Podcasts about possessions

Most men don't realize how much of their anxiety, distraction, and frustration is tied to what they own—and what owns them. We live in a culture that constantly tells us to want more, buy more, and accumulate more, yet peace, clarity, and contentment feel further away than ever. Today's conversation is about pushing back against that noise and asking a harder, more honest question: When is enough, enough? My guest is Joshua Becker, author of Uncluttered Faith: Own Less, Love More, and Make an Impact in Your World. Joshua challenges the idea that minimalism is lifeless or empty and reframes it as an intentional act of stewardship, generosity, and purpose. We talk about consumerism, greed, anxiety, and the hidden cost of everything we own—and how living with less can actually free us to love people more deeply, live with greater clarity, and invest in what truly matters. This is a conversation about discipline, contentment, and creating a life that serves your mission—not your possessions. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Why Consumerism Fuels Misery 02:15 - The Inner Motivations Behind Overconsumption 04:49 - Selling With Integrity vs Manufacturing Need 07:10 - How Algorithms Shape Desire 11:44 - Purpose as the Filter for Consumption 14:42 - When Possessions Become a Burden 18:16 - Experimenting With Owning Less 21:13 - Reducing Phone Dependency 24:13 - The "Any Benefit" Mentality 28:01 - Wealth, Anxiety, and Possessions 32:20 - Wanting Less vs Earning More 34:06 - Money as a Magnifier 38:51 - What You Own Ends Up Owning You 44:17 - When Is Enough, Enough? 47:44 - Discovering You Have Enough Through Giving 51:59 - Generosity and Abundance 55:20 - Stewardship as the Antidote to Comparison 58:10 - Uncluttered Faith and the Hope Effect 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  

Bible StudyDon't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Passage OutlineTasting Bitter Waters (Exodus 15:22–27)Manna and Quail in the Wilderness of Sin (Exodus 16:1–36)"As at Meribah, as on the Day at Massah" (Exodus 17:1–7)Sermon QuestionsReread Exodus 16:13–18.The omer is a unit of measurement describing what is sufficient for each person — in effect, a cap on what the Israelites are to gather. In modern terms, we call this a "lifestyle cap." (Recall Sam's story about John Wesley and the chambermaid.) Have you ever set a lifestyle cap?Reread Exodus 16:19–21. Moses forbids the Israelites to hoard the manna. In modern terms, hoarding is using our resources to untether ourselves from relationships. What opportunities is God giving you to use your resources to lean into relationships?Reread Exodus 16:22–30.Do you practice a Sabbath — a "day of ceasing"? What's getting in the way?Reread Exodus 16:31–35God commanded Israel to commemorate His provision by reserving manna, doubtless in part to steady their confidence in God's provision over their desert sojourn. Are you confident that God is your provider? If not, how have you commemorated His provision? Where are you "looking" to steady your confidence in your Lord and Master?Resources ConsultedChristopher Wordsworth, Notes on Genesis and Exodus (Oxford, 1875)Leon Kass, Founding God's Nation: Reading Exodus (Yale, 2021)Randy Alcorn, Money, Possessions, and Eternity (Wheaton: Tyndale House, 2003)For further resourcesExplore Randy Alcorn's ministry, Eternal Perspective Ministries.Register for The Ridley Institute's Spring 2026 course, "Practicing Simplicity in the Way of Jesus."Questions?Do you have a question about today's sermon? Email Sam Fornecker ().

ESPN's Kalyn Kahler talks about her reporting from sources around the league on how the Bears decision to go for it on 4th down was calculated.

Welcome Graham fam! We are so glad you could watch Sunday morning online with us. IntroductionLast week we learned that we are vessels meant to be filled by God, the only one who can truly satisfy. Rejecting His filling leaves room for other things. Today, we explore “Unexpected Possessions,” uncovering how evil can hide in unexpected places and people, and the importance of guarding our hearts against it. Scripture Mark 1:21-25 1 John 4:1 2 Thessalonians 3:2-3 Luke 4:18-19 1 John 3:7-8 James 2:19 1 John 4:17-18 Sermon Points Who? What, when, where? Why? ClosingDo not be deceived; the absence of God’s presence grants evil the freedom to reign. True peace and confidence come from fully surrendering to the Lord. Perfect love casts out fear, ensuring we can face Him with confidence. Watch past services: https://www.gcwesleyan.org/teaching/ Subscribe to Graham Chapel Youth: https://is.gd/grahamyouth Give to Graham Chapel: https://www.gcwesleyan.org/give/ Graham Chapel Wesleyan Church is in Mayo, SC near Cowpens and Chesnee in Spartanburg County. We'd love to have you join us in person on Sundays or Wednesdays for youth! Visit our website to learn more.

Visit https://teachhoops.com/  for ball-handling progression drills, decision-making frameworks, and offensive systems designed to emphasize smart possessions, efficient ball movement, and the discipline required to value every possession like it matters. In this episode, we tackle two interconnected problems that plague countless high school basketball teams and directly sabotage offensive efficiency: players who over-dribble instead of passing to open teammates, and careless turnovers that waste possessions through poor decisions, loose handles, or lack of awareness under pressure. These aren't just minor annoyances—they're fundamental flaws that prevent talented teams from reaching their potential and turn close games into frustrating losses where you dominated statistically but still lost because you gave the ball away 20+ times. We explore the root causes behind over-dribbling: players conditioned by AAU basketball and highlight culture to hunt individual scoring, lack of trust in teammates' ability to finish plays, poor court vision that prevents seeing open players, fundamental ball-handling weaknesses that force players into trouble, and offensive systems that lack structure or spacing so dribbling becomes the default action. You'll learn diagnostic strategies for identifying whether over-dribbling stems from selfish tendencies, skill deficiencies, or system problems—each requires different solutions. We discuss the mental shift required to value assists as much as buckets, teaching players to recognize when the pass creates better opportunities than continued dribbling, and installing offensive principles (swing-swing-attack, two-dribble maximum rules, drive-and-kick concepts) that systematically reduce unnecessary dribbling. This episode provides detailed frameworks for reducing turnovers across different categories: live-ball turnovers from over-dribbling and poor handle (addressed through ball-handling skill work and decision-making drills with pressure), passing turnovers from telegraphing or poor timing (fixed through passing progression drills and reading help defenders), and mental turnovers from low basketball IQ (improved through film study, situation work, and accountability systems). We share specific drills that create consequences for turnovers—possession-based scrimmages where turnovers result in immediate substitutions, offensive efficiency scoring systems that penalize possessions ending in turnovers, and competitive scenarios where protecting the ball matters more than scoring volume. Whether you're coaching talented players with bad habits, young athletes who lack fundamental skills, or experienced teams that simply need better discipline and decision-making, you'll gain comprehensive strategies to transform your team from turnover-prone to possession-efficient, unlocking offensive potential that's been sabotaged by preventable mistakes. over-dribbling basketball, reducing turnovers basketball, basketball ball security, careless turnovers basketball, basketball possession efficiency, over-dribbling solutions, turnover reduction basketball, basketball decision making, ball handling drills, basketball passing emphasis, reducing ball turnovers, basketball offensive discipline, turnover prevention basketball, basketball ball control, smart possession basketball, basketball assist culture, over-dribbling coaching, basketball turnover drills, possession value basketball, basketball court vision, turnover accountability basketball, ball movement basketball, basketball dribble discipline, offensive efficiency turnovers, basketball passing culture, protecting basketball possession, basketball IQ turnovers, decision-making drills basketball, Wisconsin basketball turnovers, high school turnover problems SEO Keywords: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As 2025 comes to a close we decide to take a trip down memory lane and we bring some of our most prized possessions....BECOME A PATREON DRAFT PICK! : patreon.com/NoRegularsSeat Geek:USE CODE: NOREGULARS to get $20 off your first purchase over $50!https://seatgeek.com/Prize Picks:CODE NOREGULARS to receive a 100% deposit match up to $100 on PrizePicks at signup. https://prizepicks.onelink.me/ivHR/NOREGULARSFollow Our Main Socials!Darris WatkinsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/__dlw.21/Korey PettieInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/koreypettie/

reference: Sri Aurobindo, Bases of Yoga, Chapter 4, Desire — Food — Sex, pg. 64This episode is also available as a blog post at https://sriaurobindostudies.wordpress.com/2025/12/24/dealing-with-material-possessions-in-the-spiritual-practice/Video presentations, interviews and podcast episodes are allavailable on the YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@santoshkrinsky871More information about Sri Aurobindo can be found at www.aurobindo.net  The US editions and links to e-book editions of SriAurobindo's writings can be found at Lotus Press www.lotuspress.com#Sri Aurobindo #yoga #integral yoga #spirituality #sadhana #asceticism #materialism

