Podcasts about Spiritual formation

Grace Through Faith vs. Self-Effort Spiritual Formation - A Critique of Practicing the Way, presented by Bob DeWaay and Barb Gretch. Bob DeWaay examines John Mark Comer's view of self-effort in spiritual formation and contrasts it with Colossians 1:36. Learn why Paul taught that believers bear fruit through God's grace received by faith, not through human striving. (duration 00:21:25) Click here to play

What does it look like to stand for truth with both courage and gentleness? In this message, we are reminded through the life of William Wilberforce that Christ calls us to be “wise as serpents and harmless as doves” (Matthew 10:16). Though surrounded by the spiritual darkness and injustice of the British slave trade, Wilberforce's heart was transformed by the gospel, and God used him to shine the light of Christ boldly in public life. Through years of opposition, criticism, and discouragement, he persevered in prayer, conviction, and compassion, trusting the Lord to bring lasting change. His life challenges us to faithfully stand for truth wherever God has placed us, relying not on our own strength but on Christ's wisdom and grace to reflect His love to a broken world.

Have you ever felt like you were one more hard thing away from completely falling apart? Like the weight of everything you're carrying — the loss, the grief, the disappointment, the unanswered prayers — was just too much to hold anymore? If that's where you are right now, this message was made for you.

What do you do when Jesus says something you don't understand? In Episode 166 of the 2 Minute Disciple podcast, we reflect on John 6:60–65, where even Jesus' disciples struggle to accept His teaching. Their response is honest: “This is very hard to understand. Who can accept it?” Rather than softening His message, Jesus points them toward a greater reality and reminds them that true understanding comes through the Holy Spirit. This contemplative devotional explores the tension between faith and understanding, the temptation to walk away from difficult teachings, and the invitation to remain with Jesus even when His words challenge us. Through guided prayer, Scripture meditation, and spiritual reflection, you'll be encouraged to trust God's Spirit when your mind cannot yet fully grasp what Christ is saying. Whether you're wrestling with doubt, confusion, or a difficult passage of Scripture, this episode offers a gentle reminder that faithfulness often begins by staying with Jesus through the hard things.

Eat My Flesh, Drink My Blood What if Jesus wants more than your belief? What if He wants your complete union with Him? In Episode 165 of 2 Minute Disciple, we meditate on John 6:52–59, one of the most challenging and misunderstood passages in all of Scripture. As the crowd struggles to understand Jesus' teaching, He does something surprising. He doesn't soften His words. He doesn't explain them away. Instead, He presses deeper. “Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you cannot have eternal life within you.” These words shocked His listeners, and they continue to challenge readers today. Jesus is not describing a distant relationship built on admiration, agreement, or occasional spiritual activity. He is describing a relationship as intimate and essential as food itself. Food becomes part of us. It nourishes us from within. It sustains our lives. In the same way, Jesus invites us to receive His life so deeply that His presence becomes the source of our strength, wisdom, peace, and identity. This is the language of abiding. “Anyone who eats My flesh and drinks My blood remains in Me, and I in him.” The Christian life is not merely following Jesus from a distance. It is living in continual communion with Him. His life becomes our life. His strength becomes our strength. His presence becomes the atmosphere in which we live and move. This passage reminds us that Christianity is not simply about believing truths about Jesus. It is about participating in His life. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why Jesus intensified His teaching when the crowd objected • What it means to “feed” on Christ spiritually • The biblical meaning of abiding in Jesus • How union with Christ transforms everyday life • A practical habit for practicing the presence of God Scripture John 6:52–59 (NLT)

Help bring to life a new Renovaré course: renovare.org/streams.Nathan Foster talks with author and priest Ragan Sutterfield on the sacramental nature of birding and other patient pursuits which train our attention so that we can live awake to our transcendent God and the invisible realm of his kingdom.

I Am the Bread of Life What are you feeding your soul with? In Episode 163 of 2 Minute Disciple, we meditate on John 6:35–40, where Jesus makes one of the most profound declarations in all of Scripture: “I am the Bread of Life.” The crowd has been searching for bread, signs, and provision. But Jesus reveals that their deepest need is not something He can give—it is Him. He is the true Bread from Heaven. He is the One who satisfies the hunger beneath every other hunger. Every human heart longs for something more: meaning, belonging, peace, purpose, security, and life that does not run dry. Jesus declares that these deepest longings ultimately find their fulfillment in Him. But this passage offers another remarkable promise. Jesus says: “Whoever comes to Me I will never reject.” Not sometimes. Not conditionally. Not only when we have everything together. Whoever comes. For weary believers, struggling disciples, and those wondering whether they truly belong, these words offer profound comfort. The invitation remains open, and the welcome remains secure. Jesus goes even further. He promises that those who belong to Him will not be lost. The Father's will is that Christ preserve and raise up all who trust in Him. Our hope rests not in the strength of our grip on Jesus, but in the strength of His grip on us. In this episode, you'll discover: • What Jesus means when He calls Himself the Bread of Life • Why our deepest hunger can only be satisfied by Christ • The comfort found in Jesus' promise to never reject those who come to Him • How spiritual security is rooted in God's faithfulness • A practical habit for turning toward Jesus throughout your day Scripture John 6:35–40 (NLT)

Send us Fan MailSuffering raises difficult questions about God, faith, and what it means to follow Jesus in a broken world. In this episode of Summer Series 2026, Tim Stewart welcomes theologian and author Dr. Kelly Kapic for an honest conversation about grief, pain, lament, and unanswered prayers.Drawing from years of academic research and personal experience caring for his wife through chronic illness, Dr. Kapic explores why Christians need to rediscover the language of lament, how we can acknowledge the realities of suffering without denying God's goodness, and why the Incarnation reveals a God who enters into our pain rather than remaining distant from it.Together, they discuss the importance of community in seasons of suffering, the relationship between forgiveness and healing, and how the Gospel offers not merely escape from this world, but participation in God's ongoing work of restoration.If you've wrestled with disappointment, loss, chronic pain, or questions about where God is in the midst of suffering, this episode offers thoughtful guidance, theological depth, and hope for the journey.In this episode:• Rediscovering lament as a faithful response to suffering• Holding together grief and God's goodness• Finding God's presence in pain through the Incarnation• Why honest faith makes room for sorrow and questions• The healing role of Christian community• Forgiveness as part of restoration and healing• Hope in the midst of grief, pain, and unanswered prayers

