Podcasts about spiritual life

We are talking this week about the work of the church. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

Few people blend the Buddhist spiritual path with the 12-Step journey as seamlessly and as helpfully as Fr. Bill's guest Kevin Griffin. A student and teacher of Buddhist meditation for many years as well as an excellent writer and musician, Kevin is also a man in long-term recovery from addiction with a powerful message to share.This series explores Kevin's book One Breath at a Time: Buddhism and the Twelve Steps. It's sure to be of interest to spiritual travelers of all stripes. This episode is focused on Steps 6 & 7 exploring how Buddhist meditation can help with the practice of letting go.Show notes:One Breath at a Time: Buddhism and the Twelve Steps by Kevin GriffinKevin's website: https://kevingriffin.net/A Path with Heart: A Guide Through the Perils and Promises of Spiritual Life by Jack Kornfield

I love the church. I love being part of the church. It's a joyous thing to be part of the family of believers. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

The Suffering of Jesus Christ      Jesus Christ, though perfectly sinless in His nature and conduct (1 Pet 2:22; 1 John 3:5), fully entered into the sufferings of humanity during what Scripture calls “the days of His flesh” (Heb 5:7a). As eternal God (John 1:1, 14; Col 2:9), He lacked nothing and possessed all knowledge, power, and authority. Yet in His humanity, He willingly submitted Himself to the limitations of human life, growing in wisdom and stature (Luke 2:40) and experiencing hunger, thirst, fatigue, grief, and rejection. This was not because of any imperfection in His being, but because the incarnation required Him to live in a fallen world where obedience to the Father necessarily brought conflict with the prevailing powers of darkness. Hebrews explains that He “learned obedience from the things which He suffered” (Heb 5:8). This does not mean He was ever disobedient, but rather that, through real human experience, He grew in the practical expression of obedience under pressure, culminating in His supreme submission when He “became obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross” (Phil 2:8). According to Fruchtenbaum, “The expression learned obedience does not mean that Jesus disobeyed; it means that He learned what obedience cost Him. It cost Him suffering. Philippians 2:8 makes the same point. He learned what obedience costs by means of the things He suffered.”[1] Jesus' suffering, therefore, was the means by which He demonstrated in His humanity the perfection of obedience, leaving believers an enduring model of faithfulness amid adversity.      As the Suffering Servant foretold by Isaiah (Isa 53:1–12), Jesus also bore the unique suffering of standing in the place of sinners to satisfy divine justice. He not only endured the hostility of men and the pressures of life in a fallen world but ultimately suffered as the substitute for humanity's sins. In His sacrificial death, He bore the full weight of God's wrath against sin, paying a debt that was not His own (Mark 10:45; Rom 5:8; 1 Pet 3:18). On the cross, He suffered in the most profound sense, not for His failures, for He had none, but for ours, offering Himself as the once-for-all atonement. His suffering secured forgiveness, reconciliation, and eternal life for all who believe in Him. Thus, Jesus' sufferings were both exemplary and substitutionary: exemplary, in that He showed how perfect obedience is forged and displayed through hardship in a fallen world; substitutionary, in that He willingly endured the judgment we deserved so that we might be brought to God. Peter tells us, “Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust” (1 Pet 3:18). Through His suffering, believers find both a model to follow and a Savior to trust, knowing that the One who triumphed through trials now intercedes for them and assures their salvation (1 John 2:1). Sanders states, “Serving and suffering are paired in the teaching and life of our Lord. One does not come without the other. And what servant is greater than the Lord?”[2] Steven R. Cook, D.Min., M.Div.   [1] Arnold G. Fruchtenbaum, The Messianic Jewish Epistles: Hebrews, James, First Peter, Second Peter, Jude, 1st ed. (Tustin, CA: Ariel Ministries, 2005), 66. [2] J. Oswald Sanders, Spiritual Leadership: Principles of Excellence for Every Believer (Chicago, IL: Moody Publishers, 2007), 24.

