Podcasts about Taylor University

How to Improve EVERY Aspect of Your Life: An Interview with J.R. Briggs (Episode 297)   Proverbs 11:24 (MSG) The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller.   *Transcription Below*   J.R. Briggs (DMin) possesses four passions: following Jesus, equipping and investing in hungry kingdom leaders, growing fruit on other people's trees, and creating good kingdom mischief. In short, his calling is to partner with people who are called to follow Jesus while they lead others.   In 2011 he started Kairos Partnerships, an organization committed to help leaders overcome their unique leadership challenges through leadership coaching, consulting, speaking, and writing.   For more than 15 years, J.R. served in pastoral roles in mega-churches, church plants and house church networks. Since starting Kairos Partnerships, he has served and invested in ministry leaders in over 40 denominations throughout North America. In addition to ministry leaders, he has invested in a wide variety of leaders, including business owners, college presidents, military leaders, Division 1 basketball coaches, and non-profit directors.   He serves as a guest instructor in the Master of Arts in Spiritual Formation program at Friends University and the Master of Arts in Leadership program at Taylor University. He has lectured, taught and spoken at over a dozen colleges, universities, and seminaries around the U.S.   He also serves as the Director of Leadership & Congregational Formation for The Ecclesia Network and as a National Trainer & Strategist for Fresh Expressions U.S.   In addition to writing several books on a wide variety of topics, he has also published articles in Christianity Today, Huffington Post, Preaching Today, American Bible Society, N.T. Wright Online, Missio Alliance, and Relevant Magazine.   He hosts the Resilient Leaders podcast.   J.R. and his wife Megan have two sons and live in the greater Philadelphia area. J.R.'s Website J.R.'s Book   Thank You to Our Sponsor: Leman Property Management   Questions and Topics We Cover: Can you contrast Jesus' teaching with field trips to the way we structure a typical Sunday morning in America?  Will you also share how you arrived at asking yourself two questions that have opened numerous doors for you? Once we put this into practice for ourselves, how can we begin to cultivate it in our children as well?   Other Savvy Sauce Episode Mentioned: 219. Training Our Children in Biblical Financial Stewardship with Matt Bell   Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook or Instagram or Our Website   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV) Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”    Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”    John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”   *Transcription*   Music: (0:00 – 0:09)   Laura Dugger: (0:12 - 1:44) Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, where we have practical chats for intentional living. I'm your host, Laura Dugger, and I'm so glad you're here.   Leman Property Management Company has the apartment you will be able to call home, with over 1,700 apartment units available in Central Illinois. Visit them today at lemanproperties.com or connect with them on Facebook.   J.R. Briggs is one of the most intriguing humans I've encountered, and it's hard to sum up his bio, as he's had so many experiences in his past through various pastoral roles, and then he became the founder of Kairos Partnerships, where he invests in leaders. He's also a podcast host, in addition to his work as an author. His most recent book is The Art of Asking Better Questions, and it's summed up in the intro, where he writes, "I have a bone-deep conviction that all of us need to ask more questions and better questions. Doing so can change your life and the lives of those around you." So now we get to actually learn how to make this happen with my guest, Reverend Dr. J.R. Briggs.   Welcome to The Savvy Sauce, J.R.   J.R. Briggs: (1:44 - 1:45) Thanks for having me. I'm looking forward to this, Laura.   Laura Dugger: (1:46 - 2:00) Well, I'd love to go back and first hear a little bit more of your origin story. So, do you attribute your love of questions and your skill for asking great questions more to nature or nurture?   J.R. Briggs: (2:01 - 5:04) That's a fantastic question. No one has ever asked me that, Laura. So, right off the bat, well done. I love good questions like this. I think it's a little bit of both, and I'm not just wimping out on that answer. Here's what I mean.   I grew up in a wonderful home, still great friends with both my parents, and my parents, especially my dad, they were great question askers, and I saw them model this really well in the home. And I think in previous generations, it was, you know, kids are to be seen but not heard. That was not how my parents operated. They very much said, "You know what, we want to know what you think." And so, dinner times were great. Even hearing the way, especially my father would ask questions of people in the lobby at church or our neighbors, or we'd be at some party, and the way he would ask questions, I would just listen and say, "Wow, this is fascinating, the kind of conversations that are happening because of this."   So, modeled really well, but also observed a lot, and more is caught than taught. And I observed my parents doing this really well. And I thought, these are really fun conversations to just eavesdrop in on as a kid. And then also, I began to notice that there were people that were really fun and lived inspiring lives, and they asked great questions. And I noticed the people that had, that lived really small, uninspiring lives, I realized they weren't asking very many questions. And I began to say, "Well, which kind of person do I want to be? I kind of want to be in the first group. Well, what's the difference? These people are asking questions, regular questions, quality questions." And I thought, "Ooh, I need to pay attention to this and actually lean in to do this more."   So, I often learned how to do it too. So, there was the nature piece, the nurture piece, or the nurture, the nature piece there, the nurture piece, I did study. I'm kind of a nerd. And so, I would watch people who ask great questions and say, "Why was that a good question? What did they do? Why did they ask it that way? How did they know to ask that question as opposed to something else?" And so that was really helpful.   But then I began to notice as I read my Bible, I got a red-letter edition of my Bible and began to notice how many red question marks there were. And I began to take a pen and circle all of the red questions, question marks that Jesus asked. And I thought, "Wow, the way the truth and the life, who had all the answers, yet he asked a ton of questions." So that sent me on a deep dive that eventually I studied. And my doctorate, my dissertation for my doctorate was on learning to equip leaders to ask better questions in the way of Jesus. And so, using him as that model. So, there's a very long answer, Laura, to a very short question, is it nature or nurture? I really believe it's both. And I hope I can continue to learn in my own life until my last breath to how to be a better question asker, because it's that powerful.   Laura Dugger: (5:04 - 5:57) Mm-hmm. I agree with that. And I love the humility in that response. Also, as you share it, it reminds me of a scripture from Proverbs 11:24, the Message version, which I believe previous guest Matt Bell had shared this as it relates to finances. But J.R., I hear it through your lifestyle of generosity with questions. And the verse says, "The world of the generous gets larger and larger. The world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller." So, I love how you illustrated that. But you're also the first person that I heard articulate this beauty of asking questions for connection rather than just for information. So, can you explain more of why questions are such a generous gift and an offering of hospitality?   J.R. Briggs: (5:58 - 8:36) Mm-hmm. Yeah. Well, one of the things that really hit me, I touched on this earlier, that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life, the second member of the Trinity, who knows everything. Why would he ask so many questions? Well, he also said, "I only do what I see my Father doing." What did he see his Father doing? If you look in the Old Testament, God asks a ton of questions too. So, I said, "Wait a second. Okay. The all-knowing, all-powerful God of the universe, why does God ask so many questions when he already knows the answer?" And that drove me to say, maybe it wasn't just for information.   And I began to think about Adam and Eve in the garden and say, when he says, "Where are you?" It wasn't because God didn't know. And it wasn't a geographical question as much as I think it's a relational and theological question that he wants Adam and Eve to answer. And so, as a result of that, I said, "Why then would God do that?" Well, God already knows, but he desires connection with us. And then I thought, "Ooh, yeah, that isn't just God to us. There are times where I ask questions of my kids when they were younger, or of other little kids at church, where I know the answer already, but I'm asking it as a way of building trust and shared story and connection with them."   And I thought, yeah, there's real connection when it comes to questions. And when we do that, when we offer our full selves, the French philosopher, Simone Weil, she said, "Attention is the rarest and purest form of generosity." And as a result of that, that's the hospitality piece. And I think, let's not forget that the word hospital is in the word hospitality, that our questions and our attention can actually be a form of healing that we offer to other people. When we think of hospitality, we often think of, I don't know, making a fresh pie or laying out doilies and sweeping the house before someone comes over. That can be part of it. But the real definition of hospitality is making new people feel comfortable in new situations. And so, what do good questions do? They help people who might feel new or an outsider feel like they're an insider. And I believe that's one of the beautiful benefits of questions where people say, "Man, thank you. No one has ever asked me that." Or "I feel seen. Wow, you really want to care. You care enough to know what I'm thinking." That is an unbelievable gift that we can give to others as a form of hospitality.   Laura Dugger: (8:36 - 8:55) And I think that illuminates what you even say up front in your book, that you do believe that these questions can change our life and the lives of those around us, and especially through this powerful book that you've written. So, can you elaborate on that claim?   J.R. Briggs: (8:56 - 10:33) Yeah, the dimensions of your life expand or contract depending upon the questions that you ask. So, when we refrain from asking good questions, our world gets smaller. And when we start to ask better questions, and more frequently, our worlds begin to expand. And so, what I tell people is we don't have a shortage of information. We have a shortage of wisdom and curiosity and wonder. And so, what we need to kindle in that is that desire for and that ability to ask the right questions at the right time for the right reason to the right people.   And if we want more information, we should just Google it. But if what we're after is wisdom and connection and engagement, we need questions. And questions are, I think we all would admit, Laura, questions are important. I don't think that we would realize just how powerful they actually are. And so, the goal of the book was to unleash and wake up the sleeping giants that exist and say, this can be used for good. There's so many, again, we don't have a shortage of information. But asking good questions is a lost art. And the goal is to try to help people realize its power, that it's more accessible. They're free. They can be used at any time. They don't have a shelf life. But we just need to cultivate the desire for it and then have some skills to lean in, because it really can be such an unbelievable gift. The questions that we ask often reveal the values that we hold. And so that's another way that we can press into that as well.   Laura Dugger: (10:34 - 10:49) Okay, so let's say that the desire is there. Maybe for all of us, probably the skill is a little lacking. How can we begin to get a little bit better at this or just get started with asking better questions today?   J.R. Briggs: (10:49 - 14:18) Yeah, well, we got to start, Laura, by admitting that there are a lot of obstacles that exist that our culture puts in front of us to make it hard to do that. One is we're in an attention-seeking age, right? I mean, the joke says enough about me, what do you think about me? And so, because we live in the social media, look at me, look at me reality that we're in, it's really hard because questions are the opposite. I'm putting the spotlight on you rather than on my own life. But we also are in a culture of great efficiency, and so questions feel inefficient. They feel really inefficient, like it slows things down. How many of us have been in a meeting and we're about to get up and someone says, "Any questions?" And someone, "Oh," and we just say, "No, no, no, we were just about to leave, you're slowing us down." And so that in the business world and in sales, that's the number one thing is questions. We got stuff to do and things to sell. But if we can just slow down, it's better.   But those are some of the obstacles that exist. So, if we're assuming we have curiosity, we have wisdom, we have humility, and we have courage, which are the four components. If those are there, then there are some things that we can engage in that can help us and several practices, like the simplest practice we can do when we hear a good question, write it down. A lot of people feel like two things. They have to come up with all the questions themselves. You don't. I love questions. I'm pretty good at questions, but I don't generate all my questions. I've read them on billboards or heard them on a podcast or overheard somebody in line at Starbucks behind me. And you go, "Man, that's a really good question. Write it down." We think we're going to remember later, Laura, and that's the second thing. We won't. We have to write it down. And I just encourage people, open up the notes section of your phone and just have something on there that says great questions. When you hear of one, think of one, read of one in a good novel, write it on the list. You can always return to it later. So, just awareness, number one, that my radar is up, listening for good questions, can be a great start.   