Semitic-speaking region in the Ancient Near East
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What if the way you've been showing up in the world is actually exhausting you?That's where this week's conversation begins.In our last series, we focused entirely on fulfillment – the big why behind building a life you don't need a break from. But if fulfillment is the why, then personality is the how. That's why we're kicking off a brand-new, four-part series dedicated entirely to understanding who you are at a foundational level.This week, we're tackling introversion versus extroversion.The challenge is that most of us harbor deep misunderstandings about what these traits actually mean. We live in a world that loudly demands performance and constant outward energy, making it incredibly easy to mistake cultural expectations or survival mechanisms for our true nature.But what if you've been forcing yourself to play a part that isn't yours?In this episode, Caanan shares a personal look at how he spent years believing he was an extrovert – doing the "dog and pony show" at parties – only to realize the profound relief of discovering he is, in fact, a screaming introvert. We break down why introversion and extroversion are actually "structural keys" that unlock how your personality operates, why true alignment requires knowing your energy baseline, and how a lack of self-knowledge causes us to blame ourselves instead of looking at how we've structured our lives.Onward and Inward,Kent & CaananCHAPTERS(00:00) Mind Share: Why The Agency Season 2 is worth your attention(01:55) Series Kickoff: Personality is the how to fulfillment's why(04:58) Diving into the structural keys: Introversion vs. Extroversion(05:37) Caanan's Story: The college boyfriend, the party persona, and misidentifying as an extrovert(09:00) The profound relief of discovering you are a "screaming introvert"(12:54) TypeFinder vs. YouFinder: Stripping down the tools that help you know yourself(14:06) The MBTI pairings: Unlocking the structural keys of your personality(16:46) The recharging truth: You are a unique combination of both sides(21:58) Dissonance vs. Self-Blame: How knowing your type saves you from thinking you are the problem(23:24) The Office Dilemma: Why Jane isn't a failure, she's just an introvert among extroverts(24:53) It's personality, not personal(25:43) Mailbag: Does your personality change over time, or are you just becoming more of who you are?KEY TAKEAWAYSIntroversion and Extroversion Are Structural Keys: These traits aren't just superficial labels about whether you like people or being alone; they are structural elements that govern how your entire personality functions and directs its energy.Dissonance Isn't a Personal Flaw: When your daily life demands continuous extroversion without adequate time to recharge, the exhausting friction you feel isn't a sign that there's something wrong with you – it's a sign that your life structure isn't type-aligned.Personality is Dynamic But Rooted: While we adapt to protect ourselves or perform when required, true personal growth isn't about changing your fundamental personality over time; it's about shedding expectations and moving closer to your truest, most authentic self.SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIREDIf this episode resonated with you, please leave a review. It is one of the best ways to help more people discover the podcast.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow buttonVisit Our Website: www.novacationrequired.comRead the Book: www.novacationrequired.com/bookFollow Us On Instagram: @novacationrequired
As the Children of Israel were getting ready to go into the promise land they had to receive instructions. The task at hand was to drive out the people currently residing in the land and to establish the different tribes in their own spaces.Andrew and Robert talk about God's methods of accomplishing those tasks as the people prepared for their future in Caanan.Send us Fan MailSupport the showQuestions or Comments? Please reach out to us through email at questions@truewisdom.info or on Twitter/X @truewisdom_podGive instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding. Proverbs 9:9-10The Key Principles of Effective Bible Study is a resource that we reference in many of our episodes. It is explained in a series of podcasts found at Rightly Divide.God's Precious Word is a condensed, 9-part series, based on the same document.Other Resources:— e-Sword Bible Software— MySword Bible Software— Blue Letter Bible Study Site— "Knowing the Bible" Bible MapsWe pray that these resources will be very helpful to you in your Bible Studies overall.
Wood Devils. That's what people in New Hampshire call their version of Bigfoot. Known to be lankier and more gaunt in appearance than their other Bigfoot brethren, they tend to be very shy, hiding behind trees or standing perfectly still so as not to be spotted by people. But the residents of New Hampshire spot them often, and this week I'll be looking at some truly spooky Wood Devil sightings, including one Granite State Sasquatch that likes looking into the window of a Gilford family's home. So sit back and enjoy these stories of Bigfoot Sightings in New Hampshire...Chapters:0:00 - Wood Devils: Bigfoot in the Granite State1:43 - Sasquatch Spying on Family Through Window in Belknap County12:21 - Legends of the Wood Devils from the 1930s in Coos County14:45 - Boy riding his bike encounters Bigfoot in Rockingham County near Nottingham20:06 - Girl walking her dog is paralleled near Sunrise Lake in Strafford County26:30 - Dawn Bigfoot Sighting at Stevens Brook near Claremont in Sullivan County33:19 - Boy encounters white Wood Devil while riding his bike in Grafton County near Caanan 36:46 - Stargazers encounter Bigfoot on the Kancamagus Highway40:13 - Swaying, paralleling, peeking - Wood Devils are just like other Bigfoot#bigfoot #newhampshire #cryptozoologyLinks!Follow us on Social media!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oddanduntold/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oddanduntoldWebsite: https://www.oddanduntold.comMerch Store: https://oddanduntold-shop.fourthwall.com/Email me! : jason@oddanduntold.comBigfoot Sighting in New Hampshire with Jeb Scruggs of Squatch Hunters International: https://youtu.be/ntCzovE988o?si=LTBT82ATxGsT6ADYBigfoot Sightings in Massachusetts | Worcester County: https://youtu.be/N5vueu8vNdM?si=PbU4THHDH9X6FgbDBigfoot Sightings in Rhode Island | Providence & Washington County: https://youtu.be/BylOFZ_esqI?si=u7kTIGseoEkpLrIbBFRO Sightings from New Hampshire: https://www.bfro.net/GDB/state_listing.asp?state=nhCheck out Riversend, the band behind "Moonlight," our awesome theme music!Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/1yIwfeu2cH1kDZaMYxKOUe?si=NIUijnmsQe6LNWOsfZ2jPwRiversend Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RiversendbandRiversend Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riversendband/
Abandoning Clarity The Moment We Experience It – Why Are We Still Doing That?The world has a way of constantly pulling us back into noise, urgency, and external validation, so clarity can feel just out of reach. But sometimes you can glimpse it, if only for a moment. Kent and Caanan unpack why so many of us have moments of clarity but struggle to hold on to it or, worse, do something with the information.From the subtle influence of other people's paths to the dangerous comfort of external success, this episode implores you to, first, know that you have intrinsic value and then – whether you're questioning your career, your priorities, or your overall direction – connect with what actually matters.CHAPTERS:(00:00) The burnout cycle: Finding clarity, then losing it(01:00) Mind Share: Movement, seasons, and getting unstuck(03:17) The search for clarity in a noisy world(06:00) External triggers: When others spark your self-reflection(10:15) Success without fulfillment: Our origin story(14:20) Intrinsic value vs. external validation(17:00) The problem with self-development “tools”(18:30) Worth the Time: National Parks & nature inspirationKEY TAKEAWAYS:Clarity Is Built, Not Found: It requires intentional reflection, not reactive decision-making.Your Value Is Intrinsic: No achievement or failure can add to or take away from it.External Noise vs. Internal Truth: Real growth comes from separating outside influence from your authentic self.SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you reconnect with what matters, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts – it's the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow buttonCheck out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/
Tough Choices and True Belonging: Dismantling the Barriers to PresenceWe often say we want more time with the people we love, but we fill our days with chores, emails, and doomscrolling. Kent and Caanan explore why we actively resist the connection we claim to crave. This episode breaks down the barriers to true presence.From an embarrassing (and mispronounced) trip to Miami to the tough choices required to align your life with your values, learn why building a life you don't need a break from requires radical honesty. Whether you are struggling to find "your person" or feeling exhausted by social media algorithms, this conversation offers a roadmap for reclaiming your attention and your authentic self.CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(01:00) Mind Share: The "Politics-Free" space myth(07:38) Mind Share: Brick-al not Birick-elle(12:47) The growth series: Finding presence(14:33) The loneliness epidemic: Do you have a "person"?(16:47) Barriers to connection(24:10) Making tough choices(31:10) Worth the Time: The case for a social media detox KEY TAKEAWAYS:The Politics of Personhood: Demanding a "politics-free" space often means asking people to hide their authentic lives and identities.Persona Fatigue: Constant curation of an online "character" makes real-world connection uncomfortable and fuels mental health struggles.The Cost of Connection: Deep relationships often require making difficult trade-offs regarding money, promotions, or traditional life paths.Audit Your Attention: Tracking your time is the first step in realizing what is actually stealing your presence from those you love. SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you rethink how you show up for your people, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.Check out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/
Do you want to travel or do you want the FREEDOM to travel?In a culture that prizes the "standard script," we often defer our dreams of travel and freedom until we reach a traditional retirement age. Kent and Caanan break down why waiting decades to "own your time" is an outdated tradition and how you can begin building a life you don't need a break from right now.From eavesdropping on dinner conversations about travel to confronting the "vacation flex" in hotel lobbies, this episode explores the mindset shifts required to prioritize exploration and autonomy. Whether you are feeling constrained by a 9-to-5 or simply lack the imagination to see a different path, learn why the ability to design your own lifestyle is one of the most fulfilling moves you can make. CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(01:00) Mind Share: The "Retirement Script" and dinner eavesdropping(07:37) Defining growth: Inner evolution vs. relentless capitalism(10:50) The "Template" Trap: Choosing your path vs. following a ghost(13:38) Hotel Lobbies and Laptops: The reality of working from anywhere(18:38) The "Gateway Drug": Is travel really about the destination?(22:50) Performing vs. Authenticity: Do you actually want a non-traditional life?(29:25) Worth the Time: Why travel is still the ultimate mind-expander KEY TAKEAWAYS:Control Over Destination: Most people who say they want to travel actually want to control their time and pursue their curiosities.The Examined Template: Living a traditional life is perfectly fine, provided it is a conscious choice rather than an unexamined default.Imagination as a Skill: Exposure to different cultures and ways of living acts as a "drug" for the imagination, helping you see possibilities beyond the standard model. SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you rethink your timeline for freedom, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple PodcastsCheck out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/
Is Rest a Sign of Failure or a Necessary Rhythm for Growth?In a culture that prizes "the grind," we often treat rest like a punishment or a forced pause only when we've finally crashed. Kent and Caanan break down why true balance isn't about total inactivity; it is about the fluidity and active maintenance required to build a life you don't need a break from.From analyzing the "vacation mode" trap to the guilt of adding stretching to a fitness routine, this episode explores how to integrate restful periods into the cadence of your daily life. Whether you are struggling to justify a lunch break or rethinking your entire relationship with downtime, learn why getting right with rest is one of the smartest moves you can make for your body and mind. CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(00:45) Mind Share: Writing postcards and taking action(02:20) The capstone of balance: Moving from maintenance to rest(04:23) Micro-moments: Built-in rest vs. the "ride hard and crash" cycle(06:58) Rest is not failure: Lessons from barre class and mobility(08:30) Deconstructing "Vacation Mode" and the Sunday Scaries(14:50) Active Balance: Integrating brain stimulation and quietude(18:53) Worth the Time: The Night Manager series review (Tom Hiddleston & Hugh Laurie) KEY TAKEAWAYS:Rest is Not a Reward: You do not have to earn a break any more than you have to earn the air you breathe.Active Balance: True balance involves a holistic approach that includes periods of activation and quiet throughout the day, not just once a year.The Anticipation Trap: The traditional version of vacation often ends the moment it starts because we swap "anticipating the trip" for "anticipating the return". SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you rethink your relationship with rest, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple PodcastsCheck out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/
