POPULARITY
We all know what red flags look like in relationships--but what about in our faith? In this kickoff to the Red Flags series, we look at a shocking warning Jesus gives to His followers. Following Him won't always be easy. In fact, it might bring resistance, pressure, and even rejection. But that doesn't mean something's wrong. It might mean you're finally on the right path.
The Leader Unmasked: Stop Pretending & Find the Real You Feel like you're leading with a mask to hide your struggles? Stuck in a cycle of perfectionism or people-pleasing that's burning you out? This solo episode of The Leader Unmasked is your wake-up call. Host Angela Cox, a Master Coach for Executives, Founder of Paseda360 and creator of the Paseda360 coaching approach dives deep into the "silent middle"—high-functioning leaders quietly unraveling under pressure. She unveils the four "Pretender Masks" (Perfectionist, People Pleaser, Persecutor of Self, Persecutor of Others) that keep you from leading authentically. Through her "The Pretender Model," Angela reveals how these masks, rooted in limiting beliefs, harm your health and leadership. Whether you're a senior leader or an aspiring professional, this episode will inspire you to shed inauthentic behaviors and embrace your true self. Get ready to discover how vulnerability can transform your leadership into a source of resilience and connection. Tune in to learn why unmasking is the key to leading well and living well. Subscribe now for more insights to be brilliant by being you! Here are three reasons why you should listen to the full episode: 1. Uncover the "Pretender Masks" holding you back and learn how to lead with authenticity. 2. Understand the "silent middle" and how to break free from burnout's hidden toll. 3. Gain insights into the beliefs and values shaping your leadership for lasting change. Episode Highlights: [00:00:03 - 00:00:56] Why the Podcast Rebranded: Angela shares the evolution from Mindset Mentor Meets to The Leader Unmasked, explaining her shift to focus on the deeper stories and beliefs beneath mindset that shape leadership. [00:01:52 - 00:02:59] Introducing the Silent Middle: Angela defines the "silent middle"—leaders who function well but are quietly unraveling—and highlights the harm of masking struggles in leadership. [00:03:52 - 00:08:49] The Pretender Masks: Angela breaks down the four "Pretender Masks" (Perfectionist, People Pleaser, Persecutor of Self, Persecutor of Others), detailing their exhausting impact on leaders' health and effectiveness. [00:23:56 - 00:26:44] A Call to Authentic Leadership: Angela urges listeners to share their struggles, align with their true values, and lead vulnerably to inspire others and build resilience. Three Powerful Quotes:[00:08:49] “These are not your identity… They're behaviors, protective behaviors that you have tried on earlier in your life. And it fitted, the mask fitted. And so you've just kept it on.” [00:22:06] “If you're feeling like you mask in some way, it is just something that has happened throughout your life to keep you safe… But you get to a point in life where you think, this just doesn't work for me anymore.” [00:26:44] “The most powerful leaders that I know have done the work, have taken the mask off. They're not the loudest in the room. They've stopped performing. They've stopped pretending, and they've started showing up as themselves.” About the Host: Angela Cox, a Master Coach for Executives, Founder of Paseda360 and creator of the Paseda360 coaching approach is on a mission to help leaders unmask their true potential. Having worked with hundreds of leaders worldwide, Angela brings a unique blend of empathy and insight to her coaching, guiding executives and aspiring leaders to shed inauthentic behaviors like perfectionism and people-pleasing. Her journey from a corporate role to founding The Leader Unmasked stems from her own "enough moment" in 2018, when she left behind the masks that fueled burnout. Angela's "Pretender Model" and focus on the "silent middle" empower leaders to uncover the beliefs and values shaping their leadership, fostering emotional intelligence and resilience. As the host of The Leader Unmasked, she shares stories and strategies to help leaders lead well, live well, and stay well by being their authentic selves. Connect with Angela on LinkedIn or visit https://paseda360.com/ to learn more about her coaching programs. Enjoy this Podcast? Failure is not the end of things. What makes leaders great is their ability to embrace them and be more open to admitting them. If you learned something new from today's episode hit subscribe and share it with your friends! Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast episode, share your thoughts with us online and tell us your stories of how innovative thinking boosted your business or improved your life. You can also share it to help your family and friends. Have any questions? You can contact me through LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook. Thanks for listening! For more updates and episodes, visit my website. You can also tune in to Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or PodBean. To meeting inspiration, Angela
The sermon recounts Paul's defense in Acts 26, where he shares his transformation from persecutor to apostle, emphasizing repentance and Jesus' resurrection. Paul appeals to Agrippa and Festus, urging belief in Jesus as Messiah. The sermon highlights the power of personal testimony and the transformative grace of Christ. Brandon Bachtel | Acts of the Church www.stonepointchurch.com
Psalms - Prayer for Rescue from Persecutors, Praise to the LORD, and Warning against Unbelief, The LORD'S Power and Dominion.2 Samuel - David's Last Song, His Mighty MenActs - Saul Persecutes the Church, Philip in Samaria, An Ethiopian Receives Christ
Pastor Thomas shares a story about his friend Dan, who longs to hear God's voice again, and emphasizes the importance of church and Christian community in staying spiritually connected. He then explores Saul's powerful transformation in Acts 9—from persecutor to bold preacher of Jesus—highlighting how true encounters with Christ compel action. The message concludes with a call to press into Jesus, be filled with the Spirit, and live a life centered on Him. #SpiritualRenewal #CommunityMatters #ChristCentered #FaithInAction #TransformationThroughJesus
Brian and Louise Hogan, missionaries and church planters in Mongolia, responded to God's call with obedience. They arrived in the city of Erdenet in the early 1990s; there were no churches in the city. After the conversion of 14 teenage girls, they witnessed the birth and growth of a church community. However, as Scripture reminds us, forward motion in God's kingdom often awakens spiritual resistance. As Brian noted, "Throughout history, whenever the Kingdom has advanced, someone has had to pay a terrible price." For the Hogans, that terrible price was the sudden death of their newborn son, who passed away on Christmas Eve due to sudden infant death syndrome. In the depths of grief and isolation, Brian and Louise felt God's closeness. They were aware that Christians around the world were praying for them. Louise found strength through a question inspired by Elisabeth Elliot: “Was I called? Was I chosen? And did I obey?” She says it should not matter what God does with our obedience; we are simply called to obey. Despite their loss, the Hogans chose to remain in Mongolia, grieving alongside their Mongolian Christian family. Their suffering became a powerful testimony of hope and resurrection in a culture unfamiliar with such concepts. In their loss, they were able to share unshakable Christian hope: “We are going to see our son again.” Brian is the author of There's a Sheep in my Bathtub and An A to Z of Near-Death Adventures. Listen also as VOM Radio host Todd Nettleton shares information about how you can send VOM Action Packs to persecuted Christians around the world.
