Podcasts about Spiritual formation

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. 

Equipping Hour | Avenues for Spiritual Formation | Rule of Life by OrlandoGrace

This week, we share a sermon offered by Rev. Bill Haley back in 2010 on the first of five crucial warnings in the Book of Hebrews. This warning from chapter 2 exhorts us not to miss what is on offer when we entrust our lives to Jesus.Explore the Full Archive of Bill's Sermons inthecoracle.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 you can be spiritually transformed in the new series: Spiritual Formation. Let's grow together . . . 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

Send a text“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” What does “pure” (katharos) really mean—and why does Jesus locate purity in the heart (kardia) rather than just external behavior? We explore the Old Testament background (clean hands/pure heart), the difference between purity and perfectionism, and how purity is best understood as single-heartedness—an undivided inner life that's honest before God. We also talk about what it means to “see God” now and ultimately, and how distraction, secrecy, and the attention economy can fragment our hearts and blur our spiritual vision. You'll leave with practical BuddyWalk practices to retrain your attention, bring hidden places into the light, and pursue a clean, integrated heart that can actually recognize God's presence in everyday life. 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

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

In this episode, I sit down with Michael Leach for a thoughtful conversation about fear, faith, and what it looks like to keep moving forward when clarity is hard to come by. We talk about his journey from growing up on the South Side of Chicago to working in the NFL and serving in the White House, but more importantly about how faith is formed through practice, resilience, and trust in uncertain seasons. We explore purpose and identity, calling versus assignment, burnout and boundaries, and why connection matters more than simply having the right words. This is an honest, grounded conversation about choosing faith over fear and learning how to live with courage and moral clarity in a complicated world.Michael Leach is a distinguished leader whose career spans the NFL, national politics, and the White House. Born on the South Side of Chicago, his journey has shaped him into one of today's most trusted and relatable voices on faith, leadership, and resilience. He began with the Chicago Bears, advanced to NFL Headquarters, helped lead and build the most diverse presidential campaign team in U.S. history, culminating in a historic victory, and later made history as the first-ever Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer of the White House. Now Founder & CEO of BridgeTrust Partners, Leach helps leaders and organizations strengthen trust, purpose, and impact across industries.Michael's Book:Faith Over FearMichael's Recommendation:The One ThingConnect 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

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!

Welcome to the Influence Podcast! I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. "In the last sixty years in the USA, some churches shifted strategies and adopted a model that focused almost exclusively on numerical expansion," writes Marroquin. "New sanctuaries and program adjustments were made with the goal of reaching the unchurched. And praise God, the model produced some good results." She goes to note that this model replaced Sunday school and discipleship groups to make room for more worship services. "Somehow, churches believed they would still be making disciples without intentionally placing emphasis on God's Word. The results are in: We have many churches filled with followers of Jesus who desperately need help." In this episode, I talk to Marroquin about what churches can do to refocus on discipleship, based on her new book, A Disciple's Growth: 7 Dimensions of Spiritual Formation. Elloy Marroquin is an ordained minister and national director of Christian Education, Discipleship, and Family Ministries for the Assemblies of God. My conversation with her begins after a brief word from our sponsor.   SPONSOR AD This episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by My Healthy Church, distributors of Europe 365 Daily Devotions. Europe 365 is a powerful year-long devotional written by Assemblies of God World Missions missionaries serving on the front lines of evangelism. You will be inspired by devotional thoughts and dynamic testimonies of the Holy Spirit in action, answers to prayer, miracles, divine protection, supernatural provision, the call to missions, and more. For more information about Europe 365 Daily Devotions, visit GospelPublishingHouse.com.   SHOW NOTES 00:00 — Introduction and Sponsor Ad 02:12 — Why did an emphasis on numerical growth displace the emphasis on discipleship depth, and what have the consequences been for American churches? 04:07 — What are the seven dimensions? And how did you arrive at these seven dimensions? 10:53 — How do the seven dimensions relate to Jesus? 16:19 — How can pastors and other church leaders assess (1) how they're doing personally as disciples as well as (2) how their churches discipleship efforts are going? 25:18 — What advice would you give pastors and other church leaders for implementing new discipleship programs or revising existing ones? 28:10 — What are some of the resources the AG provides, whether in terms of curriculum, training, books, etc.? 36:49 — What are you reading right now that is interesting, helpful, and/or personally challenging? 38:12 — Conclusion

