Podcasts about ephesians

"How should we understand the language of election and predestination in Ephesians 1 and what was Paul's purpose in emphasizing it to the Ephesian believers? How does Ephesians 2:8-10 balance God's work and our good works, and why is that balance so central to Paul's message? In today's episode, Director of Equipping, Chris Sherrod, and Watermark member Robin Clark talk about Ephesians 1-4. Robin provides us with the context of the book of Ephesians and tackles the language around predestination, helping us understand the different positions on this theological topic. To learn more about the positions of predestination, check out these Got Questions articles: https://www.gotquestions.org/predestination.html https://www.gotquestions.org/predestination-vs-free-will.html 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"

In a passionate post-Thanksgiving message fresh from the Holy Land, guest speaker (filling in for Senior Pastor Micah Stephens) unpacked 2 Peter 1, showing how every believer possesses the same “like precious faith” as the apostles through Christ's righteousness alone. Sharing vivid stories from walking Hezekiah's tunnel and floating in the Dead Sea, he reminded the congregation that Scripture is historically true and life-changing. The heart of the sermon was Peter's promise: diligently adding virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love to our faith ensures we “never stumble” and live fruitful, grace-filled lives by partaking in God's divine nature—transforming ordinary believers into bold reflections of Jesus in a watching world.Reference Verses2 Peter 1 verses 1–15, Ephesians 2 verses 8–9, John 14 verse 12, 2 Corinthians 5 verse 21, Ephesians 1 verse 3, Acts 10 (implied), 1 John 2 verse 6, Hebrews 11 verse 6, Philippians 2 verses 12–13, Romans 8 verse 1, Romans 6 verse 11Make sure you subscribe to this channel and follow us on all our platforms to always stay up to date with our latest content!And you can always head over to our website for any general information!https://godspeak.comPrayer/NeedsIf you have any needs, or have a willingness to be used to meet various need in the body, please email info@godspeak.com. Also, let us know if you need prayer for anything.Giving is part of our worship time, and in this season, the easiest way to do that is online. If you go to our website, godspeak.com, you will see the "Give" tab in the top right corner. Or you can simply click this link https://pushpay.com/g/godspeakAny questions?Please feel free to email us, comment here, or DM us on Instagram any questions that you may have.Please Subscribe to this channel and turn on your notifications to be notified when our Livestreams start so you don't miss out! We hope you are blessed by the service!-The Godspeak Team

Today is day 337 and we are studying The Eighth Commandment. 337. As God's steward, how are you commanded to use your possessions? As I am able, I should earn my own living, care for my dependents, and give to the poor. I should use all my possessions to the glory of God and the good of creation. (Deuteronomy 15:11; Psalm 41:1; Proverbs 30:8–9; Isaiah 58:6–7; Matthew 25:14–30; Luke 14:13; Ephesians 4:28; 2 Thessalonians 3:6–12; 1 Timothy 6:17–19) We will conclude today by praying The Sadhe Stanza of Psalm 119 which is verses 137-144 found on page 437 of the Book of Common Prayer (2019). If you would like to buy or download To Be a Christian, head to anglicanchurch.net/catechism. Produced by Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Madison, MS. Original music from Matthew Clark. Daily collects and Psalms are taken from Book of Common Prayer (2019), created by the Anglican Church in North America and published by the Anglican Liturgical Press. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Catechism readings are taken from To Be a Christian - An Anglican Catechism Approved Edition, copyright © 2020 by The Anglican Church in North America by Crossway a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Jase describes a creepy encounter that put him on edge when he thought he was alone in the woods and unveils a bizarre but strangely fitting analogy about handheld vacuums and mortality. Honoring Phil with an opening-day hunt leads the guys into a conversation about death, the physical reality of our bodies breaking down, and the haunting mystery of what becomes of our souls. The study of John 19 brings them to Jesus' burial, the stark imagery of New Orleans tombs, and the eerie stillness of the grave before the stone rolled away. The guys explore how the empty tomb and the launch of the new creation reshape our understanding of earthly death—and what truly happens next. In this episode: John 19, verses 28–42; John 20, verse 1; Psalm 22, verses 1–2, 27–31; Genesis 1, verses 26–28; Genesis 2, verses 7, 15–17; Genesis 3, verse 19; Genesis 3, verses 22–24; Genesis 9, verse 6; Luke 1, verses 26–38; Matthew 1, verses 18–25; Ephesians 1, verses 3–14; Acts 17, verses 24–28 “Unashamed” Episode 1220 is sponsored by: https://ponchooutdoors.com/unashamed — We love our Poncho Outdoors shirts! Get $10 off your first order & free shipping Get an extra 25 cents back for every gallon on your first tank of gas when you download the FREE Upside App and use promo code UNASHAMED! https://www.puretalk.com/unashamed — Get their best unlimited plan for just $29.95 a month! https://preborn.com/unashamed — Visit the PreBorn! website or dial #250 and use keyword BABY to donate today. https://bravebooks.com/unashamed — Get 20% off AND get Missy's book “Because You're My Family” and Jep and Jessica's book “Dear Valor” free with code UNASHAMED http://unashamedforhillsdale.com/ — Sign up now for free, and join the Unashamed hosts every Friday for Unashamed Academy Powered by Hillsdale College Check out At Home with Phil Robertson, nearly 800 episodes of Phil's unfiltered wisdom, humor, and biblical truth, available for free for the first time! Get it on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://open.spotify.com/show/3LY8eJ4ZBZHmsImGoDNK2l Listen to Not Yet Now with Zach Dasher on Apple, Spotify, iHeart, or anywhere you get podcasts. Chapters: 00:00-8:05 Willie's time crunch cramps Jase's style 08:06-15:38 Zach's Jackson 5-style retirement scheme 15:39-20:28 The most important chapter in human history 20:29-29:20 Finding the lost tomb of Jesus 29:21-34:15 Jase helps a man off the fence 34:16-41:09 What happens when we die according to ChatGPT 41:10-49:30 How do we know souls exist?49:31-57:00 Dustbusters aren't great coffins — Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this raw and urgent episode, Ryan and Selena respond directly to a viral clip from Dr. Emerson Eggerichs (Love & Respect) where he calls out wives who “continually mock their husbands,” put them down mentally, and secretly make fun of their opinions.If you've ever caught yourself thinking, “He's just not the man I thought I married” … this episode is for you.We dive deep into:The devastating long-term fruit of a disrespectful speech and a critical spirit (Prov 21:19, Prov 27:15)Why even “small” condescending comments, eye-rolls, and corrections are spiritual poisonGenesis 1–2 and Ephesians 5:22–33 – God's original design for husbands to WORK and wives to RESPECTThe moment a wife stops seeing her husband “in his element,” her view of him becomes dangerously incompleteThe 4 C's every wife must confront: What are you Consuming? Who are you Consulting? Who are you Complaining to? It's time to CUT it out.The 200-year plan: How today's sarcasm and discontent become tomorrow's bitterness, affairs, or divorcePractical steps to break the cycle: Repent to God → Repent to your husband → Replace criticism with gratitude → Renew your mind daily (Romans 12:2)Husbands: this isn't permission to be passive. A wife's biblical respect flows most naturally when her husband loves her as Christ loves the church. We talk about that too.Whether you're the wife struggling with disrespect or the husband feeling crushed under constant criticism—this episode will challenge and encourage you toward the fierce, gospel-centered marriage you both long for.Scriptures covered: Genesis 1–2, Ephesians 5:22–33, Proverbs 21:19, Proverbs 27:15–16, Romans 12:1–2Resources mentioned: → Join the Fierce Men brotherhood (YouTube + private community)→ Fierce Fellows on Patreon – exclusive marriage content→ Partner with Fierce Marriage: https://fiercemarriage.com/partnerIf this episode hit home, text it to a friend who needs it. Leave a rating/review—it truly helps more couples find biblical hope.Have a question? Call or text 971-333-1120 — we may answer it on the air!#ChristianMarriage #RespectYourHusband #Ephesians5 #LoveAndRespect #StopNagging #BiblicalWife #FierceMarriage

Ephesians 4 shows us how change happens in the Christian life: we put off the old self, renew our minds with God's truth, and put on the new self created in Christ. In this episode we talk through that pattern and how it plays out in marriage, parenting, friendships, our time, and our words. Head over to ThankfulHomemaker.com for full show notes on all the links and resources mentioned in today's episode.  EP 183: Killing the Sin of Selfishness Joy of Self Forgetfulness Podcasts & Posts on our Speech   RESOURCES: Join Thankful Homemaker for access to the Free Library of Resources Follow ThankfulHomemaker on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest & Instagram Patreon Support Join the Thankful Homemaker Facebook Group Subscribe to the Podcast on Your Favorite App  Online Courses & Printables Thankful Homemaker Merchandise Buy Marci a Cup of Coffee xo     

N.T. Wright returns to the podcast for round three—no Malibu rooftop this time, but plenty of theological fireworks. We dig into Tom's new book on Ephesians, starting with why he thinks the scholarly consensus dismissing Pauline authorship is more about 19th-century German liberal Protestant hangover than good historical work. From there, we get into the real meat: Ephesians isn't answering the question "how do I get to heaven?" It's painting this massive cosmic picture of God's plan to unite heaven and earth in Christ—and the church's wild vocation to be what Tom calls "a small working model of new creation." We talk about how Western Christianity has shrunk Paul's vision into individual soul-sorting when the text is way more interested in what it looks like when formerly irreconcilable people come together as one new humanity. Tom pushes back on how both conservatives and liberals read their politics into the text, and we wrestle with the marriage passage in chapter 5 as the theological climax of the letter (not the culture war flashpoint we've made it). We close with a beautiful reflection on Ephesians 6 as an Advent text—the church holding the line between Christ's victory and his return. Plus, Tom's grandson sings in the New College Oxford choir, and honestly, that's the kind of intergenerational beauty Ephesians is pointing toward. You can WATCH the conversation on YouTube Prof. N.T. (Tom) Wright is Senior Research Fellow at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford University. He is one of the world's leading Bible scholars, with expertise in Ancient Judaism and Early Christianity, the New Testament, and Biblical Studies. He is also Emeritus Professor at the University of St. Andrews and the former Bishop of Durham. Tom's Previous Visits to the Podcast Devilpalooza NT Wright Talks Jesus and the scholars who discuss him UPCOMING ONLINE ADVENT CLASS w/ Diana Butler Bass⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join us for a transformative four-week Advent journey exploring how the four gospels speak their own revolutionary word against empire—both in their ancient context under Roman occupation and for our contemporary world shaped by capitalism, militarism, and nationalism.  This course invites you into an alternative calendar and rhythm. We'll discover how these ancient texts of resistance offer wisdom for our own moment of political turmoil, economic inequality, and ecological crisis. This class is donation-based, including 0. You can sign-up at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.HomebrewedClasses.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ This podcast is a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Homebrewed Christianity ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠production. Follow ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠the Homebrewed Christianity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Theology Nerd Throwdown⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, & ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Rise of Bonhoeffer⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ podcasts for more theological goodness for your earbuds. Join over 75,000 other people by joining our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Substack - Process This!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Get instant access to over 50 classes at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.TheologyClass.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow the podcast, drop a review⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, send ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠feedback/questions⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or become a ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠member of the HBC Community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe breaks down Ephesians 5 and some common errors people interpret from the text. He explains what authentic Catholic male-headship looks like. Transcript: Joe: Welcome back to Shameless Popery. I’m Joe Heschmeyer, and for many people one of the hardest biblical teachings to know what to do with is this idea of male headship. When the Bible talks with the husband as the head of his wife, what does an authentic biblical headship look like? How should we not understand these passages and how can a proper understanding of headship actually improve your marriage? I think the best place to s...