Give Us This Bread What are you truly hungry for? In Episode 162 of 2 Minute Disciple, we meditate on John 6:30–34, where the crowd asks Jesus for a sign and points back to one of Israel's greatest miracles—the manna God provided in the wilderness. Despite witnessing the miraculous feeding of thousands, they still want more evidence. Yet Jesus gently redirects their attention. The manna was never the point. The miracle was never the destination. The bread in the wilderness was always pointing to something—and Someone—greater. Jesus tells them that it was not Moses who gave bread from heaven, but the Father. And now the Father is offering the true Bread from Heaven: the One who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world. The crowd doesn't fully understand yet, but their response is beautiful: “Sir, give us this bread every day.” They are asking for more than they realize. And often, so are we. Many of our prayers begin with earthly needs, surface desires, and immediate concerns. Yet beneath them lies a deeper hunger—a longing for life, peace, purpose, belonging, and communion with God. Jesus is the answer to that deeper hunger. This passage reminds us that even when our understanding is incomplete, we can bring our desires honestly to Christ and trust Him to give us what we truly need. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why the crowd kept asking Jesus for more signs • The connection between manna in the wilderness and Jesus • What it means that Jesus is the true Bread from Heaven • How God often answers our prayers with something greater than we expect • A practical way to bring your deepest longings to Christ Scripture John 6:30–34 (NLT)

Stasi invites Blaine Eldredge, our Director of Spiritual Formation at Wild at Heart, for a conversation about recapturing beauty—not the exhausting beauty our culture demands, but the deeply personal beauty that originates in the heart of God. Together they explore how Jesus reveals a beauty that is vulnerable, relational, and inviting; a beauty that isn't based on performance, but draws us into His love. Come and rediscover the beauty that moves our hearts toward Him. This is Part 1 of a 2-part conversation.…..SHOW NOTES:…..VERSES: Genesis 2:18 (NIV) – The Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”Exodus 33:11 (NIV) – The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend.Deuteronomy 34:10 (NIV) – Since then, no prophet has risen in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face.Song of Songs 2:14 (NIV) – My dove in the clefts of the rock, in the hiding places on the mountainside, show me your face, let me hear your voice; for your voice is sweet, and your face is lovely.Hebrews 12:18–24 (NIV) – You have not come to a mountain that can be touched and that is burning with fire; to darkness, gloom and storm; to a trumpet blast or to such a voice speaking words that those who heard it begged that no further word be spoken to them… But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem… to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant.2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV) – And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.John 4:16–18 (NIV) – He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.” “I have no husband,” she replied. Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband.”2 Kings 17:24–41 (NIV) – Clearly referenced in the discussion of the Samaritan people being brought from five nations associated with false gods and attempting to worship Yahweh alongside them.…..RESOURCESThe Green Ember by S.D. Smith  ⁠https://amzn.to/4dyvZCh⁠The Prophets by Abraham Joshua Heschel  ⁠https://amzn.to/4wUgygG⁠ The Sabbath by Abraham Joshua Heschel  ⁠https://amzn.to/4nEW8np⁠God in Search of Man: A Philosophy of Judaism by Abraham Joshua Heschel   ⁠https://amzn.to/49cEn99⁠Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics by Aristotle  ⁠https://amzn.to/495TaCE⁠Creation and Fall: A Theological Exposition of Genesis 1-3 by Dietrich Bonhoeffer ⁠https://amzn.to/4tPgr3h⁠Jesus of Nazareth: From the Baptism in the Jordan to the Transfiguration by Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Benedict XVI)   ⁠https://amzn.to/3RvX3dV⁠The Glory of the Lord by Hans Urs von Balthasar  ⁠https://amzn.to/4wEjTA5⁠…..CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS00:00  The Beauty That Captures Our Hearts01:52  Jesus Pursuing the Hearts of Our Children06:11  Why Beauty Begins in God07:41  The Danger of “Instagram Face”11:12  How Empire Erases Personhood14:19  The False Beauty of Invulnerability17:19  Beauty, Limits, and Being Human19:42  Why the World Loves Artificial Beauty22:25  The Enemy's War Against True Beauty24:14  When Beauty Becomes Power26:14  The Beauty That Invites Relationship28:15  The Trinity and Relational Love30:23  God's Desire to See Our Faces33:09  Jesus' Beauty Is Deeply Personal34:45  Vulnerability at the Heart of Beauty36:11  Choosing Intimacy Over Universal Approval39:08  Why Every Woman Bears Beauty40:10  The Beauty of the Crucified Christ41:50  Jesus' Beauty Pursues Our Hearts42:58  The Samaritan Woman and Divine Love45:59  The Lordliness and Goodness of Jesus47:12  Becoming Like the One We Behold48:15  Closing Prayer…..Don't Miss Out on the Next Episode—Subscribe for FreeSubscribe using your favorite podcast app:YouTube – ⁠https://wahe.art/4h8DelL⁠Spotify Podcasts – ⁠https://wahe.art/496zdfn⁠Apple Podcasts – ⁠https://apple.co/42E0oZ1⁠ Amazon Music & Audible – ⁠https://amzn.to/3M9u6hJ⁠

Fr Alex continues our series about Anglican distinctives with a lesson on Christian Liberty.

