Podcasts about christlike

True greatness comes through character, sacrifice, service, and Christlike living—not worldly power, wealth, or recognition. Click here to see the speech page.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

SUMMARY: - “Hurting people hurt people—but narcissists mean to. The higher up the spectrum, the more deliberate and sadistic it becomes.” - “A normal person can self-reflect and repair. A narcissist can't or won't—self-reflection feels like death to them.” - “You didn't cause this, and you can't fix it. It's not your fault.” - “As darkness rises, so does the glory of God. What the enemy meant for evil, God can turn for good.” - “If you move slowly and keep physical/emotional boundaries while dating, a narcissist will often disqualify himself.” Annette's 4-category spectrum - Category 1: “Normal” human flaws—can be selfish or insensitive at times, but can self-reflect, repent, repair, and grow. - Category 2: Emotionally immature; hurtful without calculated malice. Constant defensiveness, blame-shifting, meltdowns when confronted. Change is unlikely; aim is reducing chaos and managing wisely if you choose to stay. - Category 3: Calculated and conniving. Love-bombing, data-mining your hopes/fears to weaponize later. Public charm/private cruelty. Dangerous in church/community settings. You won't resolve this. - Category 4: Sociopathic/psychopathic traits. Amplified cruelty and real danger. Divorce triggers the “monster.” Requires safety planning, documentation, and expert help. Dating red flags and protection - Love-bombing: intense pursuit, “soulmate” language, over-the-top gestures, fast-moving timeline. - Boundary testing: pushes past your limits; discomfort rises quickly. - Inconsistencies and subtle cruelty: backhanded comments, smirks at tears or grief, delight in your pain. - How to protect: move slowly, keep physical/emotional boundaries early, listen to the Holy Spirit and your discomfort, look for patterns (not isolated incidents), and let time test character. If you stay (Category 2 dynamics) - Goal: not fixing him, but wisely reducing chaos and preserving your well-being and the household's stability. - Tactics: reframe requests in terms of what benefits him; avoid head-on confrontation; build your life outside the relationship (calling, ministry, education, friendships). - Support: grief the loss of the dream; get equipped; find a small, trusted peer group who truly understands narcissistic abuse. If you're considering leaving (especially 3–4) - Safety first: if there's a risk of harm, have a go-bag for you/kids/pets and get out. - Prepare: document everything; expect financial sabotage; avoid using the term “narcissist” in court unless there's a diagnosis. - Kids: courts may be vulnerable to “parental alienation” claims; consider a High-Conflict Divorce Coach to reduce legal costs and navigate strategy. - Church/community: narcissists often “borrow” your credibility and pre-poison relationships. Find a healthy church culture and rebuild wise support. Biblical considerations for divorce - Abuse, abandonment, adultery are valid biblical grounds. With minors, weigh carefully: safety, modeling for children, and the realities of family court. Healing and identity - Post-abuse, identity is almost always impacted. You can be 10 years out and still hear their voice in your head—self-abuse by proxy. - The path: clean up the past (lies, agreements, unresolved pain), rebuild identity in Christ, then step into power and authority with wisdom and boundaries. - Beauty must rise with pain: intentionally add joy, nature, creativity, and community to counterbalance suffering. Church and parenting insights - Teach kids the Word, discernment, and healthy vs. unhealthy relationship dynamics. Christlike love includes boundaries and walking away when necessary. Programs and resources Annette mentioned - Living Well While Staying: coaching for women who choose to remain in Category 2 marriages, focused on reducing chaos and rebuilding a meaningful life. - Cinderella No More Academy: membership community and tools for recovery and growth. - Cinderella Conversations: 4-session discovery series on identifying narcissistic dynamics, tactics, false guilt, and spiritual warfare. - Upcoming book: Cinderella No More: Becoming Ella (target 2026). She's seeking early readers for feedback. - For severe trauma/PTSD: consider a Christian therapist specializing in trauma; complement with coaches who understand narcissistic abuse. Interview for fit. One thing to remember - You didn't cause it, you can't fix it—and this isn't the end. With God, this can be the beginning of a new, stronger chapter. You get to write the next chapters with Him.   PODCAST INTRO: My guest Annette Chesney is a Christian coach, speaker, and seasoned recovery professional  who equips women healing from narcissistic abuse. Narcissistic dynamics can be hard to spot because they often look like ordinary relationship friction at first. Many people struggle to tell the difference between someone who is simply hurting and occasionally hurtful, and someone who persistently harms others without accountability.  One useful way to think about it is as a spectrum: not everyone with difficult traits is a narcissist, and not every narcissistic person behaves the same way. Understanding this range can help you decide what you're seeing—and what to do next. But before you think that keeps you in the dark….Annette has created a spectrum that consists of 4 categories or types of narcissists including 10 different characteristics. What she shares is very interesting and from my experience very accurate.  Annette's work is done both one-on-one and in groups. She talks primarily from a women's point of view with regard to narcissistic abuse but she did say men are subject to women narcs as well.  Annette talks about common red flags and she says pay attention to patterns over time rather than isolated incidents; that wider view tells the truth. Annette even shares about how she coaches women who choose to stay in a challenging relationship…she teaches  “management” strategies that focus less on changing the other person and more on stabilizing her client's environment, protecting her energy, and minimizing chaos. A few of the examples she gave were learning how to reframe requests so they're seen as mutually beneficial, limiting circular arguments, and building a strong support system outside the relationship.  She even touches on the subject for when separation or divorce becomes necessary and minor children are involved. She alerted us to the fact that trauma symptoms, including anxiety and PTSD‑like responses, are not uncommon adding that qualified mental health support and targeted coaching can help you recover clarity and confidence. Even with the reality of living with the effects of narcissistic abuse…the dismantling of who you are, loss of confidence, identity, goals, dreams etc. , Annette says recovery is possible. Many people find that healing involves unpacking earlier hurts, challenging false beliefs, rebuilding identity, and learning durable skills: boundaries, self‑care, emotional regulation, and discernment.  Getting connected with the right help will make all the difference and get you to what she calls…your Kingdom Zone of Impact where you're living with identity and purpose in Christ.  Her parting words were for the listener to remember two things that are worth holding onto: you didn't cause someone else's narcissistic pattern, and you can't fix it for them. What you can do is prioritize safety, educate yourself/get informed, surround yourself with wise support, and invest in your own future. Whether you're staying, preparing to leave, or rebuilding afterward, the next chapters can be healthier—with Christ those next chapters are filled with restoration and redemption, they can bring clarity, strength identity and purpose… and they're yours to discover with the Lover of Your Soul, the One who never abuses you, never fails you, Jesus. Live Loved and Thrive! Sherrie Pilk   Connect With Annette: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annette-chesney/ Website: https://annettechesney.com/ Visit her website for more information on the programs and resources Annette mentioned: - Living Well While Staying: coaching for women who choose to remain in Category 2 marriages, focused on reducing chaos and rebuilding a meaningful life. - Cinderella No More Academy: membership community and tools for recovery and growth. - Cinderella Conversations: 4-session discovery series on identifying narcissistic dynamics, tactics, false guilt, and spiritual warfare. - Upcoming book: Cinderella No More: Becoming Ella (target 2026). She's seeking early readers for feedback. - For severe trauma/PTSD: consider a Christian therapist specializing in trauma; complement with coaches who understand narcissistic abuse. Interview for fit.  