And then also just to reflect later to say, "What was the best question I asked today or in that conversation or in that meeting or over dinner with my family? What was the best question I asked?" So, that's a little bit of reflection, but also preparation. Anytime we go into a meeting, anytime we go into any sort of connection, even if it's coffee with a friend, to always see if I can come with two questions ahead of time. Now, sometimes I write them down, sometimes I don't. I may not even get a chance to ask them, but just coming prepared where I say, "Oh, I'm meeting with my friend, Sam. Oh, Sam's dad just had significant surgery. So, here's an important question. Sam, how's your dad doing? And how are you doing as you care for your dad?" It's a little bit of preparation. It's not an hour. I'm just spending five minutes on my drive to the coffee shop to say, "My first question is going to be, Sam, how's your dad? And how are you doing caring for your dad?" So, just a little bit more thought. It doesn't require three times the amount of effort. Sometimes it's just five or 10% more effort and intentionality that can improve our question asking.   Laura Dugger: (14:19 - 16:29) So much thoughtfulness there. Appreciate that.   And now a brief message from our sponsor.   With over 1,700 apartment units available throughout Pekin, Peoria, Peoria Heights, Morton, and Washington, and with every price range covered, you will have plenty of options when you rent through Leman Property Management Company. They have townhomes, duplexes, studios, and garden style options located in many areas throughout Pekin. And make sure you check out their newest offering; the McKinley located in Pekin is a new construction addition to their platinum collection. Featuring nine-foot ceilings, large spacious layouts, beautiful finishes such as quartz countertops and garages, you won't want to miss this outstanding new property.   In Peoria, a historic downtown location and apartments adjacent to OSF Medical Center provide excellent choices. Check out their brand-new luxury property in Peoria Heights, overlooking the boutique shops and fine dining on Prospect. And in Morton, they offer a variety of apartment homes with garages, a hot downtown location, and now a brand-new high-end complex near Idlewood Park. If you want to become part of their team, contact them about open office positions. They're also hiring in their maintenance department. So, we invite you to find out why so many people have chosen to make a career with them. Check them out on Facebook today or email their friendly staff at leasing@lemanprops.com. You can also stop by their website at lemanproperties.com. Check them out and find your place to call home today.   Clearly J.R., Jesus has been a role model for asking questions. So, can you contrast what you describe as Jesus's field trips that he takes his disciples on versus the way that you view Sunday mornings in a lot of churches in America? Can you kind of contrast those two?   J.R. Briggs: (16:29 - 18:42) Yeah, oftentimes when I'm talking to pastors or leaders, faith leaders, I remind them of this. But yeah, Jesus loved to take his listeners on three field trips, three kinds. First one, he took them on physical field trips. We see that where Jesus says, "You know, look at the birds of the air, look at the lilies of the field," or "Look at the woman putting in two mites in the temple treasury." Life is a classroom. And so, he loved taking people on literal field trips.   Number two, he took them on emotional field trips by telling them stories, not in abstract ways of thinking, but the kingdom of God is like a woman kneading dough. It's like a fisherman who caught fish. It's like a father with two sons. And I think we're wrapped up in that when we watch a good movie, and we cry and laugh and we're scared. Those are all because a beautiful story did something to us. It took us on some sort of emotional field trip.   And then third is a mental field trip, which we're talking about here by asking questions. Jesus asked a ton of questions. And as a result of that, got people thinking in new ways. Now, if the way, the truth and the life, if anyone had the right to just give answers, it would be Jesus. But instead, he chose to ask a lot of questions. And so those three field trips, literal by going on walks, getting outside of a classroom, the mental field trip of asking questions and the emotional field trips of telling stories. Jesus did that all the time. Once you know that and you read the gospels, you'll see it everywhere.   The problem is, as you were referring to, Laura, on Sunday mornings, what do we do? We sit people in a church in pews. Almost all of the teaching or formation happens in the same room. Instead of telling stories, we give abstract information. And instead of asking questions, we just give answers. And then we sit around and wonder, "Why is no one changing?" And my gentle encouragement is, what would it look like if we actually learned to teach others the way Jesus actually taught? Imagine that. So, it's a bit of a stretch because culturally we're kind of drawn in to the way we've always done it in church. And yet oftentimes Jesus did almost the opposite of the way in which we teach today.   Laura Dugger: (18:44 - 18:55) And so, if you see that as an opposite, do you have any practical ideas of just a small tweak that we could make on Sunday mornings to be more like Jesus?   J.R. Briggs: (18:56 - 20:32) Sure. I always try to say, is there any way I can get people's bodies or their hearts up out of the seat? So, "Hey, I want you to stand up and turn to the person next to you." Or, "Hey, we're going to move around the room." Some of you say, "What? We would never do that at our church." And I would say, take a risk. Jesus did all sorts of things that surprise people. So, how can I get their hearts and their bodies up out of their seat? Number one.   Number two, can I tell a few more stories than I have in the past in my teaching or preaching or Sunday morning? And then also, can I engage with questions by asking them questions at the beginning? Can I leave them with some reflection questions in the bulletin or on the website the next week? Or can I actually have them asking questions of each other or of the text itself? And so oftentimes, why do I feel like I'm the one that has to speak the whole time when I'm preaching? What if instead I allow them to ask questions of each other, of God, and even of myself? And sometimes when I preach, I allow the last five or 10 minutes for people to ask questions about the text to myself and everyone else. Now, is that a change? Yeah. Would that freak out some churches? Maybe. But it can be a way that people walk away and say, "Wow, I learned, I was engaged, I was formed, and I encountered God in a new way that I haven't in the past." Which is the whole goal, that we don't just learn more about the Bible, is that we know the God of the Bible. That's the whole point of why we gather together as a church.   Laura Dugger: (20:33 - 20:46) And that would be so memorable. But also, as you're speaking about stories, are you willing to share the story of one of the times that you asked a question, and it turned out better than you could have ever asked or hoped for?   J.R. Briggs: (20:47 - 22:27) Yeah. I could think of several, but sometimes just asking people, "Why is that?" Just as a follow-up. It's amazing what can spill out. And I go, "Oh, that confronted my biases. That confronted my assumptions and what I thought about them." And so sometimes just asking some of that has been incredibly helpful to just ask that follow-up question.   I won't tell the whole story that I recounted in the book, but oftentimes when there are tears, it was Charles Spurgeon that said that tears are like liquid prayers. And so, when people are showing some emotion, I sometimes will say to them, even if they're not a follower of Jesus, even if they're not religious, "I'm curious. It's been said that tears are liquid prayers. Can you put words to the prayers that your face is praying right now?" And I've had some of the most unbelievable conversations where people can identify the prayers that their face is praying. And even in my own life, where I just step back and go, "Why am I, why was I so moved by that novel? Why was I so moved by that movie? Or what just happened in front of me? Or why, where are these tears coming from?" As Frederick Buechner said, we'd be best to pay attention to our tears. And so that question of what are the liquid prayers, can I put words to the prayer that my face is praying has been an unbelievably meaningful and eye-opening thing for me and also with people that I've been with.   Laura Dugger: (22:29 - 22:37) Will you also share about how you arrived at asking two questions that have opened numerous doors for you?   J.R. Briggs: (22:38 - 25:21) Yeah. Yeah. When I was in college, I had the privilege of studying in Israel for the semester. This is fall of my junior year. Absolutely loved it. And our class was on a four-day field trip up around the Sea of Galilee. One night I was down by the lake and happened to notice as the sun was about to set that there was a big fishing vessel that had just come in. And I had always wanted to go fishing on the Sea of Galilee, not just take a boat, not just see fishermen, but like be on the boat and fish with fishermen. I don't even love fishing myself, but I just wanted to experience what Jesus and his disciples experienced on the lake.   And there was a big industrial ship that came in. They brought in their day's catch. And I thought, "Oh, I should ask them if I can go fishing with them." And Laura, and then, you know, the realistic brain in me said, "Why would they ever allow a college, American college student and a study abroad program to go fishing with them tomorrow?" And I had these two questions that hit me, Laura. "Well, what's the worst they could say? No, or heck no, or get out of here. You're crazy." And number two, "Can I handle that? If they were to say that." Those two questions, I thought, "You know, I can handle it now. Let me ask what's the worst he could say. Let me ask."   So, I went up and I said, "Excuse me, can I talk to your captain?" And they said, "Menachem is over here." So, I introduced myself to him and I said, "Menachem, I've always wanted to go fishing on the Sea of Galilee. I'll pay you $50. If I can go fishing for the day, use me as, as I mean, any work me to death. If you want, like I'm here, I just want to." And he looked at me, he said, "I don't want your money." He said, "Join me tomorrow morning at 6 a.m. And you can come fishing with us." And I walked away and went, "Unbelievable. My dream is coming true." And I had an unbelievable day, but I realized I can't say no for someone else. What's the worst they could say? No. Can I just ask and handle it if they said no? Yep, I can handle it. Those two questions, Laura, have shaped me immensely throughout my lifetime. I've really, I've done that in a lot of different ways. And a lot of times people say no, and I can handle that. But a lot of times people said yes. And some doors have opened simply because I asked. And I actually think of that verse often, Laura, where it says you do not have because you do not ask. It's not name it and claim it prosperity gospel. But we just have to realize that sometimes we just need to ask to put ourselves out there and see what people say.   Laura Dugger: (25:23 - 25:55) That is so good. And I have applied those questions since reading that in your book, even as I reach out to ask you if you would do two recordings. So, I'm so grateful that that you said yes, I'm delighted that today's not our only conversation. But I'm curious also, J.R., when you had that experience, a lot of us may not ever get to go fish on the Sea of Galilee. So, did you learn anything that brought the Bible to life or anything about Jesus or anything that you can share with us from that incredible experience?   J.R. Briggs: (25:55 - 27:37) Oh, there's so many, but I'll limit it to one. When we started out that morning, the sea was so calm. I mean, it was like glass. It was beautiful. The sun was rising, not a cloud in the sky. And it was great. But I've always wondered these like storms. You know, the Sea of Galilee is not a sea. It's a lake. It's 10 miles by six miles. It looks like a harp. And that's why it's called Lake Kinneret. In Hebrew, that means harp. So, it's harp lake is the way that we could call it. But I thought it's still a lake. How can there be storms that would have professional fishermen that would be screaming, thinking they were going to die? How is that possible?   Well, wouldn't you know it, Laura? As beautiful as it was, the clouds rolled in. And then later that afternoon, there was a squall of a storm. I have never been in more intense in my life. And it happened right there. Now we're in a maybe two-ton, three-ton fishing vessel. But even that, we had to go below deck because it was so brutal. The waves, the wind, we couldn't see more than 10 feet in front of us. And I thought, "Ah, now I get it. If I'm just in a wooden boat with my fellow, you know, disciples here, I can see why this could get a little panicky." And that was, I think, a little God wink for me to be able to experience both the peace and calm, but also this treacherous storm and go, "Ah, now I won't read my Bible the same again when I hear about the, you know, the disciples freaking out with the storm or seeing Jesus walk on the water approaching them." So, that's one of many, but that sticks out to me a great deal that I got to experience a very intense storm.   Laura Dugger: (27:38 - 28:27) That is so incredible. Even just going back, so those two questions that you were willing to ask led to this incredible experience. And now people from around the world get to benefit from the lessons that you learned at that time. So, I think you're giving us so much encouragement for asking questions.   Guess what? We are no longer an audio only podcast. We now have video included as well. If you want to view the conversation each week, make sure you watch our videos. We're on YouTube and you can access videos or find answers to any of your other questions about the podcast when you visit thesavvysauce.com.   What happens to our brain or within our brain when we're asking or being asked a question?   J.R. Briggs: (28:28 - 30:19) Yeah, this was an incredibly fun part of the research for me was what does this do neurobiologically to us? And so, what neurologists have found is when they put nodes all over your brain to kind of see how the brain activity happens, when you're given information, your brain lights up. But what they found is when someone is asked a question, your brain explodes like fireworks, the synapses that are firing, and it just lights up like crazy, like fireworks in the night. And one of the things they said, as much as we think we can multitask, we can't. We do a lot of switching, task switching, but not multitasking. But they said what happens is they use the word hijack. You can hijack someone's brain when you actually are asking a question of someone, even if it's for two seconds.   