In this episode of the Care Ministry Podcast, host Laura Howe is joined by Rebecca Bailey for a rich conversation on how spiritual formation functions as preventative care within church care ministries. Together, they explore why care and formation cannot be separated, how spiritual formation shows up across Hope Made Strong's five-part Model of Care (self, community, peer, pastoral, and professional), and why care is less about fixing problems and more about being present and becoming formed alongside one another. This episode invites leaders to move beyond reactive care toward cultivating cultures that sustain people before crisis hits. Quotes “If in our care ministries we're focused on the doing and the fixing, then we will miss the being and the becoming.” –Rebecca Bailey “Spiritual formation is happening on the inside and the outside—it's circular. What happens between us forms us.” –Rebecca Bailey “Care has historically been reactive in the church. Spiritual formation helps us think about care as preventative.” –Laura Howe “Spiritual formation isn't about adding more programs. It's about becoming more intentional with what's already happening.” –Rebecca Bailey “Good spiritual formation in care ministries keeps teams from absorbing what they were never meant to carry.” –Rebecca Bailey Resources Hope Made Strong Book Club HMS Amazong store

 Breath and Clay as a “house of refuge” from cultural noiseCommunity as collaboration, not organizationWhy the event works: clarity plus mysteryMakers show up with projects, not just opinionsReal-world outcomes: collaborations that keep growing after the weekendLetting fruit scatter without controlling the pipelineThe 2026 theme: Making Space https://www.thebreathandtheclay.comThe icon: the chairStephen's new book: How to See Invisible ThingsInner life and outer life of the artist“Border-walker” artists and the liminal, unresolved middleArt as a way of seeing, not a utilitarian productScarcity vs abundance as a spiritual and creative postureMary “treasuring” as a model for creation and formationBook excerpt: John Cage 4'33, Quaker silence, sacramental visionCall to action: make the investment, ditch something else, come to Winston-Salemhttps://www.thebreathandtheclay.com Links For Justin:Read Justin's SubstackOrder In The Low - NEW Book with Scott EricksonCoaching with JustinOrder In Rest - New Book of PoemsOrder Sacred StridesJustinMcRoberts.comSupport this podcastNEW Single - Let GoNEW Music - Sliver of HopeNEW Music - The Dood and The BirdThe Book - It Is What You Make itHearts and Minds Amazon Barnes and Noble

Lent is a season of spiritual growth, lament, and sacrifice leading us toward resurrection.---Lent is coming up soon and who better to talk about the season of Lent and the spiritual practices of Lent than Sacred & Small and Michaele LaVigne? Michaele is a spiritual director and the Director of the Center for Spiritual Formation at Nazarene Theological Seminary.In this episode, Michaele joins the Jasons to talk about all aspects of Lent — both from the perspective of pastors of churches and spiritual formation.1. Means of Grace - as a spiritual director and pastor2. Seasons of lament3. The hope of resurrection4. How has Lent changed for you in this role?

Do we believe in the formative power of physical space? Do the items we have around us help shape and form us to fix our eyes on Christ?In this episode, we discuss the reasoning behind new position of both the communion elements and the baptismal tank on Sunday mornings. We also discuss the theological position of believing that space forms us.Resources266 - The Room Matters109 - How to Come to ChurchSpirit and Sacrament: An Invitation to Eucharismatic Worship by Andrew WilsonConnect With Us providenceomaha.org | Instagram | Facebook Email Us formation@providenceomaha.org

Send a textIn this first part of our Radiant Grace series, we explore what it means to practice peace in the bodies we live in right now. We share a tender conversation about trading self-critique for worship, replacing shame with gentleness, and learning to listen when our bodies speak quietly. Guided by Psalm 139 and Romans 12:1, we reflect on how design, dignity, and daily choices meet in our skin. We talk honestly about Christina's experience with chemo, surgery, and recovery, and how those realities reshaped our rhythms and deepened our awareness that the Holy Spirit dwells in us today—not in a future, polished version of ourselves. Isaiah 42:3 helps us see God's kindness toward our bruised places, while we consider how to honor limitations without surrendering to them.We invite you into a simple, repeatable practice: soften your shoulders, release your jaw, breathe a prayer, and say, “I'm listening.” Together, we ask what our bodies need—rest, movement, nourishment, or quiet—and respond with small acts of radiant grace. We also re-frame the mirror by naming what our bodies have done in love and service, letting gratitude renew our thinking. Anchored in Ephesians 2:10, we remember our callings are lived out through our bodies, and caring for them is part of the mission. If you're tired of striving for a someday body, we're choosing a kinder way to live and worship right now—and inviting you to join us.Support the showLearn more about our Revelation Within Community: https://www.revelationwithin.org