Through God's discipline, even hardships and setbacks can cultivate Christlike character and spiritual growth. -------- Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible.     Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org   Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Mark Clifton and Mark Hallock talk about how pastors can deepen their daily prayer life, reflecting on an article from Chuck Lawless about seven things Tom Elliff prays for every day. If you're a pastor, ministry leader, church planter, or replanter, this episode will encourage you to build a more intentional, Scripture-shaped pattern of prayer. In this episode, they walk through seven daily pastoral prayers: 1. A continual awareness of God's presence Praying for a “looming sense” of God's nearness throughout the day. Learning to live, lead, and make decisions with a constant God-consciousness. 2. A pure heart Asking God to search your motives, cleanse hidden sin, and guard your integrity. Understanding why personal holiness is essential for pastoral ministry. 3. The fullness of the Holy Spirit Praying to be led, empowered, and sustained by the Spirit in every aspect of ministry. 4. The gifts and graces of the Spirit Seeking spiritual gifts and Christlike character to serve your people well. Asking God to bear visible fruit in and through your life. 5. Protection from bringing reproach on Christ Pleading with God that you would do nothing that gives the enemy an opportunity to mock your Lord. Talking honestly about temptation, spiritual warfare, and the fear of disqualifying yourself. 6. God's hand on your family Praying for your spouse, children, and loved ones serving God around the world. Thinking about how to shepherd both your church and your home. 7. Faithfulness to God's calling and vision Asking the Lord to keep you true to the mission He's given you. Staying focused and steadfast in seasons of discouragement, transition, or slow growth. This episode is especially helpful for: Pastors wanting a daily prayer framework Leaders in church revitalization and replanting Anyone longing to grow in spiritual depth, dependence, and perseverance in ministry Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Article: “7 Things My Pastoral Hero Prays Every Day” by Chuck Lawless Listen in for a practical, worshipful guide to daily pastoral prayer, learning to seek God for purity, power, protection, and perseverance in ministry.

Before you step into a new year with fresh goals and renewed focus, you need something even more powerful: a clear, honest, Spirit-led review of the year you've just lived. In this episode, we walk through the key questions every Christian woman in leadership should ask at the end of each year — questions that help you slow down, reflect deeply, and lead more intentionally in the year to come. You'll explore: what grew you personally and professionally where you stretched, struggled, or stood still how well your leadership aligned with your values what worked well within your team — and what didn't how your decision-making, communication, and delegation shaped your leadership where God strengthened you… and where He's inviting you to grow next This isn't about judging yourself. It's about learning from the year God brought you through so you can step into the next one with clarity, confidence, and purpose. If you want a simple, powerful way to reflect on your year — without the overwhelm — this episode will guide you through it. Download your free End of Year Review HERE Your Next Step Want deeper clarity and confidence heading into the new year? Grab The Imposter Syndrome Blueprint — your Scripture-rooted private podcast for overcoming self-doubt and leading with Christlike confidence.

The first time he lifted an Apache off the ground, it felt like piloting a floating bus. The first time he said “no” to what he believed was an unlawful mandate, it felt like stepping into a different kind of combat. In this candid, high-velocity conversation, a National Guard Apache pilot walks us through SEER school realities, gunnery exhilaration, and the boredom of a deployment constrained by a peace deal that tied hands while allies bled. Then the fight comes home: policy-by-whisper, moving goalposts, and a refusal to file for exemptions because conscience, oath, and regulation mattered more than convenience.To watch the intensity of this entire episode, the full episode is here: https://youtu.be/Vbp61FnTQHAWhen leaders wouldn't put groundings in writing and mental health became a pretext, he documented everything and spoke out. The video went viral not because it was loud, but because it was clear. We unpack the blowback that never came from the public, the board that's coming anyway, and the question every service member must answer: who are you accountable to when orders and integrity collide?From there we shift into faith and institutions. He separates belief in Christ and original texts from corporate religion, calling out secrecy, money incentives, and ever-shifting rules as un-Christlike. No barbs for sport—just a standard: test paths by their fruits. If it grows honesty, sacrifice, and love, keep going. If it demands secrecy and obedience without light, step away. Finally, we wade into pornography as a spiritual and cultural weapon. This isn't moralizing; it's a field manual. Accountability with a trusted friend, device discipline, and a higher aim—purity as strength—can reset attention, intimacy, and confidence. He's living proof.If you care about courage, conscience, and the kind of brotherhood that makes men harder to buy and harder to break, press play. Then share it with someone who needs a spine-stiffening story, subscribe for more unfiltered conversations, and leave a review with the one moment you won't forget.To follow DJ and his journey, follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @cheifsearcyTo support DJ's fight for freedom, learn more here: https://www.givesendgo.com/djsearcySend us a textSupport the showFollow Wild Chaos on Social Media: Apple iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-wild-chaos-podcast/id1732761860Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5KFGZ6uABb1sQlfkE2TIoc?si=8ff748aa4fc64331 ⁠⁠⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildchaospodcastBam's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bambam0069Youtube: https://youtube.com/@wildchaospodTikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@thewildchaospodcastMeta (Facebook): ⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/TheWildChaosPodcast For business inquiries, email us at: info@thewildchaos.com

Southeast Baptist Podcast features the preaching and teaching of Pastor John Ray, the senior pastor of Southeast Baptist Tabernacle in Indianapolis, IN. His preaching is biblical, conversational, and encouraging as you pursue a Christlike walk.

Southeast Baptist Podcast features the preaching and teaching of Pastor John Ray, the senior pastor of Southeast Baptist Tabernacle in Indianapolis, IN. His preaching is biblical, conversational, and encouraging as you pursue a Christlike walk.

What does it truly mean to say, “God is love”? Let's explore the depth of God's agape love—a love that's unconditional, sacrificial, and self-giving. God's love isn't merely an emotion but an action, most clearly revealed through the gift of His Son. As recipients of such overwhelming grace, we're called to imitate God's love by laying aside selfishness, extending forgiveness, and demonstrating Christlike love to one another. When we love as He has loved us, we can change the world.

Pastor Lance preached from Philippians 2:5–11, presenting Jesus as the humble King who willingly left the glory of heaven, took on human flesh, and obeyed the Father even to death on a cross. He called believers to embrace Christlike humility through serving others and obedient living, while finding hope in the certainty that Christ's humility leads to His exaltation and eternal reign. #HumbleKing #Incarnation #ChristlikeHumility #ServeOthers #ObedientFaith #JesusIsLord #HopeInChrist #CalvaryTilton

12/26/25. Five Minutes in the Word scriptures for today: 2 Corinthians 10:11. Consistency in Christlike Authority. Resources: biblehub.com; logos.com; ChatGPT; and Life Application Study Bible. Listen daily at 10:00 am CST on https://kingdompraiseradio.com. November 2021 Podchaser list of "60 Best Podcasts to Discover!" LISTEN, LIKE, FOLLOW, SHARE! #MinutesWord; @MinutesWord; #dailybiblestudy #dailydevotional #Christian_podcaster https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK9zaXqv64YaCjh88XIJckA/videos https://m.youtube.com/@hhwscott

The sermon centers on Philippians 2:14–16, calling believers to a Christlike conduct marked by humility, service, and integrity, exemplified in the mind of Christ who emptied Himself and became obedient to death. It emphasizes that true unity in the church is not based on agreement or personality but on selfless love and mutual esteem, requiring the cultivation of Christ's mindset through reliance on God's empowering grace. The passage challenges listeners to eliminate murmuring and disputing—those quiet, under-the-breath complaints against others—by embracing a life of submission, humility, and obedience that reflects Christ's character. The preacher underscores that this transformation is not achieved through human effort alone but through the indwelling power of God, who works in believers to will and to do according to His good pleasure. Ultimately, the goal is to shine as lights in a crooked and perverse generation by holding forth the word of life, so that the preacher may rejoice in the day of Christ, knowing his labor was not in vain.

