evening feeling more centered and safe. Use this 10-minute mindfulness practice to leave overthinking and worry behind.
Segment #54 of The Daily Alignment w/ Grant Mitt, affirmations to start your day. A Segment of the Grant Mitt Podcast. Apply for business mentorship (Book a call) https://grantmittconsulting.com/b2b-vsl Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/grantmitt/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Did you know there's MAGIC in your Meditation Practice? Say Goodbye to Anxiety and Hello to More Peace & More Prosperity! Here Are the 5 Secrets on How to Unleash Your Meditation Magic https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/5secrets Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player. Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium Settle yourself into bed, Feel the support beneath you, The warmth around you, The comfort of this moment. PAUSE Take in a slow breath, Filling your lungs completely. Hold it gently at the top. And then exhale, Letting everything soften. PAUSE Another slow inhale, Gathering the day. And a long exhale, Releasing it all. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life. If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want! Namaste, Beautiful,