We live in a world overflowing with stuff—and messages about stuff. Everywhere we turn, someone promises that the next purchase, upgrade, or financial milestone will finally bring joy or peace. But Scripture offers a far better—and far more freeing—vision for how believers relate to money and possessions.The Bible doesn't ignore material things. It puts them in their proper place.When Good Things Promise Too MuchWe've all heard the phrase money can't buy happiness, yet it's still easy to live as though it might. When life feels overwhelming, we often reach for the nearest distraction—a purchase, an upgrade, or a new financial goal—hoping it will calm our anxiety or restore a sense of control.But Scripture never teaches that possessions themselves are bad. In fact, Paul writes, “God richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment” (1 Timothy 6:17). Ecclesiastes adds that when God gives someone wealth, possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, “this is a gift of God” (Ecclesiastes 5:19).Enjoying God's good gifts is not unspiritual. Beauty, comfort, and experiences can all be received with gratitude.The problem isn't having things—it's the place things occupy in our hearts. Materialism doesn't begin when we own possessions, but when possessions begin to own us.At its core, materialism is the belief that created things can provide what only the Creator can give: meaning, identity, security, and purpose. Jesus understood this deeply. That's why He spoke so often about money—not because He was worried about finances, but because He cared about our hearts. “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).Things were never designed to satisfy the human soul. When they become our deepest treasure, our hearts remain restless.Enjoyment Versus DependenceSo how do we enjoy God's gifts without becoming dependent on them?The difference is subtle but crucial.Enjoyment says, “Father, thank You for this gift.”Dependence says, “If I lose this, I'll lose myself.”Enjoyment frees us. Dependence enslaves us.That's why gratitude is so powerful. Gratitude reminds us that every good thing flows from the hand of a loving God. When we see possessions as gifts, we stop expecting them to carry weight they were never meant to bear.Generosity is another powerful antidote to materialism. When you give, you declare that your hope is not found in accumulation. You remember that God owns it all—and that your joy is rooted in Him, not in what you hold.And here's an important nuance: rejecting materialism does not mean rejecting material things. Scripture never calls believers to asceticism or joyless living. Instead, it warns us against the illusion that anything—even abundance—can become enough apart from God.Ecclesiastes holds both truths together: God gives possessions and the ability to enjoy them—that's grace. Yet whoever loves money never has enough. Feeding the craving for more never satisfies it.Three Questions That Keep Things in Their PlaceIf you want to guard your heart, here are three simple questions worth asking regularly:Do I enjoy this gift with gratitude, or do I feel anxious without it?Does this possession help me love God and others—or distract me from them?Am I more excited about having this thing, or about how God may want me to use it?When things stay in their proper place, they become blessings instead of burdens. They point us to the God who provides rather than pulling us away from Him.And here's the irony: the less we depend on things for happiness, the more freely we can actually enjoy them.Rooting Joy in the Giver, Not the GiftGod created a world rich with color, beauty, taste, and texture. He's given each of us resources and opportunities to steward and enjoy. But things are not ultimate. They are not our source of life. They are not our Savior. Only God is.When our joy is rooted in the Giver rather than the gift, we discover the contentment our hearts were made for.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm looking for wisdom on when—or if—I should give my kids a car. I have three children, ages 16, 18, and 20. Because we live about 30 miles from school, we've always provided vehicles so they can get to activities. Is there a point where it makes sense to give them the car outright to help them grow in responsibility? Or is it better to require shared responsibility instead of a full gift?Several years ago, I had about $17,000 in credit card debt and enrolled in a debt management program through Trinity Debt Management. I've since paid it down to around $6,000–$7,000. I've heard about the debt management program you recommend, and I was wondering if it makes sense to switch if the interest rate is lower. Are there any advantages or disadvantages to changing programs at this stage?My wife and I have been married nearly 42 years, and generosity has always been part of our walk—we've consistently tithed. We're now beginning to receive inheritances from our parents and are thinking through how to handle giving in this situation. Do we tithe on an inheritance? How should we think about generosity with gifts like money or even something like a car?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Christian Credit CounselorsWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We live in a world overflowing with stuff—and messages about stuff. Everywhere we look, someone promises that the next purchase or financial milestone will finally bring joy. Conversely, in Scripture, we find a far better—and far more freeing—vision for how believers relate to money and possessions. On the next Faith & Finance Live, Rob West discusses materialism and putting things in their proper place. Then, it’s on to your calls. That’s Faith and Finance Live—biblical wisdom for your financial journey. That’s weekdays at 4pm Eastern/3pm Central on Moody Radio. Faith & Finance Live is a listener supported program on Moody Radio. To join our team of supporters, click here.To support the ministry of FaithFi, click here.To learn more about Rob West, click here.To learn more about Faith & Finance Live, click here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clement Manyathela and the listeners discuss their favourite candidate to be the next NDPP. They also discuss whether listeners judge people who purchase and display their expensive possessions. The Clement Manyathela Show is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station, weekdays from 09:00 to 12:00 (SA Time). Clement Manyathela starts his show each weekday on 702 at 9 am taking your calls and voice notes on his Open Line. In the second hour of his show, he unpacks, explains, and makes sense of the news of the day. Clement has several features in his third hour from 11 am that provide you with information to help and guide you through your daily life. As your morning friend, he tackles the serious as well as the light-hearted, on your behalf. Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Clement Manyathela Show. Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 09:00 and 12:00 (SA Time) to The Clement Manyathela Show broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/XijPLtJ or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/p0gWuPE Subscribe to the 702 Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Questions about whether references to demon possessions and exorcisms in the New Testament are literal, how to talk to young children about ghosts, and whether it's arrogant to think Satan knows your name when he's a single entity with bigger fish to fry.   Are references to demon possessions and exorcisms in the New Testament literal, or are they cultural references to physical or psychological conditions that they didn't understand? How do you talk to young children about ghosts? It's tempting to say they aren't real, but I don't want to deny the reality of “spiritual forces of evil” (Eph. 6:12). Is it misguided or arrogant to think Satan even knows my name when he's a single entity with bigger fish to fry than me and can only be in one place at a time?

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.

Today is day 336 and we are studying The Eighth Commandment.336. How does this commandment teach you to view your possessions?God desires that I be content, responsible, and generous with what he has given me. Everything I own I hold in trust as God's steward, to cultivate and use for his glory and my neighbor's good. (Genesis 1:28–31; Leviticus 25; Psalm 37:16; Proverbs 16:8; Luke 12:32–34; 1 Timothy 6:6–10; Hebrews 13:5; Articles of Religion, 38)We will conclude today by praying Proper 7 found on page 617 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.