As we continue in our Vision Series about becoming a Harbor, we look at what this means for our Formation. We believe that Spiritual Formation, or Discipleship, is a huge part of our lives as believers, and not just individually... because the deepest and most profound things shaping our lives are the communities to which we belong.

Send us a Text Message - include your name! In this episode of the Faith Over Breakfast podcast, Pastor Eric and Pastor Andy take a look at social media and ask what it's actually good for. Is it simply a tool, or is it forming us in dangerous ways? They talk about how Christians might use it with wisdom, what to do with addiction, and why it so easily grabs our attention and reshapes the mind. Support the showSUPPORT THE SHOW BEYOND SUBSCRIPTIONS1. CASH APP2. Justgive"Faith Over Breakfast with Pastors Andy & Eric" is a weekly podcast where Pastors Andy and Eric come together over a imaginary delicious breakfast to talk about faith, food, sermons, culture, and more. In each episode, the pastors delve into thought-provoking topics and offer inspiring insights and practical guidance for those seeking to deepen their relationship with Jesus. With occasional guests joining the conversation, "Faith Over Breakfast with Pastors Andy & Eric" provides a unique perspective on what it means to live a life of faith in today's world. Whether you're a seasoned Christian or just starting on your faith journey, this podcast is the perfect companion for your morning routine. So join Pastors Andy and Eric each week as they explore the intersections of faith, food, and life over a delicious breakfast.Support:https://www.buzzsprout.com/97804/support

Equipping Hour | Avenues for Spiritual Formation | Self-Examination by OrlandoGrace

Debbie Swindoll Kelly Arabie Debbie Swindoll joins BOW Ministry Team Member, Kelly Arabie, to discuss spiritual leadership in a fragile world. Too often people are afraid of being hurt and protect themselves by portraying a facade instead of sharing their real selves, even in the church. Debbie suggests a better way. If you are a leader in your church or community, this conversation will benefit you. Recommended resources Grafted Life Ministries website Life With God Journey by Grafted Life Ministries BOW's resources on Godly Living This episode is available on video as well. Timestamps: Time Stamps 00:21 Introductions 01:36 What is spiritual leadership? 03:56 What are the issues in our culture that make our world fragile? 08:25 What does it look like to lead people spiritually in a context of isolation and relational disconnection? 10:10 The importance of trust 11:42 How do we give people an experience of joy? 15:50 The importance of connection in our church communities 20:01 What are practical ways that small group leaders create that space in their groups? 23:40 Why is it so difficult to be in relationship in small groups & why do we feel the compulsion to fix, advise and rescue? 26:42 How do we move past the fear and shame in a group? 38:32 How is it different to lead a group like that? 41:41 Resources TranscriptKelly >> Welcome to the Beyond Ordinary Women podcast. I'm Kelly Arabie. I'm your host today. And our guest is Debbie Swindoll. Debbie is a spiritual director, Pastor of Spiritual Formation at Journey Community Church in Allen, Texas, and the Executive Director of Grafted Life Ministries. As founder of Grafted Life, Debbie envisioned and coauthored ten studies for spiritual growth. And she currently writes and speaks and consults on issues of relational theology and spiritual leadership. Debbie's training is with the Talbot School of Theology's Institute for Spiritual Formation at Biola University. And we are thrilled to have her with us today. Welcome, Debbie. Debbie >> Thanks, Kelly. When you said all of that, I'm like, “Boy, am I tired!” Kelly >> Well, you know of what you speak. So and today's podcast is on Spiritual Leadership in a Fragile World. And so, Deb, I know you have a lot of experience, decades with spiritual leadership. Debbie >> Yeah. You know, some let me just start by saying, what is spiritual leadership? I think we're very practiced and maybe mind full of being good leaders. You know, how do we get leadership training? How do we develop our skills as leaders? To be better prepared to lead other people-whether that's we're in the pastorate or where some other kind of leader maybe we're just a small group leader. But we're mindful of skills to make us better. We purposed to talk about spiritual leadership today because I think that there's a maybe an under emphasis on the spiritual a part of leading in the church. What I mean by that is a life that's really grounded in their own relationship with God and is very aware of God in the world, in their own lives, in the life of the church, in the life of other people. And they're moving in that space all the time. So in some ways, the skills that we get as a leader we may practice as a leader are only there to serve the awarenesses we have of God in our life and in others lives and how they're serving that awareness. So there's this spiritual world that exists and are we attuned to that? Are we aware of it and open to it and moving in it? And that's kind of the spiritual part. That's kind of the extra thing that I think is a part of spiritual leadership. So that's kind of the context we're talking about. In this topic, which actually spiritual leadership in a fragile world that's kind of almost the special sauce, right? That helps us to actually navigate in a fragile world. Kelly >> So what are the issues that you think in our culture make it a fragile world today?