Are you already planning for 2026? Before you sit down with your journal or vision board, we want to show you a peaceful and biblical way to actually plan your year with God, and not just present your goals to Him after the fact.We discuss:How to start your annual planning rooted in ScriptureHow to look back at your year with gratitudeA simple way to evaluate your spiritual growthHow to ask God what HE wants for your 2026How to consecrate your goals and plans to the LordHow to create quarterly plans with GodIf you're feeling unsure about what next year should look like, this episode is for you.Cheering you on,Kelsey Kemp & Audrey BagarusRESOURCES MENTIONED:Jordan Raynor - Redeeming Your Goals / https://www.jordanraynor.com/rygJordan Raynor - The Word Before Work / https://a.co/d/5kxNP0bJamie Winship - https://www.youtube.com/@identityexchangeSCRIPTURES MENTIONED:Romans 5:1 | Romans 8:1, 15–17 | 1 John 3:1 | Ephesians 1:5 | Proverbs 16 | Galatians 5:22–23 | Daniel 1:8 | Joshua 3:5 | Leviticus 20:7 | Colossians 3:23BOOK A FREE CALL WITH US THIS WEEK:https://portal.kelseykemp.com/public/appointment-scheduler/6222458612c06afee1de0032/scheduleFREE CAREER COACHING RESOURCES:Free Training: How to Find and Land a Job You Feel Called to in 8 Straightforward Steps → https://thecalledcareer.com/our-processMore of a reader? ⁠Download the 22 page PDF⁠ version instead → https://thecalledcareer.mykajabi.com/PDFFOLLOW US ON OTHER SOCIALS:

Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire x Ephesians 6:10-18Your daily crossover of faith and fandom! Experience daily Biblical encouragement from nerdy Christian podcasters, bloggers and content creators. Join the Nerd of Godcast community at www.NOGSquad.com

Send us a textIn this episode, Pastor Dom teaches on the power of giving thanks. 1 Thessalonians 5:1818 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.Hebrews 13:55… For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”Luke 17:11-1911 Now it happened as He went to Jerusalem that He passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. 12 Then as He entered a certain village, there met Him ten men who were lepers, who stood afar off. 13 And they lifted up their voices and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” 14 So when He saw them, He said to them, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And so it was that as they went, they were cleansed. 15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned, and with a loud voice glorified God, 16 and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks. And he was a Samaritan. 17 So Jesus answered and said, “Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? 18 Were there not any found who returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?” 19 And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.John 6:5-13 5 Then Jesus lifted up His eyes, and seeing a great multitude coming toward Him, He said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread, that these may eat?” 6 But this He said to test him, for He Himself knew what He would do. 7 Philip answered Him, “Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may have a little.” 8 One of His disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, said to Him, 9 “There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two small fish, but what are they among so many?” 10 Then Jesus said, “Make the people sit down.” Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. 11 And Jesus took the loaves, and when He had given thanks He distributed them to the disciples, and the disciples to those sitting down; and likewise of the fish, as much as they wanted. 12 So when they werefilled, He said to His disciples, “Gather up the fragments that remain, so that nothing is lost.” 13 Therefore they gathered them up, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves which were left over by those who had eaten.Ephesians 5:2020 giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,1 Thessalonians 5:1818 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.Psalm 136:1-31 Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. 2 Oh, give thanks to the God of gods! For His mercy endures forever. 3 Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords! For His mercy endures forever:Psalm 100:44 Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name.John 10:99 I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved.Psalm 69:3030 I will praise the name of God with a song, And will magnify Him with thanksgiving.

567. Ordination Sunday Exodus 31:1- 2, Ephesians 4:7, Hebrew 5:1-4 Rev. Emmanuel Oset 30112025 by City Church Lagos

Todaywill continue to look at Ephesians 4:7-11. These verses are about the Spiritualgifts that God gives “to each one of us” for unity in the church.These gifts can either be used to build us up or used to tear us down. God hasalready given us the Gift of the Holy Spirit at the moment of our salvation. Atthat time, we were baptized into the body of Christ, and the Holy Spirit cameto dwell within us. This great truth is taught throughout the Epistles in theNew Testament.  Butalong with the Gift of the Holy Spirit, Jesus Christ, through the Holy Spirit,also imparted Spiritual gifts into our life. These gifts are many and you willfind them listed in Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12-14 and also in Ephesians 4. Weneed to also understand that these Spiritual gifts are not the naturalabilities that we're born with, such as mechanical ability, musical ability,athletic ability, or artistic ability. No, those are natural abilities anddifferent people have different natural abilities.  Butthese are Spiritual gifts and this gifting is very important for us tounderstand as believers. I'm convinced, we will not find real fulfillment,satisfaction, and real contentment in our lives unless we're fulfilling thepurpose for which God created us. Remember in Ephesians 2:8-10 we learned that Godsaved us by His grace, not just so we could go to heaven when we died, butbecause, “We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, whichGod prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” He saves us to do “goodworks” for Him through the abilities we have from our Spiritual gifts.  Godknew exactly what gifts the body needed in that particular local church and He “preparedbeforehand” and gifted every believer that became a part of that localchurch with specific spiritual gifts to build up that body of Jesus Christwhich builds up the whole body of Christ around the world. So these arepowerful verses to understand and make sure we begin to comprehend and apply to“each” of our lives as we see in verse 7: “But to each one of us,grace was given according to the measure of Christ's gift”.  Paulsaid something similar in Romans 12:4-6: "For aswe have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the samefunction. So we being many are one body in Christ and individually members ofone another." Having then gifts differing according to the grace that isgiven to us, let us use them”. We should make sure we're exercising thosespiritual gifts that God has given us. Thenin verses 8-10, we read something very interesting. These are wonderful versesreminding us that Jesus Christ first descended that He might ascend. And He ledcaptivity captive. I believe the meaning of this is that just as we werecaptive to Satan by sin before salvation, Jesus Christ because He wasvictorious over death and sin and hell and the grave, He now takes us captivefor His glory, and gives the Spiritual gifts that we need to serve Him. “Jesusdescended that He might ascend”. He descended in obedience to “death of thecross and for that God has highly exalted Him and given Him the Name that isabove every name…” (Philippians 2:8-11).  Jesus“descended to the lower parts of the earth”. I believe that this couldmean that Jesus took there those in paradise previous to the cross and He ledthem up to the third heaven. And Jesus also delivered us from our captivity tosin and Satan and made us His captives to be free to live holy and Godly livesand gave us the Spiritual gifts to serve Him.  Ohmy friend, aren't you so thankful that Jesus “though He was rich, He becamepoor that we through His poverty might be rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9). Wehave the riches of Christ, and the Spiritual gifts that He's given “toeach one of us”, the wealth of Christ Himself living within “eachone of us” today.  Doyou know your Spiritual gifts? Are you using them for the glory of God and thebuilding up of the body of Jesus Christ?

Draw near to the loving heart of God and let His love fill you to overflowing. Tonight's main passage is: Ephesians 4:32-5:2.No matter what kind of day you've had, rest in hope and peace tonight as you draw near to the heart of God. This short, uplifting meditation from His Word will create a space at the end of the day for you to refocus on the goodness and nearness of the Lord, entrust your burdens to Him and fill your mind with His promises and faithfulness towards you. Tonight's meditation is read by Rebecca. Meet the team at odb.org/meet-the-team.Send us a text message to let us know how we can make the Evening Meditations an even better experience for you!Support the showYou can now share the Evening Meditations through the updated Our Daily Bread app! If you've not done so already, download it for free from your app store.We hope that you have enjoyed this Evening Meditation from Our Daily Bread Ministries! You can find more exciting content from Our Daily Bread Ministries by following us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok. You can even sign up to receive Our Daily Bread Bible reading notes sent straight to your door for free: ourdailybread.org/meditation. All our funding comes from our listeners, like you, who value what we do and want to help us reach more people. You can make a donation towards our mission at eveningmeditations.org.

In this episode, Professor N. T. Wright joins us to walk through Ephesians as a panoramic room with a view—sunrise to moonset—where heaven and earth meet, and spiritual warfare is real but not partisan. Drawing from his new book The Vision of Ephesians: The Task of the Church and the Glory of God, Wright argues that Paul's language about “predestination” is vocational before it's destinational: the church is chosen to live for the praise of God's glory in the present. RDM and Wright explore why Ephesians might have changed church history had the Reformers centered it as much as Romans and Galatians, how “principalities and powers” makes surprising sense in an algorithm-shaped age, and why unity and holiness aren't rival goods but twin commands. They also wade into the passages that spark the most questions—marriage in Ephesians 5, mutual submission, and the armor of God—insisting on careful reading, cultural context, and a refusal to demonize flesh-and-blood neighbors. Whether you're Christian-curious or deep in the commentaries, Wright offers a way to read Ephesians both fast (to catch the sweep) and slow (to trace the seams), with the church embodying a many-colored wisdom that refuses tribal sorting. Resources mentioned in this episode:   Keep up with Russell: Sign up for the weekly newsletter where Russell shares thoughtful takes on big questions, offers a Christian perspective on life, and recommends books and music he's enjoying. Submit a question for the show at questions@russellmoore.com  Subscribe to the Christianity Today Magazine: Special offer for listeners of The Russell Moore Show: Click here for 25% off a subscription Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Kathy Koch joins us to help parents disciple kids with confidence in God's good design. We talk about why identity confusion is rising, how to start age-appropriate conversations at home, and practical ways churches can equip families—anchored in Scripture like Genesis 1, Psalm 139, and Ephesians 2. You'll leave with hopeful, doable steps for shaping character and pointing your kids to Christ in a confusing culture.Resources Mentioned:Celebrate KidsRaising Gender-Confident KidsCelebrate Kids Podcast with Dr. Kathy Koch Get your Advent Tea Calendar Today by Piper and Leaf (use code FAM10 at checkout)Follow Us:Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteEditing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In my life, I have discovered that when it comes to the choices of fear and faith, it's not always one or the other. Life produces fear, it's an emotion we feel, but with God's help, I can choose faith anyway. Though I may feel fear, I choose to trust God. Main Points:1. As Christians, we acknowledge that fear is a choice. We can also make another choice. It's the decision to live by faith. 2. Having faith doesn't diminish the reality of what we are facing, it doesn't deny it or sweep it under the rug. Faith is not pretending the hard times aren't there. Faith is choosing to believe that God is with us in our battle and that the ultimate outcome is in His hands. He is involved in every detail of our lives.3. Faith brings God into the equation. As I face my fears, I remember what the Bible says about God's character and his power. God is both loving and strong. He is compassionate and powerful.Today's Scripture Verses:Psalm 23:4 - “Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.”Psalm 86:15 - “But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.”Ephesians 3:20 - “God…is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us.”Psalm 56:3 - “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.”Quick Links:Donate to support this podcastLeave a review on Apple PodcastsGet a copy of The 5 Minute Discipleship JournalConnect on SocialJoin The 5 Minute Discipleship Facebook Group