The holidays are meant to be a season of joy, generosity, and gratitude. Yet for many families, the celebrations come with a heavy dose of financial stress—stress that lingers long after the decorations are packed away. Our desire to bless others often leads to spending more than we planned. But it doesn't have to be that way.Recently, we sat down with Neile Simon, Certified Credit Counselor and Director of Strategic Partnerships at Christian Credit Counselors, to talk about how families can give meaningfully, stay within their means, and refocus on what Christmas is truly about.Creating a Realistic Holiday PlanMost people enter the holiday season with the best of intentions. We want to show love, bless others, and create special memories. But somewhere along the way, those intentions can derail.Neile explains that a mix of cultural pressures makes overspending almost effortless: holiday sales, credit card offers at checkout, “buy now, pay later” deals, and social media's endless highlight reels. Before long, the drive to be generous morphs into the belief that we must spend more to prove how much we care.And the consequences last far beyond December—financial stress, increased debt, and a January filled with regret rather than joy. The good news: overspending isn't inevitable. Neile suggests starting early and planning intentionally.1. Decide what you can truly afford. Account for all holiday expenses—gifts, food, travel, entertainment, and even small traditions that add up.2. Set a total spending limit. Let this number guide every decision throughout the season.3. Use cash or debit when possible. “When the money's gone, you're done—and that's okay,” Neile says. This simple boundary protects you from impulse spending.4. If using credit cards, treat them as tools—not the enemy. Used wisely, they can help you track your spending. The key is to stay disciplined and avoid taking on debt you can't comfortably repay.Ultimately, a budget is not a restriction—it's a path to freedom. It helps you enjoy the season without dreading the bill that arrives in January.Meaningful Giving Without OverspendingGenerosity isn't measured by price tags. In fact, the most meaningful gifts are often the simplest.Neile encourages families to focus on personal, relational giving:Handwritten notesHomemade treatsShared experiencesThoughtful, small gifts with clear intentionHer own family keeps gift-giving fun by setting spending limits and doing a white-elephant exchange. “It takes the pressure off,” she says, “and turns gift-giving into shared laughter and memory-making.”When togetherness becomes the priority over possessions, Christmas becomes both more joyful and more affordable.If You're Already in Debt, There's HopeFor families already carrying debt, Christmas can feel like a tug-of-war between generosity and financial reality. Neile offers this encouragement: give within your means—even if it means scaling back.Why? Because responsible giving protects your finances, your peace, and your future.“Think of it this way,” Neile says. “A relaxed, stress-free January is far better than stressing out after overspending in December.”Scaling back isn't failure—it's stewardship. And it models wisdom and faithfulness for your children.Refocusing on the True Meaning of ChristmasAmid the lights, the gifts, and the traditions, it's easy to lose sight of the heart of Christmas.“Christmas is a celebration of Jesus—the greatest gift ever given,” Neile reminds us. When our hearts are centered on Him, love and grace become the focus. Giving within our means allows us to celebrate joyfully, gratefully, and peacefully.And when we spend with purpose—anchored in Christ rather than consumerism—we experience a kind of joy that lasts long after the season ends.Need Help With Debt?If financial stress is weighing you down, Christian Credit Counselors can help. As a nonprofit ministry, they specialize in debt management—not debt consolidation—working directly with your creditors to lower interest rates and help clear the path toward freedom.Learn more at: ChristianCreditCounselors.org/Faith. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm an 84-year-old retired veteran, and my wife is 81. We have a $375,000 mortgage on a $3.2–$3.4 million home, a $140,000 portfolio, a 529 with $55,000, about $100,000 in gold jewelry, $40,000 in Social Security benefits, and $15,000 in credit card debt. We're running out of money and need to tap our home equity. The VA offered a $400,000 loan, but would a HELOC or a reverse mortgage be better? Who can help us make the right decision?We're receiving a $60,000 inheritance and have $10,000 in credit card debt. Should we use some of the inheritance to pay it off, and what should we do with the rest? My husband is disabled, and we're in our 60s—so is investing any of it in the stock market wise? And should we tithe on the inheritance?I'm 65, still working full-time as a caregiver, and have about $900,000 in my 401(k). When should I start Social Security—now or when I retire in May 2026? And how do I know if I have enough saved for retirement, since I'm debt-free and have fairly basic expenses?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Christian Credit CounselorsHome Equity and Reverse Mortgages: The Cinderella of the Baby Boomer Retirement by Harlan J. AccolaMovement MortgageWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Don’t retire. Redesign. Join our small group program beginning in January. Learn more. ___________________________ Will your retirement life look like the glossy images you see in the brochures? Wise up. There’s a real transition that happens when the paychecks stop and you move into your new life. But here’s the thing: it presents an opportunity for rewarding personal growth, or even transformation, that may not be apparent to you at first. Tom Marks spent decades defining himself by his profession and then faced such a transition when he stepped away. Tom shares his journey from being a high-pressure boss to finding his ‘path of happiness.’ We discuss the danger of the ‘hedonic treadmill,’ the specific mistakes to avoid in your transition to retirement, and why at this stage of life, we are all entitled to a ‘satchel of do-overs.’ Tom Marks joins us from Arizona. ________________________ Bio Tom Marks survived 48 years in the advertising business and has lived to write about it. He has won the American Advertising Awards more than sixty-five times for his writing, including TV commercials, print ads, and magazine and newspaper articles. He spent many years on the professional speakers circuit and apparently survived that, too. His thought leadership workshops for Fortune 500 companies, as well as for small and medium-sized businesses, have brought him national acclaim, and his love of the original thought leaders, Socrates, his star-student, Plato, and Plato’s ace student, Aristotle has made Tom a favorite among CEOs across the US who want to learn about corporate ethics and its origins. Tom’s new book is Coming of Age in Retirement: An Advertising Executive’s Story of Revelation and Enlightenment, also a national bestseller. Tom has won the Gold Medal for Best Nonfiction Book from the Nonfiction Writers Association, three International Impact Book Awards, the POTY Award, two Literary Titan Awards, the Reader Views Award, and two American Book Fest Awards. ___________________________ For More on Tom Marks Coming of Age in Retirement: An Advertising Executive’s Story of Revelation and Enlightenment The Peaceful Retiree ____________________________ Podcast Conversations You May Like Retiring: Creating a Life That Works for You – Teresa Amabile The Good Life – Marc Schulz, PhD Make Your Next Years Your Best Years – Harry Agress, MD _____________________________ I'm Just Asking for a Friend Retirement brings so many tough questions. Share your question to be answered in an upcoming retirement podcast episode. Click here to leave a voice message or send me an email at joec@retirementwisdom.com _____________________________ About The Retirement Wisdom Podcast There are many podcasts on retirement, often hosted by financial advisors with their own financial motives, that cover the money side of the street. This podcast is different. You'll get smarter about the investment decisions you'll make about the most important asset you'll have in retirement: your time. About Retirement Wisdom I help people who are retiring, but aren't quite done yet, discover what's next and build their custom version of their next life. A meaningful retirement doesn't just happen by accident. Schedule a call today to discuss how the Designing Your Life process created by Bill Burnett & Dave Evans can help you make your life in retirement a great one — on your own terms. About Your Podcast Host Joe Casey is an executive coach who helps people design their next life after their primary career and create their version of The Multipurpose Retirement.™ He created his own next chapter after a 26-year career at Merrill Lynch, where he was Senior Vice President and Head of HR for Global Markets & Investment Banking. Joe has earned Master's degrees from the University of Southern California in Gerontology (at age 60), the University of Pennsylvania, and Middlesex University (UK), a BA in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and his coaching certification from Columbia University. In addition to his work with clients, Joe hosts The Retirement Wisdom Podcast, ranked in the top 1% globally in popularity by Listen Notes, with over 1.6 million downloads. Business Insider recognized Joe as one of 23 innovative coaches who are making a difference. He's the author of Win the Retirement Game: How to Outsmart the 9 Forces Trying to Steal Your Joy. ______________________________ Wise Quotes On the Identity Crisis in Retirement “Who are we after we are once who we were? And so I had to let go of that stuff. I had to let go of working with these people… But I let go of the things I really like to do, which was write and direct TV commercials… But that was probably the hardest thing to let go. And I still find myself, Joe, thinking about that, those days.” On “The Do-Over” “We are entitled to the satchel of do-overs, but we are not entitled to a do-over of a do-over. We can make the mistake and we shouldn’t be hard on ourselves, but we’ve got to move past it.” On Miserable Retirees “I tried to understand why people would be so unhappy and actually miserable in retirement. And it wasn’t that they woke up on the wrong side of the bed. They woke up on the wrong side of life.” On the Danger of Possessions “Most of that stuff are possessions. But, you know, they accumulate and they just become baggage. And there is so much research that tells us that as much as we chase this stuff, it doesn’t define happiness because the goalposts just move further and further away.”

