Podcasts about Spiritual formation

How should we live now so that we will have no regrets later? As we look at the life of Jonathan Edwards who modeled living with integrity and eternity in view, grounded in Jesus' words from Matthew 5:37. Relying on Christ rather than self-effort, Edwards sought to be a man of his word, shaping his life, ministry, and perseverance through trial. In a time of spiritual coldness, God used his faithfulness to bring a great awakening, reminding us that when we depend on Christ, He empowers us to live truthfully and use our lives for His glory.

What do you do when your faith no longer fits the formulas you were given? In this episode, I sit down with Kendall to talk about what she calls “soul friction” — the holy discomfort that surfaces through disillusionment, infertility, adoption, racial awakening, purity culture, and watching the church miss the way of Jesus. We explore anger, courage, embodiment, and what it really means to pray “on earth as it is in heaven.” This is a conversation about tending the fire instead of letting it burn everything down and choosing courageous faith over easy certainty.Kendall Mariah is a lifestyle content creator, photographer, and brand strategist whose honest storytelling has cultivated a deeply connected online community. As a business owner, military spouse, and adoptive mom, she speaks authentically about the intersections of faith, identity, and everyday life. Her debut book, THIS LITTLE FIRE OF MINE, releases in February 2026.Kendall's Book:This Little Fire of MineConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@shiftingculturepodcast.comGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowGet Your Sidekick Support the show

Spiritual Formation III | Sunday Service | Pastor Daniel Nwachinemere

This week, we share a reflection Rev. Bill Haley offered to Deeper Journey participants on Ash Wednesday. He calls us to look at Lent like a multi-faceted diamond and offers 15 Lenten invitations for us to grow personally and communally in our walks with God.Explore the Full Archive of Bill's SermonsExplore More Lenten Resourcesinthecoracle.org  |  @inthecoracleSupport the showFor the Journey is a resource of the Coracle Center of Formation for Action and is made possible through the generous support of men and women across the globe.

Fr. Eric speaks about the need to have ongoing conversations with our children to bolster their spiritual formation. This is a clip from a homily that Fr. Eric gave on Feb. 22, 2026 at St. James in Colgan, Ontario on the First Sunday of Lent. Watch Catholic Latte on YouTube and Facebook. An audio version of the podcast is available also on Spotify, iTunes and Podbean.

In 1944, fifty-two year old Dutch watchmaker Corrie ten Boom was arrested by the Gestapo for sheltering Jews. After surviving Ravensbruck and losing most of her family, she embarked on a three decade ministry, sharing a message of love, forgiveness, and hope. Who was Corrie ten Boom and how did she become the kind of person who builds secret rooms, undermines Nazis, survives a concentration camp, and then goes on to share the gospel with refugees, prisoners, and the Nazis who killed her family? Lecture resources: PowerPoint presentationPlease note that the ideas expressed in this lecture do not necessarily represent the views of L'Abri Fellowship.For more resources, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library at labriideaslibrary.org. The library contains over two thousand lectures and discussions that explore questions about the reality and relevance of Christianity. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit englishlabri.substack.com

This is a re-edited broadcast of a conversation with Dr. Michael Rhodes from 2024. Is it possible that Western Christianity and modern American life is shaping us to become people who are NOT good at doing justice, and loving mercy, and showing kindness? We know of such concepts but do we embody such concepts in the world around us? This week kicks off a several week conversation with scholars about different aspects of discipleship. We start today with a fellow Old Testament scholar, Dr. Michael Rhodes. He is a professor in Old Testament at Carey Baptist College in Aukland, New Zealand. He is the author of Formative Feasting and Practicing the King's Economy.  We start with the impetus for his new book Just Discipleship, which you can find HERE.   What is biblical justice? Is it different from other forms of justice?  Contact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place. Learn more about me and sign up for upcoming tours of Israel/Palestine. Join Cyndi Parker's  Patreon Team!

Send a text In Matthew 5:11–12, Jesus speaks directly to His disciples about what it can feel like to follow Him in a world that doesn't always welcome Him—insults, pressure, and even false accusations. In this episode of BuddyWalk with Jesus, we slow down and listen with maturity and care: what does “blessed” mean when life hurts, why does Jesus anchor us in “because of Me,” and how can joy be real without being fake? We'll also look at key Greek words that deepen the passage—showing how Jesus isn't romanticizing suffering, but strengthening His people with a truer verdict and a steadier hope. Support the show If you have any questions about the subjects covered in today's episode you can find us on Facebook at the links below or you can shoot me an email at joe@buddywalkwithjesus.com One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia

Spiritual Formation II | Mid-Week Service | Pastor Daniel Nwachinemere

Derek Rishmawy, Alastair Roberts, and Brad East consider what Christian theology actually has to say about aliens — from the populated Christian cosmos to the angelic fall, demonic deception, and the Christological anthropocentrism that runs through Lewis, Edwards, and Aquinas. Are UFO encounters spiritual phenomena in disguise? And does any of this unsettle orthodox faith? — Get the ebook, Spiritual Formation for the Family, by going to http://mereorthodoxy.com/family. Mere Fidelity is a podcast from Mere Orthodoxy and is listener-supported. If you would like to support this work, become a Mere Orthodoxy Member today at http://mereorthodoxy.com/membership. Get 30% of the Baker Book of the Month, R30 Key Moments in the History of Christianity: Inspiring True Stories from the Early Church Around the World, by going to: http://bakerbookhouse.com/pages/mere-fidelity Apply for Beeson Divinity School's Ph.D program by April 1 for Fall 2026 admission here: https://bit.ly/BeesonPhD — Chapters 00:00 Aliens Are In The Air 06:38 What Counts As Alien? 12:22 The Nature of Alien Phenomena 19:08 Close Encounters of the Heavenly Kind 25:40 Lewis vs. L'Engle 32:52 Testimony 39:37 The Uniqueness of the Incarnation 45:30 Angels, Humanity, and Salvation 50:48 Christological Considerations 53:07 Be Fruitful and Explore Space!

Welcome to Madang.Madang is the outdoor living room of the world. Here, we invite you to sit and tune into unreserved, remarkable conversations with renowned authors, leaders, public figures, and scholars on religion, culture, and everything in between.This is the 57th episode featuring The Rev. Canon Stephanie Spellers, one of the Episcopal Church's leading thinkers around 21st-century ministry and mission. The author of several books - including The Church Cracked Open, Radical Welcome and her latest, Church Tomorrow?: What the ‘Nones' and ‘Dones' Teach Us About the Future of Faith - she recently wrapped nearly a decade as canon to the Episcopal Church's Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, with responsibility for guiding the entire denomination's work on evangelism, racial justice, new ministry development and environmental stewardship. An honorary canon in the Diocese of New York, she currently serves as Canon in Residence at St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church.On this episode of Madang Podcast hosted by Faith and Reason, Spellers and I talk about her book, Church Tomorrow? We discuss decline of the mainline church, nones and dones, post-Christian culture, White Christonationalism, and much more.Listen to Madang Podcast on Spotify, Apple, Facebook Reels, or wherever podcasts are streamed.I am grateful to the many sponsors of this Madang Podcast episode.1)Are you longing for deeper rhythm, grounding community, and space to listen for God? The Academy for Spiritual Formation invites you to Academy #44, beginning October 2026 at Camp McDowell in Nauvoo, Alabama. For two years, you'll journey alongside a diverse community of seekers—practicing prayer, silence, study, and embodied faith. Through trusted faculty, guided retreats, and spacious rhythms, The Academy offers a sacred place to rest, heal, and be renewed. Step into a sacred journey of renewal and transformation. Learn more and apply at Academy.UpperRoom.org/44.2)Madang Podcast is sponsored by Church Publishing Incorporated (CPI). Church Publishing is a leading global, multi-market publisher of a wide variety of books and resources, serving millions of readers. Please read Church Tomorrow?: What the ‘Nones' and ‘Dones' Teach Us About the Future of Faith by the Rev. Canon Stephanie Spellers, where she presents hard truths about declining religious affiliation in America, paired with stories and wisdom from her interviews with dozens of young people who either grew up with no faith or gave up formal religion. Please visit www.churchpublishing.org for more great books.3.This episode is presented by Central Seminary – a historic, accredited, diverse, cross-cultural, and ecumenical seminary. Central Seminary equips students with the theological knowledge, spiritual insight, and practical skills needed to lead in an ever-changing world. Central offers numerous graduate degrees and certificates, including our Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry, which is facilitated in live, online classrooms. The Certificate in Peace and Justice Ministry will prepare you to lead and serve through social change in areas ​such as racial injustice, economic injustice, the climate crisis, war and violence, and more. To learn more, visit Central Seminary, Kansas City.4.PANAAWTM Spring Gathering will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026, at 8pm ET on zoom. Any person who identifies as a woman or non-binary individual and as someone of Pacific Islander, Asian, or North American Asian is invited to join the community gathering and business meeting. The business meeting, which follows, is an important part of our annual rhythm, and this is the space where you participate actively as part of the community to shape the org. Please join! (Registration Link)

The demands of life and ministry have taught most of us to prioritize doing over being. Yet eventually we realize that “trying harder” doesn't satisfy our deepest longing for a flourishing relationship with Jesus. Thankfully the Good Shepherd meets us at “the end of ourselves” and invites us into spacious places of renewal. ​Join us for this episode of Soul Talks as Kristi talks to Ron Thompson, a pastor with 30+ years of experience who also serves as a Sr. Spiritual Director on our staff. Ron shares how coming on a Soul Shepherding retreat helped him become enthralled with Jesus, find freedom from depression, and transform how he cares for others in partnership with Christ. Friend, we pray that you can also go deeper in Jesus' grace on a retreat.  Resources for this Episode: Attend a Soul Shepherding Retreat Earn a Certificate in Spiritual Direction Meet with a Soul Shepherding Spiritual Director Donate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