And so, if I were to ask your listeners, Laura, "What are the color of the shoes you're wearing right now?" Whether your listeners liked it or not, I just hijacked their brain for a split second there, and they went, "What are the color of my shoes?" And so that's immense amount of power to, quote unquote, hijack someone's brain. So, we need to use that power wisely. But it's an immense amount of power that we can have when we ask someone a question, not just give them an answer, which I love when current neurobiological research matches up with scripture and with the way Jesus taught. How did Jesus teach? A ton of questions. What happened? He engaged with people. They participated with him. They were forced to learn and be participants, not just talking theoretically about faith. And I thought, isn't that just like Jesus? He knew how our brains are wired. And so, he uses questions as a way of maximum connection, challenge, engagement, and formation.   Laura Dugger: (30:20 - 30:43) Wow. And you've cultivated, like you say, this holy curiosity. So, I am curious for you, J.R., when you're in a conversation and you find yourself asking question after question, have you been in a situation like this where they don't reciprocate, they don't ask any questions back? And how do you handle that internally and externally?   J.R. Briggs: (30:44 - 32:41) Yeah, it's hard because we live in a culture that hasn't modeled that well to ask good questions. And sometimes it's been hard. And I admit that sometimes there's a sense of loneliness. When I have a lunch meeting and my wife will say, "How was your lunch meeting today?" We have a code word where I say either waiter or waitress. And it means the waiter or waitress came and took my plate away because I was done with my meal before they had taken one or two bites of their food. And oftentimes that happens where we leave a meal and we realize, "I don't think I was asked a single question this whole lunch." Or we go to a dinner party, no one asked me a single question. And that can be really hard.   And I love asking people questions. And it's not like I'm just ramming it down their throats to ask question after question like Elf with his brother walking through Central Park where he's just rattling off question after question. I was giving pause, I was taking a bite of my food, allowing them to ask a question or two, and they never did. And sometimes people say, "Well, I don't really know, I'm not good at questions." And I say, one of the simplest things you can do is what I call the way question, W-A-Y. It's just to say, "What about you?" I've been talking. What about you? To just hit the ball back over the net and to allow us to engage in some conversational pickleball. It's been on my side, let me hit it. Now it's on your side and you hit it back. That's how all healthy relationships exist. And so, it's been a little disappointing at times to realize you can go, and I'm sure you and others have experienced that. That's really hard. And to have people that can just say, "What about you? What do you think? Have you ever experienced that?" Or "I have another question for you." That's how healthy relationships are cultivated when there's that back and forth in conversation.   Laura Dugger: (32:42 - 32:51) Okay. And so, if we want to cultivate that back-and-forth conversation, can you just share a few more tips for ways that we can level up our questions?   J.R. Briggs: (32:52 - 34:24) Sure. Yeah. There's a unique, almost universal principle when it comes to question asking. If you ask a generic unthoughtful question, you will almost always get a generic unthoughtful answer. "How are you?" "Fine." "How's your weekend?" "Good." But if you ask a thoughtful, specific, engaging question, you almost always get a thoughtful, specific, engaging answer. It's as predictable as a communist election. It's amazing how that works, where we can just, if we can just level up.   So, if a lazy question would be, "How was your weekend?" I encourage people to say, what would 10 or 15 percent of a more thoughtful, specific, or focused question be? So, you could say, "Of your whole weekend, how would you describe your weekend in two or three adjectives?" That's a little bit different than just, "How was your weekend?" Or, "Hey, how are you doing?" That's good. You might say, "What has been the most interesting thing about your day so far?" It just takes a little bit more intentionality. When you ask it that way, you won't get the fine, good. You'll get the, you know, "I had a really interesting sales meeting today at 10 a.m. You know, I bumped into my neighbor, and we had the best conversation at the mailbox." Those are the kinds of answers you get because we ask the more specific, thoughtful question. We'll get more specific and thoughtful answers. So, that's what I encourage people to do. Just level up to be just a little bit more pointed by 10 or 15 percent and see what happens.   Laura Dugger: (34:26 - 34:40) Okay. So, hopefully we're all going to put this into practice. But then also, if we have children in our home, what can we do to be teaching them this same goal of reciprocity and asking great questions?   J.R. Briggs: (34:40 - 37:02) Yes. I'm so glad you brought this up, Laura. There's so much that we can do. I try to do this. We try to do this with our kids when they were younger. Our kids are 19 and 16 now and we still engage in good questions with them. But when they were little, we would do things. I would crawl into bed with each of them at bedtime and we would do question of the night. And so, I would say, "You get to ask dad any question you want and then I get to ask you any question that you want." And so, age appropriate, you know, what's your favorite ice cream color or ice cream flavor or your favorite color? But sometimes they would pull out some really fascinating ones. Like one time, my youngest son said, "Dad, what does God smell like?" And it just made me laugh. I just thought, what a great question from a five- or six-year-old about that. And so just being intentional there at bedtime has been really good.   Car time is really important. And I really try to see if I can ask some questions that I can't ask in other places because now I've got their full attention. We're in the car together. And even as my sons are now older, when they're in the car together, something about staring out the windshield together to be able to talk through some things has been really good. It could be about school, could be about life, could be something trivial, but to know that this is a place where we can talk. And so, car time, bedtime, and the last one I'll give is dinner time. We have a big chalk wall next to our dining room table. And we'll just randomly put up questions, thoughtful questions. And then we'll sometimes say after prayer, "Okay, boys, when they were little, you know, you each get to pick one question off the wall that we talk about tonight." And it just became a real easy way. And you can make up one if you want, or there are questions here. We also found a deck of cards that actually had questions on each one. It was like a questions deck. And so, we'll say, "Great, like you can pick off the wall, you can make up your own, or just pick a question that's in the deck." And just doing that where everybody got a chance to share around the table became such a way, such a rich conversation but a way to remind them questions are okay, encouraged, and a wonderful part of being a part of a family.   Laura Dugger: (37:03 - 37:32) Those are such great ideas. I love that and that we can implement some of that right away. But as we're starting to wind our time down together, I would love to hear one more story about a time that a question dramatically changed the outcome of a friendly gathering that you write about on the back patio of a Capitol Hill home in Washington, D.C. Yeah, I remember reading this story, Laura, and I was so moved.   J.R. Briggs: (37:32 - 39:52) I was moved to tears that I ran over to my wife and I said, "Listen to this story." And we both just sat there crying. Yeah, these families were on the back porch on a wonderful summer evening enjoying some stuff on the grill. And all of a sudden a gunman came up behind one of the teenage girls and held a gun to her head and said, "Nobody move, give me your money or I'm going to shoot." Everyone froze, rightfully so, the terror that they experienced. And one woman just blurted out the first thing that came to her mind. She said, "Why don't you sit down and have some wine with us?" Which is not something that has ever come to my mind if someone were to walk in and rob me. And sure enough, he put his gun in his belt and sat down and had some wine. And he said, "Boy, this is really good wine." And I said, "Why don't you enjoy some more to eat?" And then afterwards, she said, "Can I give you a hug?" And the guy was totally startled. Yeah. And then afterwards, everyone else decided to give him a hug. And as they enjoyed food, you know, they're all tense and not sure what to do or what's going on. At the end, he said, "Can I have a group hug together?" And then he slipped out the back and even the glass, the wine glass that he had, it wasn't even broken. He just set it up right behind the back gate.   And I just was so moved by that. Like, "Do you want a glass of wine? Do you want a hug?" Not things that would come to my mind, but it was so jolting and surprising. I think it humanized him. And before he left, the robber said, "I think I've come to rob the wrong house tonight." It's amazing what a question can do. That was a question of immense hospitality. You're welcome here. That's the last thing that this robber ever expected. So, I just love that story. I love that story because it reminds us once again how powerful questions actually are.   Laura Dugger: (39:53 - 40:09) And I think it illustrates at the heart of questions is love. And that motivates so much of the work that you get to do, J.R. So, can you just share a little bit more about the work you do get to do and share how we can be connected after this conversation?   J.R. Briggs: (40:10 - 41:07) Sure. Yeah. I've been a pastor for 15 years, but in 2011, I started what's called Kairos Partnerships. And it was passionate about leaders because leadership can be lonely, overwhelming, and sometimes leaders feel ill-equipped. And so actually our organization was started based on three questions. Who pastors the pastor? Who leads the leader? Who shepherds the shepherd? So, we work with some pastors, but we work with all sorts of entrepreneurs and businesspeople and Chick-fil-A operators and college presidents and division one men's basketball coaches, anyone who's following Jesus, but leading others. And so, we do that through coaching, through consulting, through writing, speaking, spiritual direction. And so, our team, I have a wonderful team, and the team really walks alongside of leaders who are wanting to be equipped so they can lead with clarity and confidence moving forward.   Laura Dugger: (41:08 - 41:27) I love that. Well, we will put a link to your website and the show notes for today's episode, but J.R., you may be familiar. We are called The Savvy Sauce because savvy is synonymous with practical knowledge. And so, as my final question for you today, what is your savvy sauce?   J.R. Briggs: (41:28 - 42:03) One of the prayers that I pray regularly is, "Lord, would you grant me wisdom, courage, and compassion?" And all three of those are important because if I have wisdom and courage, but no compassion, I'm careless. If I have wisdom and compassion, but no courage, I'm riskless. And if I have compassion and courage, but no wisdom, that can be reckless. But if I have wisdom, courage, and compassion together, that's priceless. And so, I just try to pray that regularly because I say, "Lord, I want to be a wise, compassionate, courageous person for you." And I would encourage your listeners to pray that prayer for wisdom, courage, and compassion as well.   Laura Dugger: (42:05 - 42:20) Those are great words that I would use to describe you, J.R. And you are humble and warm and engaging. And I have greatly appreciated your book. I've already told people it's my favorite book that I've read in recent history.   J.R. Briggs: (42:20 - 42:22) So, thank you.   Laura Dugger: (42:22 - 42:31) Well, thank you. That's very kind of you. Yes, very easy to compliment it. But thank you for being my guest, and I look forward to hosting you again next time.   J.R. Briggs: (42:31 - 42:33) Sounds great. Looking forward to that as well.   Laura Dugger: (42:35 - 45:49) One more thing before you go, have you heard the term gospel before? It simply means good news. And I want to share the best news with you, but it starts with the bad news.   Every single one of us were born sinners, but Christ desires to rescue us from our sin, which is something we cannot do for ourselves. This means there's absolutely no chance we can make it to heaven on our own. So, for you and for me, it means we deserve death, and we can never pay back the sacrifice we owe to be saved.   We need a savior, but God loved us so much. He made a way for his only son to willingly die in our place as the perfect substitute. This gives us hope of life forever in right relationship with him.   That is good news. Jesus lived the perfect life. We could never live and died in our place for our sin.   This was God's plan to make a way to reconcile with us so that God can look at us and see Jesus. We can be covered and justified through the work Jesus finished. If we choose to receive what he has done for us, Romans 10:9 says, “that if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”   So, you pray with me now. Heavenly father, thank you for sending Jesus to take our place. I pray someone today right now is touched and chooses to turn their life over to you.   Will you clearly guide them and help them take their next step in faith to declare you as Lord of their life? We trust you to work and change lives now for eternity. In Jesus name we pray.   Amen. If you prayed that prayer, you are declaring him for me. So, me for him, you get the opportunity to live your life for him.   And at this podcast, we're called The Savvy Sauce for a reason. We want to give you practical tools to implement the knowledge you have learned. So, you're ready to get started.   First, tell someone, say it out loud, get a Bible. The first day I made this decision, my parents took me to Barnes and Noble and let me choose my own Bible. I selected the Quest NIV Bible and I love it.   You can start by reading the book of John. Also get connected locally, which just means tell someone who's a part of a church in your community that you made a decision to follow Christ. I'm assuming they will be thrilled to talk with you about further steps such as going to church and getting connected to other believers to encourage you.   We want to celebrate with you too. So, feel free to leave a comment for us here. If you did make a decision to follow Christ, we also have show notes included where you can read scripture that describes this process.   And finally, be encouraged. Luke 15:10 says, “in the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” The heavens are praising with you for your decision today.   And if you've already received this good news, I pray you have someone to share it with. You are loved and I look forward to meeting you here next time.