John 8:34 has been our primary Bible verse this week. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

Hey Friend, You know that feeling when you are “doing all the things” and still not seeing the progress you hoped for? Tracking macros. Saving workouts on Pinterest. Maybe even finishing 75 Hard.Yet the scale, your energy, or your mood are not really changing. If you have ever thought, “What am I doing wrong?” or “Why am I stuck?”, I want you to hear this new conversation. I recently sat down with my best friends, Shaela Daugherty (The Stronger Collective) and Brittany Braswell (Faith Filled Food Freedom Podcast), for a completely unscripted, bestie-style conversation about what we call “the boring basics” in health and fitness. Nothing fancy. No shiny hacks. Just the simple, repeatable things that actually work, for your body and your walk with the Lord. Inside the episode, we talk about: Why hopping from one program to another keeps you stuck and exhausted How social media has trained us to crave quick results and constant novelty The truth about “muscle confusion,” diet trends, and quick fixes Why the most powerful habits often feel very ordinary How faith, discipline, and consistency all work together What it looks like to honor God with your health in a real, sustainable way We also get really honest about our own struggles with consistency. There is a part of the conversation where I share how tempting it was to ditch my simple strength plan and follow the “fun” workouts I saw other women doing at the gym. My body did not need another shiny plan. It needed the same lifts, again and again, so it could actually grow stronger. That is what this whole episode is about: Stop chasing motivation. Start mastering the mundane. For the Christian woman who is Googling things like“Why am I not losing weight even though I work out?”or asking ChatGPT“How do I stay motivated to be healthy as a busy mom?” This conversation is a grace filled reset. We talk about how doing the same simple thingslifting, walking, praying, eating balanced meals, going to bed on timecreates the rhythm where real physical and spiritual transformation happens. A few simple “boring basics” we encourage you to start with: Eat protein at every meal Drink a glass of water every time you eat Choose one small habit and stick with it for at least 12 weeks Ask for accountability instead of trying to do it alone Anchor your routines to time with the Lord, not just willpower You do not need a more complicated plan. You need a faithful one.God often does His deepest work in the quiet, ordinary choices that no one sees. In grace + health, Lacy Lain Before you go…

Clinton Baptist Church

How does one become a slave of sin and then break free from it? ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

We are blessed if we are successful in throwing off temptation. But if we sin we will reap the consequences. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

In Episode 5 of Season 6 of The GenSend Podcast, Shane Pruitt, Paul Worcester, and Lacey Villasenor sit down with worship pastor Ben Halsey to talk about the heart of worship in a culture shaped by influencers. What happens when the platforms and performance are stripped away and students encounter the presence of God through worship? Hear practical guidance for training young worship leaders to stay grounded in Scripture, walk closely with Jesus, and lead with humility. Discover the balance between excellence and authenticity in ministry, whether you're developing a student worship team or discipling young believers. Lead your ministry to focus on what truly matters: worshiping Christ above all else.  Also in This Episode:  Be reminded to teach young worship leaders to walk with Jesus daily before releasing them to step on stage.  Learn strategies to train students to evaluate songs and lyrics through the filter of God's Word.  Consider how modeling humility teaches student worship leaders to value servanthood over stardom.  Discover how to equip students to plan well but ultimately let God lead the moment, holding everything with open hands to give space for the Holy Spirit to move.  Explore conversations with young leaders to keep motives pure, asking the “why” behind every element of setlists, technology, and production choices. Helpful Resources:   The Reset: Returning to the Heart of Worship and a Life of Undivided Devotion by Jeremy Riddle  The Selfless Way of Christ: Downward Mobility and the Spiritual Life by Henri Nouwen  Why Revival Tarries by Leonard Ravenhill  The Pursuit of God: The Human Thirst for the Divine by A.W. Tozer  Growing Up: How to Be a Disciple Who Makes Disciples by Robby Gallaty  GenSend on Instagram and YouTube  ★ Find more resources to lead the next generation on mission at https://GenSend.org  ★ Subscribe to The GenSend Podcast on your favorite podcast platform ——————————————————————————————————————    Shareable Quotes: “It all comes down to the leader. Are they putting truth in a song that helps mature this generation, or are they offering a shallow faith because they themselves have a shallow faith?” —Ben Halsey  “Some of the most powerful worship moments happen when the technology fails.” —Shane Pruitt  “We value training people up more than we value perfection in every environment.” —Paul Worcester    “How can we help students focus more on God's glory than on style?” —Lacey Villasenor