Saul's journey to Damascus ended not in destruction but in transformation. Confronted by Jesus, the persecutor became a believer. This message unpacks the radical grace of God that still meets us where we are, changes our hearts, and calls us into submission and purpose.
God Persecutes the Persecutors (2 Thess. 1:1-12)https://www.youtube.com/live/jikSsSjlBPw————————Become a CTC Partner: https://crosstocrown.org/partners/Featured playlist: The Church (That Meets in My Home) — https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5Yobt1jZDd9Zzn8Ufa-BNciyYv04Cl6mMy books:Exalted: Putting Jesus in His Place — https://www.amazon.com/Exalted-Putting-Jesus-His-Place/dp/0985118709/ref=tmm_pap_title_0God's Design for Marriage (Married Edition) — https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Design-Marriage-Married-Amazing/dp/0998786306/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1493422125&sr=1-4&keywords=god%27s+design+for+marriageGod's Design for Marriage (Pre-married Edition) — https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Design-Marriage-What-Before/dp/0985118725/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_topcrosstocrown.org@DougGoodin
Well Sh*t. It really is that simple - Episode 160 - "How to know if the way you're meeting your needs is disempowering (Shapes 2) - The Persecutor Approach" is now LIVE!Full Show notes: https://bit.ly/WellShitEpisodeGuide***Trigger warning - abusive dynamics and behaviors*Spoiler alert - Handmaid's Tale (time code below)We would do anything for those we love and never do anything to hurt them. Right? Unfortunately, sometimes we don't intend harm but the impact is exactly that. In our last episode we talked about the Victim Approach, which is at the core of the disempowerment approach. In the second episode of our Shapes Series, we'll be moving along the triangle and talking about the Persecutor Approach and how it often manifests into manipulative and abusive behaviors that lead to toxic relationship dynamics.In this episode we cover:A quick reminderReview of the Empowerment EcosystemWhat's at the core of this approachWhat is the Persecutor ApproachThe primary characteristic of someone who is in the Persecutor ApproachWhat's important to know about the Persecutor ApproachSome of the ways the Persecutor Approach manifests in everyday life Examples of Persecutor Approach behaviors The difference between masking and manipulationDARVO and DARVO like behaviorsHandmaid's Tale spoiler alert - timestamp 58:32-1:00:45 Why so many people allow toxic relationships into their livesEpisode References:The Victim Approach episode - Episode 159 - How to know if the way you're meeting your needs is disempowering (Shapes 1) - The Victim ApproachNote: Link for the TikTok paint video: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNdktcdsh/Resources:Click here to download the companion PDF to this episode (and the rest of the Interaction Dynamics series): https://theuniversalneeds.com/The-Interaction-Dynamics
Zoe led us through Acts 9:1-31 this week, continuing our Empowered sermon series. Looking at the life of Saul, giving us hope for the world we live in today
Mona and Michael are zealous disciples dedicated to sharing their faith and helping those in need, particularly within their community in Egypt. Mona grew up in a Christian family and found comfort in her faith after a difficult childhood marked by her mother's death. Michael, on the other hand, discovered his faith in Jesus later in life. Together, they felt called to ministry and have committed their lives to sharing the hope and love that can only be found in Jesus. Listen as they talk about Christian persecution faced by believers in Egypt, including discrimination in employment and education. These hardships have led church members to rely on one another. As Mona says, "The church becomes our family. We need each other." Muslims who choose to follow Jesus often face severe persecution from family and community, and at times from the government. They may also face severe pressure from a Muslim spouse. Mona reminds us, though, that Muslims around them are not their enemies. They know that the real enemy is the devil and emphasize that we are called to love others in the same way Christ loved us. Michael and Mona actively support refugees from war-torn countries, including Sudan, providing food and resources regardless of religious background. These acts of care and service often open doors for conversations about faith. Please pray for followers of Jesus in Egypt to remain strong and to be equipped to help those in need. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as give free access to e-books, audiobooks, video content, and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.
Welcome to the first episode of Dial Emma! Each week, I'll be answering your dilemmas with honesty, empathy, and a few therapeutic truth bombs to help you make sense of life's stickiest moments. If you've ever wished you had a therapist in your back pocket, Dial Emma is here to help.This week, our listener dilemma involves ageing parents in a toxic marriage, and an only child who often gets stuck in the middle of their conflict.How do we manage responsibility for people we love and care about, while also remaining true to ourselves? How can we do things differently to get us closer to the outcomes we actually want?In this episode, we explore the listener's dilemma through the lens of the drama triangle, highlighting the three roles we play in conflict: the Rescuer, the Persecutor and the Victim. We discover what the healthier alternatives to these roles might be, how to change the script, and how to navigate highly emotional family responsibilities while maintaining personal boundaries and self-identity.If you have a dilemma for Emma, please fill out this form. ---Dial Emma is hosted by Emma Reed Turrell, produced by Lauren Brook.---Social media:Emma Reed Turrell @emmareedturrellDial Emma @dialemmapodcastEmail: contact@dial-emma.uk
Message from Matt Ham on June 15, 2025
Emotions in Yiddish Ghetto Diaries: Encountering Persecutors and Questioning Humanity (Routledge, 2024) uses an empathic reading of Yiddish diarists' feelings, evaluations, and assessments about persecutors in the Warsaw, Lodz, and Vilna ghettos to present an emotional history of persecution in the Nazi ghettos. It re-centers the daily experiences of psychological and physical violence that made up ghetto life and that ultimately led victims to use their diaries as a place of agency to question and attempt to maintain their own beliefs in pre-war Jewish and Enlightenment ethics and morality. Holocaust scholars and students, as well as people interested in personal narratives, interpersonal relations, and the problem of dehumanization during the Holocaust will find this study particularly thought-provoking. Essentially, this book highlights the benefits of reading with empathy and paying attention to emotions for understanding the experiences of people in the past, especially those facing tragedy and trauma. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network
Emotions in Yiddish Ghetto Diaries: Encountering Persecutors and Questioning Humanity (Routledge, 2024) uses an empathic reading of Yiddish diarists' feelings, evaluations, and assessments about persecutors in the Warsaw, Lodz, and Vilna ghettos to present an emotional history of persecution in the Nazi ghettos. It re-centers the daily experiences of psychological and physical violence that made up ghetto life and that ultimately led victims to use their diaries as a place of agency to question and attempt to maintain their own beliefs in pre-war Jewish and Enlightenment ethics and morality. Holocaust scholars and students, as well as people interested in personal narratives, interpersonal relations, and the problem of dehumanization during the Holocaust will find this study particularly thought-provoking. Essentially, this book highlights the benefits of reading with empathy and paying attention to emotions for understanding the experiences of people in the past, especially those facing tragedy and trauma. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/genocide-studies