How might our days and conception of beauty change, if we started our morning with God, the author and origin of beauty itself? This is the exact topic we tackle in today's conversation with Tara Beth Leach. Tara Beth is an author, speaker, and the senior pastor at Good Shepherd Church in Naperville, Illinois. In today's conversation, she shares about her latest book, The Great Morning Revolution: Daily Spiritual Practices for Meaningful Moments with God. Specifically, Tara Beth discusses how an invitation from God to connect with Him in the morning changed her life, rhythms, and perspectives amidst a desolate season of loss.She also shares how connecting with God in this daily rhythm not only can make us more attentive to God, but can help us live into a truer understanding and experience of beauty. As Tara Beth says, “We were made to be in relationship with the most beautiful one of all.” May our mornings be an opportunity to connect with the One our hearts are made for.Buy Melissa L. Johnson's book, Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless, here. Learn more about Impossible Beauty and join the community here.

Thought to share? Send me a text...We trace a personal lie about belonging to the deeper truth of identity in Christ, then open Nehemiah 7 to see why names, roles, and boundaries mattered for a restored people. From census lists to Matthew's genealogy, we follow the thread from exile to Jesus and land on a secure identity that frees us from comparison.• adoption story exposing a belonging lie• roles versus identity and why labels fail• modern identity pressures and their cost• Nehemiah's appointments, delegation, and security• census purpose, family lines, and priestly proof• royal priesthood and identity in Christ• gifts, generosity, and shared rebuilding• Jeremiah's promise fulfilled and hope restored• genealogy from Zerubbabel to Jesus• practices to replace lies with Scripture truthIf this episode encouraged you, please share it with someone who may be wrestling with who they are and I encourage you to spend some time this week writing down what Scripture says is true about you - Just Google what does Scripture say is true about me?If you would like to continue this walk with me through Nehemiah because you've learned something or already discovered more about what your Bible has to say, just subscribe to Moments to Ponder, and I'd love to have you join meTo find out more about me, or to book a speaking engagement, head to https://betsymarvin.com/For access to past podcasts and transcripts, head tohttps://betsymarvin.com/podcasts/You can follow me on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/betsyjmarvin/and Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/betsy.marvin.98

Do we live with integrity when no one is watching? Are our private thoughts and habits aligned with the holiness Christ commands? Billy Graham, one of the most recognized evangelists in history, sought not only to preach Christ but to live in a way that honored Him. Billy Graham built his life and ministry on integrity. Through daily time in God's Word, reliance on the Holy Spirit, and personal safeguards like the Modesto Manifesto, he guarded his heart and walk from moral failure. Though not perfect, he pursued holiness with sincerity, striving to be the same man in private as in public. His life reminds us that lasting impact flows from a life surrendered to Christ, lived with purity, humility, and devotion.

Equipping Hour | Avenues for Spiritual Formation | Hospitality and Community by OrlandoGrace

Spiritual Formation | Sunday Service | Pastor Daniel Nwachinemere

Series: N/AService: Sun AMType: SermonSpeaker: Emerson, Kris

This week, we share a sermon offered by Rev. Bill Haley back in 2010 on the Hall of Faith from Hebrews 11. Bill reflects on how each of the saints listed gives us a glimpse into the grand adventure of lifelong faith, which is less like a smooth and steady progress and more like riding a bucking bronco.Explore the Full Archive of Bill's Sermonsinthecoracle.org  |  @inthecoracleSupport the showFor the Journey is a resource of the Coracle Center of Formation for Action and is made possible through the generous support of men and women across the globe.

Come hear how prayer and fasting will bring us closer to Jesus Abundant Life Foursquare Church: A Christ-centered church, specializing in marriage and family ministry, with something for everyone! http://alfc.us If you feel moved to respond to today’s message, please click here to tell us about how the Lord is working in your life. https://alfc.us/i-responded Giving and Service https://alfc.us/giving If you’re new to our church family, let us know you’re here: https://alfc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/74/responses/new Like, Share, and Subscribe. #ALFC #Faith #Jesus #Savior #ChurchatHome #Hope

Nate speaks with author and Willard scholar Keas Keasler about the enduring helpfulness of Dallas Willard's life and work.