Balance is a habit, not a short term cureIn a culture that prioritizes the high-stakes thrill of the "hustle," we often treat balance as a temporary emergency measure rather than a sustainable foundation. Kent and Caanan explore why we tend to abandon the very habits that make us feel human the moment we find our rhythm. This episode breaks down the necessity of maintenance and why running toward what works is the key to building a life you don't need a break from.From “surviving” a sudden earthquake warning in California to navigating the pitfalls of being overly career-identified, this conversation shifts the focus from "curing" burnout to maintaining a consistent, satisfying hum. Whether you are tweaking your fitness routine or reassessing your professional identity, learn how to build guardrails that keep you balanced without losing the excitement of novelty. CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(00:52) Mind Share: Surviving a California earthquake warning(03:41) Maintenance: The third pillar of balance(07:44) Chasing the thrill vs. embracing the "hum"(10:53) Novelty within a balanced baseline(12:10) Fitness evolution: From hiking to mobility(15:32) The trap of being career-identified(19:40) Worth the Time: Barre classes KEY TAKEAWAYS:Habit over Cure: Balance should be treated as a daily baseline rather than a "snapback" recovery from burnout.The Power of the Hum: True satisfaction comes from the steady "hum" of maintenance, which provides the safety to experiment with new things.Self-Knowledge is Vital: You cannot determine what works for your life if you do not first understand how you work fundamentally. SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you find your baseline, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple PodcastsCheck out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/
Why Are We Still Pretending Everything is Important?In a world where we are often measured by the length of our to-do lists, we frequently fall into the trap of treating every task as a top priority. Kent and Caanan explore the heavy toll of "pretending everything matters" and share why true prioritization is impossible without a deep, foundational understanding of yourself.From discussing a high-profile exposé on toxic workplace culture to navigating their own "Chapter Two" growth pains, this episode breaks down how to say a "positive no" to things that don't align with your values. Whether you are struggling with a packed schedule or feeling the pressure to say yes to every good opportunity, learn how to triage your life into what matters a lot, a middle, and a little. CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(00:46) Mind Share: The Noma exposé and toxic "superstar" culture(05:08) The core value of balance and the prioritization series(06:30) Chapter Two: Learning to say no during a period of abundance(09:44) Why prioritization requires knowing yourself first(12:03) Moving from "flimsy" decisions to intuitive responses(18:47) Triage: Matters a lot, a middle, a little, or not at all(27:17) Worth the Time: A "shameless plug" and the No Vacation Required book KEY TAKEAWAYS: The Priority Paradox: If everything is a priority, then nothing is.The "Positive No": Saying no with intention isn't about being negative; it's about protecting the energy you give to the people and projects that matter most.Know Yourself to Triage: You cannot effectively prioritize if you don't understand your own strengths, values, and what you actually care about versus what you are told to care about. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:At Noma, Accusations of Past Physcial Abuse – New York Times SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you rethink your to-do list, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple PodcastsCheck out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/
Why Are We Still Scheduling by the Clock? In a culture that treats productivity like a math problem, we often find ourselves cramming our calendars full only to end the day completely drained. Kent and Caanan break down why the tradition of scheduling strictly by the clock is outdated and how "intuitive scheduling" can help you build a life you don't need a break from.From a surprising "JOMO" moment regarding World Cup tickets to the internal fear that "stuff won't get done" without rigid structure, this episode explores energy-based flow. Whether you are a "schedule guy" by nature or someone struggling to stop checking emails on vacation, learn how to align your daily tasks with your natural internal rhythm. CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(00:49) Mind Share: The Seattle FIFA "Glow Up" and a lesson in JOMO(05:33) The "I'll sleep when I'm dead" myth(06:54) Why we get defensive about balance(11:53) Freedom vs. Corporate / Military sensibilities(14:10) Scheduled Flexibility: How to use a calendar without losing your soul(19:37) Tips for Intuitive Energy Management(25:43) Worth the Time: Industry (HBO series review) KEY TAKEAWAYS:Energy over Hours: Productivity isn't just about how much time you spend; it's about the quality of energy you bring to the task.Know Yourself: You cannot schedule intuitively if you don't understand your own wiring, strengths, and how you naturally recharge.Optimal Mapping: Shift creative work to the morning and use "power 20-minute sessions" to tackle tasks without burnout.The Power of "No": Sometimes the choice you are most proud of is what you choose not to do, even when it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you rethink your relationship with your calendar, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple Podcasts Check out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/book Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/
Why are we still chasing someday?Most of us are living in the waiting room of our own lives, deferring fulfillment until a future milestone is reached. Kent and Caanan explore why we mortgage our current joy for a future that isn't guaranteed and how to find the sweet spot of happiness without putting your family's security at risk.From a surreal encounter with someone experiencing a full-on epiphany (and that person being marched off in handcuffs) to answering listener emails about delayed fulfillment, this episode breaks down the misconception that fulfillment requires a radical external change. If you are waiting for the "right time" to start pursuing fulfillment, learn why the most important work you can do right now is simply figuring out you. CHAPTERS: (00:00) Why are we still doing that?(00:52) Mind Share: The poolside epiphany and the "system"(04:51) Introduction to the Sparks episodes(06:23) Listener Q&A: Living for the day the mortgage is paid off(09:51) The myth of big, splashy fulfillment(12:13) Knowing yourself as an invitation to the present(16:55) Choosing happiness today vs. tomorrow(24:02) Deep Dive: YouFinder and the power of an operating guide(26:23) Worth the Time: Finding awe in nature KEY TAKEAWAYS:Present Fulfillment: Happiness is available in the present moment and does not require quitting your job or moving to a different country.Self-Knowledge as a Guide: Figuring out who you are provides an operating guide that reduces confusion and helps you navigate a messy world.The "Someday" Trap: Someday is a receding horizon; waiting for specific milestones to be happy is a choice to stay in a "waiting room". MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Previous Sparks Episodes on Communicating, Waiting for Ready, and Redefining How We Show UpYouFinder: https://novacationrequired.com/services SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you find joy in the here and now, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.Check out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/services.Read our book: https://novacationrequired.com/book.Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/
Self-knowledge is the Key to Achieve Sustainable ContributionThe world often demands that making a difference requires a level of sacrifice we simply don't have the bandwidth to make. Kent and Caanan explore the "exhaustion trap" and why treating your own energy like an infinite resource is a recipe for burnout. This episode challenges the tradition of the "burnout martyr" and offers a roadmap for contributing to the world without further dysregulating yourself.Learn how to align your strengths, values, and interests to find a sustainable way to show up. Whether you are feeling guilty for being a bystander or are at zero capacity, discover how to move from asking what you have to do to what you have to give. CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(00:59) Mind Share: The case for all-in pricing and why "customer hostile" fees need to go(05:16) Listener Spark: Feeling guilty, burnt out, and at zero capacity(07:11) The Exhaustion Trap: Why showing up shouldn't be a second full-time job(11:51) Beyond the Instagram "Hero Moment": Finding your natural strengths(13:24) The NVR Framework: Aligning strengths, values, and interests(18:47) The Life Wheel: Auditing your energy cost and "Tuesday night" capacity(23:22) Worth the Time: The Olympics and the power of finding awe KEY TAKEAWAYS:The Energy Audit: Stop treating your resilience and empathy like infinite resources; they require intentional management and refilling.Alignment over Performance: Sustainable contribution happens when you stop trying to mimic curated social media activism and start using your specific "build."Energy Reserves: Living a No Vacation Required life involves planning for "energy-heavy" experiences by proactively creating reserves during quieter periods. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Strengths and Personality Assessments: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesEpisode 207: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Cta2x5Q88sKX9jE1kGH1E?si=uv-s6leKQ2Sszntf32ARPgEpisode 221: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5U0FYd7zxr0qd2jOIqXoTU?si=1PKBLGeuQrC5ZPMIHx2mUAEpisode 222: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4wQluJxx1Md8BWcwyqNyUf?si=eG5hMucDR2e0PAIuVRecBg SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you rethink how to manage your energy, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple PodcastsCheck out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/
Is Waiting for "Ready" Just a Slow Way of Dying?We often treat "preparation" as a virtue, but more often than not, it is a sophisticated lie we tell ourselves to avoid the discomfort of moving forward. Kent and Caanan explore why clarity is usually the result of action rather than a prerequisite for it. If you have been waiting for the stars to align or for one more certification before starting your project, this conversation is the nudge you need to stop waiting for a target that is always moving.From the geographical gatekeeping of "who can say they live in Seattle" to the paralyzing "panopticon" of social media where every mistake feels like potential viral bait, this episode tackles the modern obsession with perfection. Whether you are navigating corporate layoffs or just trying to start a creative habit, learn how to trade the elusive "perfect" for a messy, necessary start. CHAPTERS:(00:00) The lie of preparation(00:52) Mind Share: Geography, gatekeeping, and saying you're from Seattle(04:32) Spark: Responding to a creative project stuck in limbo for three years(07:34) The Perfection Trap: Gay community standards and the "Wayback Machine"(10:42) Moving through the cycle of constant crises(14:14) The New World Order: Handling the fear of tech layoffs and career stagnation(17:52) Three practical tips to move past perfection(23:43) Sandbox budgets and the power of a "Hype Person"(26:41) Worth the Time: Paper Girl by Beth Macy KEY TAKEAWAYS:• The B-Minus Rule: Commit to finishing a task with "good enough" quality to break the cycle of overthinking.• Messy Progress: Use a 15-minute timer to create the "ugly version" of your idea just to get the gears turning.• Fear-Basing: Ask yourself what the actual worst-case scenario is. Usually, it is a bruised ego, not a total disaster.• Ready is a Myth: Clarity happens after you move, not before. RESOURCES MENTIONED:• Strengths and Personality Assessments: https://novacationrequired.com/• Paper Girl by Beth Macy SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you take a messy first step, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.• Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple Podcasts• Check out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/services• Read our book: https://novacationrequired.com/book• Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/