How can you clearly find Jesus Christ in the Old Testament without getting lost in its difficult passages? Dr. Josh Sears explores practical ways to identify Jesus Christ in the Old Testament through prophecy symbolic scripture and modern prophetic guidance bring clarity to challenging passages.YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/S-9CBYZxe9EALL EPISODES/SHOW NOTESfollowHIM website: https://www.followHIM.coFREE PDF DOWNLOADS OF followHIM QUOTE BOOKSNew Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastNTBookOld Testament: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastOTBookBook of Mormon: https://tinyurl.com/PodcastBMBook  WEEKLY NEWSLETTER https://tinyurl.com/followHIMnewsletter  SOCIAL MEDIA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/followHIMpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followhimpodcastTIMECODE00:00 Part 1 - Dr. Josh Sears01:28 Dr. Sears in IsraelO3:01 Dr. Sears bio05:03 Challenges to reading the Hebrew Bible06:45 Come, Follow Me Manual09:56 Types and shadows16:43 The Hebrew Bible through a Christian lens19:36 The name of God22:28 Premortal Jesus26:23 An example in Isaiah29:50 Roles of Jesus Christ33:47 How would a Jew read this?35:36 Capital L-O-R-D37:44 Jesus sounding “Christlike”40:53 Amping up rhetoric44:12 Wisdom from Panaca, Nevada46:56  Different translations49:48 The Pirate Bible51:43 Restoration scripture informs the Hebrew Bible56:27 Jesus has a plan59:25 New articles on Church website 01:03:06 Examples of changing verses01:06:02  End of Part 1 - Dr. Josh SearsThanks to the followHIM team:Steve & Shannon Sorensen: Cofounder, Executive Producer, SponsorDavid & Verla Sorensen: SponsorsDr. Hank Smith: Co-hostJohn Bytheway: Co-hostDavid Perry: ProducerKyle Nelson: Marketing, SponsorLisa Spice: Client Relations, Editor, Show NotesWill Stoughton: Video EditorKrystal Roberts: Translation Team, English & French Transcripts, WebsiteAriel Cuadra: Spanish TranscriptsAmelia Kabwika: Portuguese TranscriptsHeather Barlow: Communications DirectorSydney Smith: Social Media, Graphic Design "Let Zion in Her Beauty Rise" by Marshall McDonaldhttps://www.marshallmcdonaldmusic.com

Southeast Baptist Podcast features the preaching and teaching of Pastor John Ray, the senior pastor of Southeast Baptist Tabernacle in Indianapolis, IN. His preaching is biblical, conversational, and encouraging as you pursue a Christlike walk.

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How can we develop habits that lead to Christlike character? In this video, we explore the vital connection between habit formation, vows, and the fruit of the Spirit—especially self-control. Based on biblical principles and insights from Ellen G. White, this message explains how habits shape our character, how to break harmful patterns, and how to cultivate new ones under the influence of the Holy Spirit.

"Come prepared to give a brief contextual overview of each books - don't summarize each book, share any details we need to know about author, audience, and main themes. Then be ready to answer the following: 1. 1 John was written so believers might know they have eternal life (1 John 5:13). How does John give assurance, and what does he mean by the repeated tests of obedience, love, and right belief? 2. Both 1 John and 2 John emphasize walking in truth and love. How do these two themes fit together, and why was John so insistent that the church hold them tightly side by side? 3. “In 2 John, believers are warned not to welcome or support false teachers. How should we apply that today in a way that's faithful to John's warning but still models Christlike hospitality? You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

We often read the Christmas story for its beauty, its mystery, and its message of hope… but hidden inside the lives of Mary and Joseph are some of the most powerful leadership lessons you'll ever find. In this episode, we explore the kind of faith-filled leadership God modelled through two ordinary people who said “yes” in extraordinary circumstances. You'll discover what their journey teaches us about courage, integrity, adaptability, and leading through uncertainty — lessons every Christian woman needs in today's unpredictable world. We talk about: Mary's courage and conviction when the assignment didn't make sense Trusting God's vision when your circumstances feel overwhelming Joseph's integrity and servant leadership when faced with costly decisions Decisiveness and obedience in moments where the stakes are high Protecting the vulnerable and leading with compassion and strength If you want a fresh, biblical perspective on leadership — one that inspires you to lead with greater faith, courage, and clarity — this Christmas episode will bless you. Your Next Step For more Scripture-rooted confidence and Christlike leadership tools, grab The Imposter Syndrome Blueprint at:

Christ's humility is our example for unity with one another.

Jesus redefines blessing in Matthew 5:5 by declaring the meek—those who embody Christlike gentleness and self-control—will inherit the earth, subverting worldly values that exalt power and conquest. Far from weakness, biblical meekness is strength under divine restraint, reflecting Christ's own nature and exemplified in His victory over evil through suffering rather than force.

As Christmas Day draws near, we often hear stories of generosity, kindness, and the spirit of giving. But perhaps no story has inspired these virtues more than the life of St. Nicholas—a real man whose faith-filled generosity continues to echo through the centuries.Long before red suits and reindeer entered the picture, Nicholas lived a quiet, Christ-centered life marked by sacrificial love. His story reminds us that the true meaning of Christmas isn't found in what we receive, but in how we reflect the love of Jesus to others.A Childhood Shaped by Faith—and LossNicholas was born around A.D. 280 into a wealthy Christian family in Patara, a bustling port city in modern-day Turkey. From an early age, his parents taught him the teachings of Jesus—especially the call to care for the poor and the vulnerable. Their daily example planted seeds of compassion that would later bear extraordinary fruit.A tragedy occurred when Nicholas was still young. An epidemic claimed the lives of both his parents, leaving him orphaned—but also leaving him with a significant inheritance. In his grief, Nicholas turned to his faith. Rather than clinging to his wealth, he saw it as a means to serve others and live out the gospel.Nicholas became known for quietly helping those in desperate situations. His most famous act of generosity involved a poor man and his three daughters. In that culture, a dowry was required for marriage. Without it, the daughters faced the horrifying prospect of being sold into slavery.Moved by their plight, Nicholas acted—secretly. Under the cover of night, he delivered a bag of gold to the family, securing the eldest daughter's future. He returned twice more, each time providing enough to ensure another daughter could marry safely.When the father eventually discovered Nicholas's identity, Nicholas urged him to thank God alone. He took Jesus' words to heart: “When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing” (Matthew 6:3). Nicholas didn't seek recognition—only faithfulness.A Shepherd With Courage and ConvictionLater in life, Nicholas became the bishop of Myra, where his compassion expanded beyond individuals to an entire community. He was known for defending the poor, standing up for the innocent, and shepherding his people with deep love.During the persecution of Christians under Emperor Diocletian, Nicholas risked imprisonment for his faith. He later attended the Council of Nicaea in A.D. 325, standing firm for the truth of the gospel. Yet what truly defined him wasn't his position—it was his Christlike love.Nicholas lived as if true wealth was found not in possessions, but in a living relationship with God.After his death on December 6, A.D. 343, stories of Nicholas's generosity spread across generations. He became known as a protector of children, a patron of sailors, and a symbol of selfless giving. Over time, his life inspired the figure we now associate with Santa Claus—but behind the legend stands a man devoted to glorifying God.The story of St. Nicholas challenges us to reconsider the meaning of Christmas. His life wasn't about extravagant gifts or public praise. It was about embodying the love of Christ—sacrificial, humble, and freely given.Living the True Meaning of ChristmasThis Christmas, as we exchange gifts and gather with loved ones, let's remember that the greatest gift has already been given—Jesus Christ, who came to save sinners and offer eternal life.Like St. Nicholas, we are called to share that gift with others. Through generosity, service, and simple acts of kindness, we can reflect the light of Christ in a world desperate for hope. As Jesus reminded us, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”May the story of St. Nicholas inspire us to give generously, love deeply, and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas—because it's not the gifts we receive, but the love we share, that makes this season truly special.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I've heard that even if you have a will, your estate still has to go through court, but that having a trust allows you to avoid that. Is that correct? Since I currently have both a will and a trust, is it advisable to keep both?I'm the CFO of a company that's considering a sale. The CEO wants to sell to a buyer I'm concerned could ultimately harm the company. Given my role, what counsel or perspective can I offer the CEO as we consider this decision?I'm 82 years old and have lost my eyesight, which makes it difficult to write checks and pay bills. What options are available for setting up automatic bill pay or managing my finances more easily?I'll be retiring soon—I turn 62 next year—and I still owe about $119,000 on my home. I work part-time, and my husband works full-time. Should I start collecting Social Security now, even though I'll continue working, so we can pay off the house more quickly?My husband and I are in our early 40s. We own our home outright, have no debt, and paid for college in cash. We've saved about $140,000 and would like to invest $100,000, but we're not sure of the best way to do that.I was overpaid SSDI by Social Security and am currently repaying it. Do I need to repay the overpayment before I can receive my retirement benefits?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A sober look at global faithfulness serves as a mirror for believers who often forget the cost of following Christ. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar consider the weight of persecution as they reflect on how Christians in Turkey face real danger for sharing the gospel, a stark contrast to the ease of access in the United States. They note that believers in Muslim contexts live with constant questions about government intervention, yet persecution has unified the small Christian remnant. The guys affirm that it is understandable to feel nervous when sharing the gospel, since even Paul had concerns but still chose to obey God rather than man.The conversation shifts to what fuels courage, and the guys return to the cross where hostility met perfect love. They discuss how raising God's truths often sparks tension, which is why gentleness is crucial. Jesus warned that the world would hate His followers just as it hated Him, yet His response to persecution was marked by sacrifice and humility. The early church served instead of retaliating, but once Christianity was Romanized, this attitude changed; the guys encourage believers to recover a Christlike way of fighting for truth, especially when loving enemies feels unnatural.They then consider what believers should do when hostility comes from family. The call is to understand the other person's perspective while remaining faithful. Jesus delivered a perfect message and was still rejected, so modern believers should expect the same. The guys warn that Christians can invite ridicule by arguing instead of witnessing, forgetting that they, too, once stood opposed to the gospel. A humble heart aims to make the message clear so the lost might see their need for the Savior and trust God to bring salvation. Evangelism and discipleship go together, shaped by sincerity and reliance on the Lord.Finally, the guys note that many present-day atheists are less focused on the existence of God and more on social and cultural issues, which is why understanding cultural questions is important. Early believers lacked legal protection but relied on the Spirit, and the guys highlight prayer as the true source of strength. Oscar recalls moments when God made him feel incapable so he would depend on the Lord, while E.Z. often prays that unnecessary anxiousness would be removed. Authenticity cannot be faked, and believers should pray both before and after sharing the gospel. The call is to look to God's greatness, not the world's resistance, remembering that faithfulness often invites opposition rather than applause.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you've been helped by this podcast, we'd be grateful if you'd consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro

Happiness in Marriage by Autumn Dickson This week is all about The Family Proclamation. Here is the topic I want to cover. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. I want to talk about happiness in marriage specifically, but the principles I speak about can be applied more broadly to any relationship you're going to be a part of. Marriages are falling apart in our day. Satan is coming after the family in a multi-pronged attack, but destroying marriages is just one part of how he chooses to do this. Social media loves showing off images of bright and shiny couples, individuals who seem so much happier alone, and advice about how your spouse should be acting towards you. We're taught that we deserve to be happy and if we're not happy, we should leave. We're taught that if a spouse can't meet our needs, we can't be happy. We're taught that it's better for the kids if we're happy. And yet, despite all of this teaching, the world can't seem to get it together and be happy. Oh the irony. I love my marriage. I'm so grateful to have Conner, and there are a lot of reasons for that. One of those reasons is not because Conner or I have been perfect. It's not because we agree on everything, or even agree on everything that's really important. It's not because we've never been mean to each other or because we've never had to navigate days at a time where we can't really figure out how to get past something. It's not because Conner is so intuitive at reading me or because I never complain. We are two different people with different baggage, different perspectives, different personalities, different ways of handling things. We are two people who experience times of drowning stress, resentment, uncertainty, and traumas. It can be easy to look at happy couples and assume that they have it easy, but that's not true. It's not true for anyone. There are relationships that hold more difficulty than others which is why I encourage everyone to seek the help of the Lord in knowing what to do. However, if you've married a generally decent person who doesn't scream at you, belittle you, act violently towards you, financially abuse you, then there is hope for happiness. And your best chance for happiness lies in following the teachings of Jesus Christ. Christ didn't focus on communication styles or on making sure you have everything in common ahead of entering a relationship. He didn't focus on love languages or living together ahead of time to see if you're compatible or any of the other stuff that the world tries pushing so hard. He doesn't even focus on making sure the other person knows how to take care of you in a relationship. He didn't focus on changing the other person so that you could be happy. The foremost characteristic of Christ's life was love, love for God and then love for others. Everything He did, the miracles and leading and teaching and forgiving and gratitude and serving all boiled down to that great love. If we want to be happy, we have to love the other person more fully. In order to find this happiness, you have to have a correct understanding of what that love looks like. Otherwise, you run the risk of building up more resentment rather than finding happiness. Love does not mean you're a doormat. It doesn't mean you never say anything or complain. It doesn't mean that you smile and stay silent when you're hurting. Love is not an outward action. It is an inward feeling that inspires different kinds of outward actions. Sometimes love does mean looking at the back of a person and choosing to smile even when they're doing something annoying again. Sometimes it does mean mercy and forgiveness and letting go when none of it was your fault. Sometimes it means accepting them exactly as they are and finding it within yourself to feel affectionate anyway. Other times, the most loving thing you can do is speak up. Sometimes the most loving thing you can do is tell someone they're wrong. The beautiful thing about it coming from a place of love is that the Spirit can help you know how to handle the situation in the best way available. Chastisement also hits differently when you can feel that the other person is actually more worried about you rather than worried about how you're making their life harder. Think of it in this way. When Conner comes to correct me sometimes (which we do often enough for each other), I get up in arms sometimes. My gut reaction is to insist that he doesn't understand what I'm going through, and criticism isn't helpful. Luckily, I have a husband who gets this, and he often continues the conversation calmly. He also dives in and tells how it would be better for me if I chose to make different decisions. It's extremely effective. He once told me that I needed to be more consistent in my discipline with one of our kids. I was so mad. It is so difficult to keep up sometimes, and it's hard to figure out the balance between disciplining your kids and letting it go because you're desperate or because you don't want them to feel like terrible kids. But he continued on calmly. He told me that I was actually making my own life harder by letting things go, that it would only take a couple of days of consistency and my kids would know I was serious. He was totally right but beyond that, he also did it with sincere love for me, and that made all the difference. Correcting me was a form of love; it was Christlike. Not to mention, it landed differently because it was about love for me. He wasn't correcting me because I was making his life more difficult. He was correcting me because he really wanted me to live better. I'm not going to pretend this isn't a hard point to reach. It is hard to love someone when you don't feel loved. It's hard to love someone when you feel like you're the only one who has been stepping up. It's hard to love someone when you're drowning in your own stress. It calls upon some of your deepest willpower and self-observation. I'm not talking about reaching down and hollowing yourself out and giving the last pieces of yourself. I'm not talking about resigning yourself to misery because you have to love them rather than begging them to change. I'm talking about letting go of your need to change them in order for you to find happiness. I'm talking about actively working on yourself, not to stop complaining or to stop nitpicking, but to actively and consciously choose to love them in the hardest moments. If you want to be happy in family life, you have to follow the teachings of Christ. One of the foremost characteristics of Christ, the characteristic that motivated everything else, was a sincere and deep love of everyone. Including those who wouldn't change or didn't deserve it. If you want to be happy, love freely. Happiness doesn't come from being loved perfectly; it comes from loving more perfectly. That is the truth. You have to change yourself to love the other person more freely. This goes for any kind of relationship. This doesn't mean you need to stay in every relationship, but loving the other person will help you heal faster even if that person was awful. It's counterintuitive but true. Truly loving someone frees you and heals you and brings happiness. Perhaps it seems too simple for your problem. Maybe you're insisting that I don't know your spouse and how hard it is. You're right. I don't. But I do know the power of changing to be like Christ. I do know that He was the most brilliant Man to ever walk the earth. I know that He knows what He was talking about. In any situation in your marriage (or any other relationship), trying to adopt love into your heart in the way that Christ loved will make the difference. I testify that happiness in any kind of relationship comes when we act like Christ. We find happiness. I testify that even if you can't find happiness directly in your relationship, there is a powerful happiness available in drawing closer to Christ. There is a powerful happiness that comes when you find it within yourself to love the other person and lean on Christ and His deep love when you need it. Autumn Dickson was born and raised in a small town in Texas. She served a mission in the Indianapolis Indiana mission. She studied elementary education but has found a particular passion in teaching the gospel. Her desire for her content is to inspire people to feel confident, peaceful, and joyful about their relationship with Jesus Christ and to allow that relationship to touch every aspect of their lives. Autumn was the recipient of FAIR's 2024 John Taylor Defender of the Faith Award. The post Come, Follow Me with FAIR – The Family: A Proclamation to the World – Part 2 – Autumn Dickson appeared first on FAIR.