Thought to share? Send me a text...We explore how opposition often shows up when the work is halfway done and how Nehemiah models a blend of prayer, courage, and wise action. We share practical ways to discern helpful critique from harmful pushback and how to keep building with the armor of God.• welcoming honest leadership that accepts disagreement• Nehemiah 4 as a guide to resilience under pressure• prayer as first response, not last resort• discerning constructive criticism from opposition• setting guards at exposed gaps and sharing the load• leading through fear, fatigue, and real threats• practical readiness paired with deep trust in God• the armor of God for steady minds and firm steps• taking one more faithful step when you want to quitTo 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 we willing to let our light shine wherever God places us? In Amy Carmichael's life, we see the radiant fulfillment of Christ's command: “Let your light so shine before men…” (Matthew 5:16). From the streets of Belfast to the orphanages of India, she lived with an eternal focus, burning with a holy love that served, rescued, and sacrificed. Whether walking in open fields or confined to a sickbed, she never ceased to shine, trusting God to use every trial for His glory. May we, too, be faithful to shine for Christ to the very end.

Do you want to "go deeper" in your faith? Well, here's what you need to know: Deep faith isn't about knowledge. It's about ACTION. If you want to build great faith, it's going to require that you take action.

It is not enough to see our kids come to Jesus. Rather, our goal should be to lead them into walking with Jesus, both now and for the rest of their lives. Some three hundred and seventy five years ago, the Puritan pastor Jeremiah Burroughs wrote about what it means to walk with God. He wrote, "Walking with God is when we make God's will the rule of our will. The soul does what God does. What's the way of God but the way of holiness and righteousness, when the soul makes the will of God to be its own rule? I will not act on my own will. I will not act on anything but the will of God. What is it that God wills? Then I will the same thing. The soul walks the way God walks when it suits itself with God, when it sets the Lord as an example before it. This is to walk with God: to do as God does, to imitate God." Parents, God has willed that you be the one to nurture your children in the faith. You do so through your words and your actions. And there's not substitute for the example of your walk with God.

This week, we share a "Space for God" devotional offered by Drew Masterson (Center for Christian Study) back in 2022. He guides us into a deep insight shared by many artists, neuroscientists, and the Apostle Paul: that the things we pay attention to profoundly shape our lives. I invite us to take a "Contemplative Audit" of our lives before concluding with a powerful musical and poetic reflection on the Christ Hymn in Colossians 1 by Alana Levandoski, featuring poetry by Malcolm Guite, Scott Cairns, Joel McKerrow, and Luci Shaw.View Our Complete Archive of “Space for God” Prayer PracticesLearn More About Spiritual Direction through Coracleinthecoracle.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.