Emotions in Yiddish Ghetto Diaries: Encountering Persecutors and Questioning Humanity (Routledge, 2024) uses an empathic reading of Yiddish diarists' feelings, evaluations, and assessments about persecutors in the Warsaw, Lodz, and Vilna ghettos to present an emotional history of persecution in the Nazi ghettos. It re-centers the daily experiences of psychological and physical violence that made up ghetto life and that ultimately led victims to use their diaries as a place of agency to question and attempt to maintain their own beliefs in pre-war Jewish and Enlightenment ethics and morality. Holocaust scholars and students, as well as people interested in personal narratives, interpersonal relations, and the problem of dehumanization during the Holocaust will find this study particularly thought-provoking. Essentially, this book highlights the benefits of reading with empathy and paying attention to emotions for understanding the experiences of people in the past, especially those facing tragedy and trauma. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/eastern-european-studies
After working in South Asia and living in Nepal for 18 years, Matthew Hanson has taken on leadership of The Voice of the Martyrs international ministry efforts on a new region: West and Central Africa (WACA). Listen as he tells how the persecution of Christians looks different in Africa from South Asia. The church in Africa is large; attacks on Christians there often affect a larger scale. Radical Islamist groups are the main persecutors in his region, and Matthew will share how it's affecting believers in his region, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Burkina Faso, Benin, Nigeria and Togo. Just in the DRC, there are 100+ active rebel groups. Church attacks and the displacement of followers of Christ has become sadly common. How does The Voice of the Martyrs respond to the intense persecution Christians in his region are facing? Listen as Matthew explains how he and his team evaluate needs and work through partnerships and local believers to help meet those needs and encourage believers. Matthew will share about the ministry of presence and how it plays such a key part of helping with trauma recovery for persecuted Christians. As Islamist groups move into places like northern Togo, a new addition to VOM's Global Prayer Map, Matthew and his team are hearing new reports of persecution and needs that VOM can help to meet. “The church does an incredible job of serving one another,” Matthew says, “it's a community of believers coming together, and it's really exciting.” Hear stories from Matthew about a woman's joy when she received a Bible provided by VOM, the holy moment when eight new believers from Muslim backgrounds took the step of baptism, and the story of a kidnapped Christian miraculously saved from a jihadist group. Please pray for persecuted Christians in West and Central Africa. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as providing free access to e-books, audiobooks, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.
If you've ever found yourself caught in a messy business conflict, feeling stuck, reactive, or overwhelmed, this episode is for you. I created this session to walk you through a 3-step system that helps you process conflict from a grounded, conscious place, not from emotional reactivity or fear. Because the truth is, most of us try to jump into “fixing” mode without first feeling what's real. In this episode, I'll guide you through: • How to identify where those emotions live in your body and what they're trying to tell you • How to take a healing inventory and recognize whether you're avoiding or nurturing your emotions • How to name what's truly at stake in your business or leadership conflict • A journaling template that helps you move from emotional chaos to energetic clarity I'll also break down the
Nik Ripken and his wife, Ruth, spent decades sitting down with hundreds of persecuted Christians in restricted nations and hostile areas around the world. They didn't go to instruct these bold believers. They went to learn from them. The lessons they learned were published in The Insanity of God, Nik's book, and now he and Ruth have created a video series called Insanity Unleashed. In this series, they share lessons from believers in persecution to help Christians everywhere know how to live as sheep among wolves (Matthew 10:16). The lessons come from more than 650 interviews with persecuted Christians in more than 70 countries. Listen this week to hear stories from Nik and Ruth about their travels and what they've learned from persecuted Christians. They'll share how meeting believers in other countries gave them a better understanding of the Biblical truth that we are all part of one global Body of Christ. Nik and Ruth have been humbled by the fervent prayers of brothers and sisters around the world as they pray for Christians in free nations. Nik will explain how this video series has the aim of raising up evangelists and church planters who will go to the unreached, rather than only pastors and teachers who are trained to minister to those who've already heard the gospel. “[Many American seminaries and Bible colleges] train you up to be sheep among sheep,” Nik says. “We are teaching [Christians] how to be sheep among wolves.” Ruth and Nik also share advice on succeeding in the marathon of ministry, including the importance of daily time in God's Word and memorizing scripture—just as our persecuted family does as they prepare for persecution. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as providing free access to e-books, audiobooks, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.
Leadership is a word that has become completely bastardized in modern culture. Everywhere you turn, someone is hyping you up on why you need to become a better leader, the benefits of leading versus following, and how exactly you should do it. But what if I told you, it's not the tactics that make you a leader but the mindsets that spell the difference. My good friend, brother, and leadership coach, Kipp Sorensen, joins me today to talk about what it really means to lead in a world where every man thinks they're leading well. We address the two types of destructive leaders, the “BAR” acronym (behavior, actions, results) and which to focus on, how 83% of people in the workforce view their position in the company (and what you can do about it), why a “compensation” package is about more than just money, and the do's and don't's of effective leadership. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Introduction and Business Talk 01:48 - Exploring Leadership Challenges 04:30 - How Authority Changes People 06:18 - Persecutors vs. Rescuers in Leadership 10:26 - Stanford Prison Experiment Insights 13:07 - Balancing Motivation and Honesty 17:19 - Becoming a Leader-Coach 21:41 - The Mindset of Great Leadership 23:21 - Applying Leadership at Home 29:49 - Defining the Leader-Coach Role 36:31 - Balancing Accountability and Empathy 41:29 - Focusing on Results, Not Behaviors 49:54 - Ownership and Choice in Leadership 56:00 - Handling Limited Resources 01:02:09 - Leading Family vs. Employees 01:09:20 - Closing and Kipp's Contact Info Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready
God's Grace Transforms and Empowers Your Life God's grace can change your life! Pastor Lawson Perdue shares how Paul went from hurting Christians to preaching about Jesus. In Galatians 1, […] The post The Grace Advantage Part 3: From Persecutor to Preacher appeared first on Charis Christian Center.
