Podcasts about encountering god

How do we trust God in the present when anxiety tells us things won’t get better? In this episode, we reflect on God’s faithfulness — both in Scripture and in our personal stories. Through worship, memory, and reflection, we’re reminded that the same God who was faithful before will be faithful again. When fear rises, remembrance becomes an anchor. What We Discuss Trusting God because of His past faithfulness How remembrance strengthens present faith God’s faithfulness to Israel throughout Scripture Personal testimony as evidence of God’s care Worship as a weapon against anxiety This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: We Can Trust Him By: Lauren Fletcher Bible Reading: “But as for me, I will sing about your power. Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. For you have been my refuge, a place of safety when I am in distress. O my Strength, to you I sing praises, for you, O God, are my refuge, the God who shows me unfailing love.” - Psalms 59:16-17 My church recently started a Bible Study called Encountering God by Kelly Minter. In it, she talks about God’s faithfulness, that we can trust God in our present because of what He has done in the past. She references His faithfulness in the Word, in His relationship with the Israelites. She also mentions that we can trust God because of His personal history with us. Kelly says, “But what I’ve learned to cherish about remembering God’s past faithfulness is how remembrance informs my present and future” (Encountering God). She further encourages the reader to think about how God has been faithful to them. As I pondered this question, I didn’t have to wait long for God’s answer, His reminder. Last night, I was struggling with anxiety and OCD. I had this feeling that things would not get better. And then, I heard a familiar song. I heard it in English but remembered it in Spanish: “Tengo futuro” (“Glorioso Día”). God was reminding me that I have a future and that things would get better. He recalled a memory from a few years ago: I had been working at a job and dealing with anxiety. It was the worst I had experienced. I had a hard time completing the tasks expected of me and frequently had to take breaks away from my post to regroup. That night, my church was having a practice for our new Spanish service. They sang “Goodness of God.” During that song, I heard God whisper to me, You have so much to live for. He reminded me of a dream I have to do mission work, and tears started welling up. Another song my Spanish friends sang back then was “Glorious Day.” In it, the bridge says, “I have a future,” which is “Tengo futuro,” in Spanish. I felt this was my personal reminder from God about what He spoke over me. By remembering what God did in this past moment, how He gave me hope in the darkness, I was able to take hold of hope last night. I remembered His faithfulness. I knew that everything was going to be okay. Intersecting Faith & Life: In Psalms 59, the Psalmist recalls God’s faithfulness to him. He says, “But as for me, I will sing about your power. Each morning I will sing with joy about your unfailing love. For you have been my refuge, a place of safety when I am in distress.” He remembers how God has been towards him. The Psalmist continues, “O my Strength, to you I sing praises, for you, O God, are my refuge, the God who shows me unfailing love.” His past experience with God encourages him to declare God as his refuge in the present. When we remember God’s faithfulness to us in the past and in the past of His people, we are spurred on with fresh hope for the future. In the Old Testament, God frequently reminds the Israelites of what He has done for them. Is there a passage in the Bible, a story of God’s faithfulness, that can encourage you? Maybe it’s Ruth and Naomi or Hannah, and how personal God was in answering each of their prayers and desires (Encountering God). Or perhaps, it’s how God rescued His people in the book of Esther or the Exodus. People in the Bible also create altars as a reminder (Jacob, for instance). Is there a specific memory that you have of God’s personal faithfulness in your life that brings you encouragement whenever you remember it? In Psalms 92:2-4, the Psalmist says, “It is good to proclaim your unfailing love in the morning, your faithfulness in the evening, accompanied by a ten-stringed instrument, a harp, and the melody of a lyre. You thrill me, LORD, with all you have done for me! I sing for joy because of what you have done.” Remembering what God has done also leads us to worship. We can praise God for His faithfulness to us. Kelly Minter says, “Taking a moment to dwell on who God has always been and what He has done gives us strength in the present and hope for the future” (Encountering God). It gives us faith to move forward into what God is calling us to do. Further Reading: Psalm 92:2-4 1 Chronicles 16:7-36 Psalm 25:6 Psalm 34:19 2 Samuel 22:31 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Conversion of heart happens in the great experience of being loved

In this episode of Worshipology, Kurtis and Alec Blythe discuss the journey of worship ministry, the importance of encountering God, and the balance between structure and spontaneity in worship. Alec shares his personal experiences with burnout and the significance of the secret place in his songwriting process. They also explore the dynamics of leading worship for different age groups and the unique challenges of ministry as a couple. The conversation culminates in the release of Alec's new song 'Slow Down', which reflects his journey and desire for others to encounter God's presence. Connect with Alec: Instagram: @alecblythe New song "Slow Down" - https://linktr.ee/AlecBlytheMusic?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=a9a2d765-6770-491a-83f7-90f22f409748 +++++ Worshipology with Kurtis Parks is a part of the Worship Leader Magazine Podcast Network. WL Mag exists to equip Spirit-led worship leaders with practical tools, theological insight, and encouragement for the local church. This episode was brought to you by PraiseCharts. If you are a Worship leader or musician, when it comes to leading in church or playing worship music, you need reliable, high-quality music resources. Check out PraiseCharts.com today and see how it can transform your worship ministry!  ++++++++++ To learn more about Kurtis and his book Worshipology: www.worshipologybook.com or www.kurtisparks.com 

Have you ever woken up from a dream and wondered if it was just your imagination or something spiritual? In Part 2 with Kathy Gray, we talk about the difference between nightmares and spiritual encounters, how to take authority over fear, and how to steward your dream life with discernment instead of confusion. We touch on recurring dreams, common themes, and why the Holy Spirit is essential in interpretation. If you've ever felt unsettled by a dream or sensed God may be speaking at night, this episode will help you respond with peace, wisdom, and confidence. Kathy Gray is the author of Light In Our Darkness, a speaker, mentor, and former radio talk show host whose life is devoted to helping others hear the voice of God, especially through dreams and visions. Raised in a biblically grounded, ministry-focused home, she has spent more than two decades studying biblical dream interpretation and, over the past eight years, has developed and taught dream seminars primarily within evangelical circles, equipping men and women to discern God's voice with clarity, humility, and confidence. Originally from Colorado, Kathy has lived in Highland Village, Texas, for 28 years with her husband, Dave, and is the proud mom of four grown sons who also reside in the Dallas area. When she's not writing, teaching, mentoring, or playing and teaching piano, she enjoys investing in her spiritual community, and escaping to the Rocky Mountains with dark chocolate in hand. Visit Our Website for Show Notes: ACupFullofHopePodcast.com Follow A Cup Full of Hope on Facebook and Instagram: Instagram • Facebook Follow Caroline on Facebook and Instagram: Instagram • Facebook

Traditional service featuring our NPC Chancel Choir and one-of-a-kind authentic organ.