We live in a world flooded with stories, opinions, and noise, and I find myself wondering which ones are actually worth giving our attention to. In this conversation, I sit down with mythologist and storyteller Martin Shaw to explore why some stories shape us toward life while others quietly hollow us out. We talk about myths that function like prayers rather than spells, why Jesus taught through parables, and how stories still have the power to form us into more loving, grounded human beings.Martin shares his own unexpected journey back to Christianity through a long wilderness vigil and reflects on grief, evil, beauty, and the kind of attention that makes something holy. This is a conversation about becoming human again, about learning how to see clearly, and about allowing the story of Jesus to break our enchantments and draw us toward love.Martin Shaw is a writer, mythographer and Christian thinker. He's Visiting Scholar at the Divinity Faculty of Cambridge University, and a Fellow of the Temenos Academy. Author of seventeen books, Dr Shaw is the director of the Westcountry School of Myth and founder of the Oral Tradition and Mythic Life courses at Stanford University. His book Bardskull was described as “rich and transgressive” by Erica Wagner in The Sunday Times and was Book of the Day in The Guardian. A hugely respected oral storyteller, Shaw has toured internationally numerous times, and led symposiums at both Oxford and Cambridge University, Robert Bly describing him as “a true master, one of the very greatest storytellers we have.” His more recent work is what he describes as a developing “Christian mythopoetics”—a reminder of the depth and mysticism latent in this middle-eastern mystery religion. Shaw converted to Eastern Orthodoxy after a 101-day vigil in a Dartmoor forest. He still lives nearby to the wood, writing and teaching. The Irish Times call Martin “a seanchaí, an interloper from the medieval.”, Charles Foster adding, “there's Shaw and there's everyone else.”Martin's Book:Liturgies of the WildMartin's Recommendation:Our Thoughts Determine Our LivesConnect 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

Recent research from Lifeway tells us that “the single greatest influence over spiritual health is regular Bible reading while growing up. Plainly put, the parents of young adults indicate that regular Bible reading as children yields the greatest influence over spiritual health.” Any of us who are Bible readers know this to be personally true, as the Holy Spirit works to change us, conforming us to the image of Christ as we read God's Word. And what could serve as a better example to our children than our time spent reading and studying the Bible, along with the time we spend reading the Bible together as a family. As an adult, I realize now that my greatest and most treasured memories are not those of family vacations or other family activities. Yes, those are great memories, but they don't hold the same value as those memories of habits and times that shaped my faith and who I am today. I'm grateful to my parents for their example as Bible readers who took God's Word seriously. 

What kind of legacy are you building? Where does it begin?In this honest conversation, Dr. Crawford Loritts joins Shelley Giglio to talk about faith, family, and the work of God that will shape generations. From the role of prayer in parenting to the importance of repentance and humility before God, this episode is a reminder that lasting legacy is not built on perfection, but in surrender to Jesus.Dr. Crawford shares deeply personal stories from his own life and family, reflecting on the power of prayer, the role of repentance in parenting, and the importance of staying faithful to what God has asked you to do. They discuss how spiritual legacy is formed over time through obedience and reverence for God, not through strategy, perfection, or performance.This conversation offers wisdom on breaking generational cycles, embracing God as Father, and choosing to become what you did not receive.Whether you're a parent or simply longing to break generational patterns, this conversation will encourage you to start where real transformation begins – at the feet of Jesus.The Grove is an extension of all God is doing at Passion City Church in Atlanta, Georgia. To learn more, follow us on Instagram @pcc_thegrove or visit thegroveonline.com to get connected. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Derek Rishmawy, Alastair Roberts, Brad East, and James Wood trace the evangelical spiritual formation movement from Richard Foster through Dallas Willard to John Mark Comer. They explore why disciplines resonate today amid technological distraction and desire for embodied faith, while navigating tensions between individual and communal formation, liturgy's role, and concerns about practices becoming self-optimization divorced from gospel foundations. — 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, 30 Key Moments in the History of Christianity: Inspiring True Stories from the Early Church Around the World, by going to  Apply for a full-tuition scholarship for Beeson Divinity School's M.Div program that begins Fall 2026 here: https://bit.ly/beesonscholarships — Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 01:06 – Tracing the Spiritual Formation Movement 08:35 – Why Spiritual Disciplines Resonate Today 19:45 – Technology, Attention, and the Appeal of Forms 25:00 – Critiques: Self-Optimization and Theological Drift 33:12 – The Role of Set Prayers and Liturgy 44:50 – Inhabiting Forms vs. Formalism 53:00 – Suffering as Spiritual Formation 58:47 – The Danger of Christian Elitism 01:12:54 – The Parable of the Three Bricklayers

Bible study doesn't have to be hard; you just need to have a system.In this video, I give you my Bible Study system that you can start implementing today and be on your way to knowing Jesus and His word better.Videos Referenced to Watch Next:   • The Greatest Study Bible of All Time (Thom...     • 7 Tools to Elevate your Bible Study 