Can Diet Make You More Christ-Like? David Gornoski sits down with George (8f4 on X) for a discussion on Theosis through a bioenergetic lens, the thyroid gland as an orchestra between the body and the spirit, rediscovering Christ-like wonder, finding immortality in a fallen world, the purpose of Omega-6, Ray Peat's selfless life, and more. Follow George on X here. Follow David Gornoski on X here. Visit aneighborschoice.com for more

In this episode, H8JNZ dives into three conversations most people are too uncomfortable to have in the same room.We start with a grounded, real-world discussion on purchasing a firearm—not from hype or fear, but from responsibility, preparedness, and understanding what the Second Amendment actually means for everyday people living in uncertain times.From there, the conversation shifts into Homeboy's Amendment: a proposed political reset that tackles two structural problems at once—term limits for elected officials and tying the minimum wage to a fixed percentage instead of an arbitrary number, anchored to the Federal Reserve so economic decisions hit closer to home for voters. No slogans. No party lines. Just systems, incentives, and consequences.We close with a reflective discussion on The Passion of the Christ—not as controversy bait, but as a meditation on suffering, sacrifice, belief, and why that story still resonates across cultures, politics, and personal struggle.This episode isn't about telling you what to think.It's about asking why the conversations stopped in the first place.Topics Covered:Responsible gun ownership & the Second AmendmentTerm limits and long-term political stagnationRethinking minimum wage as a percentage-based systemFaith, sacrifice, and the cultural impact of The Passion of the ChristLike, subscribe, and share if you believe uncomfortable conversations are the ones worth having.#H8JNZ #SecondAmendment #GunOwnership #TermLimits #MinimumWage #HomeboysAmendment #FaithAndCulture #PassionOfTheChrist #RealConversations #NoSafeTopicsThe Adventures of Chino and Homeboyhttps://a.co/d/c5wz55xStream Yardhttps://streamyard.com/pal/c/5711988960919552King of Chaos Coffee: https://kingofchaoscoffeeco.com/Merch Store: https://chinohomeboy.bigcartel.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9yKmCI6seZWDWpq_oD2jCAStream Yard: https://streamyard.com/pal/c/5711988960919552Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chinoandhomeboyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chinoandhomeboy/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chinoandhomeboyProduced & AnimatedbySabino CruzChino & Homeboy CreatedbySabino Cruz & Phillip EzpeletaFont: "Luckiest Guy" Astigmatic One Eye Typographic InstituteCover Art: Alston NovakSong"Pirate Mutiny"byThe Sovereigns

Human Brokenness, Lesson 14 What on Earth is Concupiscence? WARNING: This lesson contains explicit language and sexual terms and it may not be suitable for children and younger teenagers. Begin with reading Colossians 3:1 Pay particular attention to verse 5.Paul is speaking to Christians, - who have been given new life in Christ John 11:24-25 If such a wonderful change has taken place, then surely we cannot continue to live as though nothing at all has happened! We keep one eye upon eternity, knowing that the pleasures that this world offers us are momentary, - and soon will be gone forever. V2 And in eternity - in heaven, we shall be without sin - glorified bodies! V4 Before we met the Lord, we lived in ignorance of our sin, but now, we know better! V10 Paul gives us, in verse 5, a list of those old sins and immoral ways in which we walked before conversion, and which we need to be aware of, and deal with as Christian believers, seeking to be Christlike in our lives. Read the NOTES HERE. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hospitality is more than offering a meal or inviting someone into our home—it is a powerful witness to the love of Christ. Augustine’s journey toward faith began not with an argument, but with the gracious welcome of Bishop Ambrose, whose kindness opened the door for Augustine to encounter the truth of the gospel. Scripture reminds us that our lives testify to Christ just as much as our words do. When we walk in wisdom toward outsiders, extend grace, and make the best use of every moment (Colossians 4:5–6), God often uses our ordinary acts of love to draw others to Himself. Today, we are invited to imitate Christ’s hospitality by welcoming, serving, and loving those around us in His name. Main Takeaways You’ll learn how hospitality can serve as a powerful form of evangelism. Discover how Augustine’s relationship with Ambrose illustrates the impact of gracious, Christlike living. Understand Paul’s call to walk wisely toward outsiders and speak with grace. Reflect on how daily interactions create opportunities to demonstrate the gospel. Be encouraged to model God’s welcoming heart by extending love, warmth, and attentiveness to others. Bible Verse References Colossians 4:5 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/colossians/4-5.html Colossians 4:6 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/colossians/4-6.html Acts 4:19–20 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/acts/passage/?q=acts+4:19-20 1 Peter 2:12 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/1-peter/2-12.html James 4:14 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/james/4-14.html Romans 5:8 – https://www.biblestudytools.com/romans/5-8.html Your Daily Prayer Lord of every moment, help me steward well the relationships and opportunities You place in my life. Teach me to walk in wisdom toward others, extending the same grace, warmth, and hospitality You have shown me. Soften my heart toward those who are difficult to love, and open my eyes to simple ways I can welcome, listen, and care for others. When kindness feels costly, remind me of the cross and the immeasurable love You displayed there. May my life reflect Your heart and lead others closer to You.In Jesus’ name, Amen. Want More? Subscribe to Your Daily Prayer for daily devotional encouragement. Leave a rating or review to help others find the podcast. Visit LifeAudio.com for more biblically grounded podcasts. Explore more devotionals and spiritual growth articles at Crosswalk.com and Christianity.com. Relevant Links & Resources Articles on hospitality, Christian living, and loving others well:Crosswalk.com – https://www.crosswalk.comChristianity.com – https://www.christianity.com Scripture resources for today’s passages:BibleStudyTools.com – https://www.biblestudytools.com/colossians/4-5.html Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Today’s Topics: 1) John Sablan on his book: Christ Like, After God's Own Hear worldablaze.org 2, 3, 4)  In Part 50 of this series, Jesse and Eddie continue discussing “Blessings and Imposition of Hands,” beginning on page 244, in The Liber Christo Method of Healing and Deliverance, by Dr. Dan Schneider

Try our Online Bible College here!: https://5lxiiva.pushpress.com/open/interested In this episode, my brother and I walk through Ephesians 4:1–11 and talk about what it truly means to live worthy of the calling we've received as believers. We focus on:

Southeast Baptist Podcast features the preaching and teaching of Pastor John Ray, the senior pastor of Southeast Baptist Tabernacle in Indianapolis, IN. His preaching is biblical, conversational, and encouraging as you pursue a Christlike walk.

It's very hard to take Messiah as he is, when you have your own expectations of what Messiah is supposed to do. But Advent is about waiting. So while we're waiting on the world to be saved, let's take Christ as he is and not to make him do something or be something that isn't Christlike.

12/13/25. Five Minutes in the Word scriptures for today: 2 Corinthians 10:1. Christlike Humility. Resources: biblehub.com; logos.com; ChatGPT; and Life Application Study Bible. Listen daily at 10:00 am CST on https://kingdompraiseradio.com. November 2021 Podchaser list of "60 Best Podcasts to Discover!" LISTEN, LIKE, FOLLOW, SHARE! #MinutesWord; @MinutesWord; #dailybiblestudy #dailydevotional #Christian_podcaster https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK9zaXqv64YaCjh88XIJckA/videos https://m.youtube.com/@hhwscott