February 1, 2026 How to Study the Bible Pastor Beth      Join us how we soar through a new series of encountering the Lord through his word and prayer. In this week's sermon we dive into how to study the bible.

7:00 pm in the Sanctuary & online Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season, a time of reflection, repentance, and spiritual growth leading up to Easter. We will begin the Lenten season with scripture, prayers, Communion, and for those who desire the imposition of ashes as a sign of our unity with Christ and with one another. We hope that you will join us as we begin this journey together, and that this season of Lent will be a time of deeper spiritual growth and closer relationship with God. May God bless you on this Ash Wednesday and throughout the Lenten season. If you cannot attend in person, please visit our Watch page to worship online.

What if your dreams aren't random, but one of the primary ways God is trying to speak to you? In this conversation, Caroline sits down with Kathy Gray to unpack how God uses dreams to communicate, heal, warn, and invite us into partnership with Him. Kathy shares biblical insight into the four types of dreams, how to discern literal versus symbolic messages, why nightmares are not God's will, and how to steward what God reveals in the night. This episode will equip you with clarity, confidence, and a fresh expectation that God still speaks while you sleep. Kathy Gray is the author of Light In Our Darkness, a speaker, mentor, and former radio talk show host whose life is devoted to helping others hear the voice of God, especially through dreams and visions. Raised in a biblically grounded, ministry-focused home, she has spent more than two decades studying biblical dream interpretation and, over the past eight years, has developed and taught dream seminars primarily within evangelical circles, equipping men and women to discern God's voice with clarity, humility, and confidence. Originally from Colorado, Kathy has lived in Highland Village, Texas, for 28 years with her husband, Dave, and is the proud mom of four grown sons who also reside in the Dallas area. When she's not writing, teaching, mentoring, or playing and teaching piano, she enjoys investing in her spiritual community, and escaping to the Rocky Mountains with dark chocolate in hand. Visit Our Website for Show Notes: ACupFullofHopePodcast.com Follow A Cup Full of Hope on Facebook and Instagram: Instagram • Facebook Follow Caroline on Facebook and Instagram: Instagram • Facebook

Love is more than a feeling and more than just action—it's both. In this episode of Marked by Grace, Pastor Heath Lambert draws from 1 John 4:9-11 to answer one of life's most fundamental questions: What is love? Discover how God's love was made manifest through Jesus Christ and how that same love should flow through us to others.0:02 - Introduction to Marked by Grace1:06 - Personal story: Six brain surgeries and years of recovery1:48 - The most significant thing from that difficult season2:08 - A new clarity about the love of God2:31 - Encountering God's love in a life-changing way3:04 - Key passage: 1 John 4:9-114:01 - Love is described, not just defined4:31 - Definition: A heart of affection that leads to compassionate action4:47 - The internal and external aspects of love5:06 - Confusion about love: Is it feeling or action?5:41 - God's internal affection made manifest6:12 - The compassionate action: Sending Jesus into the world6:34 - Looking at God to understand what love is6:56 - Having received God's love, we love othersKey Topics Covered:Personal testimony of encountering God's love during years of brain surgeries and recoveryHow love is described rather than merely defined in ScriptureThe internal aspect of love: a heart of affectionThe external aspect of love: compassionate actionGod's love made manifest through sending Jesus as propitiation for our sinsWhy biblical love must include both feeling and actionHow receiving God's love compels us to love one anotherThe connection between knowing God and demonstrating loveLike this episode? Subscribe for more biblical teaching from Marked by Grace. Share your thoughts in the comments below about how understanding the church as people rather than a place changes your perspective.Have a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com

This testimony features a silenced, shame-filled girl who becomes a woman who obeys God despite fear — and is publicly restored and entrusted with authority. Please consider donating towards our production so that we can continue to record and share these incredible testimonies of Jesus