This week is part two of our conversation with Old Testament scholar and theologian Dr. John Oswalt to discuss his 2009 book The Bible Among the Myths - Unique Revelation or Just Ancient Literature? John continues to outline his case that the Bible is utterly unique in ancient literature, despite any alleged similarities in its pages with its surrounding pagan cultures often unnecessarily overemphasized by skeptics and critics of the Bible. Dr. John Oswalt Asbury served on the faculty of Asbury Theological seminary from 1970 to 1982 as professor of Old Testament and Semitic languages, and again from 1989 to 1999 as Professor of Old Testament. He rejoined Asbury in 2009 as visiting distinguished professor of Old Testament studies. He has also served as research professor of Old Testament at Wesley Biblical Seminary in Jackson, Miss., from 1999 to 2009, was president of Asbury College from 1983 to 1986, a member of the faculty of Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Ill., from 1986 to 1989, and  Interim President of Wesley Biblical Seminary, Ridgeland, MS from April 2019 through March 2020.He is the author of 16 books, most notable of which is the two-volume commentary on the book of Isaiah in the New International Commentary of the Old Testament. His most recent book is The Holy One of Israel: Studies in the Book of Isaiah, released in 2014. He has also written numerous articles that have appeared in Bible encyclopedias, scholarly journals and popular religious periodicals. Dr. Oswalt is an ordained minister in the United Methodist Church, with membership in the Kentucky Annual Conference. He has served as a part-time pastor in congregations in New England and Kentucky, and is a frequent speaker in conferences, camps and local churches. Oswalt received a B.A. from Taylor University; a B.D. and Th.M. from Asbury Seminary; and a M.A. and Ph.D. from Brandeis University.The Bible Among the Myths Isaiah CommentaryFree Resources from Watchman Fellowship:  Watchman Fellowship 4-page Profile on Bart Ehrman by Dr. Rhyne Putman: www.watchman.org/Ehrman  Atheism: www.watchman.org/Atheism Watchman Fellowship 4-page Profile on Deconstruction by Daniel Ray: www.watchman.org/Deconstruction   Watchman Fellowship 4-page Profile on Divine Hiddenness by Daniel Ray: www.watchman.org/Hiddenness  Other Resources from Watchman FellowshipFREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.The complete Profile Notebook (Digital Edition, PDF): www.watchman.org/DigitalNotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2026 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