Brian From reflects on the dangers of political cynicism and power while calling Christians to lives marked by character, integrity, and Christlike distinctiveness. As Christmas approaches, he explores the spiritual cost of screen addiction, the importance of turning toward one another, and how practices like communal singing and gracious speech shape healthier, more faithful lives. The episode closes with Advent reflections that point listeners to hope, light in the darkness, and the promise of Emmanuel—God with us. Redistricting fight shifts to Wisconsin, where judicial panels may pick new maps Singing with Other People Improves Health More Than Singing Alone Speak with a Christian Accent Turn Toward Each Other and Away from the Screen - Christianity Today How to Fight Your Phone Idolatry x.com/CTmagazine/status/1999471822891307332 Oprah accused of fueling family estrangement crisis she now warns about | Fox News A Gentle Pastor Isn’t a Weak Pastor Somebody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen: A Christmas Reflection See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thefirst thing that we see as an evidence of spiritual maturity and spiritualgrowth is that we are Christlike in our attitude, actions and speech. Jesus wasalways submitted to the will of His Father. Read the Gospels. Jesus always didHis Father's will. This quote from Psalms is most descriptive of Jesus: “Ihad delight to do Thy will. Oh my God. Thy law is written within my heart” (Psalm40:8). That was the heart and mind of Jesus, my friend. That's what happens tous when we're submitted in obedience to the will of God. As Oswalt Chamberssaid in one of his writings.  We'vebeen perfectly adjusted to the fact that Christ lives in us, and we now know andlive in His righteousness. We're robed in that righteousness, and we want towalk with Him with all of our heart. It's a surrendered life, as Andrew Murrayput it. Thenwe see the second evidence of our spiritual growth is stability. We're nolonger children tossed to and fro. Today, we looking at the third evidence of our spiritual growth that wefind in verse 15: “But speaking the truth in love may grow up in allthings unto Him who is the head Christ”. The third evidence of spiritualmaturity is that we consistently “speak the truth in love”. Someonehas said that truth without love is brutality, but love without truth ishypocrisy. We somehow another, by the grace of God, can combine the two. Youmust have truth expressed in love. I love that verse in Psalm 85:10 where itsays, "Love and truth and mercy have met. Righteousness and peace havekissed." I believe this happened at the cross of Calvary. It was therethe truth of God, that we're sinners that our sin must be punished, met withthe love and mercy of God, as Christ died in our place for our sins. We now canbe set free from our sin and experience peace along with God's righteousness! Nowwe can speak truth out of a heart of love to those around us because we'veexperienced the love of God. 1 John 4:7-11 tells us where this love comes from:"Beloved, let us love one another. For love is of God, and everyone wholoves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God. ForGod is love. In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God hassent His only begotten Son into the world that we might live through Him. Inthis is love, not that we love God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to bethe propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought to loveone another." Evidencethat we have spiritual maturity is that we can love, but we love in truth. We speakthe truth in love. We don't speak the truth to hurt, to condemn, todestroy, to tear down. We speak it in love to build up, to encourage, to help aperson get back on track. We speak the truth in love. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8tells us the kind of love that God has and that we should have. “Lovesuffers long. Love is kind. Love does not envy. Love does not parade itself. Isnot puffed up. Does not behave rudely. Does not seek its own. Is not provoked.Thinks no evil, does not rejoice in iniquity, rejoices in the truth, love bearsall things.” Whenwe have a heart that is surrendered and obedient to the will of the Lord GodAlmighty, we will have the mind of Christ, and we will speak the truth withlove. It will be evidence that there is something in our heart that's differentthan when the natural man is in control of our lives and tearing down anddestroying the lives of those around us as we see so often in Christian circles.God help us to have this mark of spiritual maturity, and spiritual growth, andthat is “speaking the truth in love”. Godbless!

“Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!” (2 Corinthians 9:15 NLT) In all your preparations for the holiday season, make sure you don’t miss the point of celebrating Christmas. Missing the profound meaning and implications of Jesus’ coming is surprisingly easy to do. The innkeeper in Bethlehem could have been an eyewitness to God’s arrival on earth. He could have been immortalized in nativity scenes, along with the shepherds and wise men. But Luke 2:7 says, “She [Mary] gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him snugly in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no lodging available for them” (NLT). The innkeeper missed Jesus because he gave priority to others. King Herod could have accompanied the wise men in their search for the One born King of the Jews. He could have offered his own crown as a gift to Jesus, as a sign of humility, obedience, and worship. But Herod missed Jesus because he couldn’t accept the idea of someone supplanting him as ruler. Matthew 2:16 tells us how far he went to keep it from happening: “Herod was furious when he realized that the wise men had outwitted him. He sent soldiers to kill all the boys in and around Bethlehem who were two years old and under, based on the wise men’s report of the star’s first appearance” (NLT). Most of the Jewish people who were alive when the Incarnation occurred missed Jesus because they ignored the truth of God’s Word. They interpreted Old Testament prophecy to fit their own agenda instead of trying to understand God’s agenda. Citizens of the Roman Empire missed Jesus because they were too busy worshipping other gods. They opted for false idols instead of God Himself. Let’s not make the same mistake. Let’s keep our priorities straight. This is the season of busyness. There are a lot of things vying for our attention—many of them important. But none is nearly as important as the gift of God’s only Son. Let’s approach the Lord with a sense of humility and obedience. The genocidal cruelty of Herod sets him apart from most people. But his refusal to hand the reins of power to anyone else is all too familiar. Giving our lives to Christ and submitting to His will can be a challenge. There are times when we want to pursue our own preferences and pleasures. But if we give in to those urges, we miss what the Lord has in store for us. Let’s prioritize God’s Word. In it, we find the secrets of wisdom, trail markers for discovering God’s will, instructions for living in a Christlike way, and glimpses into our future. The Bible is the gift that keeps giving. Let’s remove the false idols—the distractions that keep us from worshipping God wholeheartedly—from our lives. Let’s resolve not to miss Jesus this Christmas. Reflection question: What steps can you take to keep your focus on Jesus this Christmas? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 234: Expectation Roadblocks, I'm diving into one of the biggest hidden barriers to connection—especially during the holidays, on the mission, and in our closest relationships: expectations. This time of year brings an avalanche of pressure—how we "should" show up, how others "should" behave, how family gatherings "should" feel. But in this episode, I unpack why expectations—spoken or unspoken—almost always create disconnection, frustration, resentment, and emotional distance. And more importantly, I show you how to shift from expectation to true connection, autonomy, compassion, and emotional maturity. You'll learn why expectations feel like safety to your caveman brain, why they function as subtle attempts at emotional control, and how they create unnecessary pain—for both the person holding the expectation and the person living under it. I walk you through real-life mission examples, family dynamics, missionary companionships, and holiday interactions to show exactly how expectation roadblocks form—and how to move beyond them using supportive tools like boundaries, requests, intentions, emotional ownership, and unconditional Christlike love. We'll talk about the signs you're stuck in expectation mode, the emotional fallout it creates, and the powerful mindset shifts that help you release pressure, drop resentment, and create genuine connection with the people in your life—companions, roommates, family members, mission leaders, friends, and even yourself. If you want more peace, more authenticity, and more connection this season (and always), this episode will feel like a breath of fresh air. As always, if you found this episode helpful, I want to invite you to subscribe if you aren't already, share this episode with your friends and missionaries you know, and write a review. I know this work will help LDS missionaries around the world and it would mean so much to me if you did. Until next week my friends.     Website | Instagram | Facebook   5 Ways to Process Any Less-Than Happy Mission Memories Article: HERE   Get the Full Show Notes and Text/PDF Transcripts: HERE   Free PDF Download:  Podcast Roadmap   Free PDF Download:  Preparing Missionary Cheat Sheet   Free Training for Preparing Missionaries:  Change Your Mission with this One Tool   RM Transition Free Video Series:  3 Tools to Help RMs in Their Transition Home   Free Guide:  5 Tips to Help Any Returning Missionary   Schedule a Free Strategy Call:   Click Here

Send us a textIn this episode we eat on what biblical compassion really looks like — not the watered-down version we often settle for, but the powerful, gut-level word splagchnizomai that shaped the life of Jesus. We explore how He saw people, felt deeply for them, and then moved into action, and why that same pattern is meant to shape us today. Through Scripture, stories, and practical insight, this episode challenges you to move from passive sympathy to active, Christlike compassion that has the power to change lives — including your own.

What should you pray for most? Pastor Skip shows how love—real, discerning, Christlike love—is at the heart of every powerful prayer.