In a community-based culture like Afghanistan, it's difficult to hide one's faith. When an Afghan commits to following Christ, it's not long until those around him or her notice a difference. This creates an opportunity for gospel witness. Or for Christian persecution. Author John Weaver, long-time gospel worker in Afghanistan, joins VOM Radio this week to update listeners on that nation and how Christians are faring since the Taliban retook control of the government in 2021. John explains how a new Christian's family and tribal background often influence what type of persecution they face, and how their persecutors may come from multiple levels: their own family members, tribal leaders and/or the Taliban government. Despite these challenges for believers, ministry, evangelism and discipleship are still happening in Afghanistan—and among Afghans all around the world. Through careful, prayerful conversations Afghan Christians are planting gospel seeds, always aware that every person they share with could become their brother in Christ, or their persecutor. Pray Afghan Christians have wisdom and discernment about these conversations and whom they can trust to share their love for Jesus. You can learn about John Weaver's work in Afghanistan by reading his books, Inside Afghanistan and A Flame on the Front Line. Listen for ways you can pray specifically for Afghan Christians and their persecutors. Hear John Weaver's previous conversations with VOM Radio by visiting www.vomradio.net/weaver. John also wrote a book about meeting his wife in Afghanistan and their Afghan Christian wedding in Najiba: A Love Story From Afghanistan. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audiobooks, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.
After three churches were burned and 5,000 Christian books destroyed in a nation where Christians are persecuted, the local pastor's response was unexpected. “They burned it. That means we are going to have new pastors!” he said. “Now, will you send us more books?” Dr. Gary Seevers, President of Global University, leads a worldwide ministry that offers training focused on evangelism, discipleship, graduate and doctoral study programs, serving more than 3,000,000 people worldwide in 140 languages. Included in those numbers are persecuted pastors and other Christians in restricted nations and hostile areas. Sometimes instruction must be kept secret in places where persecution comes from the government, radical groups or even a Christian's own family members. Seevers says the goal of GU is not only book knowledge, but the ability to use that knowledge in practical ministry. A vital part of the coursework involves students taking a principle from the course and applying it within their community to serve the church and spread the gospel. Global University students and graduates have been martyred for their ministry work, standing firm in their faith in Christ despite threats and violence. Persecution has accelerated the growth of the church globally and will continue to do so, Dr. Seevers says. Pray for the ministry of Global University to continue to train and serve pastors and Christian leaders worldwide and for Christians persecuted for their faith to be bold witnesses who reach their communities—and even their persecutors—for Jesus. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.
Send us a text! (add your email to get a response)Have you ever noticed a never-ending cycle of drama amongst your family or friend group? In this episode, we talk about how the Drama Triangle might be the hidden pattern keeping your relationships stuck in painful cycles. Whether you're supporting a loved one with mental illness or navigating difficult family dynamics, this pattern will keep you trapped in the pain instead of solving it.Stephen Karpman's Drama Triangle describes three roles that create and sustain relationship dysfunction: the Victim (feeling helpless and powerless), the Persecutor (critical and blaming), and the Rescuer (rushing to fix problems). What makes this pattern so challenging is how people shift between these roles, maintaining the pain while never actually resolving underlying issues.We identify places where we can spot the drama triangle in our own lives—from childhood experiences with divorced parents to adult relationships—showing how these patterns created confusion and heartache. These triangles often form because we're desperately trying to maintain stability, even when that stability is painful.The good news is that understanding these patterns gives you the power to break free. We explore practical ways to step outside your habitual role and ultimately break down the triangle entirely. Rather than seeing these behaviors as character flaws, we frame them as adaptations that once served a purpose but may now be limiting your growth and happiness.This conversation highlights how recognizing these patterns can help you create more authentic connections with loved ones struggling with mental health challenges. Check out KulaMind.com to learn more about our online platform designed to help you break toxic patterns and find peace while supporting someone with mental illness.Resources:https://karpmandramatriangle.com/dt_article_only.htmlSupport the showIf you have a loved one with mental or emotional problems, join KulaMind, our community and support platform. In KulaMind, work one on one with Dr. Kibby on learning how to set healthy boundaries, advocate for yourself, and support your loved one. *We only have a few spots left, so apply here if you're interested. Follow @kulamind on Instagram for science-backed insights on staying sane while loving someone emotionally explosive. For more info about this podcast, check out: www.alittlehelpforourfriends.com Follow us on Instagram: @ALittleHelpForOurFriends
Richard Wurmbrand, author of Tortured for Christ and cofounder of The Voice of the Martyrs, said, “When I was beaten on the bottom of my feet, my tongue cried out.” His words echo those of the Apostle Paul: “If one member suffers, all suffer together” (1 Corinthians 12:26). Listen this week as Jonathan Ekman, VOM's Director of Global Partnerships, shares what it means to remember those who are persecuted and to tangibly assist brothers and sisters in more than 70 countries around the world. Jonathan will talk about developing and strengthening partnerships with church groups and mission organizations to enable VOM to come alongside the body of Christ in their times of suffering. Jonathan will also talk about his own crisis management experience and lessons he's learned—lessons he now uses to bless other ministries who may face the kidnapping of a missionary or the murder of a gospel worker. Last year, VOM provided tangible help to more than 4,000,000 Christians around the world. Much of that help was delivered through partnerships with local church leaders, international mission organizations and other groups. These partnerships are a key part of VOM serving persecuted Christians—and reflect what it means to be part of the Body of Christ. Jonathan will also share specific ways you can pray. You are invited to stand with persecuted Christians by supporting the work of The Voice of the Martyrs. You can give online here. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.