In this episode of The Impostor Syndrome Files, we talk about creating workplaces where people can thrive. My guest this week is Josh Block, executive advisor and author of People Matter at Work.Josh shares the story of becoming president of his family's business at age 29 and the lessons he learned from stepping into a role he didn't feel fully prepared to lead. We explore how curiosity, humility and a willingness to rely on the strengths of others helped him navigate uncertainty and grow as a leader.In our conversation, we discuss why leadership is less about having all the answers and more about helping others succeed. Josh introduces his powerful "gardens versus gold mines" metaphor and explains why leaders must choose whether they want to develop people or simply extract value from them.We also talk about the importance of maintaining a non-anxious presence during challenging times, the shift from a "me" mindset to a "we" mindset and the role curiosity plays in building stronger teams. Finally, Josh shares his perspective on the unique questions women often bring to leadership conversations and why creating space for different perspectives leads to better outcomes.About My GuestJosh Block is a seasoned business leader and entrepreneur passionate about building cultures where people thrive—at work and in life. A graduate of Taylor University, Josh began his career by founding a service company in Muncie, Indiana, focused on creating employment opportunities within the city's urban core. That early experience cemented his belief in the power of people-first, purpose-driven work.In 2011, Josh and his wife, Lacey, moved to Lansing, Michigan, where he assumed the role of president at Block Imaging, a family-owned company at the time and now an affiliate of Siemens Healthineers and CommonSpirit Health. Block Imaging provides refurbished imaging systems, parts, and service to healthcare providers worldwide, empowering them to provide a second chance at life for imaging equipment and patients. Under Josh's leadership, Block Imaging has grown from fifty to more than four hundred team members globally, becoming a model for trust-driven culture and people-powered performance.In 2018, Josh launched Cube Mobile Imaging to offer mobile imaging solutions across the United States, helping to expand access and reduce patient backlogs. He also speaks and coaches on leadership, organizational culture, and identity.Outside the office, Josh brings the same energy to his personal life. He enjoys wakesurfing, paddleboarding, and golf, and has competed in triathlons ranging from sprint to 70.3 distances. A few of his favorite indulgences include Cheetos, Cherry Coke, and Cap'n Crunch—and he is known for a legendary waffle recipe.He and Lacey have been married for twenty-three years and live in Lansing with their two children.~Connect with Josh:Book: https://www.amazon.com/People-Matter-Work-Fostering-Everyone/dp/1637635044 Website: https://peoplematteratwork.com/~Connect with Kim and The Impostor Syndrome Files:Join the free Impostor Syndrome Challenge:https://www.kimmeninger.com/challengeLearn more about the Leading Humans discussion group:https://www.kimmeninger.com/leadinghumansgroupJoin the Slack channel to learn from, connect with and support other professionals: https://forms.gle/Ts4Vg4Nx4HDnTVUC6Join the Facebook group:https://www.facebook.com/groups/leadinghumansSchedule time to speak with Kim Meninger directly about your questions/challenges: https://bookme.name/ExecCareer/strategy-sessionConnect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimmeninger/Website:https://www.kimmeninger.com