Beyond Proximity: Why Logistics Aren't the Same as ConnectionIn a world that is more connected than ever, we have become experts at coexisting while remaining completely invisible to one another. Kent and Caanan explore the "parallel play" trap – where we trade the messiness of being truly seen for the safety of logistics – and how to move past the autopilot talk that keeps our relationships on the surface.From the silent distance of a shared sofa to the meaningless office one-on-ones, this episode offers practical sparks to reignite communication. Whether you are feeling like a roommate to your partner or a stranger to your team, learn how to stop settling for proximity and start building the depth required for a life you don't need a break from. CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(00:46) Mind Share: Breaking the code on the power of journaling(02:15) Mind Share: The "Post-Gender" double standard of "Bro" and "Dude"(04:46) Listener Mail: Escaping the 4-hour couch autopilot(06:16) Parallel Play: Why adults are acting like toddlers(10:42) Conditioning vs. Connection: It's not a lack of love, it's a lack of energy(14:16) Communication Sparks: The "Small Thing" and the "Big Thing" tools(19:54) Bringing it to Work: Making one-on-ones meaningful(22:16) Worth the Time: Rebuilding movie review (Josh O'Connor) KEY TAKEAWAYS:Proximity vs. Connection: Just because you are side-by-side doesn't mean you are connected; logistics are safe, but intimacy is found in the "messy" details.The Power of the Pivot: Using "icebreakers" like Wordle or a shared hobby can grease the wheels for deeper conversations without the exhaustion.Professional Depth: One-on-ones should focus on forward movement and personal development rather than just checking boxes to avoid feeling alone at work. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Strengths and Personality Assessments: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRebuilding: https://letterboxd.com/film/rebuilding/ SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you find a spark in your communication, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple PodcastsCheck out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/
Why We Talk But Don't Communicate (And How to Fix It)We've all heard that communication is the key to a healthy relationship, but few of us actually know how to use it. Kent and Caanan move past the tired cliches to discuss the logistics of how we speak, listen, and stay connected. This episode is an invitation to stop just talking and start focusing on the quality and mechanics of your interactions.From a surprising lesson at a doctor's office to a breakdown of what happens when the brain becomes "flooded," this conversation explores why so many of us communicate poorly even when we mean well. Whether you are navigating a 28-year marriage or a complex team dynamic at work, learn how to trade assumptions for inquiry and "talking at" for "listening with." CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(01:08) Mind Share: Why Kent's doctor doesn't have news on her phone(03:12) Why are we still communicating poorly?(10:42) The assumption trap: Checking in vs. assuming(14:00) Arguing in good faith: Are you communicating to win?(15:30) Understanding "The Flood": Communicating through overwhelm(21:39) The secret distinguisher: Listening vs. talking(24:02) Worth the Time: Helen Harper series review KEY TAKEAWAYS:Quality over Quantity: Communication isn't just about the volume of words; it's about clarity, directness, and ensuring your message is actually received.The Good Faith Test: Healthy dialogue requires an intention to understand rather than a desire to "win" the argument or bully a partner into submission.Respecting the "Flood": Recognizing when someone is scientifically unable to process information due to emotional overwhelm is vital for preventing unproductive conflict. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Strengths and Personality Assessments: https://novacationrequired.com/services SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you improve a conversation today, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple PodcastsCheck out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/
Why Are We Still Not Regulating?The world has become objectively overwhelming, and many of us have started accepting high stress as a permanent fact of life. Kent and Caanan explore why we continue to run the same old scripts in a dysregulating environment and why prioritizing your nervous system is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for survival.From a vulnerable look back at their "growth phase" in 2016 to navigating the heavy toll of global news, this episode breaks down how to identify what truly drains your energy. Whether you are dealing with personal upheaval or the weight of the world, learn why prioritizing regulation and having the discernment to say "no" to things that upset your nervous system is the smartest move you can make for your well-being. CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still not regulating?(00:49) Mind Share: Looking back at 2016 and the "Chapter 5" version of us(03:34) The universal struggle of a rough landscape(06:10) Carrying the world's problems on top of personal trauma(09:03) Lessons from 2016: The "Blood Pressure in the Car" era(12:45) When "good" things on paper are actually dysregulating(16:53) Energy Tracking: Green, Yellow, and Red activities(20:27) Worth the Time: The Traitors (TV series) and ACLU "Know Your Rights" literature KEY TAKEAWAYS:Regulation is Key: Your nervous system regulation is worth paying attention to all the time, regardless of how "productive" or "good" an activity seems on paper.Permission to Pivot: You have permission to stop doing things that are dysregulating, even if you've already committed to them or they are considered "growth-oriented."The "Everything" Table: Habits, diet, exercise, and the media you consume should all be evaluated by how they leave you feeling—either freer and more authentic or depleted and heavy. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Energy Tracking Worksheet: https://novacationrequired.com/store/worksheet-bundleACLU Know Your Rights: https://www.aclu.org/know-your-rightsStrengths and Personality Assessments: https://novacationrequired.com/services SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you find a moment of peace or a new way to look at your stress, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.Check out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/
Why Everything Gets Our Attention but Nothing Gets Our CareIn an age of endless information, we often confuse being "informed" with being "effective." Kent and Caanan explore why the sheer volume of data we consume is actually eroding our ability to focus on what matters. This episode dives into the power of discernment and how the simple act of filtering out the noise allows our foundation work to thrive.From navigating complex family dynamics to the overwhelming nature of the modern news cycle, Kent and Caanan share personal stories about the trap of over-complicating our lives. Whether you are feeling stuck in a cycle of rumination or simply overwhelmed by your to-do list, learn why reclaiming simplicity is the most important skill you can develop in a complicated world. CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(00:51) Mind Share: Seattle's World Cup buzz and the city's new energy(02:24) Why are we still not using discernment?(03:37) A case study in family dilemmas(08:03) Moving from "Tweak" to "Letting Go"(13:42) Simplicity as the ultimate meaning(17:04) The Solution: Starting with self-regulation(21:03) Bottom Lining: The power of honest partnerships(23:35) Worth the Time: The Pitt (Medical drama review) KEY TAKEAWAYS:The Information Paradox: We don't struggle because we lack information; we struggle because we have too much of it, leading to a lack of care for what truly matters.The Evolving Category: How to use a "holding pen" for new ideas and dreams to protect your nervous system from immediate overwhelm.Self-Discernment: Understanding your own personality and introversion/extroversion scale is the first step toward making better external decisions.The Meaning in Simplicity: Choosing the simplest path isn't a lack of effort – it's often the "right" answer that provides the most clarity. MENTIONED IN THIS EPSISODE:Strengths and Personality Assessments: https://novacationrequired.com/The Pitt (via Rotten Tomatoes): https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/the_pitt SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIREDIf this episode helped you find a bit of clarity today, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.Check out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/
Is Waiting for the "Perfect Time" Sabotaging Your Future?We often treat our dreams like fragile artifacts that can only be handled once we are "fully prepared" – whether that means reaching a certain age, hitting a savings goal, or waiting for the world to feel less turbulent. Kent and Caanan challenge the tradition of deferring life and explain why working with what you have is the most effective way to create lasting change.Drawing from their own history of starting a "no vacation required,” they break down the trap of the "I'm waiting because" list. From the importance of intentional doing to the surprising way dreams expand once you actually start moving, this episode is a call to fast-track your goals rather than keeping them in a permanent state of "later." CHAPTERS(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(00:51) Mind Share: The "Locked In" mentality and the satisfaction of flow(03:30) Lessons from the "Dream of the Planet"(05:32) Looking back at the "Old Days" of starting NVR(07:10) Fragility and the myth of the "guaranteed" future(09:55) Why starting now makes your dreams bigger(11:41) March 2020: A case study in living for now(13:33) Intentional Doing vs. "Churning"(15:19) Understanding who you are as a tool for change(16:45) Worth the Time: Why games are essential for mental clarity KEY TAKEAWAYSWork With What You Have: Waiting for the "right time" is a cycle that often leads to permanent deferment; the most powerful place to start is exactly where you are.Intentional Doing: Effective change is not about just "doing something" to feel busy; it must be tied to a clear vision of your life and your unique personality.Fragility as Motivation: Because health, politics, and social structures are inherently fragile, fast-tracking your dreams is a practical strategy rather than a risky one. RESOURCES MENTIONEDStrengths and Personality Assessments: https://novacationrequired.com/services SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIREDIf this episode encouraged you to take a step toward your goals today, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.Check out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/
We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? This week, we're tackling the topic of quitting's close cousin: Changing Your Mind.If quitting makes people squirm, changing your mind about a decision seems to send the whole system into a meltdown. We've been trained to treat our decisions as final, even when new, credible information shows up. We're conditioned to think that being "belligerently resolute" is a virtue, but that is simply choosing to not grow.Here's the truth: Changing your mind isn't confusion, it's clarity. It's a smart, fluid move that shows you are paying attention. Real progress comes from being open to new information, not from sticking to a fixed stance.In this episode, we dismantle the culture that fears the "flip-flopper" label and make the case for mindful, informed evolution.You'll hear:Why changing your mind about a decision isn't confusion, it's clarity… And one of the smartest moves you can make.Kent's "mind share" on having an attitude of gratitude for being able to help people, and Caanan's thoughts on end-of-year "best of" lists.How the fear of being called a "flip-flopper" (especially in politics) teaches us that we aren't allowed to evolve, which discourages personal growth.The crucial difference between being flaky and mindfully changing your mind when new information shows up.Why being "belligerently resolute" is not a virtue but is, in fact, an inability to grow.The crucial value of perspective and why an inability to take in new information in any area of your life stops growth.How to apply this fluidity to big life decisions, like a new career track or a move, to avoid a larger long-term disaster.Our recommendation for the psychological thriller After the Hunt, and how it forces you to consider a character's "myriad perspectives".If you're holding onto a decision or path simply because you think you're "locked in," this episode is for you. We're giving you permission to embrace the clarity that comes from changing your mind.Onward and Inward,Caanan and Kent