277. Breaking Through Addiction in Marriage with Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith   *DISCLAIMER* This episode is intended for adults.   1 John 1:9 AMP "If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He is faithful and just [true to His own nature and promises], and will forgive our sins and cleanse us continually from all unrighteousness [our wrongdoing, everything not in conformity with His will and purpose].”   *Transcription Below*   Thank You to Our Sponsor: Leman Property Management Company   Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith are clinicians, speakers, and authors with over 20 years of combined experience in counseling, coaching, and guiding couples toward healing and transformation. Their mission is to help couples navigate the complexities of relational challenges, particularly in the aftermath of sexual addiction and betrayal trauma, fostering deep restoration and growth.   Matthew is a Professional Certified Coach (ICF) with a background in pastoral leadership, while Joanna is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, EMDR practitioner, and Certified Clinical Partner Specialist through APSATS. Both hold Master of Divinity degrees and have served together on multiple church leadership teams. Currently, they co-lead their private practice, The Raabsmith Team, where they specialize in helping couples rebuild connection, trust, and intimacy.   Their passion for this work stems from their own journey of restoration. After experiencing the devastating effects of sexual addiction and betrayal in their marriage, Matthew and Joanna embarked on a years-long pursuit of reconciliation. This transformative experience led to the creation of tools like The Intimacy Pyramid™, a practical model for relational restoration and growth co-created with colleague Dan Drake.    Their first book, Building True Intimacy (2023), has sold over 1,000 copies and provides practical guidance for couples to use the Intimacy Pyramid to create enduring connections. They also founded Renewing Us Recovery™, a comprehensive program designed to support couples in the later stages of relational restoration. In November 2025, they will host the inaugural Renewing Us Couples Retreat, offering workshops and connection opportunities for couples on similar paths of recovery and growth.   Matthew and Joanna live in Memphis, Tennessee with their three young children. They prioritize self-care through shared adventures, new experiences, and a weekly game of pickleball.   Free Resource Mentioned in Episode   Building True Intimacy book   Questions and Topics Discussed: What were the warning signs that you noticed when you were newlyweds that tipped you off to believing things weren't quite as they seemed? Are there any common life circumstances, whether nature or nurture, that predispose someone to be more likely to struggle with a sexual addiction? As couples seek to thrive in marriage, will you give us an overview of the intimacy pyramid you wrote a book about?   Other Episodes Mentioned During Episode: Pornography: Protecting Children, Personal Healing, Recovery, and Victory in Christ with Sam Black Pornography Addiction and Helpful Recovery with Crystal Renaud Day   Additional Related Episodes on The Savvy Sauce: Anatomy of an Affair with Dave Carder Protecting Your Marriage Against Unfaithfulness with Dave Carder Stories Series: Recovery From Sexual Sin in Marriage with Garrett and Brenna Naufel Supernatural Restoration Story with Bob and Audrey Meisner Special Patreon Re-Release Wholehearted Quiet Time with Naomi Vacaro   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”   Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”   John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”   *Transcription*   Music: (0:00 – 0:12)   Laura Dugger: (0:13 - 1:38) Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, where we have practical chats for intentional living. I'm your host, Laura Dugger, and I'm so glad you're here.   Today's message is not intended for little ears. We'll be discussing some adult themes, and I want you to be aware before you listen to this message.   Leman Property Management Company has the apartment you will be able to call home, with over 1,700 apartment units available in Central Illinois. Visit them today at lemanproperties.com, or connect with them on Facebook.   Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith are my guests today. They are clinicians, speakers, and authors with over 20 years of combined experience in counseling, coaching, and guiding couples toward healing and transformation. Our conversation takes a few turns, from getting to hear their incredible and vulnerable story of healing and then getting tips for talking to our children about topics like sex, and also even receiving some practical wisdom and tips for enhancing our own marital enjoyment.   Here's our chat. Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, Matthew and Joanna.   Matthew Raabsmith: (1:39 - 1:40) So good to be here.   Joanna Raabsmith: (1:40 - 1:42) So glad to be here. Thanks for having us.   Laura Dugger: (1:42 - 1:51) Oh, truly my pleasure. And let's just start here. Can you share your story going back to meeting and falling in love and your first part of marriage?   Matthew Raabsmith: (1:53 - 2:17) Sure, yeah. It was a little bumpy at first, actually. So, I knew Joanna through her brother. Joanna's brother was one of my best friends, and I got to meet her whenever she would come in town and visit, and she would invade guy night. He would usually bring her along to like a Lord of the Rings movie or something, and I would be a little frustrated because I would be like, oh, you brought your sister. Great. That's wonderful.   Joanna Raabsmith: (2:18 - 2:24) A little off-putting, not super friendly. And I was like, your friend's kind of a jerk. We did not like each other at all in the beginning.   Matthew Raabsmith: (2:24 - 2:54) Not big fans. And eventually over some time, we started to realize we had a lot in common. We liked to do a lot of the same things.   And one summer that Joanna was in town, we started hanging out, started doing more and more together, and really just kind of developed a friendship, which was really fun. And at the very end of the summer, realized that there was something between us. And so, we went on one date.   Our first date, we entered a golf tournament. We won it, and that was a good sign.   Joanna Raabsmith: (2:54 - 2:55) That's a pretty good sign.   Matthew Raabsmith: (2:55 - 3:02) And we went on three more dates over the course of two months and got engaged.   Joanna Raabsmith: (3:03 - 3:07) And then two months after that, we got married.   Matthew Raabsmith: (3:07 - 3:16) Yeah. So, her brother went from like, yeah, it's cool you date my sister, to like, you're not ready to get married. But he's come around now.   Joanna Raabsmith: (3:17 - 3:19) 15 years later. Yeah.   Matthew Raabsmith: (3:19 - 3:40) And, you know, a lot of it was, I think we had a definite sense of being kind of called together, being, you know, something special about who we were as a couple. And also, a recognition that we wanted to figure out what a good marriage looked like. We were really excited about marriage, but we didn't really know what we were doing.   Joanna Raabsmith: (3:41 - 4:15) Yeah, I've had a really great model of healthy relationship. My parents have a wonderful marriage. They work really well as a team.   And so, I knew, like, I want something like that. But as soon as we got married, we realized, but how do you actually build that? There's no, like, instruction manual for, okay, here are the things to do to have a great relationship.   And so, we read books. We went to conferences. You know, we did what we could, but we still found ourselves getting stuck, not able to really create, like, that deep sense of, like, connection intimacy that we really wanted.   Matthew Raabsmith: (4:15 - 5:17) And we started kind of hunting more and more for resources. We found some incredible resources that really changed our understanding of the way relationships work, the way people work, and really, for us, shifted our entire focus of kind of what we wanted to do, even with our life. And as we started to do that, though, we still kind of found ourselves at this kind of glass wall.   We felt like no matter what we tried, there was always this kind of distance between us. And that started to grow kind of over the years that we were together. It wasn't getting better.   It was actually kind of getting worse and worse and worse. And so, Joanna had actually decided to, after we finished our first grad degree together, the idea was we were going to go be pastors. And so, we had finished our kind of theological training.   Joanna decided she wanted to get a master's in marriage and family therapy so we could do some work around marriages and ministry in that way. And her very first-class kind of just set our life in a completely different direction.   Joanna Raabsmith: (5:17 - 6:26) Yes. So, my first class in the MFT program was a two-week intensive called Shame and Guilt. So, that's a really fun two-week intensive to be a part of. And as a part of that, though, they had an anonymous pastor come and share his testimony of struggling with sex addiction, becoming sober, getting into good recovery, healing and restoration in his marriage, kind of like that whole journey. And as he was talking, something inside of me started stirring. And I knew, OK, what he's saying is resonating way too much with me right now.   I think this is the thing. This is what is keeping us stuck, not able to really create the relationship we want. And so, that day I went home and first I just kind of started talking about my class, what I learned, what this pastor had shared.   Right. And nothing. Right.   We're just kind of talking generally about it. And so, finally I couldn't do it anymore. And I just stopped and I looked him square in the eyes and I said, “Are you struggling with this in our marriage right now?”   Matthew Raabsmith: (6:26 - 8:03) Yeah. And for the first time in my life, 20 years, I had been struggling with pornography, sexual addiction, and acting out in our marriage. And for the first time in my life, I was honest.   I had lied for years, both with Joanna and everyone else. And the kind of floodgates just kind of opened up. And I finally said yes.   And it was really hearing the story, I think, is what did it for me. I think it was knowing that somebody else had made it, that their life hadn't come crashing down because that was the greatest fear for me. That the moment anyone found this out, everything in my life would be over. Everything that I loved would be gone.   And so, this kind of story of hope gave me a little bit of courage that day, to be honest. But that started a really long journey for us because there was a lot of damage that was done in both of my hiding. And now kind of this revelation, all the pain kind of came crashing down on Joanna and kind of her shoulders.   And so, we started a quite intensive recovery process. We talked about it being kind of a full-time job. I went to recovery for my addiction and for kind of my acting out behaviors. Joanna had to begin a process of healing from the trauma of this discovery. And that process took us a number of years. It really was a long kind of arduous journey, but one that we ultimately survived and now thrive in our marriage and get the incredible luxury and the kind of gift of helping other couples do that.   So, that's kind of where we find ourselves.   Laura Dugger: (8:04 - 8:30) That is incredible. I just really appreciate you sharing your story. Clearly, stories are so powerful and that's what led to some healing for you and hopefully can open the floodgates for somebody else listening.   So, if we go back in your story, then, Joanna, I'd love to start with you. What were some of those red flags in early marriage that things aren't quite as they seem?   Joanna Raabsmith: (8:31 - 10:28) Yeah, there are a few. You know, I think that, you know, one of the pieces we kind of talked about, like, OK, we knew we're still getting stuck because there's 90 percent that felt really good. But then 10 percent that was extremely chaotic, really destructive.   Right. We would get we call the pain cycles when we get emotionally dysregulated. And there would be some things that, right.   Sometimes we would get into pain cycles, get dysregulated. And I kind of understand why. Right.   Like something happened. There was the disagreement. But other times I couldn't put my finger on it.   Right. Matthew would just get really angry and really shut down. And I wouldn't be able to connect it to anything that had happened in our life.   And so, it was very confusing. It was really hard to understand what was going on. And I think kind of in the same way, when I would pull too close into that connection, that intimacy, he would pull back.   Right. And it felt like even though we both named this goal and this desire, he would never actually partner with me in it. And so, again, that was really confusing because the actions were not matching up with reality and what was happening.   And I think the other piece that was kind of true for us and true for a lot of other people is that our own sexual relationship was fraught with pain. And so, there was, again, a lot that was really good, but also a lot that was really painful and confusing. And some of the pieces just didn't connect.   Right. And I would wonder, OK, what's going on? Well, I guess this is just the reality that like this is how much we get to expect in this area of our life, right.   In our relationship. And so, it was when the pastor started describing his life and addiction and what that looked like emotionally, sexually, relationally. I was like, oh, those are all the things that I'm currently experiencing.   Here's one thing that would answer all those questions that I have. And so, I think that was part of it. He kind of told me, like, OK, this is it.   Laura Dugger: (10:28 - 11:00) That would be so eye opening. And my heart's going out to the couple who is maybe starting to identify with this. Was it and share whatever you're comfortable with from your story or the person's story who opened things up to you?   So, sexually, I'm wondering if it was for you, Joanna, if you were hoping to connect sexually and that wasn't happening and that was confusing. You didn't feel pursued. But I don't want to fill in the blanks.   So, could you elaborate?   Joanna Raabsmith: (11:00 - 12:03) Absolutely. Yeah. And we find it a lot of different ways than couples that we work with.   Right. And so, it can be sometimes on either side of the extreme. And so, for us, it was where there would be kind of times when he'd be fully present and interested and engaged. Right. And then all of a sudden, kind of like I described emotionally, he would just withdraw and not be there. And I would reach out to connect.   And that was this like non-response. And which, again, didn't match up with those other times when he was engaged and wanting to connect. And he would give some sort of excuse that didn't totally make sense.   Right. But I was kind of like, what else? What was I left with except that?   So, I would kind of believe that and go with it, even though it didn't sit right. And so, yeah, I think that was part of it. We will see on the other side for some other couples.   It's the opposite. And maybe that spouse is hypersexual in the relationship. Right.   To the point where there might be pressure, even pressure to do things sexually that people aren't comfortable with. And so, yeah, it can look a lot of different ways. But that was kind of what our disconnect looked like.   Laura Dugger: (12:04 - 12:33) That's so helpful. And there's two different directions I want to go, Matthew. So, I'll set it up.   I guess I'm thinking of the guilt and shame and how those are usually so present. So, I have two questions. Were you when Joanna came to you, were you at a point where you recognize something was off and you wanted freedom from this and or had tried freedom before?   Let's start with that and then I'll go into the other one.   Matthew Raabsmith: (12:34 - 14:40) Yeah, it really was holy timing in a lot of ways. I, you know, for a lot of years I had I hated what I did. I didn't feel like I could stop it, but didn't have a lot of interest in kind of doing anything to stop it.   I kind of just like would just say, “OK, this is going to be the last time.” And then, you know, of course it would come back. But I think at this point I had really started to see the damage that was happening to our relationship.   I could feel us growing close, growing further apart. I could see kind of Joanna and the confusion that she was having. And like she couldn't understand things.   She would ask me a lot of questions that I didn't have answers to. And so, I actually a couple of months earlier, we were at a worship service, and they had said like, “hey, if you are ready to give something up, if you feel like there's something holding you back, come forward and confess it.” And Joanna and I were sitting next to each other, and I remember feeling like the Holy Spirit just like pulling me to like get up out of my seat and I wouldn't move.   I was like, no, because she's going to ask me what I went down for. I'm going there's you know, there's a random kind of prayer partner at the front. I'm like, I'm not going and confessing this to some random person.   And so, I was ready. But I think like I said, I think there was no path forward. It was kind of confess this and everything stops and ends.   But everything like marriage ends, life ends. And so, when she when she brought this, it really did feel like God had kind of been answering a prayer that I've been praying of like, if you give me a way out, I'll take it. I'm desperate.   I want it to stop. And it felt like that. I think it was both this kind of terror and this hope that day.   And even when I said, yes, it was a little bit like, what have I done? Like, could this have been different? Should I have just gone and told someone else privately?   Right. But I think ultimately that it was out between the two of us and that we kind of knew it. We knew what we were dealing with made a huge difference.   But I mean, God had been working in my life, offering opportunities for so long. I just been saying no, no, no. And then finally, you know, I think my heart just broke and it was like, yes, OK, I'm ready for this.   Laura Dugger: (14:40 - 15:14) I love how the Holy Spirit equipped you with that humility and courage to be brave in that moment. And it's such a blessing for all of us to get to see the end or I guess not the end of the story, but you at this point in your story where you're thriving. And so, I hope that offers a lot of hope to people listening.   But let's also pause. And so, going back further in time, Matthew, this was the other part of my question. What was life and attachment and your growing up journey like?   Matthew Raabsmith: (15:15 - 18:09) Yeah, I didn't know that at the time. Right. I a lot of this I figured out in the last couple of years of recovery.   