Dreams and Determination: Meet four Inspiring students, Living with cystic fibrosis. One of the greatest joys of The Bonnell Foundation is helping young adults living with cystic fibrosis pursue their educational dreams. Every year, we award scholarships to students attending universities, trade schools, and community colleges. While these scholarships help with tuition and expenses, they also send an important message: we believe in these students and in the futures they are building. Living with cystic fibrosis often means balancing classes, careers, friendships, and family life alongside daily treatments, medications, and frequent medical appointments. For many families, the financial burden of CF can make the cost of higher education even more challenging. That's why our scholarship program is so meaningful. Each year, our top recipients receive $2,500 to help them continue their education and pursue their goals. The thank-you notes we receive from recipients are heartfelt reminders that a scholarship is about much more than money. It is about hope, opportunity, and encouragement. On this week's podcast, we are honored to introduce four remarkable scholarship recipients whose determination and resilience inspire us. Serena Scillia is a 20-year-old from Westerville, Ohio, attending Bowling Green State University. Serena is studying Early Childhood Education and hopes to become a teacher. When she's not focused on her studies, she enjoys coaching volleyball, reading, and spending time with her family and beloved dog. Serena's passion for helping others shines through in her career choice, and she's determined to make a difference in the lives of children. Jayla Jacobs has been living with cystic fibrosis since she was diagnosed at age five. Now 18 years old, she has already become a powerful advocate for the CF community. Jayla has spoken at multiple fundraising and awareness events, including the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's Guys and Dolls Auction Gala, where she helped raise an incredible $2.2 million for CF research. This fall, she will begin studying English at North Carolina State University. Jayla loves outdoor adventures, drawing, and writing stories. She also understands the impact of CF on families, with two of her brothers living with the disease as well. Isabella Banaszynski is preparing for an exciting new chapter as she heads to Drexel University in Philadelphia this fall. An accomplished club wrestler and aspiring architect, Isabella has already demonstrated the discipline and determination needed to succeed in demanding environments. She plans to major in Architecture while continuing to pursue her athletic interests. Isabella's journey is proof that living with CF does not define what is possible. Ben Ferguson attends Taylor University and is majoring in Finance. Originally from Columbus, Indiana, Ben comes from a large family with four brothers and one sister. While he is the only member of his family living with cystic fibrosis, he has never allowed the disease to limit his ambitions. Ben is focused on building a successful future while managing the daily challenges that come with CF. These four young adults represent the strength, perseverance, and optimism that define so many people in the cystic fibrosis community. Their stories remind us that while CF can create obstacles, it does not determine a person's potential. Join us on this week's podcast as Serena, Jayla, Isabella, and Ben share their experiences living with cystic fibrosis, pursuing higher education, and what receiving a Bonnell Foundation scholarship means to them. Their stories are inspiring, their goals are ambitious, and their futures are bright. This is exactly why The Bonnell Foundation continues its scholarship program year after year: to invest in dreams, support determination, and help the next generation of leaders living with cystic fibrosis reach their full potential. Like, subscribe, and comment on our podcasts!Please consider making a donation: https://thebonnellfoundation.org/donate/The Bonnell Foundation website:https://thebonnellfoundation.orgEmail us at: thebonnellfoundation@gmail.com Watch our podcasts on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@laurabonnell1136/featuredNew: Shop our merchandise! https://thebonnellfoundation.org/product-shop/Thanks to our sponsors:Vertex: https://www.vrtx.comViatris: https://www.viatris.com/enRead us on Substack: https://substack.com/@lstb?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageWatch our trailer of Embracing Egypt: https://youtu.be/RYjlB25Cr9Y

What do you need to know about the Trump accounts? And speaking of Trump, how is his new pick Kevin Warsh doing as Federal Reserve chair? Joining us to discuss these economy stories on Money Monday is University of Arizona Associate Economics Professor, Evan Taylor. 

Welcome to Day 2879 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2879 – “Never Too Little, Never Too Lost”  based on Luke 8:22-39 Putnam Church Message – 05/10/2026 The Good News According to Luke: “Never Too Little, Never Too Lost.”   Last week's message was “Freedom from Bondage,” in which we learned that, regardless of the storms of life we face or the bondage we have experienced, through Christ we can withstand them and live free because believers fight on the winning side. Today, we continue with our twenty-second message from Luke's narrative of the Good News of Jesus Christ. Today's message is: “Never Too Little, Never Too Lost.” Our core passage today is Luke 8:40-56, which is found on page 1607 of your pew Bibles. Jesus Raises a Dead Girl and Heals a Sick Woman 40 Now when Jesus returned, a crowd welcomed him, for they were all expecting him. 41 Then a man named Jairus, a synagogue leader, came and fell at Jesus' feet, pleading with him to come to his house 42 because his only daughter, a girl of about twelve, was dying. As Jesus was on his way, the crowds almost crushed him. 43 And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years,[a] but no one could heal her. 44 She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped. 45 “Who touched me?” Jesus asked. When they all denied it, Peter said, “Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you.”  46 But Jesus said, “Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me.”47 Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at his feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed. 48 Then he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace.” 49 While Jesus was still speaking, someone came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” he said. “Don't bother the teacher anymore.” 50 Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, “Don't be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.” 51 When he arrived at the house of Jairus, he did not let anyone go in with him except Peter, John and James, and the child's father and mother. 52 Meanwhile, all the people were wailing and mourning for her. “Stop wailing,” Jesus said. “She is not dead but asleep.” 53 They laughed at him, knowing that she was dead. 54 But he took her by the hand and said, “My child, get up!” 55 Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up. Then Jesus told them to give her something to eat. 56 Her parents were astonished, but he ordered them not to tell anyone what had happened. Opening Prayer Father, we come before You today as people who sometimes feel rushed, overlooked, unclean, afraid, delayed, or disappointed. We confess that we often measure people by status, strength, influence, or usefulness, but Jesus never does. Lord, open our hearts to Your Word today. Help us see that no one is too little for Your attention, and no one is too lost for Your grace. Teach us to trust You when life is urgent, when hope seems delayed, and even when it feels like death has spoken the final word. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of our hearts be pleasing to You, O Lord, our Rock and our Redeemer. Amen. Introduction: Jesus Looks at the One I read a story about the former president of Taylor University, Jay Kesler, who once said with a smile, “I have an office full of pictures in which I'm shaking hands with great dignitaries, all of whom are looking at someone else.” That line makes us laugh because we know exactly what he means. We have all seen it. Someone important shakes your hand, but their eyes are scanning the room. They are already looking for the next person, the next opportunity, the next more important conversation. But Jesus is never like that. If Jesus were to shake your hand, He would not be looking past you. He would not be distracted by the crowd behind you. He would look into your eyes, into your soul, into the places you hide from everybody else, and He would say, “You matter to Me.” That is the heartbeat of our message today: Never Too Little, Never Too Lost. We are continuing in Luke 8:40–56, and I encourage you to read the full passage from the New Living Translation. Luke places two stories together that belong together: the dying daughter of Jairus and the suffering woman who touched the edge of Jesus' robe. One is a young girl from a respected household. / The other is an unnamed woman pushed to the edges of society. One has a father who can publicly plead her case. / The other has no public advocate at all. One is twelve years old. / The other has suffered for twelve years. One is loved in the center of the community. / The other has lived on the outside, isolated by illness, shame, and ceremonial uncleanness. And Jesus moves toward both of them. That is good news. Which brings us to the first of four truths today. Main Point 1: Jesus Is Never Too Busy for the Broken Luke tells us that when Jesus returned to Galilee, the crowd welcomed Him because they had been waiting for Him. This is important. In the previous passage, Jesus had crossed the lake into Gentile territory. There, He delivered a man who was possessed, tormented, isolated, and living among the tombs. We called that message “Freedom from Bondage.” The people of that region saw a transformed man sitting at Jesus' feet, clothed and in his right mind — and they asked Jesus to leave. Now Jesus comes back across the lake, likely to the area around Capernaum, and this crowd is waiting. Can you imagine the scene? People are pressing forward. Some are hoping for healing. Some are curious. Some are desperate. Some just want to see what Jesus will do next. And then a respected man steps out of the crowd. His name is Jairus. Luke calls him a leader or official of the synagogue. He was probably not a rabbi, but a lay elder — the kind of man who helped oversee worship, teaching, building care, and community matters. / In a Jewish village, the synagogue was not merely a church building. It was the center of communal life. Jairus would have been known, respected, and influential. But on this day, Jairus is not standing tall as a dignified religious leader. He falls at Jesus' feet. Why? Because his only daughter is dying. Parents understand this scene immediately. There are few fears deeper than the fear of losing a child. Jairus does not come to debate theology. He does not come to protect his reputation. He does not come wondering whether being seen with Jesus might damage his standing among other leaders. His daughter is dying, and suddenly nothing else matters. It reminds us of the centurion in Luke 7, whose beloved servant was near death. It reminds us of the widow of Nain, whose only son had died, and Jesus stepped into her grief before she even asked. In that message, we said, “There is Always Hope.” Here again, Luke shows us that Jesus moves toward human sorrow. And notice this: Jesus goes with Jairus. He does not say, “I am too busy.” He does not say, “There are too many people here.” He does not say, “You synagogue leaders have not always supported Me.” He does not say, “I just came back from a stormy voyage and a difficult rejection.” Jesus goes. Object Lesson: The Calendar and the Empty Space Imagine holding up a packed calendar or a long to-do list. Every line is filled. Every hour is claimed. There is no margin. Then hold up a blank sticky note and place it in the middle. That blank space represents the interruption. Most of us do not like interruptions. We say, “I was on my way to something important.” But Jesus shows us that sometimes / the interruption is the ministry. Jairus interrupted Jesus' public welcome. / The suffering woman will interrupt Jairus' emergency. /...