Women of Faith in Leadership - Kingdom Leadership, Workplace Organisational culture, Christian women
What does it take to go from tearing down the church to building it up? In this episode, we explore Saul's dramatic encounter with Jesus in Acts 9 and how it completely redefined his identity, purpose, and leadership. If you've ever felt unqualified, disqualified, or too flawed to lead, Paul's story is for you. Reflection What part of your past are you allowing to disqualify you? Where might God be calling you to lead, but fear is holding you back? How would your leadership shift if you fully believed that grace has made you new? Take a moment today to sit with that. Journal. Pray. And remember: If God could transform Saul into Paul, He can surely use you. Confidence Coaching for Female Christian Leaders It's time to break free from self-doubt so you can lead with confidence! Learn how to identify the root of your doubts (Luke 24:38); renew your mind with biblical truth (Romans 12:2) and develop faith-filled strategies to lead boldly while trusting God (Matthew 21:21). You'll finally be able to lead with confidence, fully trusting that God had called you and equipped you for this role. Book your confidence coaching session Have a listener question? Submit it at https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com Next steps: 1. Navigate to https://www.womenoffaithinleadership.com where you can: Join the community of like-minded female Christian leaders. This is where I will be hanging out if I'm not on the podcast chatting to you all. Come share and support each other here. Subscribe to my newsletter so you can stay up to date with all upcoming episodes and any other exclusive or special offers. 2. Book your Confidence Coaching session: https://tidycal.com/rikawhelan/coachingcall 3. Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rikawhelan
Message Us!The dramatic conversion of Saul on the Damascus road stands as one of Christianity's most remarkable transformations—a zealous persecutor of Christians who became the faith's most influential apostle. This powerful story isn't just a historical account; it reveals the anatomy of true spiritual conversion that remains relevant for every person today.Before encountering Christ, Saul (later known as Paul) was the perfect religious man by external standards—a Pharisee with impeccable Jewish credentials who believed he was serving God by hunting down followers of "the Way." His fury was so intense that Scripture describes him as "breathing threats and murder," painting him as more beast than man in his relentless pursuit. This man would travel 150 miles just to capture Christians and drag them bound to Jerusalem. By modern standards, he would be classified as nothing less than a religious terrorist.Yet God's grace reaches even the most unlikely candidates. On that dusty road, the resurrected Jesus intercepted Saul with a blinding light and a probing question: "Why are you persecuting me?" This divine encounter illustrates four essential elements of genuine conversion: revelation of Christ's resurrection, repentance from sin, spiritual resurrection from death to life, and visible results that evidence an inward transformation.The story challenges us to move beyond mere religious observation. As the speaker pointedly asks, "Being a fan of Christ, sitting in the stands watching from a distance can be fascinating, but that will not save a person." True Christianity isn't about moral improvement or religious performance—it's about moving from spiritual death to life through a personal encounter with the risen Jesus.Whether you're encountering Christianity for the first time or have attended church for decades without experiencing genuine conversion, Paul's story offers hope that no one is beyond God's redemptive reach. What better day than Easter to cross that line from death to life? The invitation stands open: come to Jesus and experience the same transforming grace that turned history's most notorious Christian-hunter into its most passionate apostle.Support the show
With a passion for serving and growing the local church, particularly in areas where it's difficult to train and raise up leaders, Dr. Michael Reeves, President of Union School of Theology (Wales), explains how UST trains pastors and leaders in the church worldwide—including pastors for churches in hostile areas and restricted nations. Listen as Dr. Reeves explains the importance of the education to equip church leaders to know God, love and adore Him and His ways, and know the gospel so they may effectively preach it. This training, and the deep knowledge of God is fosters, helps pastors withstand persecution when it comes. Dr. Reeves will also share about his own missions experience living on the border of Pakistan and Afghanistan, and the lessons he learned living in a Muslim culture and seeing how Christians were treated—and how they responded. “You become like the God you worship,” Reeves says. “When believers only have Christ—and not other substitutes for Him—it seems that they're able to taste of that joy more deeply. He'll also share thoughts on how each of us can nurture our own prayer life. Pray for believers to have a deeper knowledge of God and be inspired by the testimonies of persecuted Christians, which display beautiful evidence of the power of the gospel. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.
Doug Clay and Sam Brownback work in very different arenas. But both have a heart to serve Christians around the world. Doug Clay, general superintendent of the Assemblies of God - USA, shares about the genesis of the AG church and their current goal to put a church within walking distance of all humanity—including people living in hostile areas and restricted nations. “The finishing of the Great Commission is doable in our lifetime,” Clay says. Clay will share three ways to pray for your pastor and how he works to help the church equip the saints to have a biblical worldview and to endure. Seeing the church as the expansion of God's Kingdom, Doug knows it's crucial to encourage and pray for your pastor and for church leaders around the world. Sam Brownback served as United States Ambassador for International Religious Freedom during the first Trump administration. He has worked for decades to defend religious liberty in nations hostile to Christian teaching. Brownback will share from his experiences meeting with leaders of foreign nations, including one conversation that led directly to the release of a Christian pastor from prison. He'll also share how a formerly imprisoned Christian in Saudi Arabia encouraged him to continue in the work God called him to, and how raising religious freedom issues with your elected officials can be a practical way to serve persecuted brothers and sisters. Currently, Brownback is working on a book about persecution in China. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.
Third Part, Question 47, Articles 5 & 6;Article 5: Whether Christ's persecutors knew who He was;Article 6: Whether the sin of those who crucified Christ was most grievousPLEASE consider donating to help keep this podcast going by visiting buymeacoffee.com/catholicdailybrief
Last week, Brother Nathan, a gospel worker in the Middle East, shared his testimony and how his gospel work in the Middle East led to his arrest. This week on VOM Radio, we'll hear more about his time in prison and how the Lord opened the prison doors for release. Listen to hear how Nathan's wife left the country—with their two young children—not knowing when or if she would see her husband again. Nathan will also share what a powerful difference it made for him to have fellow Christian believers by his side in prison. Nathan says it was such a gift to go through this suffering with other believers rather than alone and shares how one of those believers encouraged him not to let prison quench the evangelistic fire that burned inside him to share the gospel with Muslims. He also tells the story of how God revealed the exact number of days he and his friends would be in prison—and how he's seen seeds planted in prison produce gospel fruit in a very closed country since his release. Learn how you can pray specifically for Nathan and his family, as well as Christians in the Middle East, as they face persecution. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians in Syria, Afghanistan, Iran, India, Nigeria, China and other nations throughout the year. The app also gives you free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.