Working for Food That Lasts Why are you really seeking Jesus? In Episode 161 of 2 Minute Disciple, we meditate on John 6:22–29, where the crowds search diligently for Jesus after He miraculously fed thousands with a few loaves and fish. At first glance, their pursuit seems admirable. They cross the lake looking for Him. They are determined, persistent, and eager to find Him. But Jesus sees deeper than their actions. He lovingly exposes what is driving them: they are following Him because He fed them, not because they understood who He truly was. The crowd wanted another meal. Jesus wanted to offer them something far greater. He redirects their attention from temporary needs to eternal realities, telling them not to spend their lives chasing food that perishes but to seek the food that endures to eternal life. When they ask what God requires of them, Jesus gives one of the most surprising answers in all of Scripture: “The work of God is this: to believe in the one He has sent.” Before service comes trust. Before obedience comes faith. Before doing comes believing. Jesus reminds us that Christianity is not primarily about performing for God. It begins with trusting Him. This passage invites us to examine our motives and ask whether we are seeking Jesus Himself—or merely the things we hope He will provide. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why Jesus challenged the motives of the crowd • The difference between seeking God's gifts and seeking God Himself • What Jesus means by “food that endures to eternal life” • Why belief is the foundation of the Christian life • A practical exercise for examining your spiritual hunger Scripture John 6:22–29 (NLT)

In this episode, Brant Hansen argues that holding onto offense is killing us - spiritually, physically, and relationally. He had to decide whether the offense he experienced as a young person should be held on to or if he should release it. It led him to a simple, uncomfortable conclusion: righteous human anger doesn't exist in scripture, and the anger we carry, however justified it feels, is not what faithful people are called to hold. We talk about forgiveness, hypocrisy in the church, and what Jesus actually intended when he told us to love our enemies.Brant is an author of several bestselling books, including Unoffendable, and a syndicated radio host on more than 200 stations. His podcast, “The Brant and Sherri Oddcast” has more than 20 million downloads. He's been featured many times on outlets like Focus on the Family, Family Life Today, and Good Morning America.Brant and wife Carolyn live in South Florida. His latest book, Living Unoffended releases June 9.Brant's Book:Living UnoffendedBrant's Recommendation:The Matter With ThingsConnect 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 YouTubeSupport the podcast and the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below Support the show

Join us for an insightful conversation where Filipe and Mandy Santos of Echo Church in the Bay Area interview John Ortberg and they explore spiritual formation, the origins of the 12-step program, and its relevance for church leaders today. Discover practical wisdom on character, vulnerability, and leveraging technology in a polarized culture.Spiritual formation is not just about personal growth; it's about leading others into a transformative relationship with God. John emphasizes that this process is essential for effective church leadership today. In a world filled with polarization and contempt, fostering a community centered on the teachings of Jesus is more crucial than ever. Ortberg notes, "The greatest opportunity ever offered to the human race is life in God's presence with friendship and guidance."Want to join a Steps group for pastors and church leaders? Email us at info@innovativechurchleaders.org.Key Insights:00:00 - Introduction to John Ortberg03:24 - The Journey of Faith and Ministry09:35 - Understanding the 12 Steps and Spiritual Formation19:53 - The Importance of Character in Leadership26:06 - Vulnerability and Accountability in Leadership31:49 - Navigating Technology and Community in the ChurchResources Mentioned:Become New with John OrtbergSteps by John OrtbergAndy Crouch's writings on technologyDallas Willard's worksEcho Church in the Bay Area of CAFilipe and Mandy SantosInnovative Church Leaders Newsletter: https://www.innovativechurchleaders.org/join-usFollow Innovative Church Leaders:Helping pastors experience and bring renewal through Spirit-led innovation.Website: https://www.innovativechurchleaders.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativechurchleadersFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/InnovativeChurchLeadersTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@innovativechurchleadersYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@innovativechurchleadersLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovative-church-leaders/Download the Free Guide: "Why Innovation Matters and Our Innovative God" at https://www.innovativechurchleaders.org/Take our FREE Pastoral Health Checkup: https://pastoral-health.scoreapp.com/Keywords:spiritual formation, 12-step, church leadership, vulnerability, character, technology, culture, discipleship, addiction, community, John Ortberg, Filipe Santos, Mandy Santos, Echo Church, innovative church leaders

Wherever He Went How often do you intentionally reach for Jesus during your day? In Episode 160 of 2 Minute Disciple, we reflect on Mark 6:53–56, a brief but powerful passage that reveals the hunger people had to be near Jesus. Wherever He went—villages, cities, and countryside—people ran to find Him. They carried the sick on mats. They spread the news. They gathered in marketplaces. And they begged for the chance to touch even the fringe of His robe. Their faith was simple but urgent. They believed that being near Jesus could change everything. What makes this passage especially meaningful for us today is that we have access to Jesus in a way those crowds never did. Through the Holy Spirit, Christ is not merely passing through our town—He dwells within His people. Yet many of us live as though He is distant. We wait for the perfect moment to pray. We assume spiritual connection requires ideal conditions. We postpone reaching for Him until later. But the people in Mark's Gospel didn't wait for convenience. They reached for Jesus wherever they were. This passage invites us to do the same. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why the crowds pursued Jesus with such urgency • What the fringe of Jesus' robe teaches us about faith • How familiarity can dull our awareness of Christ's presence • Why reaching for Jesus doesn't require perfect circumstances • A simple spiritual practice for connecting with Him throughout the day Scripture Mark 6:53–56 (NLT)

We can know we are loved and still not be able to let it in. The gap between believing something and feeling it in the body is not a faith problem — it's a physiological one.In this second conversation with Aundi Kolber, Michael and Julianne press deeper into what it actually takes to change: why being loved is not just a comfort but a biological prerequisite for growth, why asking someone to change before they feel safe is, in Aundi's word, cruel, and what it means to come home to yourself rather than keep fleeing from what hurts. Aundi also draws a line between the shame that keeps us stuck and the compassion that actually moves us — and why God is calling us home, not calling us out.This is a rebroadcast of one of the most-listened-to conversations in the show's ten-year history.Aundi Kolber is a licensed therapist and author of Try Softer: A Fresh Approach to Move Us Out of Anxiety, Stress, and Survival and Into a Life of Connection and Joy.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!

Reject the "Renaissance" of Spiritual Formation - A Critique of Practicing the Way, presented by Bob DeWaay and Barb Gretch. John Mark Comer credits Richard Foster with launching a "renaissance" of spiritual formation in Protestantism. Bob DeWaay warns this movement replaces confidence in Scripture with mystical practices and calls believers to approach God through Christ alone. (duration 00:22:23) Click here to play

How might God use one praying life to awaken many? In John Hyde's life, we see Christ's command to “Pray for Laborers” lived out through fervent intercession, sacrificial evangelism, and deep dependence on Jesus. We are reminded that revival is often won first in the secret place, where God gives His people His own burden for souls. May we draw near to Christ, pray with holy urgency, and go gladly into His harvest field.