Join Mindset Guru and NBA/WNBA Trainer Jordan Delks as he interviews Colton Lindsay of Taylor University and Drake Sefton of Blackhawk Christian! Camp Better is 10 players, 5 days, 4 coaches and 1 mission...actualize your true self!

This session was recorded live at Roundup 2026, a gathering of college ministry leaders hosted by the Southern Baptist of Texas Convention.Regan has been following Jesus since she was young, sensing His call on her life as a missionary at age 12 and growing in a deep love for Him and His Word. With a background in Intercultural Studies from Taylor University, she now serves as a full-time missionary with Time to Revive in Dallas, equipping and discipling college students to live out the Gospel and make disciples wherever they are. Her heart is to see every person encounter their identity in Christ and for the nations to know Him- until the day we see Jesus return!

Welcome back to Airey Bros Radio — your #1 resource for college wrestling, cross country, and track & field programs across the country.On Episode 444, we went belly to belly with Coach Mark Fairley, Head Men's & Women's Cross Country Coach and Head Distance Coach at Taylor University.Fresh off the 2026 NAIA Indoor Track & Field National Championships, Coach Fairley breaks down Taylor's national success, including:

Dr. Lorenzo A. Watson is joined by Wayne “Coach” Gordon to reflect on the history of CCDA and the CCD Philosophy. Coach shares his story and how he got involved in CCDA, the history of the CCD Philosophy, and how he's seeing God move in his neighborhood in North Lawndale.Wayne Gordon is a graduate of Wheaton College and Northern Baptist Theological Seminary. He received his Doctor of Ministry degree from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary. In 1975 Wayne moved to North Lawndale, located on Chicago's Westside. At that time, North Lawndale was the 15th poorest neighborhood in the U.S. He was a teacher and coach at Farragut High School, also located in North Lawndale. Wayne and his wife Anne have raised their three adult children: Angela, a graduate of Taylor University, Married to Nate George, lives in Chicago and is a school teacher; Andrew a graduate of Baylor University and a trader with the Chicago Board of Trade, married to Stacy, and Austin graduate of Azusa Pacific University, living and working in New York City. Wayne and Anne, along with some local high school students, founded the Lawndale Community Church. Today, LCC has over 1000 worshipping families and Wayne continues as Pastor Emeritus.Dr. Lorenzo A. Watson serves as the CEO/President for the Christian Community Development Association, headquartered in Chicago, IL. He is an experienced community development professional; a leader, teacher, and scholar who has long centered his work at the intersections of wholeness, education, and Biblical justice.Learn more about CCDA and how you can get involved at ccda.org. Connect with CCDA on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Follow CCDA on YouTube.

Derek has pastored Grace Church in Erie, PA since 1995 and is the author of the book Untapped Church and host of the podcast Reinventing Church. His passion is building up and equipping leaders to walk in their God-given calling.Derek also founded two other organizations: ServErie that has mobilized thousands of volunteers to serve their community, and the Grace Leadership Institute to train the next generation of Christian leaders and disciples. Derek is a proud graduate of Taylor University and Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He married his high school sweetheart, Kim and they have three grown children, Caleb, Chase, and Ayden and a granddaughter Ruby. On today's 95Podcast, discover how to transform your church from a teaching center to a training center. Pastor Derek Sanford shares proven strategies for mobilizing volunteers, creating a permission-to-fail culture, and equipping people for ministry beyond church walls.Show Notes: https://95network.org/95podcast-325-summary/Support the show

On this episode, J.R. unpacks the 10 crucial areas of a leader's life – something he is sharing as he teaches in the Master of Leadership program at Taylor University.. . .Coaching is a GREAT way to include reflection into your leadership rhythms.If you're interested in securing a free no-pressure exploratory coaching session, check out www.kairospartnerships.org/contact or email me at jrbriggs@kairospartnerships.orgIf you haven't signed up for my every other week FREE newsletter 5 Things in 5 Minutes (5 valuable nuggets that can be read in 5 minutes or less), check outwww.kairospartnerships.org/5t5m**Resilient Leaders is produced by the incredibly gifted Joel Limbauan  at On a Limb Productions (www.onalimbproductions.com).

Colin and Scott Lidskin discuss all the events from the IR Opener at Taylor University, preview the next meet in the series on January 31 at Brownsburg and talk about what they like about the Indiana Runner Series.Want more from Indiana Runner? Go to www.patreon.com/indianarunner/

Isaiah expert and Old Testament scholar Dr. John Oswalt is our guest again this week on the Profile. On this episode John discusses the discovery of the Great Isaiah Scroll in Qumran in 1947, more of Isaiah 53, and the prophecy of Cyrus the Great in chapter 45. Dr. John Oswalt Asbury served on the faculty of Asbury Theological seminary from 1970 to 1982 as professor of Old Testament and Semitic languages, and again from 1989 to 1999 as Professor of Old Testament. He rejoined Asbury in 2009 as visiting distinguished professor of Old Testament studies. He has also served as research professor of Old Testament at Wesley Biblical Seminary in Jackson, Miss., from 1999 to 2009, was president of Asbury College from 1983 to 1986, a member of the faculty of Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Ill., from 1986 to 1989, and  Interim President of Wesley Biblical Seminary, Ridgeland, MS from April 2019 through March 2020.He is the author of 16 books, most notable of which is the two-volume commentary on the book of Isaiah in the New International Commentary of the Old Testament. His most recent book is The Holy One of Israel: Studies in the Book of Isaiah, released in 2014. He has also written numerous articles that have appeared in Bible encyclopedias, scholarly journals and popular religious periodicals. Dr. Oswalt is an ordained minister in the United Methodist Church, with membership in the Kentucky Annual Conference. He has served as a part-time pastor in congregations in New England and Kentucky, and is a frequent speaker in conferences, camps and local churches. Oswalt received a B.A. from Taylor University; a B.D. and Th.M. from Asbury Seminary; and a M.A. and Ph.D. from Brandeis University.The Bible Among the Myths Isaiah CommentaryResources from Watchman Fellowship Watchman Fellowship 4-page Profile on Bart Ehrman by Dr. Rhyne Putman: www.watchman.org/Ehrman FREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.The complete Profile Notebook (Digital Edition, PDF, over 600-pages): www.watchman.org/DigitalNotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2025 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