Year A – Transfiguration– February 15, 2026 Pastor Megan Floyd Exodus 24:12-18 Matthew 17:1-9 Grace and peace to you from God and the Holy Spirit, and from Jesus Christ, who reveals to us God's glory. Amen. *** In 2012, I had the privilege of leading my congregation's youth group to the ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans. The week was filled with joys and challenges, and stories that still make me laugh. But one of the most incredible, mountain-top experiences I had there… was a story of divine encounter… a story of being washed over by the Holy Spirit. It was the night of closing worship, so all of the more than 33,000 participants were gathered in the Superdome to sing and praise God, to listen to inspiring speakers, and to hear the word of God proclaimed. We worshipped each night we gathered, but this one was special… It was special because during the closing worship, we would share holy communion together… as one church… 33,000+ members… one body of Christ. I don't know if you've ever been inside the Superdome in New Orleans, but it is very steep, so there's really not a bad seat in the house, so long as you don't mind heights. My youth wanted to sit at the very top of the arena for this worship experience, so we made our way up the mountain of levels and escalators and found some seats where we could take in the entire scene below. Once we settled in, we were treated to an incredible view… a view of the church… thousands of teenagers and their adult leaders sat below, all eager to begin worship. The excitement and the buzz were intoxicating… as we watched the tiny people way down on the floor bring us together in song and worship. Now you would think that communing over 33,000 people would take all day, but… the organizers have this down to a science, and it actually runs quite smoothly and quickly. Given our location, we watched below as people moved to receive the elements, and then to be anointed… they all received a cross of oil on their foreheads to remind each and every person that they were sealed by the Holy Spirit and marked with the cross of Christ forever. I watched this all take place, and at some point, our group moved to receive the elements as well, and to be anointed with oil… and then we sat back down to wait while the rest were served. And as I sat, I recall feeling a shift in the air… almost like a fullness surrounding me… as when a heavy fog rolls in and you can sense the weight of the space around you. I recall feeling this shift in the air begin at my feet, and then start moving up my legs… I could feel the new air rising, until it suddenly washed up and over my head, and… I just wept. I felt so completely surrounded by the Spirit… so completely held… claimed… and loved… so completely assured of God's faithful presence. It was remarkable… and it is an experience that has stayed with me for all these years. I know… that it changed my relationship with God to one that was no longer distant, but now… more personal… close. We call these kinds of moments… these encounters… mountain-top moments… moments of encountering God… moments of profound closeness with our Creator and source of everlasting love. And of course, we call them mountain-top moments… because in scripture, God's people often seem to meet God on the mountain… as with Moses in our reading from Exodus… and, of course, the Transfiguration of Jesus. Encountering God's full glory is disarming… scary even… and can leave us unsure of exactly how to respond. For me… it left me weeping, which really alarmed the youth. Peter, James, and John head up the mountain with Jesus, and are witnesses to a dazzling display and blinding light… and Moses and Elijah, together with Jesus… And Peter… sweet Peter… he thinks this is great, and offers to set up tents for them… he assumes this is a moment they'll dwell in for some time. We can hardly blame him. And then the voice from God thunders out… with the words we heard at Jesus' baptism. "This is my son, the beloved… with whom I am well pleased…" …but then God adds… Listen to him. Listen. Peter… man… stop talking and take in the moment… just absorb the light of God for a second… let it change you… let it alter your understanding of who this Jesus really is. I understand Peter's desire to stay in that moment… I really do… it's normal. But we don't live on the mountain… we don't get to spend all our time in those incredible moments of clarity with God. We can, and should, bask in the glory of God's light when it is there, but we can't stay there all the time… life continues… and so… warmed from the light of those experiences, we keep moving… And yes, of course, we allow our mountain-top experiences to transform us, to shape our hearts, but then we make our way back down the mountain, to live our lives of faith in the day-to-day. I've asked Raymond to share this photo with you… Last week, I was at a preaching retreat in a little place near Phoenix, and on the property, there was this massive labyrinth. My colleagues and I joked that walking a labyrinth is to intentionally take the most inefficient path toward a destination… but I suppose that's only if you consider the center to be a destination, and not simply part of the journey. I spent some time praying my way through the labyrinth and marveling at how each turn gave me a new perspective on my surroundings… pointing me toward new plants and new views… how each path brought me toward a new understanding of the landscape. In the background, though… was this mountain, with the sun shining so incredibly brightly over it. It felt so present and so close… like I could reach out and touch it… even though it was in the distance… it was an ever-present backdrop for the whole weekend. As I worked my way around the labyrinth, I was sometimes facing away from the light of the sun and from the mountain, but then I would follow the curve of the path and turn a corner… and suddenly the sun would be shining in my face, blinding me… and I would continue walking and soaking in the warmth of the light… and the glory of the mountain, and I felt so incredibly close to God. Peter faced this bright light around Jesus, on the mountain… and he wanted to stay there. We can hardly blame him. Leading up to that moment, they had been climbing through Jesus' liberating ministry of teaching and healing… it was all so amazing… and then Jesus hits them with the shocking revelation that he must suffer and die. …and that any who want to become his followers must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow him. They must be prepared to lose their life for his sake… in order to save it. So yes… I understand why Peter wanted to stay in that glorious moment, soaking in the light and warmth… he was not ready to face the ashes and sorrow that awaited them as they turned toward Jerusalem and the cross. Are any of us ever really ready for that? And yet, they must descend… but that is the blessing of this life of faith… we get to carry God's light forward… we get to experience these moments of encounter… of revelation… these mountain-top moments… and carry them out into the world around us. Remember, you are the light of the world… and it is the light of God's glory with which you shine. This is what it means to walk with Jesus… to walk in the highs and lows and of this life of faith… we have these moments of profound encounter… like at the Superdome in New Orleans… and like this labyrinth at the foot of the mountain… these moments fill us with God's Holy Spirit and shape our lives around God's glory. They help us remember who we are and whose we are… and remind us that we are claimed and redeemed through grace and mercy… and they give us strength for the journey, when the journey takes us through ashes and sorrow. When we find ourselves walking through the shadow of death, these moments help us to keep walking… keep walking… because on the other side is resurrection and new life. And to stay on the mountain… would mean to miss out on all the ways that God continues to show up. If we only ever lived for the grand, mountain-top moments… we would miss all the ways that God reveals God's self to us in small ways… the everyday, ordinary ways. So, we must remember… that mountain-top encounters with God are amazing… awe-inspiring… but we don't need to stay on the mountain… because the promise of transfiguration is that the glory of God transforms every corner of our whole world… and us… along with it, everyday… and always. Amen.    

Sunday Morning Service  February 8, 2026 Pastor Beth    In this week's sermon Pastor Beth reflects on how we can grow closer to God through His word and prayer.

