Podcasts about Spiritual formation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thought to share? Send me a text...In Nehemiah 5, the threat isn't coming from outside the walls — it's rising from within.As the people rebuild Jerusalem, famine, debt, and injustice begin to fracture the unity they fought so hard to protect. And Nehemiah is forced to wear a different hat — not warrior, but governor. Not military leader, but mediator.In this episode of Moments to Ponder, we explore:What happens when pressure reveals cracksThe kind of leadership that restores unityWhy integrity matters more than authorityAnd the one “hat” we can never take offNehemiah models sacrificial leadership rooted in the fear of God — even when no one else is watching.If you've ever wondered whether your unseen sacrifices matter, this conversation is for you.

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.

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

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.

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.