You know, if you would have asked me, you know, as I was growing up about my life, I would have told you I had the perfect family. I had the perfect life. I think I did not realize that some of the things that I was going through weren't perfect, were harder.   And part of that was because I think the way my family dynamic worked was we just swept everything under the rug. You know, whatever happened, we just kind of went, OK, and moved on from. And I learned to do that as a kid.   And that meant a lot of emotional chaos. There was a lot of physical chaos and kind of volatility in our house growing up. And even though I had parents who are still married to this day, have stayed together and have tried to create kind of a stable life.   There was a lot of emotional and kind of relational instability. We moved around a lot. And then once we started moving, I found myself more and more kind of isolated at school. I started dealing with bullying and some things that really kind of left me not knowing how to deal with the pain that I was going through. And so, my way of stuffing things under the rug was getting, you know, escaping, you know, kind of escaping into anything that I could. I watched a lot of TV.   I was a latchkey kid, so I would come home. I'd watch TV a lot in the afternoon and then TV kind of just turned to more and more. And I was exposed pretty young to pornography, actually at a church camp.   I was at a summer church camp. Someone brought a Playboy magazine, and I was exposed to pornography. And I kind of felt that high, that rush.   And that just became kind of a mode of my escape. Right. Of whatever I could do to engage sexually, whether with my mind or with others.   That's how I could get out of the pain I was in. That's how I could stop feeling kind of the chaos that I was having and not realizing that it was becoming this kind of adaptive habit, that it would just be this thing I would go back to more and more. And I grew up at a time that technology was still emerging.   So, I can remember when we got our first computer and no one was talking about safeguards or anything. And so, it was just kind of exposure. Here you go.   Here's everything you could ever want and don't need. And that really became my life. And the more and more that I did, the better and better I got at lying and hiding and even being kind of vulnerable in kind of fake ways.   I would mention things like, yeah, we all have this struggle. And even Joanna, I had told like, you know, that was a struggle of mine in the past, but I've moved on from it. Right.   I told myself and other people just kind of lie after lie after lie so that I could have really this double life. I could appear one way and then I could be acting a completely different way, kind of in the dark.   Laura Dugger: (18:10 - 20:41) Yeah. And that makes sense. I'm thinking back to two episodes.   We did one with a male, Sam Black from Covenant Eyes, and he speaks so much of the origins of pornography and that foothold that Satan gets. And so many times it is in childhood, unwittingly you're exposed and then what it can turn into. And then Crystal Renaud Day came on to share a lot of females struggle with this as well.   And so, I'll link to those if those are a help.   And now a brief message from our sponsor. 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For me, I had to figure out what had really gone on in my life and what was really happening.   Because, like I said, I had become such an expert at hiding from myself and others that I didn't really know how to live any other way. And so, I, you know, Joanna kind of handed me a list of everything this pastor had done. She was like, here you go.   Right. She kind of handed me that list and was like, good luck. And so, I dove in.   I went to a men's intensive. And I think that was probably one of the key places for me to tell my story for the first time. I really took a look at my life and had some people help me take a look and recognize the trauma that I had as a kid exposure that I had experienced and what that really meant to me and helped me understand what I was doing.   But also, kind of what I was doing to myself, how I was really kind of killing myself from the inside out and preventing myself from having the kind of relationship I wanted with God and other people. And so, that discovery was in really ways kind of invigorating for me. I felt like I was living for the first time.   I think I had started to kind of get out of this kind of burden, this fear of always being caught. I told Joanna kind of the history of everything that had happened in my life and our relationship. And so, I was feeling this kind of renewed sense of like energy and excitement of like, this is good.   I want this life. I want the life there that I'm not in constant kind of fear and in constant kind of connection to this thing I hate. And so, which is really different than what Joanna was experiencing.   Joanna Raabsmith: (22:30 - 25:07) Yeah. So, for me, it was very jarring in the beginning. Everything I thought was real came crashing down around me.   And that was especially jarring because I had left kind of the direction, the path that I was on. Right. We talked about our story earlier.   It included two months of dating, two months of engagement before we got married. And that also included me dropping out of law school, getting married and moving to California to pursue a ministry degree so we could work as pastors together or do something together. And so, in that moment, all of that came crashing down.   And I kind of was very lost, not just in our relationship, but in kind of what in the world am I even doing here? What am I going to do moving forward if he doesn't choose recovery? Right.   And so, just all of those question marks, all in that one moment of him answering that question affirmative. And so, so there was like that heaviness on one side and then on the other side was this relief of finally everything I've been experiencing makes sense. Right. Finally, I feel like I actually know what's going on. And because of that, there could maybe be a path forward for us as well. So, is this very, very weird dichotomy in that moment? And so, but I think I knew right away, like, I can't be vulnerable. I can't be intimate with him anymore. Right.   I have to step back in our relationship and wait and see what he chooses to do. Is he going to choose to do the work of recovery and get healthy and start to be honest and safe or not? And so, that's so we kind of did kind of there's some space for a very long period of time while we focused on our own individual recoveries.   And that, again, was a little bumpy for me. This is over a decade ago. And so, there is very little information about what partners experience.   We call it betrayal trauma, and that just wasn't a very common word at the time. And so, some of the resources I plugged into came from a more we would call it codependent, co-addict focus, which just really didn't fit. So, I struggled to find resources that felt like they fit for my journey.   But once I did, it all again, my own healing process started to make sense. And it was so like freeing and liberating to understand. Like, oh, OK, this is what I'm going through. This is why I feel this way.   This is what it looks like to heal and move forward. And so, kind of beginning that process was so important because then when Matthew was kind of in a healthy, safe place, I was as well, and we can start to step in towards each other on that kind of more couples' journey at that point.   Laura Dugger: (25:07 - 25:17) I love how you did that wisely, though, separate first, not rushing into couples at that time. Absolutely.   Matthew Raabsmith: (25:18 - 26:33) Appreciate you calling it wise. I think we were terrified. Yeah, we'll take God's help.   I think he was like, you guys just work on your own stuff for a while. And in some ways, like I said, it was we didn't know what we were doing. But I think we knew we wanted there to be a future between the two of us.   But we knew it had to be completely different in some ways than what we had before, which was scary because we liked what we had before. Like we had a really great marriage in many ways. Right.   There was this portion of it, this hidden portion that was really infecting and killing it all. But what we did have together, we didn't want to totally lose. It just was really hard to know, especially early on, what's going to come forward.   Like, who are we still going to be as we go forward? Are we still going to be a couple who does things together? Right. Who works together? Or is that all kind of going to have to be different? Is that the only way that we have kind of moving forward?   And so, that was that was probably the hardest part was having like this sense of like not wanting to lose us. We were like, if we lost that, that was going to be miserable. And I think a lot of our work was about how do we eventually reclaim this marriage that we want, that we love?   Laura Dugger: (26:34 - 27:04) Yes, because from what I'm sensing, you're friends with each other, you're on purpose or on mission with God. He did a course correction change, putting you on this path to help couples. But your desire to work together, it's like He still honored that in the ministry of reconciliation.   And I'm assuming abundantly blessed it beyond what you could ever dreamed up what we're doing now.   Joanna Raabsmith: (27:04 - 27:42) Right. It's been amazing to see what God has done, how he's used our story, which is so fitting because it was someone sharing their story that brought our healing. And I think because of that and it wasn't right away; it took some time to get to the place where we felt open to God using our story to bring healing to others. But we found as we stepped into that, that we have received such a blessing.   Right. And just being able to sit with other couples in that journey and see them go from that place of pain and confusion to this place of restoration and thriving. Like there is no better work that we could have imagined for ourselves.   Laura Dugger: (27:42 - 28:09) Love that. And really, you did have to pioneer a path. There weren't many resources at that time.   So, that's another reason I'm grateful you can share your story, because I hope it unlocks freedom for others. So, if we're turning more outward now and you're helping as you work with couples, how do you help them identify the difference between sexual struggles and sexual addiction?   Matthew Raabsmith: (28:10 - 30:15) Yeah, that's a great question. And I think that it really kind of exists on a spectrum. And so, everything kind of exists under what we call problematic sexual behavior or unwanted sexual behavior.   Whenever someone is acting in a way sexually that doesn't align with their values. And then the question is, is how often, how compulsive, right? How habituated, right?   How really embedded is that practice? Because the more and more embedded it is and the more and more that I continue to act on that, seeing the damage that it's doing, that's really what qualifies as the addiction. The addiction is when I know that this is causing harm and I and I feel that even though I want to stop it and I've tried to stop.   Right. I can't stop the 12 steps has a great line. They say addicts, you know, addicts have no problem stopping.   It's staying stopped. That's hard for an addict. Right.   And so, that's usually a sign that there's an addiction. And really what that means is that just means that I'm going to have to be even more kind of thorough and scrupulous in my willingness to change a lot. Because if I have built an addictive lifestyle, that means everything I do kind of functions to support that lifestyle.   Right. And so, my part of that was this hiding. I lied about everything.   I would lie about anything just to make sure that I was in control of the narrative. And so, for me, it was recognizing that if I was going to move forward free of my addiction, then it had to begin with honesty, with this kind of radical honesty and transparency and growing in that consistently, because that was the way that I manifested this addiction and kind of kept it going. And so, that's really what the addiction is about, is recognizing what are the kind of pieces in my life that are supporting this addiction to continue to exist?   And how is God going to dismantle those things? Right. And how am I going to be a part of that dismantling?   Laura Dugger: (30:16 - 30:33) That's well said. And also, I'm curious, are there any common life circumstances, whether that's nature or nurture, that are more likely to predispose someone to more likely have this struggle with sexual addiction?   Matthew Raabsmith: (30:34 - 32:30) I mean, there are, I think, you know, the things that we tend to look for are trauma and trauma comes in so many different forms. So, trauma is more it's rare that it's a single event. It's often more a kind of consistent occurrences.   As I mentioned, you know, I can't speak to kind of one event in my life that I say this was the traumatic moment in which everything changed. But it was more of the chaos. And so, I grew up in a family that could be really, really, really loving and incredibly encouraging and fun and silly and in a heartbeat switch into one that was verbally and physically just chaotic and terrifying.   And it was that chaos that kept me on edge. What it did was it created in me kind of a system of always wanting to be on high alert. And that would exhaust me.   That would kind of wear me out. And I would want to kind of numb that kind of feeling away. And so, I think those traumas, I do think early exposure.   Right. I mean, I was exposed early before my brain was ready to really understand what it was dealing with. And I think the third component that we often see is a low level or a kind of really a void of sexual education.   There was I'm sure I had a small talk with my dad at some point, but we were not talking about pornography. We weren't talking about bodies. We weren't talking about sex from a kind of healthy, good way.   I grew up in the church, and it was kind of don't do this until you're married and then you'll be fine. Right. That was the sexual education message.   And so, those things, right, trauma, exposure and lack of kind of education usually forms in someone a difficulty of knowing what they're doing, knowing that it's destroying them before it's really kind of gotten a deep hole.   Joanna Raabsmith: (32:30 - 33:20) I think like the brain. The brain aspect to when we talk about addiction, there are usually chemicals involved in addiction being formed, being created. And so, I think also co-occurring disorders, right, that emotional pain, also things like anxiety, depression, ADHD, where my brain really likes the dopamine it gets from sexual acting out. Right.   And you can actually need it to feel OK. That can also be a factor in kind of especially that addictive side of these behaviors. When my brain gets really attached to that dopamine release that it's getting because maybe I have some other things going on or I just have emotional pain.   I don't know what to deal with, how to handle it, how to regulate that in a healthy way.   Laura Dugger: (33:20 - 34:30) There's so many good points there. I'll just highlight one because there's a profound piece that you were talking about with early exposure to evil and the corruption of it is extremely harmful. And yet not being exposed to God's good design for sex and hopefully being coached by our parents, that is both of those play a part in the addiction. And so, I'm thinking even as we shift to think about parents, I know I've had parents come to me and just say, I don't want to talk about this with my kids.   I don't want to rob their innocence. And my approach is if God made it, this is good. We can talk to them.   You're not robbing their innocence when you're sharing the good age-appropriate parts of sex. And it's so great to be that first one to share with them. And I think it does the opposite of what we would expect.   We're afraid that that might make them hyper sexualized. But would you speak to that? Any encouragement for parents?   Matthew Raabsmith: (34:30 - 36:37) Yeah, it's tricky. I mean, even as parents, we've got kids and its still kind of navigating it. But I do think what it does is it lets someone learn the things they need to in the timeline they need to.   I think part of one of the things is that, you know, really good sexual education starts young. I mean, they start six and seven years old or even younger, just talking about our bodies. Right.   Because I think that's part of it. Really, this is about understanding the goodness of our bodies. This body was created by God, the maker of heaven and earth, and he called it good.   And so, I think part of a good sexual education begins with that. And then, what's really nice is once you've started the conversation, that means if your children are exposed or if they're presented with things that don't line up with what they've been hearing, they now feel safe to come and talk about that. Because that's really what this was about.   I didn't feel safe to talk about what I was exposed to, what people were doing. Right. And what people were encouraging me to engage in.   And so, you know, my parents would ask me how it's going. I would not tell them anything because it wasn't a conversation that they were having with me. And so, I didn't think it was a conversation I was going to have with them.   And so, that meant that as I found myself further and further away from my values, I felt like, who am I going to share this with? And so, part of having the conversation is it normalizes with our kids that this is OK to talk about, which is actually what adults need. I mean, part of our work with couples as adults, we have to get them talking about sex and body parts.   I mean, it's amazing to have 30, 40, and 50-year-olds in our offices and in our sessions. And they're so uncomfortable. Right.   They don't want to talk about sex. They don't want to talk about their bodies. They don't want to talk about what their bodies do.   Right. And we keep being like, this is God's good stuff. Right.   There is goodness here. But you have to begin by talking about it. Right.   Having these conversations.   Joanna Raabsmith: (36:38 - 37:54) I tell all the parents I work with, your kids are going to pick up a narrative about what sex is and what sexuality is, whether you want them to or not. And so, would you rather be the first person to step in and give them a healthy view, a healthy narrative to understand? Right.   And this is beyond kind of the nuts and bolts that everything our kids are learning. They're trying to find a deeper meaning. They don't think it's unconscious when they're young. Right. But they're taking it and they're going, what meaning does this have for me? How does this inform my self-worth, my view of my own value as a human in my body?   And how does it inform my experience of the world and my safety in the world? And am I empowered to make decisions? Am I connected?   Do I belong? Right. All of those questions are asking.   And so, as they're confronted with issues of sexuality, it's going to inform those things. And the world will not give them a healthy narrative about it. Right.   