We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? This week, we're flipping the script to ask: Why are we still not recycling the things that actually work for us?For a culture obsessed with constant reinvention, there's a strange, collective pressure to always move on to the next thing, as if new is always better. We're conditioned to believe that you don't get credit for consistency and that true success lies in the next big innovation.The truth is, when a habit, routine, or approach delivers, it deserves another round. It deserves to be recycled and repeated with purpose. That's not boring—that's how you build momentum, free up mental space, and create the stable foundation needed to support all the exciting changes you do want to make.In this episode, we unpack the social pressure to constantly reinvent and make the case for proudly leaning into what works.You'll hear:Kent's "mind share" on the vital and necessary conversation around no-contact relationships, especially as the holidays approach, and why you shouldn't confuse real needs with immature behavior.Why "recycling" what works – like your fitness routine, core diet, or schedule – is the secret weapon that frees up the mental space for innovation.The funny paradox of being "The Change Guys" who also crave a deliberate, fulfilling core routine and how that balance fuels our life.The social commodity problem: Why there's no social currency in consistency and how social media performance encourages you to constantly chase the next big thing.A funny travel story about why we finally leaned into "basic" popular destinations (like Italy and Hawaii) and discovered that they are popular for a reason.How this mindset applies to everything from your daily schedule to large-scale infrastructure.Our simple, actionable tip for identifying and leaning into the routines that "fill you up and free you up."If you're feeling the pressure to blow up the good things in your life just to "shake things up," this episode is your permission to proudly stick with what delivers.Onward + Inward,Kent and Caanan
The Gospel is simple: That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead you will be saved. Romans 10:9 But God is extremely intelligent, and His message sometimes comes across as rather complicated. You will probably think that about this message. Just keep in mind the big picture: The Messiah is coming into the world, and everything, including the Mosiac Law and all the religious traditions, must yield to the new order. Micah 5:1-4 Now muster yourselves in troops, daughter of troops: they have laid siege against us; with a rod they will strike the judge of Israel on the cheek. But as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you One will come forth for Me to be ruler in Israel. His times of coming forth are from long ago, from the days of eternity. Therefore, He will give them up until the time when she who is in labor has given birth. Then the remainder of His kinsmen will return to the sons of Israel. And He will arise and shepherd His flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD His God. And they will remain, because at that time He will be great to the ends of the earth. And we see the fulfillment of this prophecy in Luke Chapter 2: Luke 2:8-11 In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock at night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood near them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. And so the angel said to them, Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. The city of David. Sometimes we think of Jerusalem as the city of David, but David was not from Jerusalem. He conquered Jerusalem and drove out the Jebusites in 2 Samuel 5:6-8. If you recall from a previous sermon, thats where David developed the loathing for the blind and lame that figures so prominently in the meeting with Mephibosheth. The original city of David is Bethlehem (house of bread). As we saw recently, in Keiths sermon on Ruth, that story of how Boaz and Ruth unite is set in Bethlehem, and at the end of that book, we see the lineage traced down to David. Further evidence of Davids ties to Bethlehem occurs in I Samuel 20:27-29, where Jonathan tests his father Saul to see what his true intentions toward David are by stating that David was not present because he had to go to Bethlehem for a family gathering. To fulfill Scripture, God influences Caesar Augustus to issue a decree for a world-wide census, and all people must return to their birthplace. Joseph was betrothed to Mary at the time, and she was pregnant with the Messiah. Since he was from Bethlehem, he had to return there from Nazareth in Galilee. When Joseph and Mary arrive in Bethlehem, Marys time to deliver her baby arrives, and Jesus is born in Bethlehem, just as prophesied in Micah. Micah gives us an intriguing detail about this ruler from Bethlehem. His times of coming are from long ago, from the days of eternity. Now, how can a person who comes from Bethlehem come from eternity? Well, the answer is that the person must be eternal, and that has to be God. So, we have an eternal ruler of Israel who will be born in Bethlehem. This prophecy about the Messiah was well known in Jesus day. In Matthew 2:1-6, we see the chief priests and scribes correctly identify the location of the birth of the King of the Jews as Bethlehem, and they quote our passage from Micah 5. The first reference to a ruler from Judah (Bethlehem is in the province of Judah) is in Genesis 49:10 The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the rulers staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes. Another similar prophecy occurs in Numbers 24:17, spoken by Balaam: I see him, but not now; I look at him, but not near; a star shall appear from Jacob, a scepter shall rise from Israel, and shall smash the forehead of Moab, and overcome all the sons of Sheth. This prophecy does not mention Judah specifically, but mentions a scepter which will arise from Jacob, and of course Judah is one of Jacob (Israels) sons. All the verses we have looked at so far have focused on political and governmental power. But the Messiah is not just a King; He is also a Priest, but not a Levitical priest. What if, as a God-fearing person under the Mosaic Law, you became hopelessly frustrated with your own sinfulness and inability to obey the Law. Suppose you cried out to God for mercy because you knew that, according to the Mosaic Law, you stood condemned. And suddenly, God opened your eyes to another way to approach Him: Psalm 40:6-8 You have not desired sacrifice and meal offering; You have opened my ears; You have not required burnt offering and sin offering. Then I said, Behold, I have come; it is written of me in the scroll of the book. I delight to do Your will, my God; Your Law is within my heart. According to Numbers 3:9, Levites were the only permissible priests: So you shall assign the Levites to Aaron and to his sons; they are exclusively assigned to him from the sons of Israel. So you shall appoint Aaron and his sons that they may keep their priesthood, but the layman who comes near shall be put to death. But if you are no longer trying to approach God through the Law of Moses, you need another Priest outside the Levitical priesthood, because they only serve the Tabernacle. Fortunately, God provided us a Priest that fits our needs. To see this, we must turn to the Psalms. There are psalms known as Messianic Psalms which prophetically point to the ministry of the Messiah. Some of them are Psalm 2, 8, 16, 22 and 110. It is in Psalm 110 that we see the combined offices of King and Priest: Psalm 110:1-4 The LORD says to my Lord: Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet. The LORD will stretch out Your strong scepter from Zion, saying, Rule in the midst of Your enemies. Your people will volunteer freely on the day of Your power; in holy splendor, from the womb or the dawn, Your youth are to You as the dew. The LORD has sworn and will not change His mind, You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. In this passage, we see the scepter of the ruler and the role of the priest, combined in this Person to whom the LORD (Yahweh) speaks, identified as Lord (Adonai). This Lord (Adonai) is both Ruler and Priest, but not a Levitical priest. Instead, He is identified as a priest according to the order of Melchizedek. If you were a Jewish scribe, this passage should have troubled you. How could the Ruler of Israel, the Messiah, be a priest if he came from Judah, rather than Levi? Very mysterious. Melchizedek is only mentioned one other place in the Old Testament. He shows up in Genesis 14. This is after Abram rescues his nephew Lot from Chedorlaomer king of Elam and three other kings with him. Abram had also reclaimed other persons who were captured as well as many of their possessions. He was indirectly helping the king of Sodom, since that is where Lot lived. Abram meets up with the king of Sodom in the Valley of Shaveh. In verses 18-20, we are told, And Melchizedek the king of Salem brought out bread and wine; now he was a priest of God Most High. And he blessed him and said, Blessed be Abram of God Most High, possessor of heaven and earth; and blessed be God Most High, who has handed over your enemies to you. And he gave him a tenth of everything. Melchizedek is the king of Salem (peace), which most Jewish scholars interpret as the location of Jerusalem before Israel occupied Caanan. So, Melchizedek is a king and priest in the location where Abraham will take Isaac to be sacrificed; where Jerusalem will be located; and where the Messiah will be crucified. It is also in the land that will become Judahs territory after Israel occupies Caanan. Melchizedek is described as holding the offices of both king and priest. This is a very unusual combination, and typically was prohibited under Mosaic Law. In fact, Saul was dethroned in part because he presumed to offer sacrifices in Samuels absence, illegally usurping the priestly role as the king of Israel. In Second Chronicles Chapter 26, King Uzziah becomes a leper after he usurps the priests role and burns incense in the temple. But the Messiah, according to Psalm 110, is a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek, and is also the ruler over Israel. So, like Melchizedek, he is both a king and a priest. But, since the Messiah must come from Judah and be born in Bethlehem, he cannot be from the tribe of Levi, and his priesthood is therefore illegal under Mosaic Law. But thats not a problem for you because you have quit trying to obtain righteousness under the Mosaic Law. In fact, lets say you have become aware that you can achieve righteousness in Gods eyes by faith, just as Abraham did in Genesis 15:6: Then he believed in the LORD, and He credited it to him as righteousness. The covenant of works has a priesthood, so maybe the covenant of faith also has a priesthood. As a matter of fact, it does, and it has a priesthood superior to the Levitical priesthood, as described in Hebrews Chapter 7. In contrasting the Levitical priests with Jesus, Hebrews 7:23 says, The former priests, on the one hand, existed in greater numbers because they were prevented by death from continuing; Jesus, on the other hand, because He continues forever, holds His priesthood permanently. Therefore, He is also able to save forever those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. As noted in Hebrews 7:12, When the priesthood is changed, of necessity there takes place a change of law also. When we quit trying to earn righteousness, we leave the law of works and turn to the law of grace. In so doing, we turn from a religious system that uses frail human priests to a system that has a perfect eternal priest who is always interceding on our behalf. Now, some theologians believe that Melchizedek was a Christophany, an appearance of Christ in the Old Testament. Heres how the Hebrews writer describes Melchizedek in Hebrews 7:3 Without father, without mother, without genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but made like the Son of God, he remains a priest perpetually. If that description were literally true, then it would have to be referring to Jesus. But the Hebrew writer is attributing the complete lack of genealogy about Melchizedek as suggestive of an eternal nature. We dont see any of the typical language used of Melchizedek that we see in other Christophanies. For instance, no other Christophany identifies anyone by a proper name or being an office bearer in any earthly position. Also, we see no command to, for example, remove Abrams sandals because the ground is holy. But clearly, God intends us to note the complete lack of genealogy, especially in Psalm 110:4, as being instructive that the Messiah will have a priesthood that is eternal. So, when we think of Born in Bethlehem, we think of a precious infant, a manger, Joseph and Mary, and all the pageantry of Christmas. But to receive a forever priest from the Tribe of Judah, we must leave behind our love affair with salvation by our own works and receive the righteousness that comes only through faith. Romans 3:19-26 explains the procedural change: Now we know that whatever the Law says, it speaks to those who are under the Law, so that every mouth may be closed and all the world may become accountable to God; because by the works of the Law none of mankind will be justified in His sight; for through the Law comes knowledge of sin. BUT NOW apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, but it is the righteousness of God THROUGH FAITH in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus, whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in Gods merciful restraint He let the sins previously committed go unpunished; for the demonstration, that is, of His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and THE JUSTIFIER OF THE ONE WHO HAS FAITH IN JESUS. Thats what Christmas is all about. Its the coming of the King and Priest who changes the Law and eternal future for all of us who will transition out of trying to save ourselves, and trust in the blood of Christ as our only righteousness. Amen and hallelujah forever!