What if one question could completely change your life? Ricky reflects on a journey that took him from the brink of divorce and personal collapse to a life marked by deep blessing, restored relationships, and a generous spirit.

Pastor Colin Nanton delivers a message, "Spiritual Disciplines: A Necessary Practice for Spiritual Formation" at Life Church in Fort Myers, Florida. (Sunday, June 7th, 2026 - 11:00​AM) For more information, visit our website at: http://www.lifechurch.net Instagram: www.instagram.com/lifechurchfmy Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LifeChurchFMY

Walking on Water Have you ever felt like you've been rowing against the wind for far too long? In Episode 159 of 2 Minute Disciple, we meditate on Mark 6:45–52, where the disciples find themselves battling strong winds in the middle of the night while Jesus watches from a distant hillside. What makes this story so comforting is that Jesus sees them long before He reaches them. While the disciples strain at the oars, exhausted and afraid, Jesus is fully aware of their struggle. He knows where they are. He knows what they are facing. And at just the right moment, He comes to them. Walking on the water, Jesus reveals far more than His power over nature. He reveals His identity. When He says, “It is I. Don't be afraid,” the original language echoes the divine name revealed to Moses: “I AM.” This is not merely Jesus identifying Himself. It is Jesus revealing Himself as the God who sees, who comes near, and who is present in the storm. Mark adds another surprising detail. The disciples are amazed because they still had not fully understood the miracle of the loaves. Despite witnessing God's provision, they struggled to trust Him in the next challenge. How often do we do the same? This passage invites us to remember God's faithfulness in the past so that we can trust Him more fully in the present. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why Jesus' awareness of the disciples' struggle matters for us today • The deeper meaning behind Jesus walking on water • What Christ reveals about Himself through the words “I AM” • How spiritual memory strengthens faith during difficult seasons • A practical habit for remembering God's provision and presence Scripture

This week, we share a lecture offered by Rev. Bill Haley back in 2019 to culminate an ecumenical retreat coordinated by Truro Anglican Church. He makes the case that Protestant Christians have much to learn from the Benedictine tradition of contemplation as the wellspring for a stronger movement toward God and into the world.Explore Coracle's Expression of Monastic Life, "A Common Way"View Our Complete Archive of “Space for God” Prayer PracticesLearn More About Spiritual Direction through CoracleView Our Full Archive of Soundings SeminarsExplore 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.

The Bread and the Boy What if the thing you've been dismissing as too small is exactly what Jesus wants to use? In Episode 158 of 2 Minute Disciple, we meditate on John 6:1–13 and John's unique account of the feeding of the five thousand. While the miracle itself is familiar, John highlights a detail the other Gospel writers leave out: the five loaves and two fish belonged to a young boy. A child in the crowd becomes part of one of the greatest miracles Jesus ever performed. Andrew notices the boy and brings him to Jesus, but then immediately questions the value of the offering: “What good is that with this huge crowd?” His words reveal a struggle many of us know well. We bring what we have to God, but then we apologize for it. We assume our resources, talents, time, influence, or efforts are too small to matter. Yet Jesus never comments on the size of the gift. He simply takes it, gives thanks, and begins to distribute it. The miracle follows. This passage reminds us that Jesus does not ask us to determine whether our offering is enough. He asks us to place it in His hands. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why the boy's simple offering still speaks to us today • How self-doubt often disguises itself as realism • The danger of disqualifying our gifts before God can use them • What Jesus teaches us about gratitude, trust, and generosity • A practical habit for giving without qualification Scripture

Today we are looking at how spiritual formation is not climbing toward an external standard, but Christ being formed in you from the inside out by the Spirit.

Today we are looking at how spiritual formation is not climbing toward an external standard, but Christ being formed in you from the inside out by the Spirit.

Today we are looking at how spiritual formation is not climbing toward an external standard, but Christ being formed in you from the inside out by the Spirit.

Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand Have you ever looked at what God was asking of you and thought, "I simply don't have enough"? In Episode 157 of 2 Minute Disciple, we meditate on Mark 6:35–44, one of Jesus' most beloved miracles—the feeding of the five thousand. Faced with a hungry crowd in a remote place, the disciples see only scarcity. Their resources are painfully inadequate: five loaves and two fish for thousands of people. The situation seems impossible. But Jesus doesn't ask them to create more food. He asks them to bring Him what they already have. What follows is a powerful reminder that the kingdom of God does not operate according to human calculations. Jesus takes what seems insufficient, blesses it, breaks it, and multiplies it until everyone is satisfied—and there is still more left over. This miracle reveals a truth many of us need to hear: God is not asking us to provide the multiplication. He is asking us for the offering. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why Jesus often begins with what we already have • The difference between our responsibility and God's responsibility • How feelings of insufficiency can become opportunities for faith • What the feeding of the five thousand teaches us about kingdom work • A practical way to surrender your limitations to Jesus today Scripture Mark 6:35–44 (NLT) Reflection Question What small, seemingly insufficient thing am I holding back from Jesus because it doesn't seem like enough—that He might be asking me simply to place in His hands? Today's Spiritual Practice Identify one area of your life where you feel inadequate, overwhelmed, or under-resourced. Instead of waiting until you feel ready, capable, or sufficient, bring that area to Jesus in prayer today. Offer Him your "five loaves and two fish." Then take the next faithful step and trust Him with the results. Pray: "Jesus, this is what I have. It doesn't feel like enough—but I place it in Your hands anyway. You fed five thousand with less than this. I trust You with my insufficiency. Multiply what I bring You for Your glory." If this episode encourages you, consider supporting the podcast and helping more people slow down, listen to Jesus, and walk with Him each day.

Help bring to life a new Renovaré course: renovare.org/streams.In this bonus episode we share a conversation from a Renovaré webinar called Shaped by the Word. Host Carolyn Arends speaks with Tim Mackie and Carla Harding about how Scripture functions in the lives of Jesus' disciples to form us and draw us into a living relationship with Father Son and Spirit. 