And so, being able as a parent to step in and give them that healthy meaning, that narrative, that understanding of their worth and their safety as they're piecing together kind of sexuality, again, at that age-appropriate level is so important.   Laura Dugger: (37:54 - 38:30) Guess what? We are no longer an audio only podcast. We now have video included as well.   If you want to view the conversation each week, make sure you watch our videos. We're on YouTube and you can access videos or find answers to any of your other questions about the podcast when you visit thesavvysauce.com. And I love that you're talking about this with couples you work with.   So, will you give us an overview of the intimacy pyramid that you actually wrote a book about and you teach to couples?   Joanna Raabsmith: (38:30 - 38:31) Absolutely.   Matthew Raabsmith: (38:31 - 39:15) Yeah. I mean, it was born out of our journey because, as you said, we wandered for a while and we felt a little bit like Israel, just kind of, you know, knowing that the Promised Land was out there, but never really feeling like we could find it. And when we started to piece together, I think the kind of relationship that we had dreamed of reclaiming, we really ask ourselves, how can we make this a more direct, a simpler process, not just for couples who went through what we went through, but really for any couple who's hungry for this, for the couple like us when we were first starting.   It really wants an amazing marriage. And so, we really focused on a kind of simplistic idea of what are the core kind of foundational levels of building really healthy intimacy.   Joanna Raabsmith: (39:16 - 40:10) Yeah. So, the intimacy pyramid, it's actually a triangle. There's a visual that goes along with it.   So, if you imagine the different levels of the triangle, very similar to Maslow's hierarchy of needs, starting at the bottom, you have to start with honesty. And so, we definitely experienced that reality in our own relationship. Right.   This is something we learned from Couples in Betrayal, but like Matthew said, we realized this is where every couple starts. Am I willing to be fully open, fully honest and transparent in this relationship? Am I being my authentic self?   Right. And after that level of honesty, that's when we start to build safety. And that has to do with our ability to communicate in really healthy, constructive ways.   Even when it's hard, even when we're disagreeing, even when we feel like yelling at each other. Are we able to show up with that belief that we both have the same goal? We're trying to build something together.   Matthew Raabsmith: (40:10 - 41:57) And with honesty and safety, that's where we get to work on trust as a couple. That's that next level. And trust is where we start to be more partners, where we're really starting to kind of lean in, work together, kind of be courageous and saying, “Hey, this isn't just my life anymore, right?”   This is our life together. And as that trust is established, this is what allows for the incredible work of vulnerability. And there's been all these studies about vulnerability over the last few years and how important it is.   What we recognize, though, is vulnerability on top of nothing is actually really risky and kind of even dangerous. It's vulnerability that's built on healthy trust where we step in and we do share some of those deeper pains in those wounds, those fears. We start to really heal some of those kind of early traumas that we experience.   It's in that vulnerability. That's what allows a couple to be truly intimate. And it's when they've worked through each of these levels, what we find is these couples, when they reach this kind of this intimacy level, they're passionate about who they are as a couple. They love kind of their relationship itself. They have a purpose to it. They have a sense that like our marriage, our relationship exists for a reason, but they're also really playful.   They're silly. They're really kind of comfortable in their own skin. And it's those five levels really working together that allows them to experience a relationship that gives life. I think one of the things we know is that when God creates, it gives life. And so, God created marriage not to burden us, right? Not to kind of, you know, not even just to get us through, you know, kind of surviving life, but actually to bring more life.   Right. And not just life within the relationship itself, but life outside of it.   Laura Dugger: (41:58 - 42:22) Oh, I love it. And you're also working with couples. I've heard you speak before about the working on offering your spouse the gift of self-awareness. And so, what could couples expect? How do you actually work with them to grow in self-awareness and recognize things like the emotional process they go through in marriage?   Joanna Raabsmith: (42:22 - 43:48) Absolutely. So, awareness. So, in our book, we obviously detail the intimacy period much more.   And that's Building True Intimacy is the name of the book. But each of those levels we just walked through have different components that go into that. And awareness is kind of like one of the most important components of that honesty foundation.   So, we have to start with awareness and we can't really build anything if there's a lack of self-awareness. And so, when we work with couples, one of the first places we start is we kind of look at the past. Are they aware of what they've been through, what those experiences are, and how those experiences have shaped them into the person that is now in the present, showing up with their spouse.   Right. And so, once I start to have that insight from my past, from those experiences, how they shape me, I can better understand my present. What are the things that I feel and why do I feel those things in particular?   Right. And then when I feel those things in a relationship, and these are typically those kind of heavier, more challenging, more painful emotions. How do I respond?   How am I showing up? Because the reality is that all of us cope with emotional pain the same way we cope with physical pain. We go into fight or flight.   That part of our brain gets triggered and we respond with these kind of destructive relational coping behaviors that then hurt my partner.   Matthew Raabsmith: (43:48 - 46:22) Yeah. Like, for example, I told you about that chaos I experienced as a kid. And so, those would always happen around conflicts.   My parents would disagree about something. There would be some type of argument about, you know, and it could be anything where we were going for dinner or what color the curtains were. Right.   But it would create this chaotic environment. So, as I got married, the thing that I didn't like the least was any type of conflict. Joanna and I would get in when I could sense us disagreeing and we are both passionate.   We have opinions and we believe things and we get into this kind of disagreement and argument. It would freak my system out. And I didn't realize that because I didn't really know my past.   I didn't know what was going on. I would just really do anything to shut it down. I get angry and I try to get loud, or I just walk away in the middle of a conversation.   As Joanna was talking, I would just leave the room and my acting out was just a further manifestation of that kind of leaving the relationship. And so, part of my healing journey was to learn about my story and recognize, oh, OK, I can see what's happening. And what's really interesting is it still happens in our life today.   I've been in recovery for 12 years. I still feel the same things. Now it's more like when my kids are getting involved.   Right. And there's energy in the room and people are online. And then I go, oh, yeah, there it is.   There's my system again. It's starting to feel unsafe. It's starting to feel alone. And I know what it wants to do. It wants to get angry, or it wants to just shut down and walk away. And what's incredible is that we've learned the ability to see where we're at but also speak directly to that.   And so, what I get to do for myself now is I get to go, “OK, I know I'm feeling unsafe and I know I'm feeling alone. And I know I want to get angry to solve it, but it won't do it. But here's the truth. The truth is that I'm safe in God's economy. I'm empowered. I have an incredible partner in my life. I've never been alone. I've always had someone there for me. And Joanna is the perfect example of that.”   And that totally changes my sense of really kind of where I am. And it changes how I show up. I tend to be much more calm.   I ask questions rather than make demands. And it's that ability to kind of see where we're at and shift. That's just been such a game changer for our family and just for our own relationship.   We still have to work on it. You know, it doesn't always look that pretty. Right.   But when we do, it's amazing how different it goes.   Laura Dugger: (46:24 - 46:44) And then I just think of the generational impacts that has when people are willing to do the work. And so, if there's a brave couple out there who wants to seek their own help and healing, can you share where they can go for help, including the Raabsmith team and all that you have to offer?   Matthew Raabsmith: (46:46 - 47:30) Yeah, you know, we would love them to connect with us because I think one of the things we recognize was having guides along the way. I mean, we had to figure a lot out ourselves, but we also had some really incredible guides, some mentors, some coaches, some therapists. And so, we always just say, hey, connect with us.   You can find us at raabsmithteam.com. We have a heart for couples who want restoration and reconciliation because that's what we're getting to live and experience. And what's cool is our whole team, they're couples who've been through this work, but who also have been professionally trained to help other couples to just continue to guide and to grow relationships so that they're thriving and they're kind of giving that life.   Joanna Raabsmith: (47:30 - 48:10) Absolutely. We also love to give out resources. And so, we have the kind of we call it the honest connection.   And so, again, if you're starting this journey or even this is for any couple who wants deeper connection, deeper intimacy, learning how to do that on a daily basis in small ways is so important. And so, we have a worksheet that couples can take and use. We're happy to provide that for them for free and kind of try this for 30 days and notice the changes that you experience in your relationship.   And so, that's a great starting point wherever you are in relationship to begin that journey of connection.   Matthew Raabsmith: (48:10 - 48:14) And you just go to raabsmithteam.com/free and that resource is all yours.   Laura Dugger: (48:15 - 48:26) Wonderful. Add links for that in the show notes for today's episode. And is this then for any couple worldwide, nationwide?   Can you work with people?   Matthew Raabsmith: (48:27 - 48:55) We have we've got couples across the world, which is really fun. It's been really neat just to see the way that God has used our work. One of the things when we first started this journey, we started getting couples calling us saying, “Hey, I don't have anybody in my area that specializes in this, that understands this journey. Can I work with you?” And so, we kind of felt a calling to say we want to make sure that we connect with people wherever they are. And so, absolutely.   If you can hear our voice, you can work with us.   Laura Dugger: (48:55 - 49:14) I love that. And just as a little bonus practical tip, you kind of mentioned being proactive to thriving in marriage. Is there any encouragement that you could share or a specific practical tip that anybody could start to incorporate if they want to take their marriage to that thriving level?   Matthew Raabsmith: (49:15 - 50:12) Yeah, I think just the ability to slow down. We have a  nine, seven and six-year-old. We own our own business, and we like life and life can get incredibly fast.   And I think what we have found is when, as I was mentioning, when I learned the ability just to slow down, even if I don't fully just know myself slowing down and checking in, just where am I at right now? Where's my heart? Right. Where do I want to be?   I think I realize that so often my values and my actions aren't aligned when I'm moving too quickly. I'm not being the person that I want to be. And we see that in so many couples. We meet so many couples and there are two really great people who have a hard time working together. They have a hard time kind of being a team.   And it's usually because they're working so fast. They don't realize they're kind of working against each other. So, slowing down, I think, is such a big thing.   Joanna Raabsmith: (50:12 - 51:18) Another piece that's, again, really easy to start right away. A lot of couples we work with, and I think probably even us when we start a relationship, was there were two individuals in a relationship, and it was kind of either me or you. And starting to understand there's this third thing between you, the relationship. There's a third almost entity that really needs care. It needs nurture. It needs you to focus on its needs from time to time.   And so, beginning to approach the day, even approach conversations with this question of like, what does our relationship need right now? And even as you're trying to make decisions, what is the way we can decide this in a way that's good for our relationship or what decision benefits our relationship rather than does it benefit you or me? Because when you get into that struggle, it can become a competition.   It can become transactional really quickly. So, starting to ask that question, starting to talk about the needs and caring for the relationship very intentionally can be a way to shift that.   Laura Dugger: (51:20 - 51:38) Thank you for sharing that. I think that leads into my last question, because you already know we're called The Savvy Sauce because savvy is synonymous with practical knowledge. And so, as my final question for both of you, Matthew and Joanna, what is your savvy sauce?   Matthew Raabsmith: (51:39 - 52:22) I kind of mentioned this, but I think it's the willingness to be honest. I was so willing to lie to myself and kind of really hide from other people. And I didn't even know that I was doing it.   But as I have learned to be more honest in really kind of healthy ways, right. You can dump, you can whine, you can complain, you can get angry. But truly being honest meant just looking at what I was feeling and trying to kind of figure that out and name that.   As I have learned that ability to be honest with myself and with others, it has just opened up a new world of possibilities. And it has shown me how many people care for me; how much God cares for me. So, I think that honesty is something I just want to practice more and more every day.   Joanna Raabsmith: (52:22 - 53:30) I think for me, just in my own journey and working with so many partners, that importance of being able to make empowered decisions in my life. Right. That I am really intentionally choosing the direction I'm going in life.   Realizing that instead of going into this more helpless, powerless victim stance is such a difference. And really the only thing that changes a lot of times is mindset. You don't have to overhaul your entire life.   Right. You have to add in like four hours of self-care and all of these things. But starting to shift that mindset into, wait, I have power in the decisions I make.   And one of the ways that's really important to do that is growing that self-awareness. I cannot make empowered decisions if I'm not aware of where I'm at emotionally, physically, spiritually. Right.   If I'm not aware of my needs on a regular basis. And so, slowing down to check those things in, sometimes even multiple times in the day if you're not used to that. So, you're more connected to yourself, to what you need, what you want.   So, you can start making those empowered decisions.   Laura Dugger: (53:32 - 54:00) I love that. It's just so enjoyable to host a very lively couple who's humble and you've done your work. And then you're willing to share all this overflow of goodness with all of us.   So, I think my prayer is that the Lord would richly bless you for this open-handed generosity of wisdom and your story and experience that you've shared with us and modeled for us today. So, thank you to both of you for being my guest.   Joanna Raabsmith: (54:00 - 54:03) Thank you so much. It's a joy being here.   Laura Dugger: (54:05 - 57:47) One more thing before you go, have you heard the term gospel before? It simply means good news. And I want to share the best news with you, but it starts with the bad news.   Every single one of us were born sinners, but Christ desires to rescue us from our sin, which is something we cannot do for ourselves. This means there's absolutely no chance we can make it to heaven on our own. So, for you and for me, it means we deserve death, and we can never pay back the sacrifice we owe to be saved.   We need a savior, but God loved us so much. He made a way for his only son to willingly die in our place as the perfect substitute. This gives us hope of life forever in right relationship with him.   That is good news. Jesus lived the perfect life. We could never live and died in our place for our sin.   This was God's plan to make a way to reconcile with us so that God can look at us and see Jesus. We can be covered and justified through the work Jesus finished. If we choose to receive what he has done for us, Romans 10:9 says, “that if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”   So, you pray with me now. Heavenly father, thank you for sending Jesus to take our place. I pray someone today right now is touched and chooses to turn their life over to you.   Will you clearly guide them and help them take their next step in faith to declare you as Lord of their life? We trust you to work and change lives now for eternity. In Jesus name we pray.   Amen. If you prayed that prayer, you are declaring him for me. So, me for him, you get the opportunity to live your life for him.   And at this podcast, we're called The Savvy Sauce for a reason. We want to give you practical tools to implement the knowledge you have learned. So, you're ready to get started.   First, tell someone, say it out loud, get a Bible. The first day I made this decision, my parents took me to Barnes and Noble and let me choose my own Bible. I selected the Quest NIV Bible and I love it.   You can start by reading the book of John. Also get connected locally, which just means tell someone who's a part of a church in your community that you made a decision to follow Christ. I'm assuming they will be thrilled to talk with you about further steps such as going to church and getting connected to other believers to encourage you.   We want to celebrate with you too. So, feel free to leave a comment for us here. If you did make a decision to follow Christ, we also have show notes included where you can read scripture that describes this process.   And finally, be encouraged. Luke 15:10 says, “in the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” The heavens are praising with you for your decision today.   And if you've already received this good news, I pray you have someone to share it with. You are loved and I look forward to meeting you here next time.