Blessed is the man who endures temptation. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

Do you know how to rest? Is hurry secretly ruining your life? Hear from Kyle as he examines Matthew 11:28-30 and uncovers why we need rest. This sermon is part of our “Experience God” sermon series. How do you experience God? God has given us many ways to step into his transformational presence, but too few take advantage of these gifts. Join The Crossing as we explore and experiment with ancient Christian practices to help us encounter God in new ways this fall. Want to get the most out of each week's sermon? Download “Experience God: Experiments for August and September”. This free workbook will help you apply what you learn on Sunday morning with daily devotionals and exercises. Download your free copy Interested in more content like this? Sign up for our weekly email newsletter. Every Friday, you'll get new resources to help you grow in your faith and a first look at what to expect on Sunday, delivered right to your inbox. Get connected at The Crossing! When you sign up for Crossing Update, you'll get a text message every Sunday morning with the new ways to get involved at the church. You can also find the latest information about events on The Crossing's website. 

Discover how putting God first—especially in life's busiest moments—can bring real peace, balance, and purpose through Matthew 6:33. In this vulnerable conversation, we dive into what it really means to keep a God-first posture while navigating real life—responsibilities, busyness, and the constant overwhelm that can come with it. This isn't a picture-perfect discussion; it's an honest one about what it looks like to seek God, first, in the middle of the mess, not just in the quiet moments, or at our conveniences. Rooted in Matthew 6:33, this conversation reminds us that balance isn't found in a perfectly managed schedule but in a surrendered heart that seeks God first. It's about choosing presence over pressure and faith over frantic striving. May this encourage you to pause, realign, and let your day—and your life—flow from a place of seeking Him first. #HeyGodIHaveQuestions #FaithAndLife #ChristianPodcast Stay connected: Subscribe on YouTube for weekly faith-filled encouragement Listen to the Eat Don't Compete podcast on Apple, Spotify, and iHeart Comment "Devotional" to be sent a jump start to your spiritual growth journey with a FREE devotional. https://jazminedewees.com/freedevotional/ Inbox me on instagram “ Join the Tribe” if you're ready to find yours. Put in the comments "I'm ready for The Study Room" if you will be LIVE on YouTube with me Thursday, November 13th for our first session.

Pastor Josh continues our sermon series, Romans. With this Sundays theme, What is real? The Spiritual Life.

Jesus said that whoever commits sin is a servant of sin. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