PARANORMAL: The Loudun PossessionsJoin Josh as he dives into the dark and chaotic world of the Loudun Possessions — a case where screaming nuns, public exorcisms, and political power plays collided. At the center of it all was Urbain Grandier, a priest accused of sending demons into a convent and burned at the stake for it.Were the nuns truly possessed, or were they caught in a deadly trap built by fear, pressure, and hidden agendas? This episode uncovers the truth behind one of history's most twisted spiritual scandals.Follow us on Instagram @outtherecryptids and support the show on Patreon @outtherecryptids.

Send us a textGratitude sounds simple until stories from the field reset your compass. We open the pantry, feel the mattress under our back, turn a clean tap, and then remember widows in Haiti boiling roots to calm a hollow ache. The contrast isn't meant to shame; it's meant to wake us up. When abundance becomes invisible, we forget how to see it—and how to share it.I walk through the everyday mercies that carry us: food security, a roof that keeps out the rain, sanitation that quietly prevents disease, and shoes that protect every step. Along the way, I share moments from medical missions in Haiti and Central America—dirt floors, charcoal fires, open rivers used for drinking and washing—that reframe complaints about convenience. We talk about health in plain terms, from foot fungus to clean water, and why infrastructure may be one of the most compassionate forms of care. Then we turn to the gifts stitched into our bodies: eyes that take in sunrise, ears that catch laughter, a voice that can praise.The story widens to formation and faith. I reflect on being raised by Christian parents, learning Scripture, finding mentors, and discovering a lifelong hunger for biographies of believers and missionaries. That heritage could have been otherwise; many are born where the gospel is absent or opposed. Which brings us to the heart of the conversation: the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus. If life held loss from start to finish and still ended with redemption, it would not be wasted. Possessions, achievements, even family cannot answer the final question; grace does. Gratitude becomes more than a mood—it becomes an anchor strong enough for joy and sorrow.If this resonates, share it with someone who needs perspective today. Subscribe for more stories and biblical insights, and leave a review to help others find the show. What ordinary gift are you most thankful for right now?Support the showhttps://www.jacksonfamilyministry.comhttps://bobslone.com/home/podcast-production/

The Evergetinos gathers these stories around a single, unsettling truth: those who endure injustice with gratitude and refuse to avenge themselves become truly rich, and God Himself becomes their defender. Abba Mark says it simply and without comfort: “He who is wronged by someone, and does not seek redress, truly believes in Christ, and receives a hundredfold in this life and eternal life in the age to come.” The measure is not whether we suffer wrong, but what we do with it. Injustice is assumed. The question is whether we turn it into a weapon or an altar. Gelasios endures theft and humiliation at the hands of Vacatos. He stands his ground about the monastic cell for God's sake, but he does not pursue his abuser, does not drag him to court, does not stir up others to defend him. He lets God see. And God does see. Symeon unveils Vacatos' hidden intent, and the man's own journey to prosecute the “man of God” becomes the road of his judgment. The Elder does nothing, yet everything is revealed. His stillness becomes the place where the truth about both men is made manifest. Pior works three years without wages. Each time he labors, each time he is sent away empty-handed, and each time he returns quietly to his monastery. His silence is not cowardice; it is poverty of spirit. The employer's house, not Pior's heart, collapses under injustice. Only when calamity has broken him does he go searching for the monk, wages in hand, begging forgiveness and confessing, “The Lord paid me back.” Pior will not even reclaim what is his. He allows it to be given to the Church, because his life is no longer measured by what he is owed. He has stepped out of the economy of recompense into the freedom of God. The Elder whose cell is robbed twice endures in an even more piercing way. First he leaves a note: “Leave me half for my needs.” Then, when all is taken, he still does not accuse. Only when the thief lies dying, tortured in soul and unable to depart, does he confess and call for the Elder. As soon as the Elder prays, his soul is released. The one who was wronged becomes the priest at the threshold of death. The one who stole cannot die in peace until he passes under the mercy of the man he robbed. Here judgment is revealed as truth entering the heart, and God's “avenging” consists in turning the wound of the innocent into medicine for the guilty. In Menas, this same mystery ripens into martyrdom. Menas stands literally on bones, his flesh cut away, and chants, “My foot hath stood in uprightness.” His body is mutilated, but his praise is whole. The attempt to silence him only reveals where his life truly rests. In the end even his persecutor becomes a believer and shares his martyrdom. In Menas, injustice is not merely endured; it becomes the final gift by which God crowns His friends. Peter's discourse with Clement names the inner logic of all this. Those who wrong others, he says, actually wrong themselves most deeply, while those who are wronged, if they endure with love, gain purification and forgiveness. Possessions become occasions of sin; their unjust loss, when borne rightly, becomes the removal of sins. Enemies, for a brief time, maltreat those they hate—but in God's providence they become the cause of their victims' deliverance from eternal punishment. Seen this way, those who harm us are, in a hidden manner, our benefactors. Only the one who loves God greatly can bear to see this and respond with love instead of resentment. --- Text of chat during the group: 00:03:52 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Page 310 Volume II - Section B 00:08:56 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Page 310 Volume II - Section B 00:10:20 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Philokaliaministries.org/blog 00:18:09 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Page 310 Volume II - Section B 00:18:15 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: http://Philokaliaministries.org/blog 00:21:46 Bob Čihák, AZ: P. 310 section B 00:32:59 Bob Čihák, AZ: P. 312 # 2 00:34:19 Anthony: Witholding wages is one of the few sins that cry out to heaven for vengeance. 00:36:12 Forrest: Perhaps in 3 years, God may have given the monk 100 fold already for those lost wages. So when wages were offered, the wages would have been due back to God, not the monk. 00:49:52 Anthony: I believe St Minas was a soldier, no? I think if yes that adds a layer of poetry to the story, he was an athlete greater than his former profession. 00:53:45 Anthony: Synaxarion? 00:55:37 Myles Davidson: Father, can you recommend a good bio of St Philip Neri? 01:06:40 Sheila Applegate: There is a fine line between Christian counsel and judgement of others. 01:09:44 Maureen Cunningham: Your enemy is hammer and chisel t form you to Christ 01:14:31 Erick Chastain: How can one benefit via Christ's medicine of edification those that persecute you if they do not know they are doing so, instead believing that they are doing the good? 01:16:30 Jerimy Spencer: Aloha Father, a Protestant author John Eldredge, described one of the spirits of this age as the age of the offended self, and I think there is something to this, whether solely cultural or also of diabolical, the temptations I find often is to take anything personal or be reminded of some offense and thereby be seduced by the passion of anger, instead of praying for them. 01:33:03 Jerimy Spencer: C.S. Lewis I think, uses the language of “the hammering process” 01:34:18 Maureen Cunningham: Thank you  Blessing to  all 01:34:19 Rebecca Thérèse: Thank you

For the latest on what's happening at AF, please visit amarillofellowship.com

A lot of Yōkai are capable of possessing humans and making them act unusual.

“We can reason ourself out of God's best.”—Pastor Amber CodyExperience life-changing ministry from God's Word wherever you listen! Each week on our audio podcast, you'll hear powerful Bible teaching, faith-filled preaching, and a fresh move of the Holy Spirit to strengthen your walk with Christ. Whether you're tuning in on Sunday or catching up later, this is the place to grow in faith and hear the uncompromised Word of God.✅ Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe!