Series: Transitions in the Life of SaulService: Sun PM WorshipType: SermonSpeaker: Bill Hall
Brother Nathan had a ministry sharing the gospel and praying with Muslims in the Middle East. He and other believers had been evangelizing for more than eight years. The responses were almost completely positive. Then, as he was ministering with two others last year, they ran into a very different response. Nathan and his two friends found themselves in a police office, their hands behind their backs, facing a serious charge of “heralding Christianity.” Nathan's missionary journey started long before his arrest. At 19, Nathan joined YWAM to experience short-term mission work after deciding to give his entire life to be used by the Lord—wherever He asked Nathan to go. Nathan will share how Peter's choice to step out of the boat on the water with Jesus inspired him to be all in with Christ. As a young man and zealous missionary, Nathan didn't think much about the risk of Christian persecution—until it happened. Nathan will share advice and encouragement to future missionaries and describe his missionary work each day in the Middle East. “Muslims are hungry for prayer,” Nathan shares. “They are real people with real issues who long for prayer.” Nathan had many opportunities to pray healing over Muslims and see the Lord at work. Listen as he tells the story of his arrest and what he felt when as he realized he could be facing years in prison. Nathan will also share how the Lord relieved fear and anxiety when they took their prison bread and the water and turned it into a remembrance of Christ's suffering. Since they didn't have a Bible, the scripture they knew in their heart was all they had to hold onto during their worship and prayers to the Lord in prison. Join us next week to hear more of Nathan's experience in prison and how it became their mission field for Christ! The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians in Syria, North Korea, Iran, China and other nations throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.
Reframing Mindset: A Conversation with David HigdonHave you ever noticed how most conversations about mindset feel suspiciously like Saturday Night Live's Stuart Smalley sketch—staring into the mirror, repeating, "I'm good enough, I'm smart enough..."? If affirmations were a magic wand, we'd all be living our dream lives already, right?Mindset matters, but not how most mindset coaches sell it. In a recent Creative On Purpose Live episode, David Higdon (David Higdon) joined me to poke gently at prevailing myths about mindset and affirmations. Spoiler alert: Mindset follows posture, not the other way around.Mindset as Interaction, Not Just ThinkingFor David, mindset isn't merely thinking differently—it's about interacting with reality differently. You don't become confident by declaring yourself confident; you build confidence by acknowledging where you are and taking micro-steps toward becoming who you want to be. Affirmations only stick when they're rooted in your current reality. "I am becoming confident" beats "I am confident" if confidence isn't yet your lived experience.Mindset Follows PostureI love how David aligns with my assertion—mindset follows posture. Your attitudes and actions shape your mindset more than your mindset shapes your attitudes and actions. This means doing the thing comes before being the thing. Want to become a better writer, coach, or human? Start acting like one.Mirror, Mirror…David shared a pivotal realization that reframed his entire approach to mindset. During a drive home from a band rehearsal in Jersey, he saw the New York City skyline and asked himself, "Why am I like this?" He collided with reality. By honestly identifying behaviors that held him back, David began removing the friction that stood between who he was and who he wanted to be.He calls this practice "looking in the mirror." It starts by acknowledging your part in situations that don't go your way. Instead of blaming the outside world—look inward. David calls this 'giving grace.' It doesn't mean accepting or ignoring your faults. It means forgiving your past self, appreciating the present you, and gently embracing the potential future you.Compassion and ResponsibilityEmpathy for others starts with empathy for yourself. David shared how learning to offer grace to himself made it easier to extend it to others, creating a virtuous cycle of compassion and accountability. But grace alone isn't enough; tough love has its place. Sometimes the greatest gift you can offer yourself is holding yourself accountable to a higher standard.Notice, Name, NavigateAs you know, my three-step framework is Notice, Name, Navigate. Notice what's happening as objectively as possible. Name the choices available. Navigate by doing the next right thing. David's similar approach starts with identifying impulses or triggers, noticing emotional responses, and choosing new ways to respond. Simple, but not easy. It's a practice—a habit.Victim, Persecutor, SaviorWe also explored Karpman's Drama Triangle. If you identify as a victim, you invite persecutors and saviors into your life. Conversely, by removing victimhood, you also remove the roles of persecutors and saviors. David suggested an intriguing possibility: once you've let go of the victim role, you might unconsciously step into the persecutor or savior roles instead. That's a danger worth noticing.Gratitude as a SuperpowerGratitude changes minds faster than affirmations. It's a scientifically proven superpower. Real gratitude means appreciating the challenges life hands you, not just the abundance. It's the secret sauce of becoming a better person and a better solopreneur.Final ThoughtMindset isn't something you “fix.” It's something you build, day by day, through conscious choices and intentional actions. The truth is, your mind doesn't need setting; it needs recalibrating through experience. So, start small, act intentionally, and trust the process. You'll become the person who can do what you aspire to do by consistently choosing actions aligned with that aspiration.What's one small choice you'll make today to move closer to the mindset you want to embody? Drop a comment, and let's keep the conversation going!Onward!Ready to find your compass?Join our community of thoughtful, purpose-driven solopreneurs inside the Solopreneur Success Circle. It's the perfect place to clarify your path, leverage your strengths, and build a prosperous business that funds and fits your ideal life.
Nik and Ruth Ripken went to Africa as missionaries. They experienced great works of God, but also great hardship and loss. Malaria almost killed them. Four Christian friends in Somalia were killed in one day. Their 16-year-old son died suddenly. Out of their wrestling with grief and loss God gave them a new mission: meet with persecuted Christians all over the world and learn from them. For Nik, it was a very personal quest. “I don't know if Jesus is trustworthy anymore. Somali believers are dead. Our son is dead. Our dreams are dead. And we want to know, Is Jesus for the tough places?” Out of their quest Nik Ripken Ministries was born. Nik shared the lessons persecuted Christians had taught him in a book, The Insanity of God. The book eventually became a film, released shortly after this interview was recorded. Today, Nik and Ruth host their own podcast, Witness & Persecution, and have recently launched a video-based group study, Insanity Unleashed. Listen as Nik and Ruth share their stories of God calling them to missions from very different backgrounds, and the hardship and loss they experienced on the field in Africa as missionaries. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians in Syria, North Korea, Iran, China and other nations throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.