     Scripture identifies two main forms of suffering that promote spiritual growth: corrective suffering, which restores the disobedient to fellowship, and perfective suffering, which refines the obedient toward greater maturity in Christ.      Corrective suffering arises from divine discipline when believers deviate from God's will and wander into disobedience. Such discipline is the measured response of a loving Father who seeks to restore His children to fellowship and fruitfulness. Israel's history provides a vivid backdrop to this principle. When the nation violated the Mosaic covenant, God responded with covenant curses designed to bring them back to Himself (Deut 28:15–68). Hosea depicts God hedging up Israel's path with thorns, frustrating her sinful pursuits so that she might return to Him (Hos 2:6–7). The author of Hebrews interprets such experiences as evidence of divine love: “For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, and He scourges every son whom He receives” (Heb 12:6). According to Warren Wiersbe: "Chastening is the evidence of the Father's love. Satan wants us to believe that the difficulties of life are proof that God does not love us, but just the opposite is true. Sometimes God's chastening is seen in His rebukes from the Word or from circumstances. At other times He shows His love by punishing us with some physical suffering. Whatever the experience, we can be sure that His chastening hand is controlled by His loving heart. The Father does not want us to be pampered babies; He wants us to become mature adult sons and daughters who can be trusted with the responsibilities of life."[1]      Divine correction is not rejection but affirmation of sonship. Paul also recognized this principle at work in the Corinthian church, where some believers suffered weakness, sickness, and even premature death because of their irreverence and selfishness at the Lord's Table (1 Cor 11:30–32). Even kings were not exempt, as seen in Solomon's later years when God raised up adversaries against him after his heart was turned away to idols (1 Kgs 11:14, 23–25). Corrective suffering, therefore, functions as God's gracious intervention to arrest further decline and restore obedience. It is the shepherd's rod that redirects the straying sheep. Yet this discipline, though loving in design, can be resisted if the believer hardens his heart. Still, the intention remains clear: corrective suffering seeks to break the power of rebellion, humble the soul, and lead God's child back into the blessing of fellowship with Him.      Perfective suffering, by contrast, is not punitive but refining. It does not arise from disobedience but from God's sovereign intention to deepen faith, expand endurance, and produce spiritual maturity. When a believer is walking faithfully with the Lord, obeying His Word, God may still permit suffering in order to shape character, purify motives, and equip His servant for greater usefulness. Job exemplifies this reality. Though declared blameless and upright, Job was permitted to endure severe affliction under Satan's hand, yet through the ordeal he came to a fuller appreciation of God's majesty, confessing at the end, “I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear; but now my eye sees You” (Job 42:5). Job's knowledge of God had grown because of what he'd learned through his sufferings. Paul's thorn in the flesh illustrates this same category. Though he prayed repeatedly for its removal, God left it in place to keep him humble and dependent, declaring, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness” (2 Cor 12:9). Rather than crushing Paul, this suffering became the very platform by which God's strength was displayed through his weakness. Perfective suffering, then, is a divine gift, the furnace in which faith is purified and the believer is transformed into greater conformity to Christ.      While suffering in Scripture may be manifold, the categories of corrective and perfective suffering provide a helpful lens for understanding God's purposes. In both, His love and sovereignty are evident. Corrective suffering restores us when we stray, and perfective suffering strengthens us as we obey, with the unifying aim that we be conformed to the image of His Son (Rom 8:28–29). The Integration of Blessings, Trials, and Sufferings      In God's perfect plan, blessings, trials, and sufferings are divinely orchestrated means for advancing the believer toward spiritual maturity. Blessing manifests the very essence of God's goodness and generosity, cultivating gratitude, humility, and faithful stewardship in the believer's life (Jam 1:17; 1 Tim 6:17–18; 1 Pet 4:10). Trials test faith under pressure, refining endurance and strengthening spiritual stability (Jam 1:2–4; 1 Pet 1:6–7). Sufferings train the soul to be dependent upon divine grace (1 Pet 5:10; 2 Cor 12:9). Each is a facet of divine pedagogy: blessing manifests God's grace and entrusts resources for service (2 Cor 9:8); trials expose and perfect faith (Gen 22:1; Heb 11:17; Jam 1:2–4); and suffering cultivates humility, patience, and deeper fellowship with Christ (2 Cor 12:7-10; Phil 3:10). Together, they form an important part of God's training program for His children, proving that prosperity and adversity alike are instruments of His unfailing love. As Job testified in the midst of both abundance and loss, “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21). Regardless of the circumstance, God is always at work conforming His sons and daughters to the likeness of Christ (Rom 8:28–29). What follows are biblical examples of suffering that helped advance believers to spiritual maturity (Jesus being the unique example). Steven R. Cook, D.Min., M.Div.   [1] Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1996), 324.

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Church Rules Can Destroy Your Spiritual Life (Matthew 12:1-21)

Spiritual Death and New Spiritual Life with Christ:1. Putting off the old self through repentance from sin2. Putting on the new self through conversion to ChristTime:AfternoonMinister:Candidate Q VandermeulenTexts:Heidelberg Catechism: Lord's Day 33Ephesians 4:17—5:2Series:Lord's Day

How do you "sharpen the countenance of a friend"? How can you maintain a friendship while sharpening one another? ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

How do you "sharpen the countenance of a friend"? When iron sharpens iron, there is friction! ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

Jumping in to the Living Steps we are exploring of the principles of the last three of 12 steps and how they are expressed in fundamental ideas of Pnimius HaTorah and Chassidus.Closing out our exploration of step 10, Menachem touched on the fact and reality of yeshiva, of admitting we are wrong, as an essential stepping stone of a spiritual life and personal development.Website: TheLightRevealed.orgEmail: TheLightRevealed@TLRFamily.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelightrevealed/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelightrevealed/

How do you "sharpen the countenance of a friend"? I have had friends like this in my life. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

How do you "sharpen the countenance of a friend"? Sometimes you have to push them out of their comfort zone. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

Have you ever gone searching for peak color in the fall? My wife and I do it every year. We drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, hoping to catch the mountains […] The post Catching Peak Color- The Seasons of Spiritual Life appeared first on Broken Door Ministries.