Pastor Brian Henderson

The Deep Theology of Sexual Unity (With Some Fun!): Interview with Randy and Rozanne Frazee You're not just trying to survive another week. You're not just trying to get the kids fed, keep the peace, and hold your marriage together with duct tape and prayers. You're living inside a bigger story—whether you realize it or not. When you start seeing your marriage through God's storyline instead of just your stress and circumstances, something shifts. Not overnight. Not magically. But deeply. Steadily. For real. And that's exactly what Randy and Rozanne Frazee unpacked in today's episode. In this episode, you're getting a conversation that is both wildly profound and surprisingly fun. Because yes—you can talk about theology, the Trinity, the image of God, and sexual unity… and still laugh. And that's exactly what happens when you sit down with Randy and Rozanne. They've spent decades helping believers understand the Bible not as scattered verses—but as one cohesive story of God's love and pursuit. Randy has been a pastor for 38 years and had a personal mentoring relationship with Dallas Willard—so much so that Dallas asked him to rewrite Renovation of the Heart for students. And Randy and Rozanne are not just brilliant—they're the real deal. High school sweethearts, married 44 years (going on 45), four kids, and now five grandbabies in the mix. What makes this episode so special is this: They don't just talk about the Bible. They talk about how the Bible transforms marriage, unity, and yes… even your sex life. You Keep Reading the Bible Like a Reference Book… But It's Actually a Love Story You've probably been taught to read the Bible in pieces: a Proverb for wisdom a Psalm for comfort a verse for anxiety a passage when your marriage is hard And those are good. But if you only ever grab the Bible for a quick fix, you can miss the whole point: it's one grand love story—from Genesis to Revelation—about the lengths God will go to get you back. When you start seeing Scripture as one unfolding narrative, you stop reading it like a scattered collection of morals… and you start hearing it like a steady message: God is pursuing you. God is restoring you. God is rewriting what sin tried to destroy. And yes—this includes your marriage. You're Not Just Living a Life… You're Living a Story You live in what Randy and Rozanne call the "lower story": Lunches. Laundry. Bills. Hormones. Conversations you're avoiding. Tension you can't name. The ache of feeling alone, even though you're married. And it's real. But there's also an "upper story" happening at the same time: God's bigger plan, God's spiritual reality, God's redemptive work that you can't always see while you're in the middle of the mess. You see it clearly in Scripture: Job experiences devastating loss in his lower story… while an unseen spiritual battle is happening in the upper story. Joseph is betrayed, enslaved, and forgotten in his lower story… but God is positioning him in the upper story to preserve His people. That's why Joseph can say, "What you meant for evil, God meant for good." It doesn't mean the lower story didn't hurt. It means the pain wasn't the point. So ask yourself: What if the hard thing you're living through right now isn't proof you're failing… but proof God is working? God Created Marriage to Reflect His Image—and Sin Has Been Trying to Ruin It Ever Since You've heard the phrase "two become one." But you might not realize how sacred that actually is. Marriage wasn't just meant to be companionship. It was meant to reflect something divine: unity, love, covenant, oneness. In the beginning, God says, "It is not good for man to be alone." And you can read that like, "Aw, God wanted Adam to have a friend." But it's deeper. God Himself is relationship—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Not isolated. Not independent. Not self-focused. Unity. So when God creates marriage, He's not just giving Adam a partner. He's giving humanity a living picture of His image. And that's why the enemy attacks it so relentlessly. Because if your marriage reflects God's love, covenant, and unity… it becomes a threat to darkness. You Can Know Scripture… and Still Not Live It One of the most powerful themes Randy and Rozanne address is something you've probably seen too: You've met people who know the Bible. They can quote verses. They can correct theology. They can debate Greek words. And yet… They aren't gentle. They aren't kind. They aren't tender. And you're left thinking: How can someone love God's Word and still not look like Jesus? Randy explains this through something he learned from Dallas. He describes the difference between: believing something is the "right answer" versus believing it as a "way of life" And this matters for your marriage, because it's the difference between: knowing what love is supposed to look like and actually becoming the kind of person who naturally loves well The "12-Inch Journey" That Changes Everything Randy talks about the journey from: Head knowledge → Heart transformation And he explains it in a way that lands: When Jesus says, "Turn the other cheek," He isn't just commanding you to grit your teeth and try harder. He's describing what becomes natural when your heart has been reshaped. And that is what every marriage needs. Not just more information, but more transformation. Sexual Unity Isn't Just Physical… It's Theological If you've ever wondered why marriage feels so sacred—and so fiercely contested—this is why. Lean in, because this is where things get breathtaking. Randy explains the concept that: God is three Persons (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) who share one Being And marriage—two becoming one—is meant to reflect that kind of unity. Not perfectly. Not as God. But as an earthly image. And Rozanne brings it back to the practical: Sexual intimacy bonds you in a way nothing else does. It is not "just physical." It is a sacred expression of covenant oneness. And when you treat your spouse like an "other" instead of part of your own being… You start wounding your marriage from the inside. You Don't Need Your Husband to Be a Seminary Graduate to Be a Spiritual Leader If you're a wife reading this, you may be carrying a burden you were never meant to carry: "I'm the one who prays." "I'm the one who gets us to church." "I'm the one trying to get him to lead." "I'm exhausted." And if you're a husband reading this, you may feel stuck too: "She knows more than I do." "I don't even know where to start." "I work hard, but I still feel like I'm failing." Here's something freeing: Spiritual leadership isn't about being the most impressive. It's about being the one who initiates. The leader is the starter. The one who creates space where spiritual thriving can happen. That might look like: "Hey, let's read something together for 15 minutes." "Let's pray before dinner." "We're going to church as a family." "I want God in our home, and I want to learn." That's leadership. And yes—your wife might know more Scripture right now. But what she's been longing for isn't your performance. It's your presence. Your courage. Your initiation. If You Want Him to Rise, Stop Coaching His Weakness and Start Naming His Strength This is where it gets tender. Because if you're honest, you've probably tried to motivate him with disappointment. You've tried to push him into leadership by pointing out everything he's not doing. You want to feel safe. You want to feel supported. You want to be led. But here's something you need to understand about men: Men move toward competency, not incompetency. If you highlight his failure, he retreats. If you honor his effort, he leans in. So if he makes even a small move—don't critique it. Celebrate it. If he picks up a Bible, don't correct how he reads it. If he prays, don't edit his words afterward. If he initiates church, don't mention that it's "about time." Instead, try this: "Thank you. That meant a lot." "I feel cared for when you do that." "I'm grateful you're leading our family." This isn't fake flattery. It's faith. It's calling out the man you want him to become—while giving him a reason to keep going. Your Intimacy Will Not Heal If You Keep Avoiding the Scariest Conversations One of the enemy's favorite strategies is fear—specifically fear that keeps you from talking honestly about intimacy. You live with this person. You share a bed. You share a home. So why does it feel terrifying to say what you want? What you need? What hurts? What you're longing for? Because intimacy is powerful. And the enemy knows if he can keep you silent, he can keep you disconnected. But if you can learn to speak with tenderness, honesty, and safety… You can rebuild something beautiful. And here's the truth: Sex isn't dirty. It's sacred. It's a physical expression of covenant oneness. And when joy rises in your relationship, romance often rises too. Not because you force it. But because safety creates desire. And desire grows where connection is nurtured. You Don't Need Two Hours a Day. You Need One Small Step of Obedience. You might be thinking, "Okay… but I'm tired. Our life is chaotic. Where do we even begin?" Begin small. Set a timer. Fifteen minutes. That's it. Obedience comes before blessing. And when you take one small step toward God together, it does something inside you. It starts moving belief from your head to your heart—where real transformation happens. Little by little, fruit grows. And fruit isn't for the tree. Fruit is for the person who tastes it. Which means: your spiritual growth is meant to bless your spouse. Your Next Step: See the Bible as One Story (Not a Scavenger Hunt) Randy and Rozanne recently released a book called Encountering God's Love: From Genesis to Revelation. And their heart behind it is simple: Most believers don't struggle because they don't love God. They struggle because they don't understand the storyline. They know verses… but not the narrative. So this book is designed as 52 weeks of bite-sized pieces, walking you through Scripture chronologically, helping you see: God's story your story and how your marriage fits into redemption And yes—this is something you can do as a couple. Even if you're exhausted. Even if you're busy. Even if you feel behind. Final Encouragement Your marriage isn't just a relationship you manage. It's a covenant you steward. And if you've been living like the lower story is all there is—God is inviting you to look up. He's writing something. Even here. Even now. Even in your marriage. So take a breath. Ask Him what He's doing in the upper story. And take the next step. Because your story isn't over. And God is very, very good at bringing dead things back to life. Including you. Including your spouse. Including your intimacy. Including your marriage. Blessings, The Delight Your Marriage Team PS - Want to check out Encountering God's Love for yourself? Click here to visit Randy's website and learn more. PPS - Are you ready to take the next step in transforming your marriage? We would love to chat with you. Book a free Clarity Call to speak with one of our Clarity Advisors and see if we are the right fit for you. PPPS - Here is a quote from a recent graduate: "The atmosphere in our home was very toxic with lots of hollering and hurtful things said. There was no fun or joy. We were just existing.  This affected my thought life as I was very disappointed in myself and felt like I was a hypocrite as I am a leader in our local church and lots of people look up to me.  I felt like God was even disappointed in me.  I felt shame for not being a good wife...[Now,] I have become more aware of my actions and reactions to my husband, and realized I have the power, with God's help, to make our marriage good and to love my husband well.  The tools I have learned in DW will forever be in and on my mind as I focus on becoming the wife God desires me to be.  I have learned that sex is good and holy and also meant to be pleasurable for me!  The atmosphere in our home is changing and playfulness is back!"