Equipped: Guard Your Heart, The Breast Plate Of Righteousness, Ephesians 6:14 w/Darren Tyler

This week Chase discusses from Ephesians 5:22-33 husbands, wives, and the purity of the church as a chaste bride of Christ. Description Visit our linktree: https://linktr.ee/scatteredabroadnetwork Visit our website, www.scatteredabroad.org, and subscribe to our email list. "Like" and "share" our Facebook page: https:// www.facebook.com/sapodcastnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ the_scattered_abroad_network/ Subscribe to our Substack: https://scatteredabroad.substack.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel: The Scattered Abroad Network Contact us through email at san@msop.org. If you would like to consider supporting us in any way, don't hesitate to contact us through this email.

Ray Chung grew up in a faithful Christian home in Malaysia, watching both sides of his family run businesses that shaped the fabric of their communities. Even as a kid, he sensed that business carried real power, but it wasn't until his own encounter with deeper faith that he began wrestling with how work, calling, and impact could fit together. College only fanned that flame, awakening a vision for business as a living witness to the Gospel. Years later, Ray would spend significant time with HOPE International, where a healthy, Christ-centered culture left a lasting mark on him. For more than twenty years, he has been helping leaders and teams reorient their hearts toward the way of Jesus. Now a senior consultant with Rising Sun Consultants, Ray walks alongside organizations as they build cultures formed by servant leadership and spiritual maturity. Then in 2021, Ray faced a radically personal invitation to generosity when he sensed God asking him to give one of his kidneys. His story is full of wisdom on surrender, Christlike culture, and what it means to faithfully steward the life God has given you. Major Topics Include: The theology of work An example of a healthy organizational culture Why an organization's culture is important Words of wisdom about the non-profit model Assessing an organization's board, leadership, and financials The five elements of servant-leadership Prioritizing intimacy with God as a busy leader Practical tips for spiritual rest Being called to give his kidney Stewarding your story, experience, and relationships in a way the points others to Jesus QUOTES TO REMEMBER “Work is a channel of grace to display the glory of God in meeting needs, ours and our neighbors, as we generate resources that can be shared in the redemptive work of the Gospel.” “Business can be a powerful force for God's transformation” “God has been at work in these communities long before we show up.” “Organizational culture is really hard to fake long term.” “Culture requires intentionality and accountability.” “Do I believe that the more I work, the more I can advance the mission? Or do I really think that God is at work here?” “Sometimes we need to remember how to be a human being rather than a human doing. I try to give myself permission to be about more than work.” “I used to believe the lie that I am what I perform. But I'm learning to believe the truth that I am loved by the Creator and that alone is enough.” “Our life is not our own when we are surrendered to God.” LINKS FROM THE SHOW Hope International (see our interview with founder, Jeff Rutt or CEO, Peter Greer) Jesse Casler (see our past interview here) Lead with Prayer by Ryan Skoog, Peter Greer, and Cameron Doolittle (see our interview with the authors here) Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer Lectio 365 App Caleb Breakey, founder of Renown Publishing (see our past interview here) Kate Gardner, co-host of the Ascendants Podcast and co-founder of Magnify (see our past interview here) Alan Barnhart (see our past interview here) Julie Wilson, President of Women Doing Well (see our past interview here) Dana and Bill Wichterman (see our past interview here) The Finish Line Community Facebook Group The Finish Line Community LinkedIn Group BIBLE REFERENCES FROM THE SHOW Psalm 46:10 | Be Still   Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!   Luke 3:11 | Share What You Have   And he answered them, “Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.”   John 13:35 | Love One Another   By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.   Ephesians 3:20 | More than We Can Think to Ask   Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! If you have a thought about something you heard, or a story to share, please reach out! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. You can also contact us directly from our contact page. If you want to engage with the Finish Line Community, check out our groups on Facebookand LinkedIn.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (NIV) 
1. THANK YOU JESUS FOR THE CROSS The cross was the payment, purpose, and presentation of God's love on full display. Romans 5:6-8 When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners.7 Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. 8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners (NLT) 
2. THANK YOU JESUS FOR YOUR GRACE AND MERCY Ephesians 2:4-5 But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, 5 that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved! (NLT) Lamentations 3:22–23 The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. 23 Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. (NLT) Titus 2:11 For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people (NLT) Hebrews 4:16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most (NLT) 3. THANK YOU JESUS FOR YOUR HOPE Romans 15:13 I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit (NLT) 1 Peter 1:3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead (NIV) 4. THANK YOU JESUS FOR YOUR POWER 
Philippians 3:10 I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead. I want to suffer with him, sharing in his death (NLT) Jesus has the POWER we need to walk in PURPOSE! Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth (NIV) Ephesians 3:20 Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think (NLT) Philippians 4:13 For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength (NLT) 2 Corinthians 5:17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun (NLT) 


Dr. Kurt Bjorklund explores Ephesians 4:7-10 to reveal how Jesus changes the world through three powerful movements: His descent to provide salvation, His ascension demonstrating ultimate authority, and His promise to fill all things with God's intended goodness. This message offers hope for those overwhelmed by brokenness, showing how we participate in bringing God's kingdom to earth while trusting in Christ's power to ultimately restore all creation.Message Summary and Transcript - https://www.orchardhillchurch.com/blog-post/2025/12/1/how-to-change-the-world-3-part-threeSubscribe to Orchard Hill Plus! - https://orchardhillplus.buzzsprout.com/shareConnect with Orchard Hill ChurchWebsite | https://www.orchardhillchurch.comMobile App | https://https://www.orchardhillchurch.com/appYouTube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/OrchardHillChurchPAFacebook | https://www.facebook.com/orchardhillchurch/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/orchardhillchurch/Twitter | https://twitter.com/orchard_hill

#jews #gentiles #inheritance Do you ever wonder if you get access to the same promises that Jews do in the Bible? In this message by Pastor Alex Klimchuk, he talks about how God's promises are yours and to make sure you don't bury your gifts. Ephesians 3:1-13, Acts 21 & 22 Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, & SUBSCRIBE for more biblical teachings!   Please follow our websites for more! Website: http://www.newlifechurchsf.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewLifeSF/ Youtube: https://youtu.be/7Ig-qXgVAmE/ Pastor Alex Klimchuk New Life Church 500 S 1st Ave Sioux Falls, SD 57104

*This week, our One Hope, The Gospel Changes Everything series may be a sensitive topic for some as we dive deep into sexual sin in Chapter 5 of Ephesians. This teaching is not intended for young children and we invite parents to decide for their families what is best for their kids, but we feel like it is an important message for our church.   Have you ever felt like you're fighting the same fight again and again? Ben Phebus continues our One Hope, The Gospel Changes Everything series and reminds us that we aren't fighting alone. Jesus not only calls us to walk in the light, He gives us the power to leave old patterns behind. In Him, we find real strength, real change, and real victory, from even the most destructive sins.