How do you "sharpen the countenance of a friend"? ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

Suffering as a Means of Spiritual Growth      Sufferings (pathēma) encompass a broader category that includes pain, hardship, or affliction resulting from life in a fallen world, the hostility of others, or divine discipline. The word pathēma derives from paschō, meaning “to experience, suffer, endure…affliction.”[1] The word is frequently used in the New Testament to describe the sufferings of Christ as well as those of His followers (Phil 3:10). Peter wrote, “After you have suffered [paschō] for a little while, the God of all grace…will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen, and establish you” (1 Pet 5:10). Suffering may come through persecution for righteousness (2 Tim 3:12), through physical weakness or limitation (2 Cor 12:7–9), or simply through the general consequences of living in a sin-cursed world (Rom 8:18–22).      While trials test faith, sufferings train the soul through endurance, humility, and dependence upon God's sustaining grace. Paul's personal afflictions illustrate this reality well. Though he pleaded three times for relief from his “thorn in the flesh,” the Lord replied, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness” (2 Cor 12:8–9). Likewise, Joseph's prolonged suffering in Egypt, though marked by injustice and hardship, became the means by which God shaped his character and positioned him for blessing and service (Gen 37–50).      The Hebrew counterpart to pathēma is עָנָה (ʿānâ), which means to “be bowed down, afflicted…be put down or become low.”[2] It is often used to describe the suffering of God's people under pressure (Ex 1:11–12; Deut 8:2–3) or the self-humbling that accompanies dependence upon the Lord (Lev 16:29, 31; cf. Jam 4:6; 1 Pet 5:6). Both pathēma andʿānâ express the spiritual principle that God uses adversity not to crush His people but to conform them to His character. Through suffering rightly endured, believers are drawn into closer fellowship with Christ, as Paul wrote, “that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings [pathēma]” (Phil 3:10). Categories of Suffering      Scripture presents several categories of suffering in the believer's life, each serving distinct purposes within God's sovereign plan. Some suffering comes because of righteousness, as Paul wrote, “Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Tim 3:12). Peter echoes this when he states, “Even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, you are blessed” (1 Pet 3:14). To suffer for righteousness means God permits evil men to persecute the believer who is walking in His will (John 15:18–19; 2 Tim 3:12). Yet God blesses by supplying grace sufficient in the moment (2 Cor 12:9), and future reward at the judgment seat of Christ where faithful endurance will be recognized (1 Cor 3:12–15; 2 Cor 5:10). At times, suffering comes for the sake of testimony, advancing the gospel and glorifying God. Paul wrote, “Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel” (Phil 1:12). The “circumstances” Paul refers to are his imprisonment in Rome, which placed him under house arrest while awaiting trial before Caesar (Acts 28:16, 30).[3] There is also the category of shared suffering with Christ, as Paul longed “that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings” (Phil 3:10). These forms of suffering reveal God's sovereign use of adversity for His glory and the believer's growth. Apart from these, Scripture identifies two main forms of suffering that promote spiritual growth: corrective suffering, which restores the disobedient to fellowship, and perfective suffering, which refines the obedient toward greater maturity in Christ. Steven R. Cook, D.Min., M.Div.   [1] Moisés Silva, ed., New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology and Exegesis (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2014), 666. [2] Francis Brown, Samuel Rolles Driver, and Charles Augustus Briggs, Enhanced Brown-Driver-Briggs Hebrew and English Lexicon (Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1977), 776. [3] This was likely during his first Roman imprisonment (around A.D. 60–62). Though restricted, Paul was permitted to receive visitors and to preach and teach from his rented quarters (Acts 28:30–31). Paul had been falsely accused in Jerusalem, arrested, and after a series of hearings before Jewish and Roman authorities—including Felix, Festus, and Agrippa—he exercised his right as a Roman citizen to appeal to Caesar (Acts 25:11–12). This led to his voyage to Rome, where he endured shipwreck and eventually arrived under guard (Acts 27–28). Humanly speaking, imprisonment might have looked like a setback. His chains gave him opportunity to share Christ with the Praetorian Guard (Phil 1:13), Rome's elite soldiers, and word spread even into Caesar's household (Phil 4:22). Furthermore, his example emboldened other believers to speak the word of God without fear (Phil 1:14). In other words, the “circumstances” of Phil 1:12 were Paul's unjust arrest, Roman confinement, and looming trial. Yet, rather than hindering God's work, these very hardships became the platform for advancing the gospel, both among unbelievers in high places and among believers who gained courage from Paul's faithfulness.