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3812: Joshua Fields Millburn urges us to reclaim the true essence of the holidays by shifting our focus away from consumerism and toward connection, contribution, and presence. His five-step approach offers practical, heartfelt ways to simplify the season and deepen its meaning, making room for more joy, gratitude, and togetherness. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.theminimalists.com/season/ Quotes to ponder: "The best present is presence." "Consumption is an unquenchable thirst." "Possessions can't make up for lost time." Episode references: Charity Water: https://www.charitywater.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3812: Joshua Fields Millburn urges us to reclaim the true essence of the holidays by shifting our focus away from consumerism and toward connection, contribution, and presence. His five-step approach offers practical, heartfelt ways to simplify the season and deepen its meaning, making room for more joy, gratitude, and togetherness. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.theminimalists.com/season/ Quotes to ponder: "The best present is presence." "Consumption is an unquenchable thirst." "Possessions can't make up for lost time." Episode references: Charity Water: https://www.charitywater.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3812: Joshua Fields Millburn urges us to reclaim the true essence of the holidays by shifting our focus away from consumerism and toward connection, contribution, and presence. His five-step approach offers practical, heartfelt ways to simplify the season and deepen its meaning, making room for more joy, gratitude, and togetherness. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.theminimalists.com/season/ Quotes to ponder: "The best present is presence." "Consumption is an unquenchable thirst." "Possessions can't make up for lost time." Episode references: Charity Water: https://www.charitywater.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This message from Luke 12 shows us that life isn't defined by material possessions. Listen as we learn how generosity protects us from being controlled by the things we own.

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Are you owned by what you own? Do your possessions possess you? In this message, we listen to Jesus' warning and wisdom about greed and how we can escape being owned by our stuff.  

Luke 12: 13-21

Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom Session: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ticket Subscribe to the podcast: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribe Podcast show notes, links and transcript: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/  On this episode, I'm joined by Dr Jan Eppingstall to unpack how our possessions connect with our sense of identity and self-concept, and why letting go can feel so threatening for those of us who hoard. We talk through how objects hold meaning, memories, and dreams for the future, and what it looks like to build a stronger sense of self without clinging to things. If you've ever felt like discarding something meant losing a part of yourself, you definitely want to listen to this one. We break down exactly why that fear happens and where to start. A plant pot associated with negative experiences. Discussion of emotional and aesthetic reasons for keeping vs. discarding. Objects “glowering" at us. Identity and Self-Concept in Hoarding Definition of identity and self-concept. Possessions and Sense of Identity The psychological process of possessions intertwining with identity. How this differs from typical sentimental attachment. Retention itself (rather than use or display) as a meaning-making act in hoarding. The difference between identity (roles, characteristics, life story) and self-concept (beliefs about self, worth, and abilities). Typical patterns seen in people with hoarding disorder: fragmented identity, externalised identity via objects. Psychological Fusion Between Identity and Possessions The concept of "identity objects" — how discarding items feels like losing part of oneself. Objects as external proof and storage for identity, memory, and meaning. Safety of objects over human relationships. The cycle of validation and shame in hoarding. Pathways to Possession-Identity Fusion Childhood experiences and boundary violations leading to control needs. Identity confusion and external markers for self-definition. Psychological ownership: objects as self-extension. Functions of retained objects—proof of past, present, and future self. Anthropomorphism and obligations to objects. Executive function challenges: objects as external memory aids. Perfectionism and fantasy identity protection. Influence of cultural materialism and marketing. The Fear of Losing Identity When Discarding Objects "Throwing away part of myself." Three psychological routes for ownership: control, intimate knowledge, and personal investment. The role of control and avoidance of uncertainty. The painful admission of poor judgment (e.g., unworn clothing) when discarding. Possessions as Identity Markers Retaining items from past roles (retired teachers, old job materials). Holding onto objects representing hopes for future identity. Objects as evidence for important life chapters, relationships, or personal history. Psychological needs these objects serve and when that becomes problematic. Books as Proof of Intellectual Identity Discussion of books held as evidence of being intellectual, regardless of actual reading. Exploration of how objects can become substitutes for action and risk. Therapeutic approach to shifting identity building from possession to action. Community and Connection in the Hoarding Journey The loneliness and isolation frequently felt by people who hoard. The importance of community, connection, and peer support, including podcast listeners and accountability sessions. Effects of increased openness and connection on identity. Identity Shifts During Dehoarding and Recovery Changes in identity during the process of recovery and letting go. Building new narratives — sometimes research or recovery itself becomes an identity. Increased connection and belonging through shared experience and vulnerability. Maintaining Identity Without Excessive Possession Strategies for building identity through actions, creativity, and lived experience. Selecting representative or truly meaningful items rather than keeping everything. Observing how "non-hoarding" individuals make decisions about sentimental items. Discomfort and growth opportunities in sharing one's journey while still in progress. The value of authenticity and vulnerability. First Steps for Listeners Fearing Loss of Self Through Discarding Acknowledging that fear is rational and understandable. Suggesting mindful observation of attachment thoughts. Testing beliefs by gentle action, e.g., creative tasks with what is already available. Finding supportive people for accountability and encouragement. Reflective work on personal values — building identity from the inside. Reassurance that identity predates possessions and is not dependent on them. Objects as scaffolding rather than the core of one's identity. Encouragement to trust oneself and to start building stability from within. Links Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom session: Accountability Booking Form Dr Jan Eppingstall at Stuffology https://www.facebook.com/stuffologyconsulting/ https://twitter.com/stuff_ology https://www.instagram.com/stuff_ology/ Dr Jan Eppingstall on Pinterest Website: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding Become a Dehoarding Darling Submit a topic for the podcast to cover Questions to ask when dehoarding: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/podquestions Instagram: @thathoarderpodcast Twitter: @ThatHoarder Mastodon: @ThatHoarder@mastodon.online TikTok: @thathoarderpodcast Facebook: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That Hoarder Pinterest: That Hoarder YouTube: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That Hoarder Reddit: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That Hoarder subreddit Help out: Support this project Sponsor the podcast Subscribe to the podcast Subscribe to the podcast here

Ready to discover Jesus' surprising financial plan? In this message, Pastor Chris reveals how our view of money shapes our hearts - and how Jesus offers a revolutionary perspective that leads to true freedom. Learn practical wisdom from Matthew 6 that will transform your relationship with money and possessions. Whether you're a spender or a saver, this message will challenge you to invest in what truly lasts. Renaissance Church - Richmond, Texas https://ren-church.org #alloflifealltheearth #walkgrowlive #jesus #money

Kingdom of God; Stuff posing as Church; Revelations from Genesis 37; Private interpretation; Knowledge vs Spirit; Meaning of words; Discovering where you're wrong - humility; Social safety net; "FDR"; "LBJ"; Civil Rights Act; Baptism; Pentecost; Corban through the Temple; King Jesus; Christ/Messiah; "Priest"; Melchizedek?; Abimelech?; Christ's public ministry; Reading bible guided by Holy Spirit; AI?; "Corban" = sacrifice; "Religion"; Family unit; First corporation; Blind man story; Tens; Subsidizing insurance companies; Corruption; Taking care of the needy; Sharing divine revelation; Joseph's dream; Homeschooling; Government funding churches?; Removing morality; Herdsmen with Jacob; 70 with Jacob?; Possessions?; Human resources; Majorities; Gen 37:2 Joseph shepherding brothers; Word order?; Right to choose to tithe; Freewill offerings; Living as Israel; Community-administered social safety nets; dalet-tav-nun; Adam and Eve hiding; appetite for benefits; Exercising authority over others; "Pious" performance of duty; Drinking from two wells?; Birth certificates; Fervent charity; Knowing what, where, when to give; resh-ayin-hey = feeding the sheep; Idolatry; Empowering kings; Gathering together; Tattle tale Joseph?; Laban's idolatry; Nature of government of Israel; Militia; Love = Charity; Masoretic text debate; Herod's free bread - by force; Leaven?; Following Christ; "Sachem"?; lamad+resh-ayin+vav+tav; Forced sacrifice; Declaration of Independence - not U.S.?; Consent of the governed; Bible about government; LBJ's Great Society; Beast welfare; Mark of God; Gaza?; Allow others their right to choose.