Are you naturally a rule-follower, or do you tend to balk at rules? Brian Delamont joins co-hosts Keane and Heather for a conversation about how God's commands are given in the context of relationship and for our flourishing. "We're created by God to be flourishing and to be in relationship with Him. If we go back to God's original creation, if we go to the garden, in His perfect design God gives us guardrails." - Brian "There's a difference between blind or obligatory compliance and truly joyful obedience." - Heather Genesis 2:16-17 Deuteronomy 5:32-33 "We become the rulemakers rather than actually living in the good things that God has for us." - Brian Romans 2:1 "If in following the commands that God has given us, we are portraying a life that is boring or [...] condemning of others, then we're not actually perpetuating the reality of who God is and our relationship with Him." - Heather Romans 2:14 "God's kindness is intended to lead us to repentance. Do we show that to other people, or do we show contempt for the way that God shows kindness to those people compared to how He shows kindness to us?" - Keane Titus 2:11-13 "We do say 'no' to some things because by saying 'no' to those things, it helps us to live the way that God wants us to live right here, right now, in this present age. Yet, we also know we are waiting for more." - Brian "God is calling me deeper into knowing Him, and part of knowing Him is obeying Him." - Heather Luke 11:37-46 John 14:15-18 "Jesus is asking the Father to send the very power and insight and discernment and understanding we need to keep His commands by sending His Holy Spirit to live in us and guide us into all truth." - Brian "What is actually so distinct about the rules that God gives [...] is that they are about relationship." - Heather "We're not just made to follow these rules; these rules were made in order to help us." - Keane Galatians 5:22-23 Deuteronomy 6:4-9 "What He wants us to do is what He knows is for our good, and that is to be infused with His Word." - Brian Deuteronomy 5:12-13 February Reflection: How do I see God when I think about rule-following - disappointment or lenience? How do I see myself in relationship to God - earning God's favor or leaning on His grace? What's changing our lives: Keane: Using more features of Obsidian Heather: Hosting hygge activities Brian: Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard Weekly Spotlight: Non-teaching roles We'd love to hear from you! podcast@teachbeyond.org Podcast Website: https://teachbeyond.org/podcast Learn about TeachBeyond: https://teachbeyond.org/

What happens when a poet and a theologian decide to write letters to each other about faith? In this episode, I sit down with Christian Wiman and Miroslav Volf to discuss their book Glimmerings and talk about the language we use for God and why it so often falls short, the tension between God's presence and absence, what the Book of Job has to say about suffering, and whether faith can survive, even deepen, without easy answers. It's a conversation about holding paradox, paying attention, and what it looks like to keep believing in the middle of real life.Miroslav Volf is the Henry B. Wright Professor of Theology at Yale Divinity School and the founding director of the Yale Center for Faith & Culture. His books include Exclusion & Embrace: A Theological Exploration of Identity, Otherness, and Reconciliation, winner of the 2002 Grawemeyer Award in Religion. His Gifford Lectures (2025) are titled Amor Mundi: God and the Character of Our Relation to the World.Christian Wiman is the Clement-Muehl Professor of the Arts at Yale Divinity School. He is the author, editor, or translator of fifteen books, including Zero at the Bone: Fifty Entries Against Despair and Hammer Is the Prayer: Selected Poems. His work appears regularly in Harper's, The New Yorker, and Commonweal.Miroslav & Chris' Book:Glimmerings: Letters on Faith Between a Poet and a TheologianChris' Recommendations:The Banquet YearsMiroslav's Recommendation:The Cost of DiscipleshipConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@shiftingculturepodcast.comGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowGet Your Sidekick Support the show

Episode Summary: Trials and crises are inevitable. Jesus warned us they would come. While we cannot choose the trials we face, we can choose how we respond to them and look at them as opportunities to grow and learn more about God. In this episode of Your Hope-Filled Perspective, I am joined by Lynne Rienstra, author of the inspiring book Sacred Refuge: Finding Unexpected Shelter in Your Crisis. Lynne shares how her personal life crisis became a gateway to discovering God’s indestructible shelter. Through her book, she introduces women to a sacred sisterhood that unites modern and biblical stories of overcoming fear, loss, debt, and loneliness. Together, we explore how God’s love and compassion provide a soul-safe refuge, even in the midst of the most difficult challenges. Quotables from the episode: When COVID hit and like a lot of people, I just kind of went under fear. And after a week of not sleeping well, not eating well, kind of like what's happening and what's coming, I said, "This is crazy. "I am a blood bought and beloved child of the living God. "I am not going to let the enemy have any more time in my headspace or my spirit. And it was a time to boot him out and say, “you're done. I will not live in fear.” The Bible actually says, do not fear 365 times, right? One for every day of the year. And that was over. And then I started realizing if I'm dealing with fear, maybe other women are dealing with fear and struggling to find this safe refuge in who God is for us. This is an invitation, as you mentioned, for women to come out of hiding, which is what fear, of course, puts us in, and into a soul -safe place that Jesus has built for us in the gospel. He is so good and so powerful he can actually use the worst of circumstances for our good, which is to draw us to himself and to make us more like Jesus. I've learned how to do this over the years, to identify his lies. And then because he's a liar and the father of lies, you flip them and you begin to hear in scripture and in the voice of the Lord, the truth. So, all three persons of the Trinity have something very specific to tell me about who I am. And that means that his Father's heart is delighted in us. That's the invitation to take off the masks. That's the freedom that Jesus has purchased for us. Crisis comes with a gift. It's the gift nobody wants. I've had seasons of my life as a Christian speaker, as a pastor's wife, as a leader, all those things, where I'm just like, you know, I just want to veg out. I just want to take three hours and binge something on Netflix, or I just want to eat that half thing, a half carton of ice cream, or I just, I want to check out. And I call those my other lovers, the things I go to apart from Jesus, who is our first love, Revelation tells us, right? - Yes. - When we turn to those other lovers over anything, overeating, over drinking, working, busy -ness can be another lover. Scripture References: Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Isaiah 61:10 “I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.” Isaiah 49:16 “See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands…” Psalm 91:1-16 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, “You are my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” Surely He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler, and from the deadly plague. He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the calamity that destroys at noon. Though a thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand, no harm will come near you. You will only see it with your eyes and witness the punishment of the wicked. Because you have made the LORD your dwelling—my refuge, the Most High—no evil will befall you, no plague will approach your tent. For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. They will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone. You will tread on the lion and cobra; you will trample the young lion and serpent. “Because he loves Me, I will deliver him; because he knows My name, I will protect him. When he calls out to Me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble. I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation.” Recommended Resources: Sacred Refuge: Finding Unexpected Shelter in Your Crisis by Lynne Rienstra Sacred Scars: Resting in God’s Promise That Your Past Is Not Wasted by Dr. Michelle Bengtson The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises from God to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety’s Grip Free Study Guide Free PDF Resource: How to Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor’s Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Free Webinar: Help for When You’re Feeling Blue Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Lynne Rienstra: Website / Instagram Connect with Dr. Bengtson: Order Book Sacred Scars / Order Book The Hem of His Garment / Order Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety’s Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails / Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson) / LinkedIn / Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube / Podcast on Apple Guest: Lynne Rienstra serves Samaritan’s Purse as a regional director and has seen crises up close through her travels. She recently navigated her own crisis through cancer. Trained in English at Smith College, she also holds a certificate in Spiritual Formation. Along with her callings as pastor’s wife, women’s event speaker, and writer, Lynne finds joy in traveling, family and friends. Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Ashton Bengtson Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This is a re-edit conversation from 2024 with Dr. Lanta Davis. Her book Becoming by Beholding is a wonderful conversation partner with some of the recent podcast episodes. Her book will prompt you to think about the connection between art, imagination, and theology. How did the historic church think about the imagination and spiritual formation, and can we do a better job of that in today's environment? Are we aware enough of what we "behold" and how that creates an impression on our lives? And how did the Protestant church lose its ability to gaze on images and allow them to stoke our imagination? You can find Lanta Davis' book HERE Read more about Dr. Davis HERE Contact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place. Join Cyndi Parker's  Patreon Team!