The Spiritual Life has Three Main Requirements: 1) Making intentional contact with Spirit; 2) Integrating that into the resto of our lives; 3) Sustaining. In this teaching I talk about these 3 challenges and hint at how we can rise up to meet them. Hope you enjoy it! If you appreciate my work please consider a donation at: "paypal.me/newdayglobal". Thank you!

Just as we recognize the signs in nature to discern the weather, so too, we discern God's presence in our lives and adjust our spiritual lives accordingly. (Lectionary #477) October 24, 2025 - Cathedral Rectory - Superior, WI Fr. Andrew Ricci - www.studyprayserve.com  

Good fruit versus bad fruit. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

Jesus said by their fruits we shall know them. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

Lecture by Swami Tyagananda, given on October 19, 2025, at the Ramakrishna Vedanta Society, Boston, MA

How do you know if a person is corrupt? ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

What does the science of attachment have to do with your walk with God? In this episode, we sit down with husband-and-wife team Geoff and Cyd Holsclaw who lead the Center for Embodied Faith to explore how experiences in early life shape our capacity for trust, intimacy, and connection—not only with people, but with God Himself. That connection then affords you the secure base to live and act in the world with confidence.  Together we unpack the difference between secure and insecure attachment, how those patterns show up in faith, and why many of us struggle to rest confidently in God's love. You'll discover practical strategies for moving toward secure attachment, deepening both your human relationships and your spiritual life. This is a conversation filled with hope, courage, and a vision for growing into the wholeness God designed for you. Connect with Geoff and Cyd Holsclaw on their website or their podcast Attaching to God. Find their book Landscapes of the Soul: How the Science and Spirituality of Attachment Can Move You into Confident Faith, Courage, and Connection      Check out Dr. Carol's article Ways of Being With Jesus That Bring Transformation Find out more about Dr. Carol Ministries in-person intensives, or check out individual coaching with Dr. Carol. Dr. Carol loves to hear from you. You can send a confidential message here.

Thistles and thorns, good fruit and bad. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

Matthew 7:20 makes a very succinct point. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

If you want to grow spiritually, should you go to a monastery and withdraw from the world, or look for greater meaning, connection, and purpose in the loud messiness of life?  In other words, do you heal the world by working in it or praying for it? Philosophers and spiritual thinkers have debated it for centuries, but perhaps finding the right balance is the answer. On this episode of How God Works, we'll talk with journalist Sigal Samuel, about the centuries old debate over the spiritual life and how best to pursue it - through contemplation or activity. We'll also talk with Father Greg Boyle, a Jesuit priest and founder of the world's largest gang intervention, rehabilitation and prison reentry programs about how he finds a balance between an inner- and outer-focused life. Sigal Samuel is a Senior Reporter at Vox and Co-Host of Vox's Future Perfect podcast, she also writes the advice column Your Mileage May Vary, which offers a framework for thinking through your ethical dilemmas and philosophical questions. Feel free to send Sigal your questions! And to learn more about her other work, check out her website.Father Greg Boyle is a Jesuit priest and the founder of Homeboy Industries. Learn about their work here. 