“If we command our wealth, we shall be rich and free. If our wealth commands us, we are poor indeed.” - Edmund BurkeIt's a familiar thought: If I just had a little more money, life would be better. We've all been there—believing that one more raise, one more purchase, one more upgrade will finally bring contentment. But as many have discovered, that thought rarely delivers what it promises.The question “Can money buy happiness?” isn't new, and neither is the answer. From philosophers to billionaires to biblical writers, the conclusion is the same: wealth can make life comfortable, but it cannot make life complete.Why Money Can't Deliver What It PromisesWe don't know how much Edmund Burke studied Scripture, but his words echo a timeless truth. Paul warned Timothy, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils” (1 Timothy 6:10). When we expect money to solve our problems or satisfy our hearts, disappointment always follows.Financial author Ron Blue explores this in his book, Generous Living: Finding Contentment Through Giving, pointing out a deep disconnect between what we believe and how we behave. Most of us would agree that “money can't buy happiness,” yet nearly every message in our culture insists that it can. The world doesn't just tempt us to spend more—it trains us to depend on more.Advertising drives this message home. Every commercial suggests that joy is only one purchase away. The right car, the latest phone, the perfect vacation—each one whispers that happiness is for sale. But when our hearts attach to things that fade, anxiety soon takes root. Instead of owning our possessions, our possessions begin to own us.John D. Rockefeller, worth billions in today's dollars, once admitted, “I have made many millions, but they have brought me no happiness.” Henry Ford echoed the same sentiment: “I was happier when I was doing a mechanic's job.” And long before them, King Solomon—the wealthiest man of his day—wrote, “He who loves money will not be satisfied with money; this also is vanity” (Ecclesiastes 5:10).Three men, three eras, one truth: money can't satisfy the soul.Two Myths About WealthRon Blue identifies two common lies about money:More money brings more freedom and satisfaction. In reality, more money brings more complexity. As Ron Blue also notes in his book, “Since there are always unlimited ways to spend limited dollars, it doesn't matter whether you make $20,000 or $200,000—you will always have choices to make.” With greater wealth comes greater responsibility and potential stress.More money removes fear and worry. The opposite is often true. The more we have, the more we have to lose. Market downturns and unexpected crises reveal that our sense of security is fragile when it's built on wealth.In those moments, God invites us to a deeper trust—not in our accounts or assets, but in His character. His provision is measured not by our portfolios but by His promises.So how do we break free from financial fear? It begins with a shift in perspective: realizing it's not your money. You're a steward, not an owner. Everything you have belongs to God.Philippians 4:19 assures us, “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” God promises provision, not luxury. He gives enough for His purpose in your life, not necessarily for every preference.Our role is faithfulness—to manage His resources wisely, give generously, and hold loosely what He entrusts to us. Enjoy His gifts, but never expect them to give you peace or identity. Those belong to God alone.Finding Joy That LastsPsalm 37:3–5 gives us the pathway to contentment: “Trust in the Lord, and do good… Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”When we delight in God, He reshapes our desires. We stop chasing what fades and start finding joy in what lasts. True wealth isn't measured by net worth but by contentment.So, can money buy happiness? Not the kind that endures. It can buy comfort and convenience—but not peace, purpose, or joy. Those come only from trusting the One who provides.When your hope rests in Christ and not your paycheck, you'll experience what Edmund Burke described centuries ago: true freedom that never fades.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 30 and trying to be proactive about my financial future. Should I consider getting long-term care insurance this early, or wait until later in life? And would adding annuities make sense at my age?I'm a veteran with a VA loan at 6.75%, and I keep getting offers to refinance through a VA IRRRL. I've only been in my home for about a year, but as a single mom, lowering my payment would really help. Should I go ahead and refinance now, or wait?My employer offers both a traditional 401(k) and a Roth option. If I switch to contributing to the Roth, will my employer match still go there, and would it also be tax-free when I withdraw it?I recently replaced my old truck with a 2023 model, and the seller is offering an extended warranty for $4,000. It sounds comprehensive, but I've read many negative reviews about these plans. Are extended warranties on vehicles generally worth it?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Generous Living: Finding Contentment Through Giving by Ron Blue with Jodie BerndtWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

SummaryIn this episode, Benjamin Lee discusses the importance of financial wisdom derived from the Proverbs, emphasizing the need to trust in God regarding finances and stewardship. He explores how to honor God with wealth, the significance of generosity, and the importance of wise financial management, including the dangers of debt. The conversation encourages listeners to prioritize God in their financial decisions and to be mindful of their giving and support for others in need.TakeawaysTrusting in God is foundational for financial wisdom.Wisdom from God is more valuable than material wealth.Honoring God with our wealth starts with giving first.Tithing should be based on how we prosper, not a fixed percentage.Generosity leads to prosperity and blessings.Helping those in need is a way to honor God.Providing for one's family is a biblical responsibility.Avoiding excessive debt is crucial for financial health.Listening to God's word guides our financial decisions.Trusting God with our finances leads to abundance.Sign up for my Free Newsletter: www.benjaminlee.blog

Have you ever wondered why your soul feels restless—even when life looks full?

Worship Leader Taylor Cummings shares how Paul counted every achievement as loss compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ, reminding us that Jesus himself is the prize. He calls us to realign our priorities so nothing comes before relationship with Him.