The Gospel is simple: That if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead you will be saved. Romans 10:9 But God is extremely intelligent, and His message sometimes comes across as rather complicated. You will probably think that about this message. Just keep in mind the big picture: The Messiah is coming into the world, and everything, including the Mosiac Law and all the religious traditions, must yield to the new order. Micah 5:1-4 Now muster yourselves in troops, daughter of troops: they have laid siege against us; with a rod they will strike the judge of Israel on the cheek. But as for you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you One will come forth for Me to be ruler in Israel. His times of coming forth are from long ago, from the days of eternity. Therefore, He will give them up until the time when she who is in labor has given birth. Then the remainder of His kinsmen will return to the sons of Israel. And He will arise and shepherd His flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD His God. And they will remain, because at that time He will be great to the ends of the earth. And we see the fulfillment of this prophecy in Luke Chapter 2: Luke 2:8-11 In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock at night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood near them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. And so the angel said to them, Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. The city of David. Sometimes we think of Jerusalem as the city of David, but David was not from Jerusalem. He conquered Jerusalem and drove out the Jebusites in 2 Samuel 5:6-8. If you recall from a previous sermon, thats where David developed the loathing for the blind and lame that figures so prominently in the meeting with Mephibosheth. The original city of David is Bethlehem (house of bread). As we saw recently, in Keiths sermon on Ruth, that story of how Boaz and Ruth unite is set in Bethlehem, and at the end of that book, we see the lineage traced down to David. Further evidence of Davids ties to Bethlehem occurs in I Samuel 20:27-29, where Jonathan tests his father Saul to see what his true intentions toward David are by stating that David was not present because he had to go to Bethlehem for a family gathering. To fulfill Scripture, God influences Caesar Augustus to issue a decree for a world-wide census, and all people must return to their birthplace. Joseph was betrothed to Mary at the time, and she was pregnant with the Messiah. Since he was from Bethlehem, he had to return there from Nazareth in Galilee. When Joseph and Mary arrive in Bethlehem, Marys time to deliver her baby arrives, and Jesus is born in Bethlehem, just as prophesied in Micah. Micah gives us an intriguing detail about this ruler from Bethlehem. His times of coming are from long ago, from the days of eternity. Now, how can a person who comes from Bethlehem come from eternity? Well, the answer is that the person must be eternal, and that has to be God. So, we have an eternal ruler of Israel who will be born in Bethlehem. This prophecy about the Messiah was well known in Jesus day. In Matthew 2:1-6, we see the chief priests and scribes correctly identify the location of the birth of the King of the Jews as Bethlehem, and they quote our passage from Micah 5. The first reference to a ruler from Judah (Bethlehem is in the province of Judah) is in Genesis 49:10 The scepter will not depart from Judah, nor the rulers staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes. Another similar prophecy occurs in Numbers 24:17, spoken by Balaam: I see him, but not now; I look at him, but not near; a star shall appear from Jacob, a scepter shall rise from Israel, and shall smash the forehead of Moab, and overcome all the sons of Sheth. This prophecy does not mention Judah specifically, but mentions a scepter which will arise from Jacob, and of course Judah is one of Jacob (Israels) sons. All the verses we have looked at so far have focused on political and governmental power. But the Messiah is not just a King; He is also a Priest, but not a Levitical priest. What if, as a God-fearing person under the Mosaic Law, you became hopelessly frustrated with your own sinfulness and inability to obey the Law. Suppose you cried out to God for mercy because you knew that, according to the Mosaic Law, you stood condemned. And suddenly, God opened your eyes to another way to approach Him: Psalm 40:6-8 You have not desired sacrifice and meal offering; You have opened my ears; You have not required burnt offering and sin offering. Then I said, Behold, I have come; it is written of me in the scroll of the book. I delight to do Your will, my God; Your Law is within my heart. According to Numbers 3:9, Levites were the only permissible priests: So you shall assign the Levites to Aaron and to his sons; they are exclusively assigned to him from the sons of Israel. So you shall appoint Aaron and his sons that they may keep their priesthood, but the layman who comes near shall be put to death. But if you are no longer trying to approach God through the Law of Moses, you need another Priest outside the Levitical priesthood, because they only serve the Tabernacle. Fortunately, God provided us a Priest that fits our needs. To see this, we must turn to the Psalms. There are psalms known as Messianic Psalms which prophetically point to the ministry of the Messiah. Some of them are Psalm 2, 8, 16, 22 and 110. It is in Psalm 110 that we see the combined offices of King and Priest: Psalm 110:1-4 The LORD says to my Lord: Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet. The LORD will stretch out Your strong scepter from Zion, saying, Rule in the midst of Your enemies. Your people will volunteer freely on the day of Your power; in holy splendor, from the womb or the dawn, Your youth are to You as the dew. The LORD has sworn and will not change His mind, You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek. In this passage, we see the scepter of the ruler and the role of the priest, combined in this Person to whom the LORD (Yahweh) speaks, identified as Lord (Adonai). This Lord (Adonai) is both Ruler and Priest, but not a Levitical priest. Instead, He is identified as a priest according to the order of Melchizedek. If you were a Jewish scribe, this passage should have troubled you. How could the Ruler of Israel, the Messiah, be a priest if he came from Judah, rather than Levi? Very mysterious. Melchizedek is only mentioned one other place in the Old Testament. He shows up in Genesis 14. This is after Abram rescues his nephew Lot from Chedorlaomer king of Elam and three other kings with him. Abram had also reclaimed other persons who were captured as well as many of their possessions. He was indirectly helping the king of Sodom, since that is where Lot lived. Abram meets up with the king of Sodom in the Valley of Shaveh. In verses 18-20, we are told, And Melchizedek the king of Salem brought out bread and wine; now he was a priest of God Most High. And he blessed him and said, Blessed be Abram of God Most High, possessor of heaven and earth; and blessed be God Most High, who has handed over your enemies to you. And he gave him a tenth of everything. Melchizedek is the king of Salem (peace), which most Jewish scholars interpret as the location of Jerusalem before Israel occupied Caanan. So, Melchizedek is a king and priest in the location where Abraham will take Isaac to be sacrificed; where Jerusalem will be located; and where the Messiah will be crucified. It is also in the land that will become Judahs territory after Israel occupies Caanan. Melchizedek is described as holding the offices of both king and priest. This is a very unusual combination, and typically was prohibited under Mosaic Law. In fact, Saul was dethroned in part because he presumed to offer sacrifices in Samuels absence, illegally usurping the priestly role as the king of Israel. In Second Chronicles Chapter 26, King Uzziah becomes a leper after he usurps the priests role and burns incense in the temple. But the Messiah, according to Psalm 110, is a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek, and is also the ruler over Israel. So, like Melchizedek, he is both a king and a priest. But, since the Messiah must come from Judah and be born in Bethlehem, he cannot be from the tribe of Levi, and his priesthood is therefore illegal under Mosaic Law. But thats not a problem for you because you have quit trying to obtain righteousness under the Mosaic Law. In fact, lets say you have become aware that you can achieve righteousness in Gods eyes by faith, just as Abraham did in Genesis 15:6: Then he believed in the LORD, and He credited it to him as righteousness. The covenant of works has a priesthood, so maybe the covenant of faith also has a priesthood. As a matter of fact, it does, and it has a priesthood superior to the Levitical priesthood, as described in Hebrews Chapter 7. In contrasting the Levitical priests with Jesus, Hebrews 7:23 says, The former priests, on the one hand, existed in greater numbers because they were prevented by death from continuing; Jesus, on the other hand, because He continues forever, holds His priesthood permanently. Therefore, He is also able to save forever those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. As noted in Hebrews 7:12, When the priesthood is changed, of necessity there takes place a change of law also. When we quit trying to earn righteousness, we leave the law of works and turn to the law of grace. In so doing, we turn from a religious system that uses frail human priests to a system that has a perfect eternal priest who is always interceding on our behalf. Now, some theologians believe that Melchizedek was a Christophany, an appearance of Christ in the Old Testament. Heres how the Hebrews writer describes Melchizedek in Hebrews 7:3 Without father, without mother, without genealogy, having neither beginning of days nor end of life, but made like the Son of God, he remains a priest perpetually. If that description were literally true, then it would have to be referring to Jesus. But the Hebrew writer is attributing the complete lack of genealogy about Melchizedek as suggestive of an eternal nature. We dont see any of the typical language used of Melchizedek that we see in other Christophanies. For instance, no other Christophany identifies anyone by a proper name or being an office bearer in any earthly position. Also, we see no command to, for example, remove Abrams sandals because the ground is holy. But clearly, God intends us to note the complete lack of genealogy, especially in Psalm 110:4, as being instructive that the Messiah will have a priesthood that is eternal. So, when we think of Born in Bethlehem, we think of a precious infant, a manger, Joseph and Mary, and all the pageantry of Christmas. But to receive a forever priest from the Tribe of Judah, we must leave behind our love affair with salvation by our own works and receive the righteousness that comes only through faith. Romans 3:19-26 explains the procedural change: Now we know that whatever the Law says, it speaks to those who are under the Law, so that every mouth may be closed and all the world may become accountable to God; because by the works of the Law none of mankind will be justified in His sight; for through the Law comes knowledge of sin. BUT NOW apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, but it is the righteousness of God THROUGH FAITH in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus, whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in Gods merciful restraint He let the sins previously committed go unpunished; for the demonstration, that is, of His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and THE JUSTIFIER OF THE ONE WHO HAS FAITH IN JESUS. Thats what Christmas is all about. Its the coming of the King and Priest who changes the Law and eternal future for all of us who will transition out of trying to save ourselves, and trust in the blood of Christ as our only righteousness. Amen and hallelujah forever!