In a recent article in ByFaith magazine, author Katie Polski share three things that each of us needs to keep in mind as we seek to raise our children to love the church. First, Katie tells us that it all begins at home. She writes, “If we want our families to love what Jesus loves, our children need more than occasional or vague spiritual intentions.” Because they learn from what they see in us, our kids need parents who delight in being a part of the gathered people of God. Second, Katie tells us that raising church-loving kids will happen when we are regularly and consistently involved in the life of our church. She reminds us that while it is important to start early when they are young, it's never too late for you to commit to your church. And third, Katie tells us we need to be talking about faith all week, looking for those teachable moments to show our kids how the Christian faith speaks to all of life. Parents, you are the one primarily responsible for the spiritual nurture of your kids.

Come Away and Rest When was the last time you truly rested? In Episode 156 of 2 Minute Disciple, we reflect on Mark 6:30–34, where the disciples return from ministry exhausted and full of stories. Before discussing their accomplishments or planning the next mission, Jesus offers a simple invitation: “Come away by yourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.” It's a powerful reminder that Jesus is not only concerned with what we do for Him—He is deeply concerned with our souls. He knows when we've been giving, serving, working, and striving. He knows when we're running on empty. Yet the story takes an unexpected turn. The crowds follow. The quiet retreat is interrupted. And instead of responding with frustration, Jesus responds with compassion. Seeing the people as sheep without a shepherd, He begins to teach them. This passage holds two essential truths in tension: rest is necessary, and compassion is necessary. Jesus models both. He invites His followers to receive rest and teaches them how to respond graciously when life doesn't go according to plan. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why Jesus prioritizes rest for His disciples • The spiritual danger of constantly running on empty • How rest becomes an act of trust and obedience • What Jesus teaches us about interruptions and compassion • A simple practice for embracing genuine rest today Scripture Mark 6:30–34 (NLT) Reflection Question Am I regularly accepting Jesus' invitation to come away and rest—or have I been running on empty, giving what I no longer have to give? Today's Spiritual Practice Protect one genuine period of rest today. Not scrolling. Not multitasking. Not productive resting. Simply rest with Jesus. Before you begin, pray: “Jesus, I accept Your invitation. I come away with You now. Restore what the busyness has taken. Fill what has been emptied. I receive this rest as a gift from You—and I trust You with everything I'm setting down to take it.” If this episode encourages you, share it with one person today and help more people discover the peace, presence, and rest that Jesus offers.

Whoever Receives You Receives Me What if the smallest act of kindness you offer today carries more spiritual weight than you realize? In Episode 155 of 2 Minute Disciple, we meditate on Matthew 10:40–42, where Jesus reminds His disciples that those who receive them are receiving Him—and that even a simple cup of cold water given in His name will not go unnoticed by God. As followers of Jesus, we are more than people who talk about Christ. We carry His presence into every conversation, workplace, home, and ordinary moment of life. The way we love, serve, and welcome others becomes an expression of His love and welcome. This passage challenges us to see our daily interactions differently. The kingdom of God is often revealed not through grand gestures, but through simple acts of faithfulness offered in Jesus' name. In this episode, you'll discover: • What it means to carry the presence of Jesus into your everyday life • Why hospitality and kindness matter deeply in God's kingdom • How small acts of care become powerful expressions of faith • The significance of Jesus' promise that nothing done in His name is ever wasted • A practical habit to help you live out this teaching today Scripture Matthew 10:40–42 (NLT) Reflection Question Am I living with the awareness that I carry the presence of Jesus into every room I enter—and that even the smallest act of care offered in His name has weight and value in His kingdom? Today's Spiritual Practice Offer one small, intentional act of care to someone today in Jesus' name. Before you do, pray: “Jesus, I offer this small thing in Your name. Let it carry more than I am able to give on my own—and let the person who receives it somehow sense that it comes from You.” If this episode encourages you, share it with one person today and help more people slow down, listen to Jesus, and walk with Him.

What sustains faith when prayer feels flat and God seems distant—and there's no clear tragedy to explain it? Anglican priest and former New York Times columnist Tish Harrison Warren joins Macie Bridge to talk about weariness, burnout, and the quiet middle stretches of a long spiritual life. Drawing on her new book What Grows in Weary Lands, she turns to the Desert Fathers and Mothers for a resilience that resists both flaming out and numbing out. "It felt like the call had dropped, like the line had gone dead." In this episode with Macie Bridge, Warren reflects on her own season of spiritual aridity and the ancient counsel to stay in your cell rather than escape. Together they discuss the difference between burnout and weariness, acedia and the noonday demon, perseverance, silence as countercultural practice, and the world as a womb. They explore why escape rarely heals and what it means to trust the slow work of God. Episode Highlights "It felt like the call had dropped, like the line had gone dead." "I do not think vitamin D will solve what I'm talking about." "We're not having to hold our life together in the midst of weariness with will power and duct tape." "We kind of bring Times Square with us wherever we go now." "God doesn't need me to be impressive or achieving." About Tish Harrison Warren Tish Harrison Warren is a writer and an Anglican priest. She is the author of Liturgy of the Ordinary, named Christianity Today's 2018 Book of the Year, and Prayer in the Night, which won both Christianity Today's 2022 Book of the Year and the 2022 ECPA Christian Book of the Year. She formerly wrote a weekly newsletter for The New York Times on faith in public and private life and was a columnist for Christianity Today; her essays have appeared in Comment, The Point, and Religion News Service. She currently serves as the C. S. Lewis Theological Writer-in-Residence at Baylor's Truett Seminary, is a senior fellow with The Trinity Forum, and an assisting priest at Immanuel Anglican Church. (Source: tishharrisonwarren.com) Learn more and follow at tishharrisonwarren.com, Instagram @tishharrisonwarren, and X @Tish_H_Warren. Helpful Links and Resources What Grows in Weary Lands (newest book): https://tishharrisonwarren.com/whatgrowsinwearylands Liturgy of the Ordinary (most popular book): https://tishharrisonwarren.com/liturgy-of-the-ordinary Curt Thompson, referenced on the brain and community: https://curtthompsonmd.com/books/ Show Notes Writing from the middle of the process Weariness vs. burnout—bigger than the occupational "It felt like the call had dropped, like the line had gone dead." Two years at The New York Times—top of a career, bone-tired Spiritually tinged exhaustion, distinct from depression Comprehensive difficulty—work, marriage, church, politics, drama Post-COVID burnout talk; why the church rarely names this Craving emotional highs in contemporary Christian faith We lack stories of long, steady faith "I do not think vitamin D will solve what I'm talking about." Discovering the Desert Fathers and Mothers Acedia, the noonday demon—sloth, boredom, irritation, doubt Flame out, numb out, or go deep The cell as guiding metaphor—a rhythm of prayer and work "Stay in your cell"—counsel of St. Moses and Arsenius Resisting the lie that escape elsewhere brings contentment "The cell is actually this transformative place." Curt Thompson: the brain isn't made to do hard things alone A desert mother's maternal metaphor—the world as a womb "What is happening right now matters"—hope without escapism Grace: "we're not having to hold our life together... with will power and duct tape." "Part of our weariness is it is too noisy. The world is too noisy." "God doesn't need me to be impressive or achieving." Trusting the slow work of God #TishHarrisonWarren #WhatGrowsInWearyLands #ChristianResilience #Burnout #DesertFathers #SpiritualFormation #Weariness #Acedia #Hope #ForTheLifeOfTheWorld Production Notes This podcast featured Tish Harrison Warren Interview by Macie Bridge Edited and Produced by Evan Rosa Hosted by Evan Rosa Production Assistance by Noah Senthil A Production of the Yale Center for Faith & Culture at Yale Divinity School https://faith.yale.edu/about Support For the Life of the World podcast by giving to the Yale Center for Faith & Culture: https://faith.yale.edu/give