Send us a text In this episode of BuddyWalk with Jesus, we slow down over Matthew 5:7: “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.” What does Jesus mean by mercy—and how is it different from being permissive, naïve, or a doormat? We explore the Bible's language of mercy, the Old Testament heartbeat of God's steadfast love, and why Jesus places mercy right in the middle of the Beatitudes. In a culture that rewards outrage, shaming, and payback, this episode calls us into a Kingdom way of living where truth and compassion belong together. You'll also get practical, doable steps for practicing mercy—through your words, your relationships, and even your boundaries—so your life can reflect the heart 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

Healthy habits are one of the greatest gifts we can give our children because habits quietly shape what they love and who they become. In this episode, Davies Owens is joined by Jeff Hendricks, headmaster at Providence Christian School of Texas, for a practical conversation about how formation happens through repeated, everyday actions.Jeff defines a habit as a repeated action that becomes instinctive. It begins with conscious effort, but over time it becomes automatic, like driving a car. That matters because the virtues we hope to see in adulthood, generosity, courage, hospitality, do not appear overnight. They are built through small faithful practices.A key theme throughout the conversation is that there is no neutral setting. Every child is learning habits of one kind or another, intentionally or passively. Jeff also addresses a common misconception: habit formation can sound harsh or overly strict, but discipline on the front end leads to freedom later. Like musicians and athletes, children gain joyful confidence when foundational skills become second nature.Jeff shares several “best of” habits Providence emphasizes with families:Prayer and reading God's Word: not necessarily formal or elaborate, sometimes simply reading Scripture together and praying. The point is consistency and priority.Attention: children cannot learn without it. Jeff offers practical ways to train attention at home, including multi-step instructions, narration, picture study, and observation exercises.Obedience: responding right away and all the way, with the understanding that respectful questions can happen at the right time. This trains children to relate rightly to God-given authority.Neatness and orderliness: restoring order to a space and to routines, even when it takes more time than doing it yourself.Serving others: training children to defer preferences and practice small acts of service that slowly reorient the heart away from self.Working hard and doing your best: building a “work before play” rhythm, teaching excellence without overwork, and helping children grow into wise self-management.In closing, Jeff encourages educators to keep habits simple and intentional, and he encourages parents that it is never too late to begin. Start where you are, choose one habit, and keep it steady. Often the best change is the one you quietly begin and faithfully continue.Special Thanks to our partners who make BaseCamp Live possible:The Herzog FoundationThe Champion GroupWisephone by TechlessZipCastWilson Hill Academy Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on classical Christian education, and join us next time on BaseCamp Live! Remember to subscribe, leave us a review, and reach out to us at info@basecamplive.comDon't forget to visit basecamplive.com for more info and past episodes.

In this episode, I talk with Father James Martin about his new memoir Work in Progress and the ways our ordinary jobs shape who we become. We explore summer work, vocation, grief, perseverance, and how faith is formed not just in churches, but in kitchens, factories, offices, and everyday life. Jim reflects on loss, discernment, and the slow work of becoming human, and together we talk about where God shows up in suffering, in work we enjoy, and in work we endure. This conversation is an invitation to look back on your own story, pay attention to the unfinished edges, and notice how grace has been present all along.The Rev. James Martin, S.J., is a Jesuit priest, author and editor at large at America, the national Catholic magazine. Martin was born in Plymouth Meeting, PA. He attended Plymouth-Whitemarsh High School. He received his Bachelor's Degree in economics from the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business. He worked in corporate finance for General Electric for six years before leaving and joining the Society of Jesus (also known as the Jesuits). Martin was novitiate in Boston where he worked with seriously ill at a hospital in Cambridge. He also worked with hospice patients at the Missionaries of Charity in Kingston, Jamaica and at a school for poor boys, Nativity Mission School, in New York City. He was ordained a Catholic priest in June 1999 in Chestnut Hill, Ma. On Nov. 1, 2009, he pronounced his final vows as a "fully professed" Jesuit in New York City. Martin is the author of several books, including the New York Times bestseller, "Jesus: A Pilgrimage".Fr. Martin's Book:Work in ProgressFr. Martin's Recommendation:Sacred FireConnect 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