Speaker: Richard Hong"Genesis: Encountering God"Genesis 28:10-22;www.risenhayward.com

Pastor Brian Henderson

Romans 10:9-10 — In this sermon on Romans 10:9–10 titled “Saving Faith,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones gives a roadmap through the Christian life as they experience God. Encountering God means that salvation is not only an intellectual decision or that God can be made known through reasonable thinking. Scripture demands that the Christian have faith in God and a faith that includes all of their being. But how can one possess such faith when they are full of fear and doubt? It is hard enough for a person to keep small commitments to themselves. Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows that it is precisely through encountering God that the Christian is given this faith by Him. God initiates this relationship that leads to Godly sorrow over sin, turning from them and putting faith in Jesus Christ. These are the very beginning steps in the Christian life and without them, one cannot be called a Christian. If one has been convicted of their sins, repented, changed their thoughts about God, and grieved over their sinfulness, they have shown the true marks of one who has encountered God and believed in the Lord Jesus Christ. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29?v=20251111

Romans 10:9-10 — In this sermon on Romans 10:9–10 titled “Saving Faith,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones gives a roadmap through the Christian life as they experience God. Encountering God means that salvation is not only an intellectual decision or that God can be made known through reasonable thinking. Scripture demands that the Christian have faith in God and a faith that includes all of their being. But how can one possess such faith when they are full of fear and doubt? It is hard enough for a person to keep small commitments to themselves. Dr. Lloyd-Jones shows that it is precisely through encountering God that the Christian is given this faith by Him. God initiates this relationship that leads to Godly sorrow over sin, turning from them and putting faith in Jesus Christ. These are the very beginning steps in the Christian life and without them, one cannot be called a Christian. If one has been convicted of their sins, repented, changed their thoughts about God, and grieved over their sinfulness, they have shown the true marks of one who has encountered God and believed in the Lord Jesus Christ. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29?v=20251111

Luke 24:13-53

Join Pastor Ryan and Sean as they dive deeper into the Exodus series and continue the conversation around Encountering God.Check out the Stories of Hope podcast:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPe4iZS-2t-r7AmWbx1RX9AN5M67rM9anStay in touch with us on Instagram | Facebook | Spotify - True Hope ChurchVisit our Website:https://www.truehopechurch.org

What if encountering God is not about trying harder, but becoming more aware? In Week 2 of our sermon series There Is More, Pastor Dustin teaches on The Four Postures of Encounter—a pathway that helps us move from distraction into real, life-changing intimacy with God. God is not distant. He is near. But many of us miss His presence because we are distracted, rushed, or carrying shame. This message walks us through four spiritual postures that position our hearts to experience God more deeply. 4 Postures of Encounter 1. Awareness – God is Near Encounter begins with awareness, not effort. Like Moses at the burning bush, God is already present. The invitation is to turn aside and notice Him. Isaiah 41:10 Exodus 3:1–5 2. Reverence – God is Holy When we see God rightly, we see ourselves honestly. Isaiah's encounter with God shows us that holiness leads to humility, repentance, and calling. Isaiah 6:1–8 3. Assurance – God is Love and Mercy Shame blocks encounter. Assurance opens it. God does not tolerate you. He delights in you. His mercy is not permission to stay the same; it is power to change. Psalm 103:8–13 Romans 5:8 4. Surrender – God is Powerful God fills surrendered vessels. When we fully yield to the Holy Spirit, the same power that raised Jesus begins to work in us. Romans 8:11 Acts 1:8 Prayer of Encounter God, You are here with us right now. We turn our attention to You and choose to be present with You. Holy God, search us and know us. Cleanse what is out of alignment and draw our hearts back to You. We choose humility and honesty before You. Father, we receive Your forgiveness and Your mercy. We release shame and rest in Your delight over us. Thank You that we are fully known and fully loved. Holy Spirit, we surrender our lives to You. Fill us, lead us, and use us for Your purposes. We trust Your power more than our own strength.