Living simply isn't about deprivation—it's about freedom. And that freedom can unleash extraordinary generosity.God calls us to live with eternity in mind—not clinging to possessions but using what we have for His Kingdom. Randy Alcorn joins us today to talk about how we can loosen our grip on earthly things to open our hands to eternal impact.Randy Alcorn is the founder and director of Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM) and the New York Times Bestselling author of more than 60 books, including Heaven, Money, Possessions, and Eternity, The Treasure Principle, and Giving Is the Good Life. His books have been translated into over 70 languages and have sold more than 10 million copies.Simplicity That Leads to GenerosityYou've likely heard the phrase, “Live simply, that others may simply live.” It's a short sentence with a world of meaning behind it—and one that feels increasingly relevant today.Everywhere we look, we see need. It's been that way ever since sin entered the world, but now the sheer scale is staggering—billions of people living in poverty, lacking food, clean water, or access to opportunity. When we consider this, it should be shocking to see how much of a difference it would make if those of us who follow Jesus simply chose to live on less—so that we could give more.This isn't about rejecting good gifts or living in asceticism. It's about reordering our priorities so that what God provides doesn't end with us. Living simply creates margin. And that margin can fuel generosity that transforms lives, both now and for eternity.Some people hear “simplicity” and think of minimalism for its own sake—going off the grid, cutting out every comfort, or proudly living with as little as possible. But simplicity by itself accomplishes very little.You could live the simplest life imaginable, and still not help anyone. The goal isn't simplicity—it's purposeful simplicity that opens the door to generous living.If God blesses you with wealth, there's no shame in that. In fact, that's a great opportunity. The question isn't how much do you have?—but what are you doing with what you have? Go ahead and earn well, but then invest it in God's Kingdom. Use what He's entrusted to you to love Him and to love others.That's where simplicity finds its true purpose—in freeing you to give more boldly, more joyfully, and more eternally.Seeing Life Through the Lens of EternityWhen Jesus said, “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven,” He wasn't speaking in riddles. He was revealing a reality that reshapes everything we own. But if we have no concept of Heaven—if we're not eager for the life to come—then treasures in Heaven won't mean much to us.Scripture promises that God will one day bring Heaven down to Earth—the new Earth, a renewed creation where righteousness dwells. That's our forever home. That's the world we were made for.When we live in light of that eternal perspective, it changes how we view possessions today. Why cling to what's temporary when you can invest in what lasts forever? The things of this world fade—but what's given to God's purposes endures.For many of us, money and possessions have enormous mass. But when we give generously, we shift our center of gravity from earth to eternity. We begin to orbit around God's Kingdom rather than our own comfort. That's freedom.Becoming God's Delivery SystemEverything we have comes from God—and it's meant to flow through us, not stop with us. I like to say we're not buckets, we're pipelines. God's resources are meant to move through our lives to accomplish His purposes.If the FedEx driver delivered a package to himself instead of the intended recipient, we'd say he misunderstood his job. And yet, that's what many of us do with God's provision. We assume it's all for us when in reality, we're the delivery system for His grace.The Bible says, “Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2) Faithful stewards don't hoard. They pass along what belongs to the true Owner.We've all heard the phrase, “God owns it all.” But do we live like it's true? If we really believe that everything we have belongs to Him, then generosity isn't a burden—it's obedience.That changes how we think about earning, saving, and spending. It means asking, “Lord, what do You want us to do with Your money?” That's stewardship in its purest form—managing God's resources for God's glory.Living for the Kingdom, Not the DreamThe Bible doesn't pit generosity against joy. In fact, they belong together. Paul writes in 1 Timothy 6 that God gives us all things richly to enjoy, even as he warns us about materialism.God delights in our joy. He gives good gifts. But He also invites us to hold them loosely. Take that vacation. Enjoy a good meal. But let gratitude and generosity flow together.Living simply doesn't mean rejecting enjoyment. It means finding joy in what pleases God most—seeing our resources advance His Kingdom and bless others in His name.It's easy to justify excess when someone else always seems to have more. But if we're not careful, we can baptize greed in the name of the American dream.God calls us to something far richer—a life rooted in gratitude, freedom, and Kingdom purpose. Living simply and giving generously keeps our hearts anchored in eternity and our hands open to bless others.That's not loss. That's joy. That's freedom. That's treasure that lasts forever.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 72 years old, still teaching at a state school, and I'd like to resume making payments on my student loans. They've been in deferment, so I haven't been able to make my regular $100-a-month payments. Is there any way I can make those payments? I've been told my loans won't qualify for forgiveness until I start paying on them.My husband and I are 55 and 56, and we own a business along with several rental properties. We have about $500,000 we'd like to invest, and we're considering a hybrid life insurance policy with a benefit access rider for long-term care. We'd put in about $155,000 for a guaranteed $250,000 death benefit each, for a total of $500,000, plus any growth. What do you think about that kind of approach?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Heaven: A Comprehensive Guide to Everything the Bible Says About Our Eternal Home (Clear Answers to 44 Real Questions About the Afterlife, Angels, Resurrection, and the Kingdom of God) by Randy AlcornMoney, Possessions, and Eternity: A Comprehensive Guide to What the Bible Says about Financial Stewardship, Generosity, Materialism, Retirement, Financial Planning, Gambling, Debt, and More by Randy AlcornEternal Perspective Ministries (EPM)Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Curtis Bronzan 

Curtis Bronzan 

Bretman and Miss K are back with a Halloween episode full of wild theories and unholy laughs. From cursed Teletubbies to government pumpkin spice plots and real Filipino ghost stories, it's spooky, silly, and so DaBaddest.Produced by Dear MediaSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Steve Smiley, head basketball coach for the Northern Colorado Bears, shares practice plans for creating competitive practices.More ResourcesAll Access Basketball Practice with Steve SmileyOpen Practice with Steve Smiley: Mastering High-Speed, Efficient Practices - Focus on Possessions, Offense & Defense and SkillsSteve Smiley's Favorite Drills for Basketball PracticeThis episode is sponsored by the Dr. Dish Basketball Shooting Machine. Mention "Quick Timeout" and receive $300 off on the Dr. Dish Rebel, All-Star, and CT models. Get $100 off the IC3 Basketball Shot Trainer with the code TONYMILLER (or click this link).If you're already using tools like FastDraw, FastScout, or FastRecruit—you know how essential they are to your workflows. And now that they're fully part of the Hudl ecosystem, they're more powerful than ever. From film and play diagrams to scouting reports and custom recruiting boards, everything flows together. One system. Built for high-performance programs. Learn more at hudl.com/aquicktimeout. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For many people, contentment feels just out of reach—always tied to the next raise, the next purchase, or the next season of life. Yet Scripture calls us to something deeper and more lasting: a contentment that doesn't depend on circumstances but rests in Christ Himself.Psalm 23 begins with a stunning declaration:“The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.” — Psalm 23:1 (NLT)David's words remind us that contentment doesn't come from acquiring more but from trusting the One who provides. Just as sheep rest securely under the care of their shepherd, we can rest in God's faithful provision.True contentment isn't about suppressing desire—it's about redirecting it. When we find sufficiency in Christ rather than in money, possessions, or achievements, we're freed from the trap of covetousness and anchored in the truth that in Him, we already have all we truly need.The Ancient Lie of DiscontentmentDiscontentment has plagued humanity from the beginning. In Eden, Adam and Eve had everything they needed, yet the serpent's lie convinced them they lacked something essential. Discontentment still whispers, “God is holding out on you—you'd be better off if you had more.”Today, that same voice is amplified through advertising, social media, and cultural comparison. We scroll through highlight reels and feel our lives don't measure up. But Hebrews 13:5 offers the antidote:“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.'”The cure for discontentment isn't having more—it's remembering that God is always with us.The Freedom of “Enough”Contentment is not resignation—it's liberation. It frees us from envy, overspending, and the crushing weight of comparison. Instead of striving endlessly for more, we learn to steward wisely what God has entrusted to us.Proverbs 30:8–9 captures this balanced perspective beautifully:“Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me…”The wise steward seeks enough—not excess. When we live this way, our financial decisions change. We spend with purpose. We give with joy. We save with peace. Contentment reorients money from being our master to being a tool for God's Kingdom.Think of the widow of Zarephath in 1 Kings 17. With only a handful of flour and a little oil left, she faced famine. Yet when Elijah asked her to make him a cake first, she trusted God's word—and He provided, not with overflowing barns, but with daily sufficiency.Or consider the Macedonian believers in 2 Corinthians 8. Paul wrote,“In a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity.”Despite having little, they gave with glad hearts because their contentment was in Christ, not in their circumstances.These examples remind us that contentment and generosity often go hand in hand. When we are satisfied in Christ, we're free to bless others.Trusting the God Who ProvidesAt the heart of contentment is trust. Jesus said in Matthew 6:25–26,“Do not be anxious about your life… Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”Contentment flows from believing that God knows what we need and delights to provide for His children. As Elisabeth Elliot once wrote, “The secret is Christ in me, not me in a different set of circumstances.”When Christ becomes our treasure, everything else finds its proper place.That's why Paul could say in 1 Timothy 6:6:“Godliness with contentment is great gain.”Contentment isn't a loss—it's true gain. It's the kind of wealth no market downturn can erase and no thief can steal. Choosing contentment doesn't mean settling for less; it means resting in the sufficiency of Christ.When we stop chasing “more” and start trusting God's daily provision, we discover freedom, peace, and joy. That's the essence of faithful stewardship—not just managing money, but aligning our hearts with the One who promises, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I own several rental properties and would like to leave one to each of my children. I still want to collect the rental income, but I'd like to avoid probate and ensure a smooth transition when I pass away. How can I set up a trust to do that, and what's the best way to move forward?I got divorced in my mid-50s and had to start over from scratch. I'm now 66 with a little over $37,000 in my 401(k), which I'm eligible to roll over into an IRA. I'd really like to invest that money through a biblically based firm, but most of the ones I've contacted require a minimum investment of $50,000. Do you have any suggestions? And how can I build my savings over the next four years? $37,000 won't last long.I'm retired, and my husband will be retiring soon. We don't have a lot saved, but he does have a 401(k) through work. We're unsure what to do with it or how to ensure we'll have enough to live on in retirement. Can you help us think through the next steps?I work with students, and I've offered to invest $4,000, allowing them to choose some stocks to learn how investing works. Since I'll keep the money but let them make the decisions, what's the best way to buy individual stocks for this kind of project?My daughter's credit score is around 625, and she's committed to improving it. My score is over 800, and I've heard that adding her as an authorized user on my credit card could help her. Can you explain how that works and whether it could affect either of our credit scores?I feel completely lost when it comes to finances, but I want to set my family up for success. Can you recommend a reliable resource or starting point for learning the basics of managing money wisely?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Open Hands FinanceFidelity | Charles Schwab | Robinhood | Public | Stash | SoFi InvestYour Money Counts: The Biblical Guide to Earning, Spending, Saving, Investing, Giving, and Getting Out of Debt by Howard DaytonMaster Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Experiencing Financial Contentment by Ron Blue with Michael BlueRedeeming Money: How God Reveals and Reorients Our Hearts by Paul David TrippMoney, Possessions, and Eternity: A Comprehensive Guide to What the Bible Says about Financial Stewardship, Generosity, Materialism, Retirement, Financial Planning, Gambling, Debt, and More by Randy AlcornWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us a textIn Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Coach Chris Wilson continues his heartfelt discussion with Preston Ely, founder of Comeback Kings, diving even deeper into what it means to live a life of true purpose and faith. Together, they unpack the struggles men face when measuring their worth by worldly standards and reveal how genuine strength comes only through surrender and identity in Christ.Preston opens up about his biggest obsession, the birth of Comeback Kings, and how faith and success can coexist when Jesus remains at the center. Chris and Preston also explore the power of simplicity, the meaning of real character, and how doing good impacts the world around us. The episode closes with a moving prayer and reflection — a reminder that we are all clay in the hands of the ultimate Maker, being shaped for His glory. Time Stamps00:53 – Welcome to the 'Strong by Design' podcast!01:17 – In Part 2, Coach Chris continues his candid and insightful discussion with special guest Preston Ely05:33 – Years ago, what really measured a man's worth? 08:43 – Preston's biggest obsession revealed14:14 – Success and faith: Can the two truly co-exist?17:40 – The origin of Comeback Kings20:46 – Learn the 7 core values of Critical Bench25:03 – Understanding the two seasons of life31:06 – Would you rather be a caricature of a character or have real character?34:36 – Preston shares what physical fitness truly means to him39:30 – How doing good changes the world around you42:45 – Why simplicity speaks volumes47:10 – Chris on the powerful biblical Claymaker story (Romans 9:19-23)51:10 – Stay connected beyond the episode with Preston Ely52:33 – A moment of reflection: closing prayer by Chris53:56 – Please share and leave ratings & reviews for the SBD podcast! Resources:Comeback KingsConnect with Preston:Instagram Connect with Chris:InstagramSupport the showConnect w/ CriticalBench: Youtube Facebook Instagram CriticalBench.com StrongByDesignPodcast.com