"When guys have moral failure, I always ask them, 'What got you there?'" Helping pastors and ministry leaders avoid burnout is the topic of today's conversation as Phil Cooke https://philcooke.com sits down with Josh Turner, founder of the 10Ten Project. Josh has dedicated his life to helping Christian men flourish in their calling and in every area of life. If you're a pastor or ministry leader, the 10Ten project offers connection, coaching and care for spiritual, emotional and mental health as you serve the Lord. "We give pastors a safe place to say dangerous things — to be honest, open." —Josh Turner, Founder – 10Ten Project

Father Alex continues our series on the Anglican distinctives with a lesson against Romanism, citing tracts 71, 72, and 79.

Join us for an adventurous episode of the Free Radical Podcast, featuring spiritual director, teacher, retreat leader, and author Carl McColman. Carl McColman is a lay practitioner under formal spiritual guidance from sisters and monks associated with the Trappist Monastery of the Holy Spirit. His formation in Christian contemplative spirituality and contemplative leadership was shaped through the Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation, and he also received training in the practice of spiritual direction through the Institute of Pastoral Studies. He is also the author of more than a dozen books, alongside contributions to publications such as Huffington Post and Evie of the Arts, and he continues to travel widely leading retreats and speaking on contemplative spirituality. Alongside this deep grounding in the Christian contemplative tradition, Carl's path has moved through the luminous terrain of goddess spirituality, nature-centered practice, and interfaith encounter. His early studies in comparative spirituality, along with a lasting engagement with the Christian mystics, have shaped a sensibility attuned to the hidden depths running beneath all religious forms—the presence that is both beyond and within what can be named. In this conversation, we enter into a contemplative space where language begins to loosen its edges: where the divine feminine is not only discussed but sensed as a living current; where duality and non-duality are held in creative tension; and where awe, imagination, and wonder become ways of seeing rather than ideas to be held. We reflect on the sacredness that pulses through the natural world, and on scripture as a field of encounter rather than explanation.

This episode of Awaken to God's Presence offers a guided practice for connecting with the divine during troubled times. Host Robin Linkhart, leads listeners in a prayer recognizing Pride Month, which honors the LGBTQ community and its contributions. The prayer asks for courage to be true to oneself, love and acceptance of neighbors, and justice and equality for all. It also prays for those seeking to understand diversity, for a world free of discrimination, and for love and acceptance to prevail. Listen to more episodes in the Awaken to God's Presence series. Download the Transcript. Thanks for listening to Faith Unfiltered!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission: “For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org “The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services). All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.   NOTE: The series that make up Faith Unfiltered explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Faith Unfiltered is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ. 

Jeff Crosby reads about 75 books a year. But in this conversation—his third appearance on the podcast—he's quick to say the number isn't the point. What matters is what reading does to you, including what he calls being "unselfed." Jeff Crosby is a 24-year veteran of InterVarsity Press, current executive with ECPA, and author of World of Wonders: A Spirituality of Reading.RELEVANT RESOURCES AND LINKS:jeffreycrosby.net — Jeff's website, including his books and information on his forthcoming book on musicECPA — Evangelical Christian Publishers Association, where Jeff servesBooks mentioned:World of Wonders: A Spirituality of Reading, by Jeff CrosbyEvery Moment Holy, Vol. I, by Douglas Kaine McKelveyA Diary of Private Prayer, by John BaillieReading While Black, by Esau McCaulleyThe Cross and the Lynching Tree, by James H. ConeJesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes, by Kenneth E. BaileyPlainsong, by Kent HarufEventide, by Kent HarufBenediction, by Kent HarufMere Christianity, by C.S. LewisThe Ragamuffin Gospel, by Brennan ManningA Touch of Wonder, by Arthur GordonRELATED EPISODES:Episode 194: Saudade, Leadership, and Nurturing the Inner Life, with Jeff CrosbyEpisode 96: Crossing Leadership Thresholds, with Jeff CrosbySend me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Click HERE to get my FREE online course, BECOMING LEADERS OF SHALOM.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme, “Discipleship.” Dr. Bill Thrasher joined us to explain why discipleship must stay centered on Christ, depend on the Holy Spirit, and overflow into the lives of others through prayer and genuine relationships. Dr. Thrasher is the Lead Professor in the Master’s Program in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship at Moody Bible Institute. Dr. Erwin Lutzer also joined us to explain why discipleship is more than a decision or church activity. It begins with true repentance, new life in Christ, and a radical commitment to follow Him. Dr. Lutzer is a Pastor Emeritus of Moody Church and the featured speaker of Running to Win and Songs in the Night. We then opened up the phone lines to hear from our listeners. We posed the question, "There was something that was holding you back from everything. How did God set you free?” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Dr. Bill Thrasher [ 32:10 ]Dr. Erwin Lutzer [ 01:16 ]Call Segment [ 17:43 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Apostasy of Spiritual Formation - A Critique of Practicing the Way, presented by Bob DeWaay and Barb Gretch. Spiritual formation is designed for those who don't know Christ. This is Christianity in name only. Using verses from Hebrews, Bob warns that turning from the promises of God given to all believers and going to spiritual formation leads to apostasy. (duration 00:22:40) Click here to play