We are designed for connection. Our journey with Jesus finds greater joy and fulfillment through fellowship, united prayer, and sharing our faith with others. By staying rooted in the family of God, we receive the mutual encouragement and the strength necessary to fulfill our divine purpose and avoid the dangers of isolation.

Stories filled with accounts of healing, protection, and uncanny “just-in-time” help still arise—stories that raise an ancient question: Could God be at work through angels even now?In this message, we wrestle honestly with those stories and our reactions to them. We will explore what Scripture actually says about angels—their role in answered prayer, their service to the gospel, and how they point beyond themselves to the presence and purposes of God.This is not an invitation to obsess over angels or to explain away suffering, but to open the eyes of our hearts to the unseen reality Scripture describes. When we become open to the unseen, God does not become more distant—He becomes more real. And we may just discover, as God's people always have, that even in fear and uncertainty, the message still rings true: Do not be afraid. The Lord is with you.

In this episode, Dr. Joseph Mattera unpacks a powerful truth: authentic Kingdom influence flows from divine intimacy. Drawing from Jesus' prayer in John 17, he explores how vertical encounter with God must result in horizontal impact on the world. You'll discover: Why unity in the Body of Christ is essential to global witness How personal devotion fuels public transformation The balance between spiritual formation and cultural engagement Why a Church disconnected from God cannot effectively reach the world If we want the world to believe, we must return to the altar. Because only those who burn before God can shine in the dark.

Luke 1:5-25

In this finale of the Five levels of Pleasure we wind it down with the most thought provoking of all the pleasures, an Encounter with God. We discuss the soul of a Yid and how driven it is. We find out how all five pleasures interplay with each other as a need to obtain the highest pleasure. Some fun stories and accents can be found here as well, Enjoy!

Spoken word artist, pastor, and author Hosanna Wong joins Rita to share her incredible story, from growing up in San Francisco street church to becoming a global voice in evangelism. They unpack authenticity, creativity, and the 6 major roadblocks that keep people from encountering God. This conversation will challenge how you see faith, calling, and the simplicity of the gospel.Get Hosanna's new book Uncomplicate it here: https://a.co/d/gaV0IiATake Hosanna's PRAISE-O-NALITY quiz: https://www.hosannawong.com/quizIf you're enjoying the show, please rate and review!Follow Rita on ALL Social Media: https://linktr.ee/ritaspringerIf you would like to support the Worship Is My Weapon podcast you can donate to Wearing Justice at https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=0f0e22b...

Encountering God's holiness immediately reveals our human frailty and sinfulness. This moment of deepest confession is instantly answered by a divine, merciful act. The sacred, cleansing fire removes our guilt and provides full atonement. It is the ultimate assurance of God's transforming grace.

Alpha Hour Exhortation - Episode 1147

Alpha Hour Exhortation - Episode 1147

In this podcast, we sit down with Rory Helart, youth pastor of Young Saints at Bethel Church, and discuss a variety of topics that include encountering God, repentance, raising resilient children, and leading a family well. * You can purchase Rory's book by clicking here *For more information regarding The Clearing Church, visit our website by clicking hereFollow us on Instagram today by clicking hereWatch the message on our YouTube channel here

ABOUT SILVERDALE BAPTIST CHURCH Silverdale exists to lead people into an authentic relationship with Christ so they will worship God, grow in their faith, and serve the Lord in our community and world. Silverdale's Lead Pastor is Tony Walliser. FIND US ONLINE Website http://silverdalebc.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/silverdalebcInstagram https://www.instagram.com/silverdalebcFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/silverdalebc

Soul Songs - Encountering God through the Psalms

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: TODAY'S DEVOTION: TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

Sukkot dates 2025: Begins sunset Monday, October 6, 2025 Ends nightfall Tuesday, October 13, 2025      In this episode Rabbi Schneider examines the significance of the Feast of Tabernacles and what we can learn from taking time to reconnect with the Lord away from the distractions of the world.

For Yom Kippur Day 2025, Rabbi Schiller looks at Isaiah 6 and the theme of encountering the reality of God, which is especially His holiness, as an essential prerequisite to a life-transforming relationship with Messiah.

Yom Kippur dates 2025: Begins sunset Wednesday, October 1, 2025 Ends nightfall Thursday, October 2, 2025   In this episode, Rabbi Schneider explores the significance of Yom Kippur and the atonement we received through Jesus' sacrifice.

Yom Teruah/Rosh Hashanah dates 2025: Begins sunset Monday, September 22, 2025 Ends nightfall Tuesday, September 24, 2025 Tune in as Rabbi Schneider gives new revelation about the Feast of Trumpets and how understanding this Jewish Holy Day can help believers connect more deeply with God.

Rabbi Schneider encourages Christians to recognize the Hebrew Fall Holy Days not as just Jewish traditions, but as God's Holy Appointed Days. ********************************************* Yom Teruah/Rosh Hashanah dates 2025: Begins sunset Monday, September 22, 2025 Ends nightfall Tuesday, September 24, 2025 Yom Kippur dates 2025: Begins sunset Wednesday, October 1, 2025 Ends nightfall Thursday, October 2, 2025 Sukkot dates 2025: Begins sunset Monday, October 6, 2025 Ends nightfall Tuesday, October 13, 2025