Send a text In this episode of BuddyWalk with Jesus, we slow down over Matthew 5:10: “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Jesus isn't promoting paranoia, a victim mindset, or picking fights—He's preparing apprentices for what happens when Kingdom life collides with the values of the world. We explore what “persecuted” means in the original language, why Jesus qualifies it as suffering for righteousness (not for being difficult), and why He repeats the same promise as the first Beatitude: “theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” This episode helps you discern persecution versus consequences, resist bitterness or performative martyrdom, and remain rooted in the present-tense reality of God's Kingdom—even when faithfulness costs you. Support the show If you have any questions about the subjects covered in today's episode you can find us on Facebook at the links below or you can shoot me an email at joe@buddywalkwithjesus.com One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia

Derek Rishmawy and Alastair Roberts take up the problem of Christian doomerism in an age of AI development, geopolitical instability, and algorithmic anxiety — diagnosing why our moment feels uniquely threatening, then building a theology and practice of realistic hope from the Sermon on the Mount, the Psalms, eschatology, and the concrete habits (prayer, scripture, crocheting) that keep despair at bay. — Get your copy of Mere Orthodoxy's ebook, Spiritual Formation for the Family, by going to http://mereorthodoxy.com/family Mere Fidelity is a podcast from Mere Orthodoxy and is listener-supported. If you would like to support this work, become a Mere Orthodoxy Member today at http://mereorthodoxy.com/membership Get 30% of the Baker Book of the Month, R30 Key Moments in the History of Christianity: Inspiring True Stories from the Early Church Around the World, by going to: http://bakerbookhouse.com/pages/mere-fidelity Apply for fall 2026 admission to Beeson Divinity School's MDiv (or M.Div., your choice) and be considered for a full-tuition scholarship: https://bit.ly/beesonscholarships — Chapters 00:00 – The Problem of Living in Interesting Times 05:05 – I Call All Times Interesting 11:52 – Agency 17:34 – Hope at Rock Bottom 28:03 – The Benefits of Apocalypse 32:39 – Eschatology 36:13 – Practically Constructing Hope 42:03 – Investing in Future Generations 49:06 – Back to Basics  

The Attaching to God podcast continues a three-week Lenten series on the Temptations of Jesus.This episode reframes Jesus' second temptation as an attack on his secure attachment to the Father—an attack on FAITH, provoking anxiety and testing whether God is really available. Geoff and Cyd talk about all the different reasons we develop “trust issues” and how they come out in our lives. They define faith as embodied reliance and lived loyalty, they share practical examples, and offer a practical Lenten practice. Dive deeper in our new book, Landscapes of the Soul: How the Science and Spirituality of Attachment Can Move You into Confident Faith, Courage, and Connection, and learn about our trainings and other resources at embodiedfaith.life.Stay Connected: Check out our Attaching to God 6-Week Learning Cohort. Join the Embodied Faith community to stay connected and get posts, episodes, & resources. Support the podcast with a one-time or regular gift (to keep this ad-free without breaking the Holsclaw's bank).