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(Episode #298) What if the freedom you're chasing isn't found in adding more, but in learning to do less? In this powerful conversation with my mentor, we explore what it means to live, create, and lead from simplicity. We talk about his journey from skateboarding to spiritual entrepreneurship, we uncover how freedom begins not in external success, but in the willingness to let go of distractions, possessions, and old versions of ourselves. Together, we explore how the pursuit of less can open space for more purpose, peace, and power to emerge. This episode is a reminder that your path doesn't need to look traditional to be true. You are not behind. You are not late. You are right on time, carving your own way toward a life and business that actually feel like freedom.Let's dive in.   Episode Highlights: (00:00) From Skateboarding to Spiritual Mentorship   (07:48) The Power of Inner Authority   (32:12) Minimalism and Letting Go of Possessions   (35:46) Designing a Business Built on Freedom   (37:10) Understanding Personal Freedom   (43:41) The Value of Spiritual Work   (47:06) Pricing and Value in Business     Stay in touch with George here:  http://instagram.com/georgepoulos http://tiktok.com/@georgepoulos georgepoulos.com skool.com/creativefreedom Take my FREE quiz! What's your intuitive style? Discover your unique intuitive gifts with my free quiz: https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/5da464aa73116000142b2c4d Meet me in the studio. Watch this full episode and see all the magic unfold on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2V_2AbLRqyQ Ready for your own channeled reading? Book Here: https://zoeygreco.as.me/schedule/029b2db1 --- Did you love this episode? The Higher Self Hotline Team lovingly asks for your support! We'd be eternally grateful if you'd rate, review, and subscribe! We want to make sure you never miss a dose of divine guidance. If this conversation resonated with you, we hope you share it with someone you think would connect with the message.  Stay connected with us and your higher self! Follow Zoey on socials.   Connect with Zoey here:  Instagram: @thezoeygrecoTikTok: @thezoeygrecoWebsite: ZoeyGreco.com Audio Editing by: Mike Sims | echovalleyaudio.comContact: echovalleyaudio@gmail.com  

In 17th century France a group of nuns described some unsettling visitations at their convent, which developed into a story of possession, political intrigue, and a moment in time that was rife with social tensions. Research: The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. "Wars of Religion". Encyclopedia Britannica, 11 Mar. 2025, https://www.britannica.com/event/Wars-of-Religion “Hawthorn.” National Institute of Health. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/hawthorn Cameron, Teagan. “A Diabolical Martyrdom: Urbain Grandier, the Transgressive Outsider, and the Surrogate Victim in The Possession at Loudun.” Constellations. Vol. 13, no. 2. Aug. 2022, doi:10.29173/cons29475 deCerteau, Michel. “The Possession at Loudun.” University of Chicago Press. 2000. Dumas, Alexandre, Pere. “Urbain Grandier – 1634.” 1910. https://www.gutenberg.org/files/2746/2746-h/2746-h.html Ferber, Sarah. “Demonic Possession and Exorcism in Early Modern France.” Routledge. 2013. Hunter, Mary Kate. “Loudun Possessions: Witchcraft Trials at The Jacob Burns Law Library.” Newsletter of the Legal History & Rare Books Special Interest Section of the American Association of Law Libraries. Volume 16 Number 3. Hallowe’en 2010. https://www.aallnet.org/lhrbsis/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2018/01/lhrb-16-3.pdf Huxley, Aldous. “The Devils of Loudun.” London. Chatto & Windus. 1952. Accessed online: https://ia601400.us.archive.org/3/items/in.ernet.dli.2015.469712/2015.469712.The-Devils_text.pdf Niau, Des and Edmund Goldsmith (tr.) “The history of the devils of Loudun; the alleged possession of the Ursuline nuns, and the trial and execution of Urbain Grandier, told by an eye-witness.” Edinburgh. Private Printing. 1887. Accessed online: https://archive.org/details/historyofdevilso00desn/page/n31/mode/2up Sluhovsky, Moshe. “The Devil in the Convent.” The American Historical Review , Vol. 107, No. 5 (December 2002), pp. 1379-1411. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the American Historical Association. https://.www.jstor.org/stable/10.1086/532851 Soth, Amelia. “A Mother Superior’s Demons.” JSTOR Daily. Oct. 31, 2024. https://daily.jstor.org/a-mother-superiors-demons/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fr. Mike reinforces Jesus' divinity as we read about how Jesus heals people physically, mentally, and spiritually and frees them from the enemy's kingdom of darkness. Fr. Mike also encourages us to not be afraid when we experience persecution and division for the sake of Christ, but to rather courageously carry the Cross. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.