This week Jeff and Dave are back in the studio to discuss the leading light of early fourth-century Christian rhetoric. 'No whey', you say? Yes, it's true. The guys again take a look at the North African rhetorical tradition that produced such greats of Christian apologetics as Minucius Felix, Tertullian, Cyprian of Carthage, and Arnobius of Sicca. What should we make of Lactantius' accomplishment? Is he really the crème de la crème, or merely pushed forward by inevitable social forces, not an instance of the 'great man theory'? And what about his rhetorical feats in the grisly Deaths of the Persecutors, Divine Institutes, God's Workmanship, and more? Was Pico della Mirandola correct that Lactantius "equalled Cicero, or maybe even surpassed him in eloquence"? Come along for the ride as we wrap up this two-parter on the man who was well suited to his times, interacting with the cabbage-loving Diocletian, a host of enemies of the Christian faith, and even the big guy, Constantine. And bee sure to check out Dave's free Latin lessons here: Deaths of the Persecturors Epitome of the Divine Institutes
Do you believe the Lord brought them to us so they can hear the gospel?” The question was asked by a pastor in Aleppo, the war-torn city in Syria. Members of the Islamist group that would soon control the country were standing in front of his home, machine guns in hand. “That's a Kingdom-minded church!” says John Samara, a Christian from Syria and the founder and leader of Ananias House, a ministry reaching people with the love of Christ in Syria, the Middle East and North Africa. Samara has seen God answer prayers for revival during the last 12 years of civil war in Syria. Yet he also sees more Christian persecution coming as more Muslims come to know Jesus—and as the new regime in Syria tightens it's control over the country. While the new government—which overthrew the longstanding Assad regime late last year—publicly says they want more religious freedom and will make a place for religious minority groups, what's happening on the ground isn't matching their lofty words. “We're looking at potential genocide against Christians in Syria,” says John. The new government grew out of a group that formerly claimed allegiance to Al Qaeda and ISIS. John will also discuss his new book, The Victor's Crown of Glory, living as a persecuted Christian in the Middle East, and seeing his father deal courageously with constant interrogation and interference from the secret police. Order a copy of John's book today to read amazing stories of God at work and learn how the Spirit of God speaks through us, even in times of great fear! John spoke during The Voice of the Martyrs' I AM N Virtual Event. You can still access this powerful event online to hear stories of faith and courage in the shadow of radical Islam. Pray for our Christian brothers and sisters in Syria to stand firm in their faith amidst rising Christian persecution. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians in Syria, North Korea, Iran, China and other nations throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.
Dozens of foreign Christians have been quietly forced out of Türkiye in recent years. After moving his family to Türkiye (formerly Turkey) in 2001, Jerry Mattix served in aid ministry and as a pastor. Last month he was told he is no longer allowed to enter the country—even for short visits. Jerry and his wife grew up in missionary families with hearts for missions. During his first semester in Bible school, God grabbed Jerry's heart for the Kurdish people in Türkiye, one of the largest unreached people groups in the world. Listen to hear how Jerry and his wife started ministry together in Türkiye, and the story of Jerry's first expulsion from the country in 2013, when he was labeled a “threat to national security.” Türkiye was founded as a secular republic, but in recent years government leaders have grown more open about favoring Islam. Jerry fought his first expulsion in court, and judges ruled in his favor, allowing him to reenter the country in 2016—but not to live there. Jerry and his family planted new roots in North Cyprus. They have seen the Lord's hand at work despite their family's upheaval. Following the massive earthquake on February 6th, 2023, Jerry made repeated trips to Türkiye to partner with local pastors and lead international Christians in to serve in relief work. Listen as Jerry explains the government's decision to remove foreign Christians from Türkiye and hear how the local church has “grown legs” to carry forward the ministry as foreign workers are being forced out of the country. “We're not praying for peace and prosperity, or for Christian persecution;” Jerry says, “We are praying for the kingdom of Christ to grow and thrive—whatever it takes.” Pray for Jerry and other foreign Christians who have been kicked out of Türkiye and for believers in Türkiye to continue in the ministry God has called them to. Listen to more stories from Türkiye on VOM Radio with Joy Subasiguller, Andrew Brunson, and David Byle. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.
Nagy and Hope grew up in the Middle East in families that followed Christ and encouraged them to serve God and be people of His Word. They were serving the Lord doing good work in their home country when they felt God's call to go to another county in the region: Libya. The transition was difficult and discouraging. They were forced to navigate a different community and expectations, and to learn a different Arabic dialect. With no fruit to be seen, Nagy and Hope were at times discouraged and disappointed. Yet God was working. After months of gospel work, one lady came to Hope asking questions about the gospel. Nagy and Hope were excited! They felt it was worth it to be in Libya if only one person came to Christ! Then their new friend was detained and interrogated. She cut off all contact with Hope. “It was hard,” Hope says, “but at the same time there was hope. Maybe the Lord would give us more opportunities.” The Lord did bring about more opportunities, but they didn't come without disappoints and hardship. Nagy and Hope will share more opportunities they had to disciple new believers and the obstacles they faced. When war broke out across Libya, the Lord still called them to stay, promising protection for their family and even their neighbors. God opened the hearts of many as they saw the Lord provide in their time of need. Listen as Nagy and Hope share when the Lord clearly told them their time in Libya was over and they had to leave. Please pray for Libya and for the continued ministry of gospel workers in that country. The first day of the new year marked the launch of a new, daily podcast from VOM. Extreme Devotion is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts. The VOM App for your smartphone or tablet will help you pray daily for persecuted Christians throughout the year, as well as giving free access to e-books, audio books, video content and feature films. Download the VOM App for your iOS or Android device today.