What if the way you encounter God this week is through the people standing right in front of you? ABOUT THE MESSAGEIn Part 4 of the Encounter series, Pastor Mark Stermer reminds us that God often shows up in our lives through people—whether we're the ones in need or the ones He chooses to work through. Encounters with God aren't just personal, they're shared in community—through the hands that help, the words that encourage, and the love that restores. Together, we can learn to recognize Him in those He sends and also be ready to be the vessel He uses to bring hope to others.ABOUT JESUSIf you want to learn more about who Jesus is and what it means to have a relationship with Him, we would love to help you on that journey: https://www.thechurch.fm/jesus For a deeper dive into The Word of God on a daily basis check out our Free Ancient Paths Daily Devotional: https://www.thechurch.fm/ancient-pathsWHO WE AREWe believe that the goal of every Christian is To Be Conformed Into the Image of Jesus Christ, and a relationship with Jesus as well as being involved in a healthy church community are both important to achieving that goal. Find out more about who we are and all that we do at httos://www.thechurch.fm/aboutWe would love to meet you in person! Find our locations and service times here https://www.thechurch.fm/campuses and download our smartphone app here https://pushpay.com/get?handle=saintamantcampus&source=external to access video content, daily devotionals. updates on what is doing on at he church. and so much moreTo get connected here at The Church International simply visit us here https://www.thechurch.fm/connect-track and we will walk you through all of the life giving opportunities that we have to connect with you and your family.We want to give a special thanks to everyone who donates to what God is doing through this ministry. If you would like to partner with us through generosity and giving you can do so at https://www. thechurch.fm/give-online.SOCIAL MEDIAThe Church International:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thechurchinter/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechurchinternational/Website: https://www.TheChurch.FMPastor Mark:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarkAStermerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mark_stermerPastor Cindy:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cindy.stermer.9Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cindy_stermer MESSAGE BREAKDOWN00:00 Introduction    07:40  Encountering God Though Others15:50  Show Others God    25:29  Acknowledge the help God sent you36:05  Closing

In today's episode, Pastor Todd shares from the fifth night of our UNSTOPPABLE REVIVAL about how God will use YOU!We must have an encounter with God! Not just a service, not just practice, but a genuine ENCOUNTER with God!When you do you will NEVER be the same! Encountering God means desire to know Him and His presence and when you are full of God, He will use you to see His power and His Will spread across the world! NEW EPISODES every Monday & Friday @ Noon.https://www.facebook.com/TheRiverOfTriCities/https://www.youtube.com/@TheRiverofTriCitiesChurchhttps://www.instagram.com/rivertcchurch/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/thelastdayspodcast/?hl=en