Equipping Hour | Avenues of Spiritual Formation | Sabbath by OrlandoGrace

Register for the Exiles in Babylon conference! April 30-May 2 (Minneapolis, MN). Kyle Strobel (Ph.D. University of Aberdeen) is a systematic theologian who teaches spiritual theology for the Biola University Talbot School of Theology Institute for Spiritual Formation and Spiritual Formation Focus programs. He's the author of several books including his most recent book When God Seems Distant: Surprising Ways God Deepens Our Faith and Draws Us Near.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This episode of The Mountain Podcast centers on Psalm 23 and explores how God leads people into transformation through stillness rather than busyness. The pastor contrasts modern, hurried life with God's “old ways,” explaining that spiritual growth, healing, and identity formation happen when we trust God as Shepherd, surrender personal desire, and allow Him to lead us beside “still waters.” Drawing from neuroscience, personal testimony, and Scripture, the message emphasizes silence, reflection, and long‑term obedience as essential for integrating life's pain, loss, and conflict with God's presence—especially in seasons like the “valley of the shadow of death”—ultimately inviting listeners to rest, trust, and receive restoration rather than react or rush.

In this message from Colossians 3:12–17, we explore what it truly means to become new in Christ—not just by removing old habits, but by intentionally putting on the ways of Jesus. Paul calls us to put on the character of Christ, the relationships of Christ, and the worship of Christ. Rather than trying harder, we're invited to live differently—allowing compassion, forgiveness, unity, and worship to shape our daily lives and witness. Becoming new is not accidental—it's a daily, intentional practice of living out the identity we've already been given in Christ.

How can we rejoice when suffering for Christ? Richard Wurmbrand's life answers that question with powerful clarity. Tortured and imprisoned for his faith under Communist rule, he chose to obey Christ's command: “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad” (Matthew 5:12). His example calls us to turn toward Jesus in our trials, not away. Like Wurmbrand, may we find strength to rejoice not just in ease, but in the presence of the living Savior who gives joy amid tribulation.

Send us a textSupport | STORE | Podcasts | Jail/Prison Ministry | Mexico Mission here | Because You Care Page | H.O.T. Bible Study [podcast] | Divine Blessings | Exhort One Another Daily | The Return of Christ | The Joy of Fulfilling the Great Commission | The Love of Many Shall Wax Cold | Lie of the Ages (book) | Soul Damning Sins (small book) | Why We Need not Fear Death | Revelation Bombshell!HOMEPAGE:   https://safeguardyoursoul.com/MAKE PEACE WITH GOD NOW: https://safeguardyoursoul.com/peace-with-god/SUPPORT:  https://safeguardyoursoul.com/support/STORE:   https://safeguardyoursoul.com/store/ABOUT:  https://safeguardyoursoul.com/about/email Todd:  info@safeguardyoursoul.comBackground Music by: Thad Fiscella https://www.thadfiscella.com/ Support the show

Listen to this week's sermon, Winter Wisdom: How We Spend Our Time preached by Pastoral Resident Kenneth Dyches from Ecclesiastes 1:1-11, 3:11.

In this episode, I talk with Lori G. Melton, author of Journey with a Giant, about the practice of walking with spiritual giants from history as a way of formation. We explore slowness, silence, pilgrimage, and what Lori learned by walking with Fred Rogers, including why listening is love, why presence matters more than productivity, and how paying attention to the person in front of us reshapes faith. This conversation offers a grounded, countercultural vision of discipleship rooted in companionship, attentiveness, and trust.Lori G. Melton is an author, spiritual director, podcaster, and retreat leader with a life-long passion for walking with God and helping others grow in their relationship with Him. She and her husband Bryan are the founders of the Sanctuary at Bear Creek Retreat Center in Allegan, Michigan. Lori is the host of the Sanctuary Stirrings podcast.Raised as an Episcopalian and educated in Catholic schools, Lori came to Christ through an Assembly of God youth group and has spent her adult life in non-denominational Bible churches. One of her greatest strengths is her appreciation for diverse Christian denominations.Lori was born in Niagara Falls, New York (Yes, one of the Eight Wonders of the World!), played competitive badminton in high school (Don't laugh, it is a sport), and is the other half of a twin-sister combination. When she's not writing, speaking, or welcoming retreat guests, she loves spending time with her six grown children and three adorable grands. You can find Lori on Facebook and Instagram, and at her website, lorigmelton.com.Lori's Book:Journey with a GiantLori's Recommendation:In Search of God's WillConnect 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

Join Chris Montgomery as he explores 'The Blessed Life' through the teachings of Matthew 5:1-16. This sermon highlights the Beatitudes and their significance in the journey of discipleship. Montgomery emphasizes the importance of spiritual formation, the challenges of Christian life, and the role of community in embodying the light and salt of the world. Discover how to live a life of righteousness, mercy, and peace as a disciple of Christ.