In this expansive and deeply resonant conversation, I sit down with spiritual teacher and author David Hulse to explore what it truly means to awaken in a time of global transition.David shares his journey from fundamentalist Christian ministry at age 19 to becoming a bridge between ancient spiritual wisdom and modern consciousness. Together, we unpack powerful themes: the “Christ portal” as consciousness rather than doctrine, the original Greek meaning of sin as “missing the mark,” and why chaos may actually be a sign of collective transformation.We talk about starseeds, DNA activation, 3D to 5D shifts, the importance of not spiritualizing the ego, and why surrender — not striving — opens the path to aligned creation.If you've ever felt you don't quite fit into old religious structures…If you've sensed that something new is emerging…If you feel the call to live from the heart rather than the head…This episode may feel like a remembering.✨ About David:David Hulse is a spiritual teacher, author, and founder of the Academy for Spiritual Formation. With decades of experience as a minister, frequency practitioner, and consciousness guide, David integrates biblical mysticism, quantum insight, energy medicine, and metaphysical interpretation.He is also the spiritual leader of HeartLight Spiritual Center, where he continues to teach and facilitate spiritual growth in community.His work invites people to move beyond fear-based religion into embodied spiritual sovereignty.

Are we living Christ, not just preaching Him? Robert Chapman, called “the saintliest man” by Charles Spurgeon, lived a quiet yet powerful life marked by humility, love, and a deep commitment to live for Christ. He gave up personal rights, pursued unity without compromise, and served the poor and the lost with Christlike love. His life reminds us that true gospel witness flows not from fame, but from faithfully living Christ before others.

In this episode of Restoried, Brian and Anne revisit the spiritual formation practice of Pilgrim Feast, a rhythm inspired by the biblical feasts where God's people gathered to remember His faithfulness and celebrate together. Pilgrim Feast invites families to reframe vacations and special time away as gifts from God; moments to worship, reconnect, and intentionally celebrate His goodness. Anne shares how her family prayerfully planned a focused trip with their four older children after a long fostering season, choosing unplugged time in the mountains to reconnect and reflect on God's faithfulness. Brian shares about his family's trip to Missouri and how shifting their mindset, seeing vacation as God's generosity rather than something earned, changed the experience. They acknowledge the realities of parenting, tight budgets, and blended family dynamics, encouraging listeners to lower expectations of perfection and focus on connection. Pilgrim Feast does not have to be expensive or elaborate. It can be a staycation, a weekend getaway, or even a single intentional day marked by rest, favorite foods, tech boundaries, and meaningful conversation. The challenge is simple: dream about it, pray about it, put it on the calendar, and trust God to restore your family through celebration. Episode Highlights:  Celebrate God's faithfulness. Receive rest as a gift. Choose connection over perfection. Intentional > expensive. Pray, plan, calendar it.  Links from this Episode: Pilgrim's Feast with Young Kids  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 Register for the Pastor + Ministry Leaders Brunch   Find More on Hope Bridge: Visit Our Website  Follow us on Instagram Follow us on Facebook  Register for Mobilize Ohio 2026 

Equipping Hour | Avenues for Spiritual Formation | Giving and Service by OrlandoGrace

Thought to share? Send me a text...Have you ever wanted to shout at someone on a screen, “Don't believe that!”Deception has always been one of the enemy's favorite tools. In Nehemiah 6, opposition intensifies—from distraction to slander to intimidation and even spiritual manipulation. And yet Nehemiah refuses to come down from the wall.In this episode of Moments to Ponder, we explore:How opposition escalates when the work of God is advancingThe difference between discernment and fearWhy not every “spiritual word” is from GodHow Jesus faced similar tactics—and stayed faithfulWhat it looks like to remain steady when your integrity is questionedNehemiah's response is simple and powerful: “I am engaged in a great work, so I can't come.”If you've ever faced criticism, gossip, false accusation, or pressure to compromise, this conversation is for you.The wall was finished in 52 days—not because the opposition disappeared, but because Nehemiah refused to step away from what God called him to do.Let's take a few moments in God's Word and walk away strengthened.To find out more about me, or to book a speaking engagement, head to https://betsymarvin.com/For access to past podcasts and transcripts, head tohttps://betsymarvin.com/podcasts/You can follow me on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/betsyjmarvin/and Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/betsy.marvin.98

Are you satisfied with just "checking the boxes" of your faith, or do you long for something deeper?In Part 2 of our series, The Crucible, Pastor Mark explores the difference between being merely "shaped" by religious habits and being completely "melted down" and transformed by the presence of God. Spiritual formation isn't about sin management—it's about your time in God's presence changing you at the deepest level.