Today on Connect with Skip Heitzig, what should you pray for most? Pastor Skip shows how love—real, discerning, Christlike love—is at the heart of every powerful prayer. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/104/29?v=20251111

Show Us Your Face, O Lord Today's Gospel and Homily reflect on Christ's compassion and mission during Advent. Jesus travels through villages teaching, proclaiming the Kingdom, and healing every disease. Seeing the crowds “like sheep without a shepherd,” He sends His disciples to proclaim the nearness of God's Kingdom and to heal freely, just as they have freely received. Lord, Show Us Your Face The Homily then explores Advent's longing: “Lord, show us your face and we shall be saved.” This desire runs through Scripture and finds its fulfillment in the nativity, when God literally shows His face in Christ. Isaiah's prophecies reveal the coming Savior as both shoot from the stump of Jesse and root of Jesse . . . the One who appears in time yet is the eternal source of all life. Only such a divine Savior can heal humanity's deepest wound: separation from God. Christ's ministry continues this revelation . . . He shows God's face through mercy, healing, and compassion. The disciples, having been generously formed and blessed, are sent to extend that same generosity to the world. Advent, therefore, is not passive waiting but active mission: receiving Christ, becoming Christlike, and bringing His healing and hope to those who are lost. Listen to: Show Us Your Face, O Lord ---------------------------------------------------------------- Art Work Adoration of the Shepherds: Dutch Painter: Gerard van Honthorst: 1622 Notice the use of light in the painting. He was known as a painter that utilized light in his paintings. Another piece of art from this painter may be found on the QoAH website . ---------------------------------------------------------------- Why was this art work selected: The newborn Christ's face radiates light, echoing the longing to “see His face” and be saved. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: Matthew 9: 35–10: 1, 5-8 First Reading: Isaiah 30: 19-21, 23-26

This Sunday, Pastor Jon continued our Advent series, He Shall Be, with a teaching on Jesus' greatness and how He redefined what greatness means in the Kingdom of God. He contrasted our culture's pursuit of success, status, and recognition with the way of Jesus, whose greatness is revealed in humility, dependence, and self-giving love. In a world obsessed with achievement, Jesus' greatness is found in His descent; he had everything but became a child for our sake. And when we follow Jesus' example and rest in the Father's secure love, we are freed to serve others without fear. The path to true greatness is not a life shaped not by recognition, but by humility and Christlike love.

Southeast Baptist Podcast features the preaching and teaching of Pastor John Ray, the senior pastor of Southeast Baptist Tabernacle in Indianapolis, IN. His preaching is biblical, conversational, and encouraging as you pursue a Christlike walk.

Southeast Baptist Podcast features the preaching and teaching of Pastor John Ray, the senior pastor of Southeast Baptist Tabernacle in Indianapolis, IN. His preaching is biblical, conversational, and encouraging as you pursue a Christlike walk.

In this episode, we talk about the heart of real Christmas generosity—giving with no strings attached and blessing people who can't give anything back. It's simple, practical, and a reminder that the most Christlike gifts are often the quiet ones.

Leading with strong Christian values in a secular workplace can feel like walking a tightrope — wanting to honour God without overstepping boundaries, staying true to your faith without feeling “too much” or “not enough.” This episode is for every Christian woman who has ever wondered: “Can I lead boldly for Christ… even here?” The answer is yes — and today you'll learn how. In this conversation, we explore: how to stay grounded in your convictions without becoming defensive, preachy, or apologetic the subtle ways Christian leaders accidentally dim their light at work practical, Christlike behaviours that speak louder than words how to set boundaries, hold standards, and navigate workplace culture with wisdom and grace the difference between leading with your faith and leading about your faith If you've been feeling the tension of being a Christian woman in a non-Christian space, this episode will give you clarity, peace, and a renewed sense of purpose. Your Next Step If you often feel unsure, small, or hesitant about expressing your leadership in secular spaces, The Imposter Syndrome Blueprint will strengthen your confidence and help you lead with calm, steady, Christ-anchored conviction.

This week at Venture, Pastor Morgan concluded our Journey Through Ephesians series with a powerful and deeply practical message from Ephesians 5–6 on what it means to build a Spirit-filled home. Paul teaches that the truest test of our spiritual maturity isn't found on Sundays, in small groups, or in public — it's found in our homes. Pastor Morgan unpacks how the Gospel should transform our marriages, our parenting, and even our work relationships. A Spirit-filled home is built on:• Mutual submission• Christlike love• Godly order• Every relationship submitted to Jesus From marriage roles to parenting with gentleness, to representing Christ in the workplace, this message challenges us to invite the Holy Spirit into the center of our homes and everyday relationships. If your home feels chaotic, heavy, or dry — there is hope. The same Spirit who fills us in worship can fill our homes with peace, unity, and transformation. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Venture Church Online00:06 – “Tell us where you're watching from!”00:14 – Christmas vibes + Yule log jokes00:34 – Pastor Morgan begins + series conclusion01:12 – Recap: Armor of God (previous series)01:35 – Christmas season officially begins01:54 – Thanksgiving leftovers mourning02:14 – Hosting 12 people + refreshing the home02:46 – What a “reset” does for a house03:06 – Physical home vs. spiritual home atmosphere03:54 – Losing your holiness at home04:12 – Making Jesus famous at work vs. at home04:39 – Chaos, Legos, Costco flannels & sanctification05:17 – The home as the true test of spiritual maturity06:12 – Review of Ephesians: spiritual blessings, identity07:05 – From mountaintop truths to family relationships07:24 – If the Gospel doesn't change your home…07:48 – Instructions for Spirit-filled households08:03 – Reading Ephesians 5:21–3309:25 – Main point: A Spirit-filled home is built on mutual submission10:08 – Context: Greco-Roman household codes11:08 – How Christianity revolutionized the home11:32 – Centering all relationships on Jesus11:56 – Giving dignity and value to every family member12:23 – Calling those with power to sacrifice the most12:48 – “Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ”13:03 – Definition: Voluntarily placing others above yourself13:32 – A Spirit-filled posture says: “Christ is Lord of this home”14:24 – Submission isn't weakness — Jesus modeled it15:20 – The Spirit submits to the Son — equality within submission15:46 – Submission = Christlikeness16:12 – Marriage roles begin with mutual submission16:46 – Wives: honor your husbands (own husbands!)17:11 – Misuse of this text addressed18:18 – Submission is not inferiority, silence, or passivity18:56 – Proverbs 31: strong, wise, capable women19:26 – Honor creates atmosphere for husbands to thrive19:50 – Husbands: love like Christ loved the Church20:13 – Wives submit, husbands sacrifice20:41 – Your wife doesn't need a king — she has one21:20 – Husbands set the tone of the home21:49 – Pilot illustration — calm leadership22:40 – Your marriage preaches a sermon daily23:06 – Spirit-filled parenting begins23:40 – Children: obey and honor your parents24:06 – The promise that comes with obedience24:24 – Teaching youth the value of honor25:09 – Parents: do not provoke your children25:39 – Don't crush your kids with criticism26:13 – “Bring them up” — nurture, don't intimidate26:37 – Parents + pastors = partnership (NextGen vision)27:37 – Children are like wet cement — everything leaves a mark28:08 – Spirit-filled work relationships28:18 – Working as unto the Lord29:04 – Christians should be the most reliable workers29:48 – Your work is worship30:13 – Leaders: use influence to bless, not manipulate30:35 – Business owners leading with Christlike character31:01 – Spirit-filled relationships submit to Christ31:17 – Taking inventory of our own homes31:44 – Is Christ the center of your home?32:01 – What atmosphere greets people in your house?32:50 – The Spirit can transform your home33:13 – Harshness, sarcasm, avoidance — and hope33:42 – Husbands, wives, children, parents, leaders — all worship34:36 – The Spirit who fills you at church can fill your home35:02 – God can heal marriages and restore families35:29 – Response moment: invitation to be Spirit-filled36:14 – Prayer for homes and families36:50 – Corporate closing prayer37:49 – Venture sign-up reminders + Winter Camp38:26 – Subscribe + learn more about Venture Church