In this encouraging message, Trevor teaches how gratitude is a powerful spiritual posture that realigns your heart with God's presence. Through passages in Philippians, Colossians, Ephesians, Psalms, and 1 Thessalonians, he shows how thankfulness produces peace, maturity, resilience, and deeper worship. A timely reminder that gratitude is not just a response — it is the will of God and the lifestyle of a growing believer.

Welcome to the Be Encouraged Podcast! You are listening to Season 3 - The Receive Series, Episode 6 called, “Receive Blessings,” which closes out both our Receive series and the year 2025! I'll be taking a short break before we dive into the final series, “Achieve.”During this holiday season, we'll receive all kinds of gifts. Some will be returned, regifted, forgotten, or used until they can't be used anymore. But there is one gift that never fades, never runs out, and continually satisfies the soul.You can't return it. You don't have to earn it. It's given freely — and nothing compares to the blessings that flow from the gift of salvation in Christ.As you move through this season, I encourage you to hold that truth close. Even after many years of walking with Christ, I still can't fully grasp the depths of this gift. Day by day, year by year, I'm learning and growing. I hope this episode encourages you to step into the next level of your faith journey — and if you're new to faith, that it helps you understand just how precious this gift truly is.Be encouraged to receive all the blessings God has in store for you: grace, mercy, love, belonging, provision, and peace that surpasses understanding. Nothing compares to the gift of our Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ.Be encouraged!JackieFollow on Instagram: @be_encouraged_podcast DM me and tell me what stuck with you! OR write a raving review on Apple Podcast so that more people can be encouraged just like you! --- THANK YOU! Verses to mentioned and to study: Psalm 62:1 Ephesians 1:9-23Colossians 1: 9-11 (keep going if you'd like --- it's all so GOOD!)

Ephesians 5:15

This message looks at how our new life in Jesus reshapes the relationships closest to us. Pastor Benny teaches how the Holy Spirit and mutual submission transform our marriages, our parenting, and the way we work. Subscribe and comment to join the conversation.

This week Chase discusses from Ephesians 5:22-33 husbands, wives, and the purity of the church as a chaste bride of Christ. Description Visit our linktree: https://linktr.ee/scatteredabroadnetwork Visit our website, www.scatteredabroad.org, and subscribe to our email list. "Like" and "share" our Facebook page: https:// www.facebook.com/sapodcastnetwork Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ the_scattered_abroad_network/ Subscribe to our Substack: https://scatteredabroad.substack.com/Subscribe to our YouTube channel: The Scattered Abroad Network Contact us through email at san@msop.org. If you would like to consider supporting us in any way, don't hesitate to contact us through this email.

Strong Dads Podcast Episode SummaryIn this episode of the Strong Dads Podcast, hosts Merrill Hutchinson and Andy Dalton dive into the significance of having a mission in life, particularly from a man's perspective. The discussion unfolds in a structured manner, highlighting key themes and insights for fathers and men striving to lead purposeful lives.The Importance of a MissionThe podcast opens with a brief advertisement for Quality Autoart, emphasizing their multifaceted services for both cars and golf carts, while thanking them for their sponsorship. This sets a community-focused tone for the episode.Merrill and Andy then introduce the central theme of the month: mission. They discuss how their content will become more theme-based, providing a roadmap for their discussions ahead. Merrill and Andy express a desire to explore the concept of mission from various perspectives, especially what it means for men.Intentionality in LifeThe conversation shifts toward the importance of living intentionally and not drifting through life. They reference Ephesians 2:10, which emphasizes that individuals are created for good works, highlighting the significance of being deliberate in one's actions and decisions.Merrill and Andy emphasize that a man's mission should align with God's mission. They stress the importance of understanding God's ways, not just personal ambitions, echoing the idea that serving God ultimately enhances one's role as a father and husband.The Role of ChristMerrill articulates the distinction between God as a general concept and Christ as a defined figure, suggesting that understanding Christ's example is crucial for men to grasp what it means to be a strong leader in their families. They discuss how Christ came to serve rather than be served, a countercultural idea that men often struggle to embrace.Practical Application of MissionMerrill and Andy then provide practical advice on living out one's mission, focusing on home first. They argue that the family should be the primary mission field, urging fathers to actively lead their children in faith rather than leaving them to choose their paths without guidance.Merrill and Andy also touch on the idea that mission is not just about the family; it extends into the workplace and community. They encourage listeners to serve with integrity and to view every role, no matter how mundane, as an opportunity to reflect Christ's love.Spiritual Warfare and Intentional LivingThe discussion deepens into the spiritual dimensions of mission, recognizing that there are forces at play that seek to disrupt families and individuals. They highlight the need for vigilance and intentionality in protecting one's family from spiritual attacks. Merrill and Andy affirm that complacency is a danger, urging men to actively engage in their mission to counteract such threats.Conclusion and Call to Actionrocksolidfamilies.orgSupport the show#Rocksolidfamilies,#familytherapy,#marriagecounseling,#parenting,#faithbasedcounseling,#counseling,#Strongdads,#coaching,#lifecoach,#lifecoaching,#marriagecoaching,#marriageandfamily,#control,#security,#respect,#affection,#love,#purpose,#faith,#mastersofdisaster,#storms,#disasterrelief,#tornados,#hurricanes,#floods

theology can sound intimidating, but it's really just what we believe about God... and we all have one. in this episode, we're breaking down the basics of christian theology: who God is, what we believe, and why it matters for everyday life. we'll talk about the Nicene Creed, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and how good theology can actually bring more peace, purpose, and confidence in your faith.listen in and learn how to make theology simple, personal, and life-giving.scriptures mentioned: Hosea 6:3, Ephesians 2:8–9, Jeremiah 9:23–24, Psalm 119:18

With much emotion Paul gives his final farewell address to the Ephesian elders emphasizing to them that, "it is more blessed to give than to receive."  Its a scene that portrays the wonderful commitment and fellowship that has been shared amongst these believers. They serve as an example to us today, that strong relationships are built on sharing, caring, and praying for one another.   By Dave Bartlett  

A sermon from Ephesians 6:16.Speaker: Gregory W Mathis

On this episode, John Michael and Nicole Caldwell share some of their Christmas traditions and memories growing up in Uruguay and the United States. They also share some encouraging thoughts for us as we head into the Christmas season. This episode also includes excerpts from Season 1 Episode 5 (“Christmas Traditions and Expectations” with Colton Shrader). This episode also includes excerpts from season 1 episode 5 (“Christmas Traditions and Expectations” with Colton Shrader). Who doesn't love the Christmas season? Well, sometimes the reality of the season doesn't live up to the expectations we place on it. Whether that's from trying to mix winter-based, northern hemisphere traditions into South American summer contexts, or sacrificing your traditions to make time for family and friends while in the States. This season, whatever it looks like for you, still reminds us that we can live in expectation and joy, despite trouble, because of the very good news of Jesus.What are your family's Christmas traditions where you grew up? Send them in! We'd love to hear about it! Connect with us HERE. HOSTS: Michelle Ellis, John Michael Caldwell, Nicole Caldwell, Colton ShraderSONG: Sunscreen by Vic Davi CONNECT WITH US: Instagram | FacebookSHOW NOTES:14:32 | Isaiah 9:6 - “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”15:28 | Ephesians 3:16-21 - “…And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ…”KEY QUOTES:9:08 | “ It's all about Jesus in the end.”10:50 | “No matter what you're going through in this season of life, the Lord sees you. He knows exactly what you need.”11:09 | “There is hope and there's definitely hope in Jesus.”12:29 | “ You're here on this earth at this time for a reason.”12:58 | “Jesus does relate to you.”14:07 | “Let His presence enter your heart and your life and let His word consume you so that you can have the joy of Jesus every single day.”29:44 | “He has made a way for us to have an abundant life now. There are ways for us to enjoy, even in the hardships, even in the stressful times, there are ways for us to enjoy being followers of Christ now in our day-to-day life.”30:09 | “We can also live with joy and expectation for what is going to come.”30:35 | “If you want to be someone that has the ability to give to others spiritually, right? To pour into others and to give out of the abundance of your intimacy with Jesus, then it has to be more than just a Sunday morning experience.”34:08 | “Your pain and the challenges in this season that you're feeling have not gone unnoticed.”Interested in partnering with John Michael & Nicole in prayer, one-time giving, or monthly giving? Do that HERE.COMMON TERMS:TCK - third culture kidMK - missionary kidLAC - Latin America Caribbean

He Shall Be Called // Week 1 // Wonderful CounselorPastors JF & Ashley WilkersonIsaiah 9:6-7a NIV6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7a Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.1 Corinthians 1:30-31 NIV30 It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31 Therefore, as it is written: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.”Luke 1:26b-28 NIV26b...God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”1. He is God FOR USLuke 1:29-30 NIV29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God.Ephesians 1:3-6 NIV3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ . 4 For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5 he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— 6 to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves.Romans 8:28 NIV28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.1. He is God FOR US2. He is God WITH USLuke 1:28 NIV28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”Matthew 1:22-23 NIV22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”).John 1:14a NIV14a The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.1. He Is God FOR US2. He is God WITH US3. He is God TO USIsaiah 9:6a NIV6a For to us a child is born, to us a son is given…Luke 1:30-31 NIV30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.Romans 5:8 NIV8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.1. He Is God FOR US2. He is God WITH US3. He is God TO US

Podcast Description – Mason Tucker | Ephesians 2 | RiverSide ChurchIn this powerful, verse-by-verse message from Ephesians 2, Mason Tucker walks us through one of the clearest pictures in all of Scripture of what it means to be saved by grace and built on a firm foundation in Jesus Christ. Preached at RiverSide Church, this sermon reminds us that we were once dead in our trespasses and sins, following the course of this world—but God, being rich in mercy, made us alive together with Christ.You'll be encouraged as we see that salvation is by grace alone, through faith, not by works, so that no one may boast. We are reminded that we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works that He prepared beforehand. The message also unpacks how Christ has broken down the wall of hostility, making Jew and Gentile one new people, and how believers are now members of God's household, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone.This is a rich, gospel-centered teaching that calls the listener to rest in Christ's finished work and to stand firm on the only sure foundation—Jesus Christ alone. Perfect for anyone seeking to grow deeper in their understanding of grace, salvation, unity in Christ, and the unshakable foundation of the gospel.

Nowwe are looking at the unity that especially needs to be there because of thegifts of the Spirit which differ for individuals in the church. In the body ofChrist, the Church, we have different gifts, but we should still have unitybecause we need each other, with each other's Spiritual gifts to be built up inthe body of Jesus Christ. We're going to see that this is what Paul is talkingabout in these verses.  So,in these verses 7-11, Paul moves on from what all Christians have in common tohow Christians differ from each other. He's discussing the variety andindividuality within the unity of the Spirit because God has given eachbeliever at least two to three gifts. You find this taught in 1 Corinthians12:4-11: “Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And thereare differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there arediversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. Butthe manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal…..Butall these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every manseverally as He will.” Didyou notice that the “Holy Spirit gives to each man severally as Hewills." I believe that's speaking of at least maybe two to threegifts. I believe we have one primary spiritual gift along with a few others. Ialso believe we can still all practice many of the Spiritual gifts such asserving, giving, faith, and so on. You find these Spiritual gifts listed inthree main passages in the New Testament: Romans 12; here in Ephesians 4, andalso in more detail in chapters 12 through 14 in 1 Corinthians. There you'llfind the list and the discussion of Spiritual gifts by the Apostle Paul tothese three churches: The church at Rome, the church at Ephesus and the churchat Corinth.  Rememberthat the church at Corinth was having major divisions over the use and purposeof Spiritual gifts. It is also very important that we understand from 1Corinthians 12 and from this Ephesians 4 passage of Scripture that the HolySpirit gave the gifts for the unity and the building up of the body. One of thebest definitions of a Spiritual gift I have found is that: A Spiritual Gift is aGod-given ability to serve God and other members in the church in such a waythat Christ is glorified and believers are edified. Which means when the giftsare being exercised properly in the Church, they build up the others as theybuild up the body of Christ.  Thisis what Paul really keys in on here in this passage before us. We'll be lookingat these verses the next few days and how we have a wonderful Christ Who hasgiven these gifts because He's “ascended”. The Holy Spirit has beengiven to the church. He is the “gift of the Spirit” (Acts 2:38-39). Youreceive this “Gift” at the moment of your salvation. But then there are the differentgifts of the Spirit that build up the body of Christ. You personally also receiveyour specific particular gifts at the moment of your salvation even though youmight discover them at a later time. This is what we will be studying overthese next few days.  Today,do you know what your Spiritual gifts are? Godbless!