Are we willing to hold fast to God's Word, even when it costs us something? We are reminded through the life of Martin Luther that true discernment begins with a heart anchored in Scripture, recognizing that salvation is by grace through faith in Christ alone—not by human effort. As God opened Luther's eyes to the gospel, he was compelled to stand against false teaching, not in pride, but in obedience to the truth, trusting God above man. His courage shows us that guarding against deception requires both conviction and humility. Therefore, we commit ourselves to test all things by Scripture, to stand faithfully for truth with grace and courage, and to live in such a way that Christ—not ourselves—is exalted, trusting that as we remain grounded in Him, He will guide us in truth and use our lives for His glory.   

BTW is back for our summer series “I'm Glad You Asked!” This week, Mandy Fowler (Director of Spiritual Formation) and Alex Fernandez (Pastor, Heritage Hill Campus) discuss the origins of the Bible and why it's important for Christians to know about them … plus, what about the extra books some traditions have?

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme, “Discipleship.” Dr. Bill Thrasher joined us to explain why discipleship must stay centered on Christ, depend on the Holy Spirit, and overflow into the lives of others through prayer and genuine relationships. Dr. Thrasher is the Lead Professor in the Master’s Program in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship at Moody Bible Institute. Dr. Erwin Lutzer also joined us to explain why discipleship is more than a decision or church activity. It begins with true repentance, new life in Christ, and a radical commitment to follow Him. Dr. Lutzer is a Pastor Emeritus of Moody Church and the featured speaker of Running to Win and Songs in the Night. We then opened up the phone lines to hear from our listeners. We posed the question, "There was something that was holding you back from everything. How did God set you free?” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Dr. Bill Thrasher [ 32:10 ]Dr. Erwin Lutzer [ 01:16 ]Call Segment [ 17:43 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme, “Discipleship.” Dr. Bill Thrasher joined us to explain why discipleship must stay centered on Christ, depend on the Holy Spirit, and overflow into the lives of others through prayer and genuine relationships. Dr. Thrasher is the Lead Professor in the Master’s Program in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship at Moody Bible Institute. Dr. Erwin Lutzer also joined us to explain why discipleship is more than a decision or church activity. It begins with true repentance, new life in Christ, and a radical commitment to follow Him. Dr. Lutzer is a Pastor Emeritus of Moody Church and the featured speaker of Running to Win and Songs in the Night. We then opened up the phone lines to hear from our listeners. We posed the question, "There was something that was holding you back from everything. How did God set you free?” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Dr. Bill Thrasher [ 32:10 ]Dr. Erwin Lutzer [ 01:16 ]Call Segment [ 17:43 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, on Karl and Crew, we kicked off our weekly theme, “Discipleship.” Dr. Bill Thrasher joined us to explain why discipleship must stay centered on Christ, depend on the Holy Spirit, and overflow into the lives of others through prayer and genuine relationships. Dr. Thrasher is the Lead Professor in the Master’s Program in Spiritual Formation and Discipleship at Moody Bible Institute. Dr. Erwin Lutzer also joined us to explain why discipleship is more than a decision or church activity. It begins with true repentance, new life in Christ, and a radical commitment to follow Him. Dr. Lutzer is a Pastor Emeritus of Moody Church and the featured speaker of Running to Win and Songs in the Night. We then opened up the phone lines to hear from our listeners. We posed the question, "There was something that was holding you back from everything. How did God set you free?” You can hear the highlights of today’s program on the Karl and Crew Showcast. If you're looking to hear a particular segment from the show, look at the following time stamps:Dr. Bill Thrasher [ 32:10 ]Dr. Erwin Lutzer [ 01:16 ]Call Segment [ 17:43 ]Donate to Moody Radio: http://moodyradio.org/donateto/morningshowSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this message from The Beatitudes, Angie Richey teaches from Matthew 5:5 that meekness is power under control. Meekness is not weakness, but strength submitted to God, emotional regulation, holy restraint, and trust that God can defend, heal, and lead us without our need to dominate, retaliate, or control every outcome.Click here to view the episode transcript. (00:00) - Power Under Control (01:18) - An Attitude Adjustment on Meekness (02:03) - Living in a Triggered World (03:17) - Matthew 5 and the Upside Down Kingdom (04:22) - Blessed Are the Meek (05:44) - Jesus Redefines Power (07:30) - From Survival to Spiritual Formation (09:12) - The Order of the Beatitudes (10:26) - Releasing the Need to Control (15:37) - Meekness Is Not Weakness (16:02) - Jesus Was Meek, Not Weak (19:44) - The Meek Will Inherit the Earth (23:21) - Psalm 37 and Abundant Peace (25:03) - Meekness and Emotional Regulation (31:43) - David, Saul, and Trusting God's Timing (33:50) - Practices for Meekness (37:12) - The Eagle, the Snake, and Spiritual Battle

Samuel Goulet shares a practical and encouraging message on how strong families are built by centering the home on Christ. He explains that discipleship begins at home through both testimony and structure—parents modeling God's faithfulness while creating a culture marked by love, forgiveness, compassion, and daily spiritual formation. This episode challenges families to move beyond condemnation, embrace conviction, and intentionally build homes where God's Word is lived out, passed on, and reflected in everyday life.