Send a text we slow down over Matthew 5:9: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” Jesus isn't blessing peace-lovers or peace-keepers—He's blessing peace-makers: people who do the costly work of moving relationships, communities, and even enemies toward God's shalom (wholeness, justice, and restored right-order). We explore the original language, why this was a radical statement under an empire that claimed “peace” through dominance, and how peacemaking is often cross-shaped: truth without contempt, accountability without revenge, boundaries without hatred. In a tribalized, algorithm-driven world that profits from conflict, this episode offers practical tools to become un-manipulable disciples—people who pursue repair, protect the vulnerable, and carry the family resemblance of the Father. Support the show If you have any questions about the subjects covered in today's episode you can find us on Facebook at the links below or you can shoot me an email at joe@buddywalkwithjesus.com One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia

Today we continue the conversation with Arrabon's founder, David Bailey. We talk about what the "Gospel of the Kingdom" means along with several of Arrabon's resources to equip all kinds of audiences for understanding Scripture and spiritual formation. There are so many tools  available to help a diverse group of Jesus followers, despite their differences, learn to grow and mature as God's people. Find out more about Arrabon HEREDownload Arrabon's free Lent resource The Winding RoadExplore Arrabon's resources on Spiritual FormationContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's  Patreon Team!

The Attaching to God podcast returns after a break to begin a three-week Lenten series on the Temptations of Jesus. Hosts Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw (co-founders of the Center for Embodied Faith) reframe Jesus' first temptation as an attack on his secure attachment to the Father—an attack on hope. The hosts connect this to modern anxieties that push people into “protection mode,” explain Jesus' scripture-based response (“not by bread alone”), define hope as expectant waiting rooted in attachment, and offer a Lenten practice. The next episode will focus on the second temptation as an attack on faith.Dive deeper in our new book, Landscapes of the Soul: How the Science and Spirituality of Attachment Can Move You into Confident Faith, Courage, and Connection, and learn about our trainings and other resources at embodiedfaith.life.Stay Connected: Check out our Attaching to God 6-Week Learning Cohort. Join the Embodied Faith community to stay connected and get posts, episodes, & resources. Support the podcast with a one-time or regular gift (to keep this ad-free without breaking the Holsclaw's bank).

What does it mean to experience genuine freedom today? And how can a study of God's attributes bring that freedom? In this episode, we talk with pastor JP Foster about his new book (co-written with Talbot professor Matt Williams): Finding Freedom in Jesus: The 21 Attributes of Your Identity in Christ. We discuss how understanding God's character can transform our understanding of who we are, and as a result, leading to relational, spiritual, and emotional freedom.  JP Foster serves as Senior Pastor at Faithful Central Bible Church, one of the largest African American churches in Los Angeles. His leadership and Biblical exposition have impacted thousands both in the Los Angeles area and around the world, as he encourages people to build their lives on the foundation of God's word. He also serves as a Ministry Affiliate Faculty at Biola University, teaching courses in Biblical Interpretation and Spiritual Formation. He has also led impactful initiatives to improve educational outcomes and the overall well-being of impoverished areas in Kenya and Eswatini. ==========Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California. Find all episodes of Think Biblically at: https://www.biola.edu/think-biblically. To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.

What if the breakthrough you're praying for begins with learning how to name what you feel? Your spiritual maturity and emotional maturity are inseparable. In this episode, Whit George, Casey Shirley, and Angela Ekstrum explore why feelings are not obstacles to spiritual growth—but essential to it. They unpack the difference between emotions and feelings,  and what it really means to stay relational under pressure. Emotions will either move us away from relationship or deeper into it. The question is: will we let them lead us toward connection with God and others?   Show Notes:    Listen to the Weekend Message: How to Manage Your Feelings as a Christ Follower | How to Manage Your Feelings as a Christ Follower   In this episode, they reference the 8 Feelings chart: share.google/8zOcfm8ucJW5NCd2g   In this episode, Whit recommends The Book of Psalms: A Translation with Commentary by Robert Alter librarything.com/work/3233206

Ministry can feel heavy even when you love Jesus deeply. In this episode of FrontStage BackStage, Bob Goff joins Jason Daye for an honest, encouraging conversation about staying close to Jesus when the work of ministry becomes weighty.Ministry can be meaningful and heavy at the same time.In this episode of FrontStage BackStage, Jason Daye sits down with Bob Goff for a deeply honest, pastoral conversation about what it means to walk with Jesus when ministry feels heavy.Rather than focusing on performance, platforms, or productivity, Bob invites pastors and ministry leaders to return to closeness with Jesus, formation over information, and practices that keep faith grounded in real life.Together, they explore:Why ministry often crowds out intimacy with JesusHow insecurity and pressure quietly shape leadersThe difference between agreeing with Jesus and actually following HimWhy formation matters more than more contentHow small, faithful practices can reshape the way we live and leadWhat encouragement pastors need when they feel tired, discouraged, or uncertainBob Goff is a New York Times bestselling author, speaker, and longtime advocate for living out a practical, love fueled faith. He is the author of several books, including his latest release, A Journey with Jesus, an interactive guide that invites readers to experience the life and teachings of Jesus through Scripture, story, and filmed experiences from the Holy Land.This conversation is especially for pastors and ministry leaders who:Love Jesus deeply but feel stretched thinAre navigating pressure, expectations, and constant noiseLong to stay spiritually grounded without burning outWant to lead from authenticity rather than obligationFrontStage BackStage exists to care for the whole life of ministry leaders, both the public FrontStage and the personal BackStage, because healthy ministry flows from a healthy, well tended soul.If ministry feels heavy right now, this conversation is for you.Looking to dig more deeply into this topic and conversation? FrontStage BackStage is much more than another church leadership show, it is a complete resource to help you and your ministry leaders grow. Every week we go the extra mile and create a free toolkit so you and your ministry team can dive deeper into the topic that is discussed.Visit http://PastorServe.org/network to find the Weekly Toolkit, including the Ministry Leaders Growth Guide. Our team pulls key insights and quotes from every conversation with our guests. We also create engaging questions for you and your team to consider and process, providing space for you to reflect on how each episode's topic relates to your unique church context. Use these questions in your staff meetings, or other settings, to guide your conversation as you invest in the growth of your ministry leaders. Love well, live well, & lead well Complimentary Coaching Session for Pastors http://PastorServe.org/freesession Follow PastorServe LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram | FacebookConnect with Jason Daye LinkedIn | Instagram...