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Nahum 1-3; John 5 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! In today's episode, Heather guides us through day 215 of our journey through the Scriptures on this third day of August. Together, we reflect on the powerful words from Nahum chapters 1-3 and John chapter 5. The episode revisits the story of Nineveh, picking up a century after Jonah, and explores God's justice, mercy, and relentless love. Heather emphasizes that the Scriptures are not ends in themselves, but signposts pointing us to Jesus—the true source of life. As we listen, we're encouraged to open our hearts to God's love, recognize Jesus at work among us, and allow our faith to be strengthened and renewed. The episode closes with thoughtful prayers and a warm invitation to connect further at dailyradiobible.com. Join us as we come together with listeners around the world to encounter God's Word, be reminded of His love, and carry that love into our day. Seeing Jesus in Scripture: Nahum's Prophecy and the Healing at Bethesda From Nineveh's Fall to Christ's Healing: Finding God's Love in the Text Nahum, Nineveh, and John 5: Encountering God's Love and Power God's Judgment and Mercy: Reflections on Nahum and the Work of Jesus Finding Life in Christ: Nahum's Warning and Jesus at the Pool Encountering God's Love Beyond Rules: Lessons from Nahum and John 5 Scripture Points to Jesus: Nahum's Vision and Christ's Compassion Reorienting to God's Love: Ancient Prophecy Meets the Ministry of Jesus Recognizing Jesus: Nahum's Message, Bethesda's Healing, and Our Heart's Choice Beyond Judgment to Love: Discovering Christ's Presence in Nahum and John 5 Here are 30 topical keywords covered in the text: Nahum, Nineveh, Book of Nahum, John 5, Jesus, Holy Spirit, Scriptures, Assyrians, destruction of Nineveh, judgment, love of God, Sabbath, healing at Bethesda, Jewish leaders, authority of Jesus, eternal life, resurrection, Moses, prayer, faith, forgiveness, spiritual renewal, Bible reading, encouragement, Daily Radio Bible, scripture study, God's will, worship, community, newsletter Certainly! Here's a short, summarized bio for "Hunter," in a story format, inspired by the provided text: Hunter's Story Each day, Hunter joins a journey that unites people across the globe, gathering not just to read words, but to seek the deeper story they tell. On most Sundays, you'll find Hunter inviting others into this rhythm, reminding them that the scriptures aren't just old stories—they're windows into a greater life, bearing witness to hope and renewal through Jesus. With open heart and mind, Hunter leads this community in prayer, longing for the Holy Spirit to shine light on the path ahead and to re-center everyone in the love they share. Whether diving into the challenges spoken by Nahum or the life-giving words of John, Hunter's voice is a steady encouragement, a reminder that together, we are strengthened, reassured, and embraced by grace as each day unfolds. Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! In today's episode, Heather guides us through day 215 of our journey through the Scriptures on this third day of August. Together, we reflect on the powerful words from Nahum chapters 1-3 and John chapter 5. The episode revisits the story of Nineveh, picking up a century after Jonah, and explores God's justice, mercy, and relentless love. Heather emphasizes that the Scriptures are not ends in themselves, but signposts pointing us to Jesus—the true source of life. As we listen, we're encouraged to open our hearts to God's love, recognize Jesus at work among us, and allow our faith to be strengthened and renewed. The episode closes with thoughtful prayers and a warm invitation to connect further at dailyradiobible.com. Join us as we come together with listeners around the world to encounter God's Word, be reminded of His love, and carry that love into our day. Absolutely! Here are 10 thoughtful discussion questions based on this episode of the Daily Radio Bible: The episode opens by saying that the Scriptures bear witness to Jesus rather than being life in themselves. What does this perspective mean to you, and how might it change the way you read the Bible? Nahum's prophecy against Nineveh comes 100 to 150 years after Jonah's. How does the contrasting message between these two prophets reflect God's justice and mercy? In what ways did Nahum emphasize both God's power and his goodness? How do you see these two aspects of God in your own life? The description of Nineveh's fall is vivid and devastating. Why do you think the Bible includes such detailed imagery when depicting the consequences of turning away from God? Jesus' statement in John 5:39, "You study the Scriptures diligently... yet the Scriptures point to me," is highlighted in the episode. What are the risks of focusing on religious rules without embracing the person of Jesus? The host mentions that some people missed God's love because they were consumed with control, rules, and judgment. What are some modern-day examples of missing God's love in similar ways? How does Jesus' healing at the pool of Bethesda challenge the religious leaders' views on the Sabbath? What message do you think Jesus was trying to convey through this act? The prayers at the end of the episode emphasize being instruments of peace, forgiveness, and love. How can these prayers inspire the way you interact with others today? The episode encourages listeners to recognize God's love already present in their hearts. What practices or habits can help you become more aware of God's love in your everyday life? Reflecting on today's readings and the discussion, how can you move from simply knowing about God to truly experiencing and living in God's love? Feel free to use these for group discussion or personal reflection! Absolutely! Here's a comprehensive sequence of topics covered in this episode of the Daily Radio Bible podcast, with sub-topics nested under each main heading for clarity: 1. Welcome and Purpose of Gathering Host introduction (Heather) Daily tradition of coming together around the Scriptures The Scriptures point to Jesus, the source of life Prayer for Holy Spirit's illumination and encouragement 2. Scripture Readings Introduction Overview of today's readings: Nahum Chapters 1–3 and John 5 Timeline context: Nahum written 100-150 years after Jonah's time in Nineveh Focus on Nahum's message to Nineveh 3. Reading and Reflection: Nahum Chapters 1–3 Nahum Chapter 1 Vision against Nineveh Character of God: vengeance, power, justice, refuge for the trusting Prophecy of Nineveh's destruction and Israel's restoration Nahum Chapter 2 Call for Nineveh to defend itself against the coming enemy Description of Nineveh's future defeat and plundering Imagery of the city's fear and ultimate ruin Nahum Chapter 3 Lament over Nineveh: murder, lies, cruelty Graphic depiction of coming judgement: casualties, shame, desolation Comparison to the fallen city of Thebes Prophecy of Nineveh's collapse: no recovery, universal relief at its end 4. Reading and Reflection: John Chapter 5 Healing at the Pool of Bethesda Jesus heals a man who had been sick for 38 years Conflict with Jewish leaders over healing on the Sabbath Jesus' Discourse with Religious Leaders Jesus' explanation of His relationship with God the Father Claim of divine authority and equality with God Promise of resurrection and judgment by the Son Rejection by religious leaders: seeking approval, missing God's love Witnesses to Jesus Testimony of John the Baptist Greater testimony: Jesus' works and the Father's voice Challenge to the leaders' understanding of Scripture Heart issue: lack of God's love, focus on rules over relationship 5. Reflection and Application Jesus' assertion: “Your approval means nothing to me” Problems with religious leaders: obsession with rules, missing God's love The missed opportunity to recognize and receive God's love in Jesus Invitation to listeners: to come to Jesus and recognize His love 6. Prayers Prayers for guidance, preservation, and purpose Prayer for unity among peoples and God's coming kingdom Prayer for being instruments of God's peace (Adaptation of Prayer of St. Francis) The Lord's Prayer recited together Thanksgiving for spiritual nourishment and renewal 7. Closing Remarks Encouragement to visit dailyradiobible.com for resources Information about the email newsletter and downloadable materials Reminder to like, share, rate, and review the podcast Note about checking email spam folders for newsletter delivery Closing blessing: reminder of God's love and encouragement for the day If you'd like a timestamped version or a focus on a specific section, just let me know! Today on the Daily Radio Bible, we explored Nahum's strong message against Nineveh and reflected on Jesus's words in John 5 about true life and God's love. The Scriptures aren't just about rules—they point us to Jesus, who is love in action. Let's remember to open our hearts, be led by God's love, and share that love with others. Stay encouraged—the joy of the Lord is your strength, and you are loved.

This week, Jake and Bob continue their series on integrating faith with psychology and welcome Christopher Lafitte, a Catholic counselor based in Texas. Christopher shares his story of formation, from aspiring engineer to therapist, and about the deep encounter with Christ that shaped his journey. They discuss Christopher's unique approach to counseling, why loving one another is healing in itself, and how a therapists' own wounds can become blind spots in their ability to help clients. Throughout all of this, Christopher reflects on how nothing in our lives will make sense apart from the reality we are made for communion with God. So whenever we approach therapy or personal healing, we should always remember Jesus wants to heal us so we can be in relationship with Him.   Key Points: Our personal healing and ongoing transformation helps us to more effectively help others. Encountering God's love is the foundation for true healing. Psychological techniques build upon this foundation. Nothing in our lives will make sense apart from the reality that we are made for communion with the Lord. Whether we realize it or not all our deepest desires are unique expressions of how we are made to be in communion with Him.  Healing often begins when we encounter profound safety and love. This atmosphere allows deep wounds to surface and be addressed Therapists' own healing, awareness of personal wounds, and openness to being transformed are crucial for effective therapy, as their blind spots can affect the client's healing. Sometimes the ongoing problems we experience in life, such as anxiety or depression, are rooted in deeper wounds or beliefs. Allowing God into the past experiences that led to the creation of a wound can help transform our current struggles. The ultimate goal of therapy is helping people grow in freedom to love and fulfil their vocation, not just to alleviate pain. Most healing is gradual and requires patience and trust in God's timing. God heals so we can be in relationship with Him.   Resources: Healing Professionals Virtual Workshop: Healing Sexual Brokenness | October 23-24 2025 with Dr. Bob Schuchts, Jake Khym, and Christopher Lafitte  We invite any clergy who are interested in meeting with Christopher to reach out to us here. We will connect with Christopher to see if he has any availability.   Connect with Restore the Glory:  Instagram: @restoretheglorypodcast  Twitter: @RestoreGloryPod Facebook: Restore the Glory Podcast   Never miss out on an episode by hitting the subscribe button right now! Help other people find the show and grow in holiness by sharing this podcast with them individually or on your social media. Thanks!