“We're Going to Hunt You Down to the Ends of the Earth. In Two Weeks You Will No Longer be the Hunters but the Hunted”- Steve Bannon to J6 Persecutors Steve Bannon Discusses The "Providential" Rise Of MAGA Over The Last Four Years Julie Kelly On January 6th Prosecutorial Misconduct Steve Bannon Discusses The "Providential" Rise Of MAGA Over The Last Four Years https://rumble.com/v66hn3g-bannon-b-block.html Bannons War Room Julie Kelly On January 6th Prosecutorial Misconduct: “Instead Of Matthew Graves' Office Sucking It Up, Admitting That They Knowingly Made A Mistake, They Continued To Charge People” https://rumble.com/v66hpha-julie-kelly.html Bannons War Room 1.06M followers HELP ACU SPREAD THE WORD! Please go to Apple Podcasts and give ACU a 5 star rating. Don't let the Leftist win. Do it now! Thanks. Also Rate us on any platform you follow us on. It helps a lot. Forward this show to friends. Ways to subscribe to the American Conservative University Podcast Click here to subscribe via Apple Podcasts Click here to subscribe via RSS You can also subscribe via Stitcher FM Player Podcast Addict Tune-in Podcasts Pandora Look us up on Amazon Prime …And Many Other Podcast Aggregators and sites ACU on Twitter- https://twitter.com/AmerConU . Warning- Explicit and Violent video content. Please help ACU by submitting your Show ideas. Email us at americanconservativeuniversity@americanconservativeuniversity.com Endorsed Charities -------------------------------------------------------- Pre-Born! Saving babies and Souls. https://preborn.org/ OUR MISSION To glorify Jesus Christ by leading and equipping pregnancy clinics to save more babies and souls. WHAT WE DO Pre-Born! partners with life-affirming pregnancy clinics all across the nation. We are designed to strategically impact the abortion industry through the following initiatives:… -------------------------------------------------------- Help CSI Stamp Out Slavery In Sudan Join us in our effort to free over 350 slaves. Listeners to the Eric Metaxas Show will remember our annual effort to free Christians who have been enslaved for simply acknowledging Jesus Christ as their Savior. As we celebrate the birth of Christ this Christmas, join us in giving new life to brothers and sisters in Sudan who have enslaved as a result of their faith. https://csi-usa.org/metaxas https://csi-usa.org/slavery/ Typical Aid for the Enslaved A ration of sorghum, a local nutrient-rich staple food A dairy goat A “Sack of Hope,” a survival kit containing essential items such as tarp for shelter, a cooking pan, a water canister, a mosquito net, a blanket, a handheld sickle, and fishing hooks. Release celebrations include prayer and gathering for a meal, and medical care for those in need. The CSI team provides comfort, encouragement, and a shoulder to lean on while they tell their stories and begin their new lives. Thank you for your compassion Giving the Gift of Freedom and Hope to the Enslaved South Sudanese -------------------------------------------------------- Food For the Poor https://foodforthepoor.org/ Help us serve the poorest of the poor Food For The Poor began in 1982 in Jamaica. Today, our interdenominational Christian ministry serves the poor in primarily 17 countries throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Thanks to our faithful donors, we are able to provide food, housing, healthcare, education, fresh water, emergency relief, micro-enterprise solutions and much more. We are proud to have fed millions of people and provided more than 15.7 billion dollars in aid. Our faith inspires us to be an organization built on compassion, and motivated by love. Our mission is to bring relief to the poorest of the poor in the countries where we serve. We strive to reflect God's unconditional love. It's a sacrificial love that embraces all people regardless of race or religion. We believe that we can show His love by serving the “least of these” on this earth as Christ challenged us to do in Matthew 25. We pray that by God's grace, and with your support, we can continue to bring relief to the suffering and hope to the hopeless. Report on Food For the Poor by Charity Navigator https://www.charitynavigator.org/ein/592174510 -------------------------------------------------------- Disclaimer from ACU. We try to bring to our students and alumni the World's best Conservative thinkers. All views expressed belong solely to the author and not necessarily to ACU. In all issues and relations, we hope to follow the admonitions of Jesus Christ. While striving to expose, warn and contend with evil, we extend the love of God to all of his children. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Today The Voice of the Martyrs launched a brand-new podcast: Extreme Devotion. Six days a week, Extreme Devotion will share a Scripture, a short story from a persecuted Christian, and an application thought. It's a great way to spend a little time each day being inspired by the testimonies of our persecuted brothers and sisters. Every seventh day, the Extreme Devotion podcast will share one inspiring quote. Enjoy this very first episode of Extreme Devotion, and subscribe today via Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts
Last week we began a look back on some of the most moving moments on The Voice of the Martyrs Radio in 2024. This week, we continue to remember: A Central Asian pastor, Brother Silas, tells how quickly new believers in Jesus there expect persecution. Dr. David Kasali, founder and president of Congo Initiative, on making disciples in the Democratic Republic of the Congo as churches are targeted by Islamists and terrorist groups. As conflict in the Middle East unfolded this year, Ben Barrett, who served as a leader in VOM's ministry in Israel, including Gaza and the West Bank, was reminded that our brothers and sisters there are people God has called us to serve. Brother Joshua, a pastor in Cuba, shares the price he and his family pay to share the gospel and serve the church even in the face of risks. Brother David, whose father is a pastor in Cuba, knew from a young age there was a price to pay for following Christ. Pastor “AZ,” from Kazakhstan, says the church there grew fastest during a wave of intense persecution. Sister Sara grew up in a Muslim family in Central Asia. She shares how God drew her to stories about Jesus then called her to make a decision to follow him. Hana shares thoughts about being reunited with her father, a pastor imprisoned in Eritrea for the past 20 years. Shino and Shania, ethnic Somalis and devout Muslims, came to faith in Christ after Shania had a dream. They became bold witnesses for Christ. After hearing these brief excerpts, you'll want to listen to the entire conversations with these guests. Click the links below or listen in the VOM APP. Brother Silas, a pastor in Central Asia Dr. David Kasali, founder and president of Congo Initiative Ben Barrett Brother Joshua, a pastor in Cuba, and David, a Cuban pastor's son Pastor AZ from Kazakhstan Sister Sara, a Central Asian Christian Hana Mengisteab, daughter of pastor imprisoned in Eritrea for 20 years Shino & Shania, Somali Muslim Background Believers leading Somali Christian TV We thank the Lord for allowing VOM Radio to encourage and challenge listeners all over the world this year. Thank you for listening and praying for our persecuted family in restricted nations and hostile areas around the world! We'd love to hear from you! Let us know what conversation in 2024 most inspired your faith or equipped you to pray. You can also give online to support persecuted Christians through the work of The Voice of the Martyrs. NEW PODCAST BEGINS JANUARY 1! Subscribe now to Extreme Devotion, a short, daily devotional podcast from The Voice of the Martyrs coming in 2025. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
SHOW NOTES: - Head to our Start Page for all you need to begin! - Join the RECAPtains - Check out the TBR Store - Show credits FROM TODAY'S RECAP: - Romans 8:34 - Image: Gate - Article: No, ‘Saul the Persecutor' Did Not Become ‘Paul the Apostle' - Article: Forbidden Chapter of the Tanakh - Video: The Forbidden Chapter: Isaiah 53 in the Hebrew Bible BIBLE READING & LISTENING: Follow along on the Bible App, or to listen to the Bible, try Dwell! SOCIALS: The Bible Recap: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter/X | TikTok D-Group: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter/X TLC: Instagram | Facebook D-GROUP: D-Group is brought to you by the same team that brings you The Bible Recap. TBR is where we read the Bible, and D-Group is where we study the Bible. D-Group is an international network of Bible study groups that meet weekly in homes, churches, and online. Find or start one near you today! DISCLAIMER: The Bible Recap, Tara-Leigh Cobble, and affiliates are not a church, pastor, spiritual authority, or counseling service. Listeners and viewers consume this content on a voluntary basis and assume all responsibility for the resulting consequences and impact. Links to specific resources and content: This is not an endorsement of the entire website, author, organization, etc.. Their views may not represent our own.