Welcome to another episode of Restoring the Soul with Michael John Cusick. Today's conversation dives deep into the heart of spiritual growth, as AJ Denson returns to interview Michael about his award-winning book, Sacred Attachment, Escaping Spiritual Exhaustion and Trusting in Divine Love.The episode explores Chapter 3, focusing on attachment theory and its profound connection to both psychology and the divine. Michael lays a foundation by tracing attachment back beyond neuroscience and child development, all the way to the ultimate example: the Trinity. Together, Michael and AJ unpack how the Trinity models perfect attunement and connection, and what this means for our relationship with God, others, and ourselves.Support the showENGAGE THE RESTORING THE SOUL PODCAST:- Follow us on YouTube - Tweet us at @michaeljcusick and @PodcastRTS- Like us on Facebook- Follow us on Instagram & Twitter- Follow Michael on Twitter- Email us at info@restoringthesoul.com Thanks for listening!

Welcome to the Passion Equip Podcast. In this launch episode, we share the heart behind this podcast and why we believe formation matters more than ever. Our hope is simple: to help you build a faith that lasts — rooted in Scripture, shaped by the Spirit, and lived out in real life. We hope you will join us here on this feed and throughout our Lenten Journey together. Passion Equip exists to see people around the globe know and draw closer to Jesus. Over 20 years of ministry, we've developed resources on almost every passage in the Bible. Explore our latest resources at https://passionequip.com  —  Follow Passion Equip: https://www.instagram.com/passionequip/ Follow Passion Conferences: https://www.instagram.com/passion268 Follow Passion City Church: https://www.instagram.com/passioncity/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How do we run our race with full surrender to Christ? Eric Liddell's life answers this question and many more with quiet strength and unwavering faith. Known for refusing to run on a Sunday at the 1924 Olympics, Eric honored God's law above worldly praise, trusting Christ by his obedience. His gold medal in the 400m became a testimony to God's faithfulness. But Eric's race didn't end on the track—he gave his life as a missionary in China, serving others with humility and joy until his final breath. His last words, “It's full surrender,” remind us that true greatness is found in yielding wholly to Jesus. Let us run our race likewise—looking unto Him (Hebrews 12:1–2).

In this message, Pastor Krista Ortiz walks you through what it looks like to keep exercising your faith and building the kind of faith that causes God to respond on your behalf.

What does the Bible really teach about fasting? In this message from Covenant Church Doylestown, we walk through Isaiah 58 and Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount to understand what biblical fasting actually is — and what it isn't. Fasting isn't about spiritual performance. It isn't about manipulating God. And it isn't about religious image management. This sermon explores: What biblical fasting really means Why God rejected Israel's fasting in Isaiah 58 The difference between religious acting and authentic faith What Jesus meant by “new wine and new wineskins” Why fasting should be done in secret How fasting shapes your heart and spiritual formation What it means to hunger for God more than your next meal True fasting doesn't just change your schedule — it changes your soul. It softens your heart. It moves you toward justice and mercy. It prepares you for deeper communion with God.

 Sentimental love fades, but Christlike love endures. In “Star Quality,” we discover how the Bright Morning Star teaches us to choose steady, self-giving love that rises again and again. 

Nathan Foster talks with Tiffany Clark about what the 20th century Indian Christian mystic Sundar Singh can teach us about encountering God. 

David Bailey is the Founder and Chief Vision Officer of Arrabon. As a public theologian, David helps to bring wisdom, theological imagination, and moral imagination to the way that Christians show up in the world. He created Arrabon as a way to equip Christ's followers to actively, creatively pursue healing in their communities, to be a foretaste of the kingdom of God, an agent of healing, and an agent of reconciliation in their community. Find out more about Arrabon HEREDownload Arrabon's free Lent resource The Winding RoadExplore Arrabon's resources on Spiritual FormationContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's  Patreon Team!