Today, we continue our Summer Forecast with Dr. Lanta Davis, who will be teaching "Imagination and Spiritual Formation" at Regent Summer School from June 29 - July 3. In this conversation, Lanta introduces us to how the imagination shapes our lives with God. She brings us back through Christian history to show how visual art, stories, and symbols shape our faith, identity, and understanding of God. We discuss how the contemporary imagination is being influenced by consumerism and political agendas, and reflect on the power of images of Jesus in particular. Lanta takes us deep into the fascinating world of saints' lives and bestiaries as sources that train and model our imaginative capacities, but also gives practical suggestions for ways to practice growing our imaginative capacities through visual art and literature. We hope you enjoy this conversation and consider joining us this summer for a class that may contain unicorns!Lanta's BioDr. Lanta Davis writes and teaches about the sacramental imagination, beauty, and character formation. Her book, Becoming by Beholding: The Power of the Imagination in Spiritual Formation (Baker, 2024), was named one of Christianity Today's best books of the year. Her writing has also appeared in publications such as Smithsonian Magazine, National Geographic, Christianity Today, Plough, Parabola, and Christian Century. As a Professor of Humanities and Literature for the John Wesley Honors College at Indiana Wesleyan University, she has researched and lectured on topics as diverse as ancient Christian mosaics, sacred architecture, virtues and vices, pilgrimages, memento mori art, and contemporary Irish fiction. She will be teaching Imagination and Spiritual Formation at Regent from June 29 to July 3. Regent College PodcastThanks for listening. Please like, rate and review us on your podcast platform of choice and share this episode with a friend. Follow Us on Social MediaFacebookInstagramYoutubeKeep in TouchRegent CollegeSummer ProgramsRegent College Newsletter

Throughout church history there has always been an interesting tension between creativity and functionality. What is more important? Creating beautiful things or getting a certain message across? What is more important to worship? Right theology or beautiful art that displays the glory of God? Do we need better theology in our songs or more honesty? We intuitively know this is a tension to manage, not a problem to solv  e. No one would argue that theology doesn't matter. But has our pursuit of rightness caused us to lose some imagination? Some humanity? Has our church culture fixation on efficiency, productivity, and uniformity formed us to forget the mystery and wonder of singing together as people? My guest today is John Mark McMillan. John Mark is a brilliant artist, singer-songwriter, and lyricist. He has existed at this interesting intersection of artistry that most people don't understand while also writing some of the most popular worship songs of the last 30 years. We talk about a lot of things. We talk worship. We talk church. We talk spiritually formative practices. We dive into guitar tone, abuse in the church, and the real story behind the infamous line, “sloppy wet kiss.” Topics Covered: What JMM loves about life right now Reading and listening to records Why it’s helpful to listen to music different than the music you make How worship music is uniquely positioned to serve our society How we’ve missed the point of worship music The tension between creativity and serving our congregations Why you should make art for yourself and not an audience How JMM created the guitar tone on “Daylight” Why art is never safe Spiritual formation habits and practices Viewing church as a spiritual practice How to process abuse and injustice in the church The story behind “sloppy wet kiss” Resources Mentioned: Show Sponsor: Dwell Bible App Show Sponsor: Planning Center 1996 by Ryuichi Sakamato Playing the Piano by Ryuichi Sakamato The Way to Love by Anthony de Mello Awareness by Anthony de Mello How Music Works by David Byrne Show Sponsor: Dwell Bible This episode is brought to you by dwell bible app. In our busy lives finding quiet moments to read the Bible can be challenging. I get it. Traditional, reading focused apps demand undivided attention. You have to carve out specific time and space in your day but this also means missing opportunities to engage with scripture in your car or during workouts, or while you're just doing stuff around the house. And that's where Dwell Bible app comes in, offering a unique way to engage with Scripture. Unlike reading apps, Dwell is audio-based. It allows the truth of Scripture to be read over you throughout your day. Imagine hearing the Bible while driving to work or running in the park or cooking dinner. You don't always need to find a quiet corner. The word is with you wherever you are, filling your every day, mundane moments. So give Dwell a shot— it's a no-brainer. You'll get to experience a whole new way to connect with God through the Bible. To get started listening, head to dwellbible.com/beyondsunday for up to 50% off today! Show Sponsor: Planning Center This episode is brought to you by Planning Center, helping you sync all your ministry details across your whole church. Planning Center has become so essential to how I manage a team, that it's almost impossible to consider local church ministry without it anymore. Today, I want to leave you with a PCO pro-tip. Does this sound like a familiar situation? It's the end of the week. You're about to leave the office when you suddenly think: Did all of our volunteers confirm for Sunday? You scroll through the schedule and sure enough—there's a gap. Instead of allowing yourself to spiral into a panic, try this: In Services, Planning Center has gap alerts. Turn them on, and you'll get a heads-up days before service if positions are still unfilled or unconfirmed. No more end of the week scrambling. Speaking of less scrambling, did you know you can access everything you need for rehearsals right from the Service media player on your phone? Lyrics, chord charts, arrangement notes—it's all right there, so you're not hunting for files in the middle of hitting those power chords. To see what else you can do to make your Sundays easier, go to planningcenter.com/blog. The post #392: Spiritual Formation, Art, And The Beauty And The Tragedy of Worship Music with John Mark McMillan appeared first on Beyond Sunday Worship.

The truth is what our minds dwell on forms us. The stories and images we behold imprint themselves on us, shape who we become, and impact how we see the world. In this way, our imaginations are powerful. In today's episode, Lanta Davis helps us better understand the power of our imaginations and how what we dwell on forms who are becoming. Lanta Davis is professor of humanities and literature in the John Wesley Honors College at Indiana Wesleyan University and the author of Becoming by Beholding: The Power of the Imagination in Spiritual Formation. Her writing has appeared in Christianity Today, the Christian Century, Smithsonian Magazine, Plough, and Christ and Pop Culture. In my time with Lanta, she discusses the importance of training our imaginations, why the imagination is a ‘stamp for the soul,' and how and why it's important to allow beauty to shape our imaginations.Lanta's insights are fascinating and formational; I can't wait for you to listen to our conversation.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.

Why have we misunderstood what is normally involved in spiritual growth? What does it mean to say that our God is a withdrawing God?” And what do we do when the bible becomes boring and prayer seems pointless? We'll discuss these questions and more with our guest Dr. Kyle Strobel around his new book When God Seems Distant.Kyle Strobel (Ph.D. University of Aberdeen) is the director of Talbot's Institute for Spiritual Formation and Marriage and Family Therapy program. He is a systematic theologian interested in theological anthropology, Jonathan Edwards, spiritual formation and prayer. He writes both popular and academic books and articles, and is on the preaching team at Redeemer Church, La Mirada. Kyle writes regularly on kylestrobel.substack.com==========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.