We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? – and this week, we're asking a question that comes up every year as the calendar winds down: Why are we still waiting for New Year's resolutions?For a culture obsessed with grit, commitment, and self-improvement, we have a strange, collective habit of putting off the very things we know would benefit us right now.If you're serious about making a change, real progress starts the moment you decide it's worthwhile, not on some arbitrary date determined by the Earth's orbit. Yet, we let the concept of "New Year, New You" become a massive pressure cooker, leading to analysis paralysis and the fear that if we don't succeed perfectly, we've failed (or worse, lied to ourselves).In this episode, we unpack why waiting is just a delay tactic and make the case for a lighter, more fluid, and immediately satisfying approach to change.You'll hear:Kent's "mind share" on the current national increase in anger and how to choose to be a positive force in the world (hint: it's not toxic positivity).Why waiting for a New Year's resolution is often just a form of procrastination and a tool for delaying change you fear.The damaging idea that if you don't follow through on a plan exactly as you intended, you've lied to yourself – and why that mindset guarantees failure.Why change should be fluid and fun, allowing you to "dabble," iterate, and test-and-learn without committing to a four-year plan.The crucial value of knowing your personality type to determine your most optimal approach to change.A brief musing on the power of upbeat music and a look at our favorite end-of-year books that are heavy on topic but essential reads.If you're holding onto something you know you want to start, but you're waiting for January 1st, this episode is for you. We're giving you permission to stop waiting and start moving.Onward and Inward,Caanan and Kent
We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That?—and this week, right before the stress of the holidays hits, we're asking a fundamental question: Why are we staying miserable?We've spent the last few weeks talking about quitting and staying loyal to things that don't serve us , but now it's time to focus on your absolute non-negotiable right to protect your own peace. We're done with passive misery and letting external forces dictate our mood and steal our joy.This episode is all about diving into the tools you need to build resilience, choose fulfillment, and finally, confidently say yes to what serves you and no to what doesn't.In this episode, we unpack why we constantly let external forces steal our joy and what happens when you decide to take control of your experience by "curating your life".You'll hear:The damaging effects of the platitudinal old-school message that you "owe" family everything and must "make the holidays work".The concept of curating your life—looking at your time and energy as an art exhibit where you are the selective curator.Tools rooted in positive psychology that help you flourish, including how to re-work your sense of obligation and experience more positive emotions.All that, along with the breaking news that we're claiming the title of "Joyologists" (no, not really) and our suggestion for a worthwhile practice to start this holiday season: a gratitude journal.If you're dreading the holidays, or if you're constantly letting situations or people steal your peace, you'll want to give this listen. We want you to set yourself up for a better holiday season and a better year ahead.Onward & Inward,Caanan and Kent
We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? — and this week, we're talking about something that makes people squirm, triggers collective pearl-clutching, and guarantees at least one relative whispering, “But what will people think?”We're talking about quitting.For a culture obsessed with grit, commitment, and “never give up,” quitting has been framed as a moral failing instead of what it often is: a brave, protective, and self-honoring choice. We're conditioned to push through, stay loyal, and tolerate things that make our lives smaller — even when we know something is no longer healthy or aligned.In this episode, we unpack the real reasons we avoid quitting and what opens up when we finally do.You'll hear: • The cultural programming that makes quitting feel like failure — and why that script is overdue for a rewrite. • The identity shame loop that keeps people stuck in jobs, relationships, and roles long past their expiration dates. • Why other people panic when you choose yourself — and how your quitting often exposes where they feel trapped. • A pivotal story from Kent's early career that shaped our entire No Vacation Required philosophy around agency, alignment, and not waiting for permission.All that, along with a brief musing on “cozy season” and something less cozy – ICE using Taylor Swift's music on TikTok and the surprising silence from her normally hyper-responsive team. Like, what's going on there?If you're feeling stuck in something that no longer serves you – or deserves you – you'll want to give this listen because we're giving you permission to quit that nonsense.Onward & Inward,Caanan and Kent
We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? — and this week, we're talking about something we've all been conditioned to do: staying loyal to things that no longer serve or deserve us.From jobs that drain us to loyalty programs that stopped rewarding us years ago, we have a knack for sticking around out of habit – or fear. Fear of missing out, fear of change, fear of uncertainty. But that kind of blind loyalty keeps us stuck, limits our options, and quietly steals resources (time, money, energy) we could be using to pursue what actually matters.In this episode, we unpack what's really behind our tendency to “stay loyal,” even when it's not serving us — and what it looks like go “free agent.”.You'll hear:How loyalty programs have diminishing returns and greater demandsHow companies use identity and belonging to keep us tied to systems that don't have our best interests at heartWhy fear — not commitment — is often the real reason we stay putHow mindfulness and regular “life audits” can help you spot where your loyalty has turned into autopilotAnd in this week's Mindshare, we're talking about gratitude — and how small acts of appreciation can cut through cynicism and help build a more empathetic world, especially in tough times.This episode is your reminder that loyalty is beautiful when it's earned, but limiting when it's automatic.Choose what (and who) you give your loyalty to — and make sure it's giving something meaningful back.Onward & Inward,Kent and Caanan
We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? This week, we're taking on something we're all guilty of – assuming we know what someone else is thinking instead of just asking.You know what we're talking about. That reflex to fill in the blanks, interpret a tone, or spin a whole story from a single look. It's become such a normalized part of communication that we rarely notice when we're doing it. But all that guessing creates unnecessary drama, blocks real understanding, and keeps us from the very thing we want most: connection.In this episode, we talk about why mind reading persists (and how much of it comes down to fear of rejection, confrontation, or vulnerability).You'll hear:Why we developed TwoFinder to help people in all kinds of relationships stop assuming and start understanding.How learning about each other's personalities changed our own relationship – and dramatically reduced the number of chair-related misunderstandings.Why it's worth asking instead of assuming, even when it feels uncomfortable.And in this week's Mindshare, we're talking about off-cycle elections and vote-by-mail, something every citizen in the US should have access to.This episode is your reminder that connection starts with curiosity — and that asking beats assuming every single time.Onward & Inward,Caanan and Kent
We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? This week, we're taking on something we all do more than we'd like to admit: naysaying.You know what we're talking about — that knee-jerk reaction to critique, compare, or center ourselves in someone else's story. It's become such a common part of the way we engage with the world that we hardly notice it anymore. But it's bad, literally bad, for our health and it keeps us from connecting, learning, and growing.In this episode, we talk about how naysaying shows up in our own lives (including a very real listener email).You'll hear:Why habitual naysaying is usually more about fear or insecurity than insightHow to stop centering yourself in every conversation (yes, even in bean soup and chocolate chip cookie recipes)What positive psychology says about breaking the cycle and finding more joyAnd in this week's Mindshare, we're talking (briefly, we promise) about the new iPhone 17 Pro and how gorgeous Seattle is in October.This episode is a nudge to notice when we're slipping into criticism and to remember that encouragement, curiosity, and compassion are better for everyone.Onward & Inward,Kent and Caanan
We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? This time, we're asking a question that's surprisingly hard to talk about: Why are we still ashamed of building the life we actually want?In this episode, we get real about what it feels like to live – and publicly own – a life that's been designed with intention. From our early marathon-training conversations that sparked the No Vacation Required philosophy to the curious reactions we still get when people learn we spend nearly all of our time together, we're unpacking the cultural conditioning that makes fulfillment feel like something we have to defend.You'll hear:Why it can feel awkward to admit you're happyHow social conditioning keeps us apologizing for joy and fulfillment (if it doesn't keep us from pursuing those things first)What a poolside conversation revealed about how people measure worthPlus, in this week's Mindshare, we talk about our recent Disneyland trip—what it taught us about nostalgia, value, and why it's time to rethink what we're buying into.This episode is all about removing the shame from fulfillment and celebrating the courage it takes to build and broadcast the life you truly want.Onward & Inward,Caanan and Kent
We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? — and this time, we're asking the question that's been on our minds lately: Why are we still sitting things out when everything is changing?In this episode, which marks a bit of a relaunch with a whole new format, we take a hard look at how much the world has shifted — politically, culturally, and personally — and explore what it means to really show up right now. From volunteering experiences that reminded us how much good is still happening to a tough decision to leave Substack behind, we talk about what it looks like to live our No Vacation Required philosophy in real time.You'll hear:Why sitting things out isn't an option in times of rapid changeHow we decided to step away from Substack — and what that revealed about our valuesHow a commercial we filmed for the State of Washington last year provided the clarity we were seeking nowHow our CHANGE framework helps us (and our clients) navigate uncertain timesPlus, we share the mindset shift that's helping us — and hopefully you — redefine what it means to build a life you don't need a break from in a world that's anything but steady.Onward & Inward,Kent and Caanan
We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? — and this time, we're rethinking the age-old question that still lingers in job interviews, leadership trainings, and well-meaning conversations: Where do you want to be in five years?In this episode, we explore why that question doesn't hold up anymore — especially in a world that feels more uncertain and fast-moving than ever. Instead of obsessing over the title or role you want “someday,” we talk about what it means to tune into how you want to feel — and how that simple shift can change everything.You'll hear:Why “Where do you want to be?” is the wrong question — and what to ask insteadHow the five-year plan keeps us stuck in a role-based mindsetWhy tuning into your energy can lead to smarter, more fulfilling decisionsPlus, we've got a simple but powerful tool that can help you get clear on what's working — and what's not.Onward & Inward,Caanan and Kent
The children of Israel were on their way, once again, the the promised land. But there were some very, very important lessons of trusting God and putting their faith in Him, that they needed to learn before they arrived in Caanan. So God allowed trials to come to help His people put their trust in Him. We are going to learn about some those trials this week. Year A Quarter 1 Week 22All Bible verses are from the NKJVHymn: Shall We Gather at the RiverWrite to Ms. Katie: seedpod@startingwithjesus.comKatie's Korner: https://startingwithjesus.com/katies-korner/Find the Lessons Here:Kindergarten https://bit.ly/SeedPodKLessonsPrimary https://bit.ly/SeedPodPLessonsConnect with Us:Website: https://startingwithjesus.comStarting With Jesus - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/StartingWithJesusSeedPod - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCvU2FBPEL5-Zi2QW0STVLgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingwithjesusFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/startingwithjesusAcknowledgments:Bible Readings this week: ElijahPodcast Producer: Katie ChitwoodSound Engineer: Dillon AustinMy Bible First, https://bit.ly/SeedPodLesson for use of their Bible Lesson curriculum.AudioVerse, https://www.audioverse.org/ for partnering with us and supporting our ministry.Lindsey Mills, for writing and performing our SeedPod Kids Theme Song & Background Music.To learn more about her music or to get her CD, email her: lindsey@startingwithjesus.com