Thought to share? Send me a text...We walk the perimeter of Jerusalem through Nehemiah 3 and discover how a list of gates and names becomes a living map for discipleship. From Sheep Gate to East Gate, we trace how Jesus meets us, grows us, and calls us to build together with willing hearts.• why Nehemiah 3 honors ordinary people and work• how each gate pictures a stage of spiritual growth• the role of valleys, trash, and renewal in formation• Scripture and the Spirit as cleansing and power• spiritual opposition and the call to stand ready• community strategy: build opposite your house• the freedom and weight of voluntary service• why every name and contribution matters to GodIf you learned something new today or just enjoyed this podcast, I encourage you to subscribe so that you can stay with us as we journey through the book of Nehemiah, Rebuilding from the Inside OutTo 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

Should I expect to have an easy life following Jesus? Being a Christian does not mean comfort or ease, as culture would define it. Brian Delamont, Executive Vice President of TeachBeyond, unpacks Scriptural truths about blessing, contentment, and abundance from a Kingdom perspective. Deuteronomy 28 Psalm 136 Matthew 20:18-19 John 16:32-33 "When we face difficulties, when life is not easy, the Father is with us." "Life is not easy. There will be trouble. [...] However, take heart! I have overcome the world." "You don't give to get." Malachi 3:10 2 Corinthians 9:7-9 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 Genesis 2:15 "Being in God's creation and working it, taking care of what God had given, is part of God's original good plan for humanity. It's not an easy life; it's a good and meaningful life!" Genesis 3:16-19, 23 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 "God knows that an easy life isn't in our best interest [...] but an abundant life is in our best interest. It's His blessing, His presence, and His Kingdom." "Jesus does say that we will have trouble, but He is also with us in the trouble, so that's how we can take heart - because He has overcome, He is greater, He is kinder than whatever discomfort we are facing."  Philippians 4:10-13 "It's not easy all the time, and we know it won't be, yet God is able to care for you, to bless you and to be with you, even when it's tremendously difficult." Join us for TeachBeyond's 40 Days of Prayer: https://teachbeyond.org/40days January Reflection: Am I longing for ease or what God really has for me? What's changing our lives: Keane: Durham-opoly Heather: Great conversations and interviews with applicants Brian: Taking more time to breathe and reflecting on Scripture during TeachBeyond's 40 Days of Prayer Weekly Spotlight: School Leadership Positions We'd love to hear from you! podcast@teachbeyond.org Podcast Website: https://teachbeyond.org/podcast Learn about TeachBeyond: https://teachbeyond.org/

How do we heal, grow, and change as apprentices of Jesus? Many of us have subscribed to the traditional Christian approach of “trying harder” to “believe and do what's right,” only to find ourselves stuck and discouraged. Thankfully the vision Jesus casts for transformation shows us a different path forward.Join us for this episode of Soul Talks as Bill and Kristi share how Dallas Willard's mantra, “Don't try — train,” revolutionized their approach to spiritual formation. You'll burn with a desire to become more loving and healthy and get equipped with a practical tool to help you grow in Christlikeness one area at a time.If you want to go deeper into the insights we gained from Dallas Willard, we invite you to join us on a retreat or train to become a spiritual director with Soul Shepherding. You can learn more by following the links below.Resources for this Episode:Attend a Soul Shepherding RetreatEarn a Certificate in Spiritual DirectionYour Best Life in Jesus' Easy Yoke: Rhythms of Grace to De-Stress and Live EmpoweredDonate to Support Soul Shepherding and Soul Talks

Jenna is a writer and content creator based in Orange County, California. She works at Axis as a content specialist. She is currently working on a Master's in Spiritual Formation and Soul Care at Talbot School of Theology. She also runs a Substack publication called "Jenna's Column" where she writes about faith from a Gen Z perspective. In her free time she loves to read (preferably at the beach) and hang out with her husband Parker and their cat, Dolly. Check out our updated Parent's Guide to Teen Slang Become a monthly donor today, join the Table. Check out the podcast now on our YouTube Channel! Get your question on Ask Axis! Send in your questions to ask@axis.org. For more Axis resources, go to axis.org.