Ephesians 2: 1-10And you were dead in the trespasses and sins 2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— 3 among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the flesh and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. 4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— 6 and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, 7 so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, 9 not a result of works, so that no one may boast. 10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.

Ephesians 5:8

Send us a textToday, we discuss the second part of Ephesians 5.Check us outgraceintheshadowsor.orgdrjonathan@graceintheshadowsor.org(251) 244-4645*If you are searching for a clinical counselor and you live in Alabama,Idaho,  Florida, Virginia, South Carolina, or North Carolina, Dr. Jonathan Behler would be happy to see you as a client! He does all counseling virtually through a secure portal. He will also work with you on payments - don't let finances keep you from getting counseling!Donate to support a church/school multipurpose building and a motorcycle for the missionary to the Maasai tribe. https://www.purecharity.com/fundraisers/sc-africa-talley  (We only need to raise about $4000 for this mission.)Support the show

As we enter advent season, let's commit in our hearts to truly discover the meaning of Christmas and to live it in our lives.  Let's purpose in our heart to shine our lights to those around us and to proclaim boldly the love, mercy, and saving grace of Jesus.  Join us in this podcast of Woman at the Woman at the Well Ministries as Kim Miller takes us on a journey through the Scriptures revealing five lessons learned from the birth of Jesus Christ.   Scriptures Mentioned in this Episode Luke 2:1–20 – The birth of Jesus Christ. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+2%3A1-20&version=KJV Isaiah 9:6 – Prophecy of Christ's birth. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+9%3A6&version=KJV John 3:16 – God's love and the gift of Jesus. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+3%3A16&version=KJV Ephesians 2:8–9 – Salvation by grace through faith. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+2%3A8-9&version=KJV 1 Corinthians 1:27 – God chooses the weak to confound the mighty. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+1%3A27&version=KJV Proverbs 3:5–7 – Trust in the Lord. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+3%3A5-7&version=KJV Matthew 1:17 – Genealogy of Jesus. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+1%3A17&version=KJV Luke 1:38 – Mary's response to the angel. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+1%3A38&version=KJV Luke 1:46–56 – The Magnificat (Mary's Song). www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+1%3A46-56&version=KJV Mark 9:23 – All things are possible to him who believes. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+9%3A23&version=KJV Galatians 4:4 – In the fullness of time, God sent His Son. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians+4%3A4&version=KJV John 14:1–3 – Jesus preparing a place and returning. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+14%3A1-3&version=KJV Ecclesiastes 3:1 – To everything there is a season. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ecclesiastes+3%3A1&version=KJV Psalm 27:14 – Wait on the Lord. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+27%3A14&version=KJV Acts 1:7 – The Father has set the times and seasons. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+1%3A7&version=KJV Luke 18:27 – What is impossible with man is possible with God. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+18%3A27&version=KJV Romans 8:28 – All things work together for good. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+8%3A28&version=KJV Proverbs 16:5 – The proud are an abomination. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+16%3A5&version=KJV 1 Peter 5:5 – God resists the proud and gives grace to the humble. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Peter+5%3A5&version=KJV Matthew 11:28–30 – Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+11%3A28-30&version=KJV Matthew 16:24–26 – Take up your cross and follow Me. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+16%3A24-26&version=KJV Did you enjoy this podcast? Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. You can listen to us on all major podcasting platforms like Apple Podcasts,  Spotify,  Google Podcasts,  YouTube, and Podbean. Check out Kim's latest Bible Bit book on Amazon! Do you want to bring Kim Miller to your church, upcoming retreat, or conference? Contact us! This podcast is brought to you by Woman at the Well Ministries and is supported by our faithful listeners. To support this podcast, please visit our support page. 

DISCOVER CHRISTMAS | EPISODE 1 | Guy Conn At Fox River, our heart is people and our message is Jesus! Today's Teaching:   Proverbs 21:5 James 4:13-15 John 3:16  Ephesians 2:8-9 Your giving helps the mission live! Make a difference at https://foxriver.cc/give or use the Fox River Church Mobile App: https://foxriver.cc/mobile New to Fox River Online? Let's Connect! Let us know you're here by filling out our communication card! Head to foxriver.cc/action and click the ‘New Here' button!  LINKS: https://foxriverchristian.org  Watch LIVE on Sundays at 9am CST: https://youtube.com/foxriverchristianchurch Webpage: https://foxriverchristian.org  Facebook: https://fb.me/foxrivercc Instagram- @FoxRiverCC #NewTestamentChallenge #ReadYourBible #NewTestament #Challenge #Word

It's time to work what God placed in you. In part two of his message “Let's Go to Work,” Touré Roberts reveals how God designed us for enterprise, purpose, and impact long before we ever saw it in ourselves. Drawing from Ephesians 2, James 2, and John 9, he shows how faith isn't passive — it's activated when we build, create, serve, and walk out what God already planted within. You are God's workmanship — His poem — crafted with intention, rhythm, and capacity. The gifts, ideas, and abilities in you aren't random; they are part of a divine ecosystem of productivity waiting to flow through your life. This message will challenge limiting beliefs, ignite your design, and call you into the kind of work that transforms lives — including your own. It's not just time to believe. It's time to build — your calling, your purpose, and your kingdom business. Message: “Let's Go to Work, Part II” Scripture: James 2:14-18, Ephesians 2:10, John 9:4 (NKJV) Speaker: Touré Roberts Date: Nov. 30, 2025 ✨ Welcome to Your Moment of Transformation You don't have to walk this journey alone. Let Jesus guide your steps and fill your life with purpose and peace.

It's time to work what God placed in you. In part two of his message “Let's Go to Work,” Touré Roberts reveals how God designed us for enterprise, purpose, and impact long before we ever saw it in ourselves. Drawing from Ephesians 2, James 2, and John 9, he shows how faith isn't passive — it's activated when we build, create, serve, and walk out what God already planted within. You are God's workmanship — His poem — crafted with intention, rhythm, and capacity. The gifts, ideas, and abilities in you aren't random; they are part of a divine ecosystem of productivity waiting to flow through your life. This message will challenge limiting beliefs, ignite your design, and call you into the kind of work that transforms lives — including your own. It's not just time to believe. It's time to build — your calling, your purpose, and your kingdom business. Message: “Let's Go to Work, Part II” Scripture: James 2:14-18, Ephesians 2:10, John 9:4 (NKJV) Speaker: Touré Roberts Date: Nov. 30, 2025 ✨ Welcome to Your Moment of Transformation You don't have to walk this journey alone. Let Jesus guide your steps and fill your life with purpose and peace.

How Close Is Your Jesus? Closer Than You've Ever Been Told. Discussion Questions: Read Romans 6:1-4. What three events were you baptized into? Is this about water baptism? If not, please explain. Read Galatians 2:20. Explain "it is no longer I who live" versus "the life I now live." Read Galatians 6:14. React to this statement: "The world has been crucified to me, and I to the world." Read Colossians 3:3-4, Ephesians 2:5-6, John 14:20, and 1 Corinthians 6:17. Focus on these four words: hidden, seated, in, and joins. What do these communicate about your closeness to God? Read Galatians 5:24. Notice that you did the crucifying this time. When did you crucify the flesh with its passions and desires? How? Read Romans 6:17, 1 Timothy 1:5, and 2 Corinthians 9:7. What do these passages have to say about your heart? Read John 1:16 and Colossians 2:9-10. React to this statement: You have received of His fullness, and in Him you have been made complete in Him.

Ephesians 5:21-33 | Join us as Scott unpacks God's intention for marriage in a sermon on love and respect versus bitterness and resentment.

The fall-to-winter season can feel overwhelming, with demands from work, family, and holiday preparations stacking up quickly. Psalm 127:1-2 reminds us that anything built without God’s guidance is in vain and that true rest is a gift from Him. By intentionally seeking His direction, setting boundaries, and taking meaningful breaks, we can cultivate a peaceful heart even in the busiest months of the year. Highlights God calls us to involve Him in all our work; without Him, our efforts are “in vain” (Psalm 127:1). Seek His guidance early, not just when life becomes overwhelming. Establish clear personal and professional boundaries to prevent burnout. Take intentional breaks during the busy season to rest, reflect, and refocus on God. Align your work and daily routines with God’s purposes to find true peace amidst busyness. Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: How to Have a Peaceful Heart in a Busy Season By Aaron D’Anthony Brown Bible Reading:“Unless the Lord builds a house, its builders labor over it in vain; unless the Lord watches over a city, the watchman stays alert in vain. In vain you get up early and stay up late, working hard to have enough food — yes, he gives sleep to the one he loves.” (Psalm 127:1-2, CSB) There’s something about the months of September to December that just seem to fly by. Blame the anxiety of school starting or the anticipation of Christmas, but something about the fall-to-winter season makes time seem to fast-forward for everybody! What is also true is that this time of year often brings out the worst in us busybodies, and the usually not-so-busybodies. We toil day and night performing favors, working longer hours for more money, stressing out about getting the right gifts or preparing the right food. We want everything to go right, while at the same time, neglecting our faith, health, and overall well-being. Don’t get me wrong. Work can be useful. Work is a venue for honoring God, serving others, distracting us from sin, and accomplishing good in the world. Faith without works is dead after all (James 2:14-17). That being said, while keeping ourselves busy with work can be productive, there’s an emphasis on can. Are we wise enough to know when work turns from a benefit to a disadvantage? If we’re being honest, usually not. The work we do, whatever that work is, should honor God. As Scripture tells us, anything we build without the Lord is built “in vain.” If we’re going about our busy season and have lost all semblance of peace, then we need to take a step back. Chances are, we’re not honoring God, and much of what we do is being done in vain. Intersecting Faith & Life: If you’re the sort of busybody that gets bogged down somewhere between September and December or all of it, then know you don’t have to stay as you are. You’re not stuck in endless toil and unrest. In fact, there are a few ways to ensure you have a peaceful heart during a busy season: Seek direction from the Lord. Scripture makes clear that we ought to seek God in all that we do. Whatever is done without Him is done “in vain.” We understand this when our backs are against the wall or we hit rock bottom. Then we want nothing but the Lord. However, when life is swell, work doesn’t feel so bad. Rather than wait for the craziness to eat the fan, seek God well in advance. Ask Him for what’s appropriate to do and how to best honor Him. Yes, God enjoys productivity, but putting our work above all else is sinful. Yes, God wants us to serve others, but He doesn’t want us to become so exhausted that we are bitter and angry toward those we wish to serve. By seeking God first, we’ll know how much busyness is good. We’ll have the wisdom to know what to do and how to do it. This will help with time management, navigating relationships, keeping our eyes on Jesus, and so much more. Set boundaries with yourself and others. Sometimes we overextend because we don’t know our limitations, and those who request of us don’t know our limitations either. If you want to find peace amidst busyness, you must set boundaries. That means setting aside time for work and rest, a time to spend in solitude with God, and a time to be among people. If you’re unsure what boundaries should look like, consider consulting someone who practices good boundaries. You may think having limits will hurt you during the busy season. On the contrary, the more rest you have and the better your performance, because you have more energy and mental clarity. Take a break from your toils. You might claim you already know this. You may say you don’t want to hear it again, but someone has to remind you. There is a time for work and a time for rest. Make sure at some point during the busy season, multiple points actually, you take a break from your toils. Find something to do, even by yourself, that feels more like comfort than work. That could mean going for a walk in the park, journaling, reading a book, drawing, or simply praying. Whatever you do, keep your eyes fixed on God. Then nothing you do will be done in vain. Further Reading: Proverbs 3:5-6 1 Corinthians 10:31 Matthew 6:33 Matthew 11:28-30 Ephesians 5:15-17 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

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Ephesians 3:20–4:1 (NIV) “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen. As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.”1. God does the IMPOSSIBLE when we DREAM with Him.Ephesians 3:20a “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine…”2. God's POWER is working THROUGH us, not just FOR us.Ephesians 3:20b “…according to His power that is at work within us…”3. God gets the glory THROUGH the CHURCH.Ephesians 3:21a “To Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus…”4. God's work is GENERATIONAL: He's not DONE YET.Ephesians 3:21b “…throughout all generations, forever and ever! Amen.”5. God call us to live WORTHY of the CALLING.Ephesians 4:1 “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.”