The children of Israel were on their way, once again, the the promised land. But there were some very, very important lessons of trusting God and putting their faith in Him, that they needed to learn before they arrived in Caanan. So God allowed trials to come to help His people put their trust in Him. We are going to learn about some those trials this week. Year A Quarter 1 Week 22All Bible verses are from the NKJVHymn: Shall We Gather at the RiverWrite to Ms. Katie: seedpod@startingwithjesus.comKatie's Korner: https://startingwithjesus.com/katies-korner/Find the Lessons Here:Kindergarten https://bit.ly/SeedPodKLessonsPrimary https://bit.ly/SeedPodPLessonsConnect with Us:Website: https://startingwithjesus.comStarting With Jesus - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/StartingWithJesusSeedPod - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCvU2FBPEL5-Zi2QW0STVLgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingwithjesusFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/startingwithjesusAcknowledgments:Bible Readings this week: ElijahPodcast Producer: Katie ChitwoodSound Engineer: Dillon AustinMy Bible First, https://bit.ly/SeedPodLesson for use of their Bible Lesson curriculum.AudioVerse, https://www.audioverse.org/ for partnering with us and supporting our ministry.Lindsey Mills, for writing and performing our SeedPod Kids Theme Song & Background Music.To learn more about her music or to get her CD, email her: lindsey@startingwithjesus.com
The children of Israel were on their way, once again, the the promised land. But there were some very, very important lessons of trusting God and putting their faith in Him, that they needed to learn before they arrived in Caanan. So God allowed trials to come to help His people put their trust in Him. We are going to learn about some those trials this week. Year A Quarter 1 Week 22All Bible verses are from the NKJVHymn: Shall We Gather at the RiverWrite to Ms. Katie: seedpod@startingwithjesus.comKatie's Korner: https://startingwithjesus.com/katies-korner/Find the Lessons Here:Kindergarten https://bit.ly/SeedPodKLessonsPrimary https://bit.ly/SeedPodPLessonsConnect with Us:Website: https://startingwithjesus.comStarting With Jesus - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/StartingWithJesusSeedPod - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCvU2FBPEL5-Zi2QW0STVLgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingwithjesusFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/startingwithjesusAcknowledgments:Bible Readings this week: ElijahPodcast Producer: Katie ChitwoodSound Engineer: Dillon AustinMy Bible First, https://bit.ly/SeedPodLesson for use of their Bible Lesson curriculum.AudioVerse, https://www.audioverse.org/ for partnering with us and supporting our ministry.Lindsey Mills, for writing and performing our SeedPod Kids Theme Song & Background Music.To learn more about her music or to get her CD, email her: lindsey@startingwithjesus.com
The children of Israel were on their way, once again, the the promised land. But there were some very, very important lessons of trusting God and putting their faith in Him, that they needed to learn before they arrived in Caanan. So God allowed trials to come to help His people put their trust in Him. We are going to learn about some those trials this week. Year A Quarter 1 Week 22All Bible verses are from the NKJVHymn: Shall We Gather at the RiverWrite to Ms. Katie: seedpod@startingwithjesus.comKatie's Korner: https://startingwithjesus.com/katies-korner/Find the Lessons Here:Kindergarten https://bit.ly/SeedPodKLessonsPrimary https://bit.ly/SeedPodPLessonsConnect with Us:Website: https://startingwithjesus.comStarting With Jesus - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/StartingWithJesusSeedPod - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCvU2FBPEL5-Zi2QW0STVLgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingwithjesusFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/startingwithjesusAcknowledgments:Bible Readings this week: ElijahPodcast Producer: Katie ChitwoodSound Engineer: Dillon AustinMy Bible First, https://bit.ly/SeedPodLesson for use of their Bible Lesson curriculum.AudioVerse, https://www.audioverse.org/ for partnering with us and supporting our ministry.Lindsey Mills, for writing and performing our SeedPod Kids Theme Song & Background Music.To learn more about her music or to get her CD, email her: lindsey@startingwithjesus.com
The children of Israel were on their way, once again, the the promised land. But there were some very, very important lessons of trusting God and putting their faith in Him, that they needed to learn before they arrived in Caanan. So God allowed trials to come to help His people put their trust in Him. We are going to learn about some those trials this week. Year A Quarter 1 Week 22All Bible verses are from the NKJVHymn: Shall We Gather at the RiverWrite to Ms. Katie: seedpod@startingwithjesus.comKatie's Korner: https://startingwithjesus.com/katies-korner/Find the Lessons Here:Kindergarten https://bit.ly/SeedPodKLessonsPrimary https://bit.ly/SeedPodPLessonsConnect with Us:Website: https://startingwithjesus.comStarting With Jesus - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/StartingWithJesusSeedPod - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCvU2FBPEL5-Zi2QW0STVLgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingwithjesusFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/startingwithjesusAcknowledgments:Bible Readings this week: ElijahPodcast Producer: Katie ChitwoodSound Engineer: Dillon AustinMy Bible First, https://bit.ly/SeedPodLesson for use of their Bible Lesson curriculum.AudioVerse, https://www.audioverse.org/ for partnering with us and supporting our ministry.Lindsey Mills, for writing and performing our SeedPod Kids Theme Song & Background Music.To learn more about her music or to get her CD, email her: lindsey@startingwithjesus.com
The children of Israel were on their way, once again, the the promised land. But there were some very, very important lessons of trusting God and putting their faith in Him, that they needed to learn before they arrived in Caanan. So God allowed trials to come to help His people put their trust in Him. We are going to learn about some those trials this week. Year A Quarter 1 Week 22All Bible verses are from the NKJVHymn: Shall We Gather at the RiverWrite to Ms. Katie: seedpod@startingwithjesus.comKatie's Korner: https://startingwithjesus.com/katies-korner/Find the Lessons Here:Kindergarten https://bit.ly/SeedPodKLessonsPrimary https://bit.ly/SeedPodPLessonsConnect with Us:Website: https://startingwithjesus.comStarting With Jesus - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/StartingWithJesusSeedPod - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCvU2FBPEL5-Zi2QW0STVLgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/startingwithjesusFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/startingwithjesusAcknowledgments:Bible Readings this week: ElijahPodcast Producer: Katie ChitwoodSound Engineer: Dillon AustinMy Bible First, https://bit.ly/SeedPodLesson for use of their Bible Lesson curriculum.AudioVerse, https://www.audioverse.org/ for partnering with us and supporting our ministry.Lindsey Mills, for writing and performing our SeedPod Kids Theme Song & Background Music.To learn more about her music or to get her CD, email her: lindsey@startingwithjesus.com
We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? This time we're exploring the myth of “the next thing” – why we're conditioned to believe fulfillment lives just. over. there. when, in fact, the fulfillment is available to you right. here.You'll hear:Something Neil Patrick Harris talked about that perfectly captures the endless pursuit of the “next level”How social currency, FOMO, and even well-meaning friends keep us focused on “what's next” instead of “what's now”A funny story about a dream trip, a boat tour, and the woman who couldn't stop selling her next dream tripPlus, we unpack how knowing yourself—your values, strengths, and what actually matters to you—can help you break free from the chase and build fulfillment today.Spoiler: The thing you're chasing probably isn't the thing.Onward & Inward,Kent and Caanan
We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? This time we're exploring externalization vs. internalization – why we obsess over outward success and validation while ignoring the most important data source: ourselves. You'll hear:• The story of Anya, a top performer who finds personal development unexpectedly harder once her external mission ends.• How the “office mom” who nurtures everyone else can't turn that same care inward.• Why evidence‑based decision‑making feels essential at work but “woo‑woo” when applied to personal growth.• Our soap‑box on a culture trained to chase external approval – from childhood messages to social‑media metrics – and how to flip the script.Plus, we implore you to start using good self‑data – your strengths, values, and even your intuition – as your first point of reference for lasting fulfillment.Onward & Upward,Caanan and Kent
As you now know, every month we are tackling a topic related to building a life you don't need a break from. We do that by asking the question “why are we still doing that?” about some outmoded idea or past-its-fresh-by-date tradition. In this episode, we're continuing our conversation about redefining success.In this episode, we're talking about how society's obsession with hyper-efficiency is stealing our joy and how to reclaim it through intentional living. We're sharing insights on how to shift your mindset and live a richer, more fulfilling life, including such hits as:How outsourcing isn't the key to more time.Why chores – like making your own oatmeal (we're dead serious) and simple tasks can bring true joy.The link between hyper-productivity and declining health.All that, and a little soap-box moment about why the pursuit of more money is really about freedom, in a tight 13:34. How efficient!Onward & Upward,Caanan and Kent
Numbers 14: A Story of Faith, Rebellion, and Judgment Numbers 14 is a pivotal chapter in the history of Israel's journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. It highlights themes of faith, fear, rebellion, and God's judgment. This chapter records a critical moment when the Israelites, standing at the edge of Canaan, chose fear over faith, leading to severe consequences. Key Events and Historical Facts 1.The People's Fear and Rebellion (Numbers 14:1-4) After the twelve spies returned from scouting Canaan, ten of them reported that the land was filled with powerful enemies, including the Nephilim (giants). Fear spread among the people, and they cried out in despair, wishing they had died in Egypt or the wilderness rather than face the inhabitants of Canaan. The Israelites proposed choosing a new leader to take them back to Egypt, rejecting Moses, Aaron, and ultimately, God's plan. 2.The Faith of Joshua and Caleb (Numbers 14:5-10) Joshua and Caleb, the only two spies who trusted God, urged the people to have faith. They reminded Israel that if God delighted in them, He would bring them into the land. Instead of listening, the people threatened to stone them. 3.God's Anger and Moses' Intercession (Numbers 14:11-19) God declared His intent to destroy the Israelites and start a new nation through Moses. Moses pleaded with God, reminding Him of His mercy and faithfulness. God relented but imposed a severe punishment. 4.God's Judgment: 40 Years of Wandering (Numbers 14:20-38) Because of their rebellion, the Israelites would wander for 40 years—one year for each day the spies explored Canaan. Every man 20 years and older who rejected God's promise would die in the wilderness, except Joshua and Caleb. The ten unfaithful spies were struck down by a plague. 5.The Presumptuous Attempt to Enter Canaan (Numbers 14:39-45) After hearing God's judgment, some Israelites tried to invade Canaan without God's approval. The Amalekites and Canaanites attacked them and drove them back, confirming that God's presence was no longer with them. Key Words & Themes in Numbers 14 1.Promised Land – The land of Canaan, given by God. 2.Fear & Rebellion – The people rejected God's promise due to fear. 3.Moses & Aaron – Leaders who interceded for Israel. 4.Joshua & Caleb – The only spies who remained faithful. 5.Faith vs. Doubt – A central theme as Israel struggled to trust God. 6.God's Judgment – A 40-year punishment for unbelief. 7.Plague – A direct consequence for the ten spies who led Israel into fear. 8.Wilderness – The place where Israel would wander until a new generation arose. 9.Disobedience – The failed attempt to enter Canaan despite God's warning. 10.Intercession – Moses pleaded for mercy, and God spared the people from immediate destruction.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.