What Turns Her Off — and What Godly Husbands Do Instead Have you ever wished you could just…get inside your wife's heart for a moment? Not to manipulate, but to genuinely understand her. To love her in a way that makes her feel safe and wanted—not pressured or confused. My husband Darrow and I sat down to talk through something men rarely get honest insight about: Her biggest turn-offs. And not because we want to shame or scold—but because clarity brings freedom. When you finally understand what shuts her down, you also discover what opens her heart. So take a deep breath.You're not in trouble.You're learning—and that already makes you a good man. Let's walk through these turn-offs together, with God's kindness leading us all the way. 1. When Affection Feels Like a Transaction One of the most common complaints I hear from wives is this: "Every time he does something sweet, it feels like he's trying to get sex." A back rub, a coffee, a hand on her waist, a date night—beautiful gestures—become tainted when she senses they come with an expectation. When affection is only a bridge to the bedroom, she feels: Used Not loved for who she is Like her worth is tied to her sexual availability God never intended marital intimacy to be a negotiation.Love her without a scoreboard. Bless her without an agenda. 2. Grabbing, Pinching, or Smacking Her Body When She's Not Comfortable Yes…wives talk about this. And I know many husbands mean it playfully.But if she doesn't feel safe—emotionally, spiritually, or physically—this kind of touch feels like entitlement, not affection. Her body is not something to be "snatched."She needs room to open, not pressure to surrender. When she feels cherished—not grabbed—she wants to share her body freely. 3. Taking "Not Now" Personally If she says she's tired, overwhelmed, stressed, or simply "not right now," it's almost never about you. But when a husband interprets it as: Rejection Lack of desire "She doesn't love me" …it puts enormous emotional weight on her shoulders. Instead, respond with: "No worries, sweetheart. Another time would be wonderful." That confidence and peace will draw her toward you—not away. 4. Moping After She Says No Emotional sulking is not harmless. Moping communicates: "You disappointed me." "Now I have to punish you with sadness." "You're responsible for my emotions."   This shuts her heart down.Fast. Your steadiness and joy—even when she's not available—makes her feel safe. And safety is the soil where desire grows. 5. Punishing Her for Not Wanting Sex This is one of the deepest wounds wives carry. Punishments include: Silent treatment Withholding affection Moving to another room Being cold or distant Only being "nice" when you want intimacy These behaviors feel manipulative and honestly frightening. Your wife is not the enemy. She is the assignment God entrusted to you. Lead with love, not consequences. 6. Lack of Playfulness Playfulness is essential to intimacy. If everything feels heavy, serious, structured, pressured…then her nervous system never relaxes enough to enjoy being sensual. Silliness is holy ground for a woman's heart. Laughter lowers her guard.Playfulness creates connection. If you want her to be playful in the bedroom, she needs to experience playfulness outside the bedroom. 7. Not Feeling Emotionally Safe Women cannot separate emotional connection from physical intimacy. I'll say that one more time. Women cannot separate emotional connection from physical intimacy. When she feels emotionally unsafe, her body shuts down. Emotional Safety looks like: Listening Compassion Being slow to speak and quick to understand Responding gently Supporting her heart, not "fixing" immediately  When she feels heard, she opens. 8. Being a "Negative Nellie" (or Negative Ned!) Constant complaining is exhausting and not attractive. It pulls the atmosphere of the home downward and makes her feel like she has to carry your emotional weight. There is space to process hard things—but constant negativity drains the joy God wants in your marriage. Rejoice. Notice blessings. Bring hope into the home. 9. Bitterness and Resentment Long-term resentment is a marriage-killer. Bitterness communicates: "I haven't forgiven you." "You owe me." "I'm still keeping score." This is the opposite of Christlike love. Your wife cannot relax into intimacy with a man who holds her mistakes over her head. Forgiveness clears the ground for closeness to grow again. And if you need a little extra inspiration, let us turn you to Matthew 6:15 (NIV): "But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins." 10. Being Too Serious All the Time Intensity has a place—but not every moment. When a man is always stern, rigid, perfectionistic, spiritual-but-heavy…it makes her feel like she can never fully exhale. If she can't be herself around you, she won't be vulnerable with you. Joy is a fruit of the Spirit—not an optional extra. 11. Using Slang or Sexual Words She Doesn't Like Words matter. Some husbands use slang affectionately or playfully.Some wives love it.Others absolutely don't. If slang or sexual language makes her uncomfortable, embarrassed, or unsafe, it becomes a turn-off—not a turn-on. Honor her preferences. You're not losing freedom—you're gaining connection. Final Thoughts: So What Do You Do with All This? If reading this stirs conviction…good. Conviction is not condemnation.The enemy heaps shame.God invites repentance—and repentance leads to freedom. Your wife is God's daughter. And He entrusted her to you. Every shift you make toward loving her well brings you closer to His heart and closer to hers. We're rooting for you!   Blessing, The Delight Your Marriage Team   PS - If you want help walking this out in real life—not just head knowledge—that's exactly why our coaching and in-person training programs exist. Men who were separated from their wives…Men in sexless marriages…Men whose wives felt unsafe for years……have seen transformation they once thought impossible.For more information on our In-Person Training programs, launching January 2026, check out delightyourmarriage.com/ipt If you're ready to dive into the Coaching programs, please feel free to schedule a free Clarity Call at delightyourmarriage.com/cc PPS - Here is a quote from a recent In-Person Training pilot program graduate: "My wife and I have been separated for 6 months, and the same day as our [IPT] graduation, she chose to and began moving back into our matrimonial home. I also told her about our [IPT] program that same day. Up until then, I had said I was attending a men's bible study. All praise be to God."

In this 3X10 message, you'll get a small glimpse into the heart of Awaken Academy where education goes beyond the classroom and is a journey of transformation. We believe learning should awaken identity, inspire excellence, and cultivate Christlike character. You'll hear from an amazing student, incredible teacher and founding board member whose lives have become powerful testimonies- marked by growth, purpose, and faith that influences every sphere of their world.   For more details about Awaken Academy text "Academy" to 55525

Hope sustains the soul when all falls apart. Find hope to make it through difficult times.3 Observations about life in a fallen world1. Trials are inevitable2. Trials tend to “make us” or “break us”3. Victims fail to move beyond asking “why” and remain stuck in their painA word from God to those whose world is “falling apart.” -James 1:1-41. What can I control? -My ATTITUDE2. What must I do to make it through today? -ENDURE3. What hope do I have for tomorrow? -God will take the WORST and use it for my BESTHow God uses adversity to mature us1. We're forced to DEPEND on God at a new level. Left alone, we're self-sufficient, proud, and insensitive to Him.2. We're WEANED from the temporal, urgent, and worldly affairs of life. We're forced to REEXAMINE our values, priorities, commitments, and future.3. Trials let us WITNESS God's reality and power first-hand. Our need becomes the vehicle of His grace; our problems the object of His power.4. They serve as a TESTIMONY to the unbelieving world. How we endure hardship shows the world how real God is.5. We become sensitive, caring, and compassionate CHRIST-LIKE people. Those hurt deeply tend to love deeply.Broadcast ResourceSeries ResourcesMessage NotesYear End MatchDouble Your Gift TodayMinistry ReportAdditional ResourcesChristmas GiftsConnect888-333-6003WebsiteChip Ingram AppInstagramFacebookTwitterPartner With UsDonate Online888-333-6003

Chip's series on James 1 offers God's hope and insight for facing trials and fear today.3 Observations about life in a fallen world1. Trials are inevitable2. Trials tend to “make us” or “break us”3. Victims fail to move beyond asking “why” and remain stuck in their painA word from God to those whose world is “falling apart.” -James 1:1-41. What can I control? -My ATTITUDE2. What must I do to make it through today? -ENDURE3. What hope do I have for tomorrow? -God will take the WORST and use it for my BESTHow God uses adversity to mature us1. We're forced to DEPEND on God at a new level. Left alone, we're self-sufficient, proud, and insensitive to Him.2. We're WEANED from the temporal, urgent, and worldly affairs of life. We're forced to REEXAMINE our values, priorities, commitments, and future.3. Trials let us WITNESS God's reality and power first-hand. Our need becomes the vehicle of His grace; our problems the object of His power.4. They serve as a TESTIMONY to the unbelieving world. How we endure hardship shows the world how real God is.5. We become sensitive, caring, and compassionate CHRIST-LIKE people. Those hurt deeply tend to love deeply.Broadcast ResourceSeries ResourcesMessage NotesYear End MatchDouble Your Gift TodayMinistry ReportAdditional ResourcesChristmas GiftsConnect888-333-6003WebsiteChip Ingram AppInstagramFacebookTwitterPartner With UsDonate Online888-333-6003