Trials and Suffering as a Means of Growth      A mature Christian is one whose faith has been tested and refined through the experiences of trials and suffering. Yet it is not the mere experience of testing or hardship that produces maturity, but the believer's faith response to it (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38). God, in His sovereign wisdom, tailors each situation to the unique needs of His children. For example, Jonah needed only three days in the great fish to learn humility and obedience (Jon 1:17; 3:1–10), while Nebuchadnezzar required seven years of suffering before confessing that “the Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind” and that “He is able to humble those who walk in pride” (Dan 4:34, 37). Whether brief or prolonged, God's purpose in affliction is refinement, not ruin. Through suffering He burns away the dross of weak character and refines the golden qualities He wants to see in us. As He said of Israel, “Behold, I have refined you, but not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction” (Isa 48:10). Constable notes, “The difficult times that Israel had been through were fires of refining (‘furnace of affliction'), not fires of destruction.”[1] God's affliction is not to destroy, but to transform. And He refines us so that when He looks into the smelter's pot, He sees His own reflection, for then we will bear those qualities that mirror His character; qualities which bring Him glory and honor. However, God's furnace of refinement never brings us to a place of total purity, but only begins a process that is perfected when He brings us home to heaven; for then, and only then, will we be free from all the impurities of sin. To understand how God employs adversity for spiritual growth, Scripture distinguishes between trials (peirasmos, πειρασμός), the testing that demonstrates and refines faith, and suffering (pathēma, πάθημα), the affliction that trains the soul through endurance and dependence on divine grace.      Trials (peirasmos) refer primarily to tests of faith—circumstances designed by God to reveal and refine the believer's trust in Him. The term can mean either “testing” or “temptation,” depending on the context, and must be discerned by whether the source is God or Satan. James wrote, “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials [peirasmos], knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking in nothing” (Jam 1:2–4). Trials are opportunities for spiritual growth, intended to prove and develop faith much like gold refined by fire (1 Pet 1:6–7). God never tempts His children to sin (Jam 1:13); rather, He tests them to strengthen spiritual maturity and endurance.      Abraham's experience in offering Isaac exemplifies a divine trial. His faith was tested, not to destroy him, but to demonstrate that his trust in God had grown strong and mature (Gen 22:1–12; Heb 11:17–19; cf. Rom 4:19–21). Similarly, Job's ordeal serves as another example of peirasmos in the broader sense of testing. Though afflicted by Satan, the trial was permitted by God to prove Job's integrity and to bring him to deeper understanding and humility before the Lord (Job 1:6–12; 42:1–6). The Hebrew counterpart to peirasmos is the verb נָסָה (nāsāh), meaning “to test” or “to prove.” It conveys the idea of examining something to reveal its quality or genuineness, much like peirasmos in Greek. For instance, “God tested (nāsāh) Abraham” (Gen 22:1), the same event later referenced in Hebrews 11:17 with peirazō, showing that both words share the same essential meaning. Whether in Hebrew or Greek, the concept emphasizes that divine testing is not punitive but pedagogical, meant to produce steadfast faith and experiential knowledge of God's faithfulness (Deut 8:2; 1 Pet 1:7). Steven R. Cook, D.Min., M.Div.   [1] Tom Constable, Tom Constable's Expository Notes on the Bible (Galaxie Software, 2003), Is 48:10.

The book of James has a prescription for happiness. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

My goal is to never miss a day of reading the Word of God. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

Pastor Shane Lems talks about his recent Ordained Servant review of John Swinton's book Finding Jesus in the Storm: the Spiritual Lives of Christians with Mental Health Challenges. (Eerdmans, 2020). Shane is pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church (OPC) in Hammond, Wisconsin.Read the review and read the book. The review can be found here.The Ruling Elder Podcast on Prescription Medication with Jason Poquette (Season 2, Episode 6, June 2024) is available here.Shane's book recommendationsLost Connections by Johann Hari (Bloomsbury USA, 2018)The Wonderful Works of God by Herman Bavinck (Westminster Seminary Press, 2020)Rediscovering the Holy Spirit: God's Perfecting Presence in Creation, Redemption, and Everyday Life by Michael Horton (Zondervan, 2017)

I hope my teachings are making you happy. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

I have always enjoyed the book of James. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