We're back with another episode of “Why are we still doing that?” – examining the habits, beliefs, and expectations that no longer serve us and, more importantly, exploring actionable strategies to help you build a life you don't need a break from.In this episode, we dig into the idea that success is yours to define. After our last discussion on invoking your agency, we heard from many of you who said, “I love the idea, but I don't even know what I stand for.” So, in addition to talking about the crucial first step in our L.I.F.E. philosophy, we talk about:How important it is to have personal measures of success, not just in your career.A pivotal moment in our relationship when we realized we had been following someone else's script for success – and how rewriting that script led us to a more fulfilling life together.An ad campaign we did for Sate of Washington Tourism framed around how our take on romance / relationships shapes how we travel.Plus, we revisit a memorable conversation with a group of bridesmaids in Cabo, who had very basic opinions on what makes a romantic partner worthy.If you've ever felt like you're chasing someone else's version of success, this episode is for you.Onward & Upward,Kent and Caanan
There are claims - and you hear them every so often - that archeology has disproved this story or that in the bible, and claims from this or that scholar of particularly late dating of different bible books.How do we as evangelical pastors react/respond/answer those claims?Hans Kristensen is senior pastor of Marsfield Community Church in Sydney and is studying ancient archaeology.He suggests that there are 10 major archaelogical finds that help us to increase our confidence in the Old Testament:There's evidence of a big population jump in Caanan at exactly the time that the bible said that Yahweh was giving Israel the land, called the ‘Hill Country Explosion.'The Egyptian Pharaoh Merneptah boasts of raiding the land of Caanan, saying it was occupied by Israel.In the city of Hazor, archaeologists have found religious idols destroyed and other items intact, just as expected from Joshua 11-12The recently discovered altar at Mount Ebal is likely Joshua's altar (Joshua 8)In the Tel Dan inscription we now have archeological evidence for King David's existence.There's consistent architectural town planning in the cities built around the time of David and Solomon - pointing towards planning and control under one ruler (eg a King).There are similarities between what we know of the temple of Solomon and a similar temple built at Ain Dara, about 30 kilometres from Beirut, showing Solomon's temple fits into the religious and architectural landscape of the time.The discovery of six massive chambered gates at Hazor, Meggido and Gezer and other architectural discoveries at those sites corresponds with 1Kings 9:15.A ninth century battle account from King Moab of Mersha mirrors the one in 2 Kings 3.The Biblical chronology of the listed kings matches almost exactly with archeological evidence.Reach Australia National ConferenceReach Australia's National Conference is happening from 19 to 22 May 2025 on the Central Coast of NSW. This year's theme is URGENT: The Necessary Task of Mission Before Christ Returns. For more info. The Church Cohttp://www.thechurchco.com is an excellent website and app platform built specifically for churches. Support the show--Become a regular financial supporter of The Pastor's Heart via Patreon.
Thank you for joining us for today's worship service! We have a tradition of making the first worship service of the new year a time of meditation and prayer for God's guidance and blessing on our church, our community, and on the ministries that God is calling us to do. In today's message, we consider Terah, recorded in Genesis 11 and 12, who was the father of Abram who later became Abraham. God blessed Terah and led him from his birthplace in Ur toward the land of Caanan, but Terah could only go part of the way in his grief over a son who died young. We see God's mercy and love given to Terah and his family even though Terah failed at the goal God had set for him. God's blessing are not conditional, and we do not earn God's blessings through what we achieve. God's blessings come to us not because of who we are but because God is love. If you prayed to make Jesus your Lord today, we want to rejoice with you! If you would want someone to pray with you, we are eager to do so! If you would like more information about our church, we're want to share. Please text the word "NEXT" to 407-77 so we can engage with you. For more information about our in-person Sunday morning services, visit https://horizonwestchurch.com. You can also learn more about our midweek events at https://horizonwestchurch.com/events.
Most of us believe Abraham was the first to leave Ur in response to God's call. However, Genesis 11:30 reveals that Terah was the original visionary, the one who began the journey to Caanan. Something stirred within him, compelling him to leave Ur behind. Although the journey wasn't easy, the joy of fulfilling a vision was far greater than all the hardships he would endure. However, in the place called Haran, tragedy struck—Terah's son Haran died. This loss broke the spirit of the visionary. The one meant to carry his legacy was gone, and with him, Terah's motivation to fulfill his calling. Terah, now broken in spirit, settled in Haran. *A man defeated on the inside cannot defeat things on the outside.* There is nothing more frustrating for a man to see the glimpse of how glorious his life can be but never but never walk into it. It was here that the Lord spoke to Abraham in Genesis 12:1, reminding him that he wasn't created to perish halfway. The calling comes to him because he was meant to finish the journey his father began. Child of God, you were not meant to give up half way or in mediocrity; you are called for something more greater and glorious. We are not a generation of just beginners but we are a generation who will finish what God has started in us. Do not abort God's will and assignment over your life. God doesn't consult your family's history before calling you—the Word qualifies you! With all your getting, get the Word! You don't become a great nation by being surrounded by people or wealth; you become a great nation at the arrival of the Word. The Word transforms, qualifies, and equips you. When the Word comes, everything required for the journey comes with it. “and I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing:”Genesis 12:2 Out of all the people God could have chosen, He picked a family full of disadvantages. Despite being surrounded by evidence of his limitations, Abraham refused to trust what he saw in the natural and chose to believe God's Word. Now God takes the greatest disadvantage and produces glory out of it. Only God can take your weakness and turn it into a strength. Can you believe God and follow Him as if what you're trusting Him for has already happened? Can you walk as though you are already in the Promised Land? Faith isn't an emotional decision; it's a deep conviction. Faith takes a lot of planning and deliberate, intentional choices. Terah took a break when he should have kept walking, while Abraham arrived in Canaan because he didn't repeat his father's mistake. In transition, don't take a break—rest can become a trap for the soul. Keep walking; we don't take a break from the will of God; we don't rest from the assignments of God. When called to greatness, the temptation is not failure but little success. For Joseph, Potiphar's house was a bigger trap than the prison. Small success is what destroys greatness. The key to transition: Do not take a break till you arrive! There is a reward for obedience. When God appeared to Abraham and promised him the land, Abraham's first response was to build an altar. In the midst of those who claimed the land, Abraham raised an altar of ownership. Abraham makes an invisible contract in the realms of the Spirit by raising an altar unto the Lord, he was marking the territory as his own. When God speaks, many believers don't know how to immortalize the promise. Seal the Word with an altar! In the realms of the Spirit, the word is established. God grants ownership by speaking the Word; you enter into that ownership by raising an altar and entering into covenant with the Lord. A stranger became an owner through a covenant. 2025 is the year of possession—exit transition and take possession of the Promised Land.
What are you ruled by? In the story of the twelve men who were sent to report on the conditions of the land of Caanan, ten of them came back with a perspective that was based in fear. Two of the men had faith and a positive outlook. They all saw potential, but most of them refused to take the risk. For you to function at your best, you need to step out, trust God and take a risk. When you are ruled by only what you see in front of you, you miss out on what God is saying and doing. But if you look past what is right in front of you, you will see the promises of God! Will you choose to be ruled by fear or faith?
[2022 Reciepent (NACAMA) National Academy of Christian Acappella Music Artists Award - "Outstanding Achievement in Record or Radio" ] On the show tonight my special guests is the acappella group "Just Us" from Tallehassee, Florida. "Song of the Week" featuring Just Us from Tallehassee, Florida. Single: "Caanan's Land" July (Monthly Triple Spin) featuring Ron Walker from Edmond, Oklahoma. 2024 Album "Mind, Body and Soul" "Funny Bones"... "Old One Hundreds" ... "Shout Outs" DATE: July 12, 2024
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