Send one way text to Rev Rachel What if the bravest act of love is stepping back?Parenting an adult child who's struggling with addiction can feel like walking a tightrope between love and heartbreak. In this episode, we explore what it means to Recover Your Soul while learning to let go with grace.Rev Rachel Harrison offers heartfelt guidance on how to hold firm boundaries without withdrawing your love, how to separate behavior from identity, and how to let consequences become the teachers we cannot be. Through honest reflection and spiritual insight, she shares what loving detachment really looks like and why it's not indifference, but a higher form of compassion.If you're a parent standing at the crossroads of love and limits, this conversation offers hope and clarity. You'll learn how to stay grounded in your own healing, find emotional balance, and see the light of the soul beneath the cloak of addiction.Listen for encouragement, spiritual truth, and language you can use today as you navigate your own path toward peace. Together, we are remembering that healing begins within — and that when we recover our souls, we help others find their way home too.Join us on the 1st Monday of every month for the FREE Soul Recovery Support Group on Zoom from 6-7PM Mountain Time. Register on the website, and if you have registered in the past, look for your reminder email in your promotions folder. This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not allied or representative of any organizations or religions, but is based on the opinions and experience of Rev. Rachel Harrison or guests. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein. Take what you need and leave the rest.Support the show Rev. Rachel Harrison and Recover Your Soul www.recoveryoursoul.net FREE Support Group on Zoom 6-7PM MT on the 1st Monday of the Month Work the Soul Recovery Process with Rev Rachel TRYASESSION for 40% off 1st session Working the Steps Mods WORKSTEPS%50 Instagram, Insight Timer, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook private Facebook group RYS Bonus Podcast Patreon Member or subscribing on Apple Podcasts. Transcripts

This Sunday, we invited a panel of elders and female spiritual leaders from our church to discuss their growth in their spiritual lives and walk with God. What does it look like when you are frustrated with God? How do we respond to the divided world around us?

I am in favor of being happy. ******* By the way, if you haven't bought a copy of my new book yet, check it out here: https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Visions-Stories-Faith-Pastor/dp/161493536X

Every night, join Father Joseph Matlak as he ends the day with prayer and reflection. In a few short minutes, and using the Douay-Rheims psalter for his reflections, Father Matlak guides you in prayer and shares a brief reflection and a thorough examination of conscience providing you with the encouragement necessary to go forward with peace and strength. ________________

Send one way text to Rev Rachel In this week's episode of the Recover Your Soul Podcast, I'm joined by a true spiritual sister — Ester Nicholson, coach, teacher, and author of Soul Recovery: The 12 Keys to Healing Dependence. From the moment we met, I knew our paths were divinely aligned. We both use the language of Soul Recovery to describe the journey of returning to our authentic selves — the place of peace, power, and divine wholeness that lives within us all.In this heartfelt and deeply inspiring conversation, Ester shares her powerful story of transformation — from addiction and trauma to awakening and spiritual purpose. With honesty and grace, she reminds us that recovery isn't just about overcoming substances or behaviors — it's about healing the deeper wounds that separate us from our soul. Together, we explore how compassion, surrender, and spiritual practice can free us from the illusion of brokenness and guide us back to the light of who we really are.Ester also shares her 21-Day Journey to the Authentic Self — a beautifully designed self-paced program that includes 21 days of teachings, meditations, and somatic healing practices to help you reconnect with your true essence. It's a wonderful complement to the Soul Recovery process and an invitation to step more fully into your wholeness. You can learn moreJoin us on the 1st Monday of every month for the FREE Soul Recovery Support Group on Zoom from 6-7PM Mountain Time. Register on the website, and if you have registered in the past, look for your reminder email in your promotions folder. This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not allied or representative of any organizations or religions, but is based on the opinions and experience of Rev. Rachel Harrison or guests. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein. Take what you need and leave the rest.Support the show Rev. Rachel Harrison and Recover Your Soul www.recoveryoursoul.net FREE Support Group on Zoom 6-7PM MT on the 1st Monday of the Month Work the Soul Recovery Process with Rev Rachel TRYASESSION for 40% off 1st session Working the Steps Mods WORKSTEPS%50 Instagram, Insight Timer, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook private Facebook group RYS Bonus Podcast Patreon Member or subscribing on Apple Podcasts. Transcripts

We cannot please God unless we cultivate a heart that wants to obey Him. It is not about being religious, works oriented, or “churchy.” It is having a heart to ponder His words, stories, ways that He dealt with people, and then do what we can to obey His heart lessons.