"Of all the books in the OT, Isaiah is perhaps the richest. Its literary grandeur is unequaled. Its scope is unparalleled. The breadth of its view of God is unmatched. In so many ways it is a book of superlatives. Thus, it is no wonder that Isaiah is the most quoted prophet in the NT, and along with Psalms and Deuteronomy, one of the most frequently cited of all OT books. Study of it is an opportunity for unending inspiration and challenge…it comes to us as a word from God, a revelation of the inevitable conflict between divine glory and human pride, of self-destruction which that pride must bring, and of the grace of God in restoring that destroyed humanity to himself. To read the book with the open eyes of the spirit is to see oneself, at times all too clearly, but also to see God whose holiness is made irresistible by his love." - Dr. John Oswalt from his two-volume commentary on the book of Isaiah. Dr. John Oswalt is our very special guest this week and next on Apologetics Profile. He will be taking us through some of the highlights of this magisterial theological work. His insights will better equip you to give a defense to non-believers who doubt the history and authorship of Isaiah. Dr. John Oswalt Asbury served on the faculty of Asbury Theological seminary from 1970 to 1982 as professor of Old Testament and Semitic languages, and again from 1989 to 1999 as Professor of Old Testament. He rejoined Asbury in 2009 as visiting distinguished professor of Old Testament studies. He has also served as research professor of Old Testament at Wesley Biblical Seminary in Jackson, Miss., from 1999 to 2009, was president of Asbury College from 1983 to 1986, a member of the faculty of Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Ill., from 1986 to 1989, and  Interim President of Wesley Biblical Seminary, Ridgeland, MS from April 2019 through March 2020.He is the author of 16 books, most notable of which is the two-volume commentary on the book of Isaiah in the New International Commentary of the Old Testament. His most recent book is The Holy One of Israel: Studies in the Book of Isaiah, released in 2014. He has also written numerous articles that have appeared in Bible encyclopedias, scholarly journals and popular religious periodicals. Dr. Oswalt is an ordained minister in the United Methodist Church, with membership in the Kentucky Annual Conference. He has served as a part-time pastor in congregations in New England and Kentucky, and is a frequent speaker in conferences, camps and local churches. Oswalt received a B.A. from Taylor University; a B.D. and Th.M. from Asbury Seminary; and a M.A. and Ph.D. from Brandeis University.The Bible Among the Myths Isaiah CommentaryResources from Watchman Fellowship Watchman Fellowship 4-page Profile on Bart Ehrman by Dr. Rhyne Putman: www.watchman.org/Ehrman FREE: We are also offering a subscription to our 4-page bimonthly Profiles here: www.watchman.org/Free.The complete Profile Notebook (Digital Edition, PDF, over 600-pages): www.watchman.org/DigitalNotebookSUPPORT: Help us create more content like this. Make a tax-deductible donation here: www.watchman.org/give.Apologetics Profile is a ministry of Watchman Fellowship For more information, visit www.watchman.org © 2025 Watchman Fellowship, Inc.

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W 2006 roku w stanie Indiana dochodzi do tragicznego wypadku, w którym ginie pięć osób z Taylor University. Jedna dziewczyna przeżywa i w ciężkim stanie trafia do szpitala, gdzie przez wiele tygodni czuwa przy niej rodzina. Z czasem okazuje się jednak, że to… zupełnie inna osoba. Historia Whitney Cerak i Laury Van Ryn to jedna z najbardziej niewiarygodnych pomyłek przy identyfikacji ofiar w historii USA.www.zmorderstwem.plWsparcie

We're going belly-to-belly with Coach Quinn White, the legendary Taylor University XC coach who led the Trojans to the only two NAIA team titles in school history (Men 2020, Women 2022). With 12 straight Crossroads League titles, dozens of All-Americans, and 200+ scholar-athletes developed under his watch, Coach White has built an NAIA powerhouse grounded in faith, culture, and blue-collar work ethic.As he prepares to retire after 16 seasons, we dive into his origin story, the “Mad Dogs” & “Jarheads” culture, double-threshold training (and why he protects athletes from junk miles), mental-health tools for coaches (“the gray dog”), and how Taylor keeps identity rooted in Christ first, athlete second. We also preview this season's outlook (women #1, men #3 as of recording), the Florida State nationals course, and what's next for Taylor XC.If you love college running, team culture, and honest coaching wisdom, this one's for you.Watch the full YouTube replay SpotifyApple PodcastsInstagram Black Sheep Endurance (Rich's coaching) Buy Us a CoffeeShow notes / chaptered topicsIntro & mission – why we spotlight NAIA/JUCO/D2/D3 programsCoach White's origin story – from third-grade race to Taylor runner to coachBuilding Taylor into a champion – men '20, women '22; combined title prideCulture: Mad Dogs & Jarheads – team unity, pre-race “Prince of Peace” traditionFaith-driven coaching – passion vs. identity; Christ at the centerTraining philosophy – double-threshold days, individualized mileage, staying healthyMental health for coaches – the “gray dog,” panic attack to tools & therapy2025 season outlook – women #1, men #3; Florida State course; schedule cadenceRecruiting & the right fit – like-minded, team-first, blue-collar workersFamily in the program – coaching his son & daughter; legacy & leadershipTaylor academics & community – exercise science, business, education; chapelBooks & frameworks – Inner Excellence, One Word (this year: Love),In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day; picture-book read-alouds (e.g., Jumanji)Final Four – coffee, daily rituals, music (Rush!), guilty pleasures (dark chocolate & gum)Closing – retirement perspective, gratitude, and what's next for Taylor XC

From the basketball courts of Oakland to the sprint lanes of Eugene, Curtis Taylor's coaching journey is as inspiring as it is impactful. In this episode, Curtis shares how being cut from varsity basketball led him to track and eventually to a career shaping some of the nation's fastest athletes at the University of Oregon.We dive deep into:

Crowder College Head Coach Jake Holt joins Airey Bros Radio to break down how a brand-new NJCAA program rocketed into the national conversation—#7 men, #5 women (preseason)—and why JUCO is a powerful springboard for recruits.We cover Holt's 20+ years at East Newton HS (17 conference titles, 17 district titles, 6 state trophies), the origins of SWMO Running Camp (400+ campers), Crowder's international recruiting pipeline (Kenya), training philosophy (tempos, threshold hills, 1K benchmarks), life in the Ozarks (real trails, real hills), and a 2025 schedule that points straight at Fort Dodge—plus whether the team will double back for the NJCAA Half Marathon Championship.If you're a high school XC/TF athlete, parent, or coach exploring JUCO → NCAA D1/D2/D3/NAIA pathways, this episode is packed with real talk on scholarships, fit, culture, development, and competing right away.

Hal Habecker of Finishing Well Ministries, joins Wayne Shepherd to talk about encouraging seniors to actively pursue and fulfill God's calling. (click for more) Website:  https://www.finishingwellministries.orgInterview notes:Background & Faith JourneyBorn in Hershey, PA, one of six children in a farming family.Came to Christ at age 6 in an independent Bible church.Early fascination with older people, shaped by the death of his childhood pastor.Active Christian leader in youth (campus life, Bible study).Studied at Taylor University; initially interested in politics inspired by Mark Hatfield.Mission trip to Haiti → encouraged to attend Dallas Theological Seminary.Married while in seminary; mentored by Howard Hendricks, who redirected him from politics to pastoral ministry.Ministry CareerOrdained at First Baptist Dallas under W.A. Criswell.Worked with physicians/dentists, leading to involvement with the Christian Medical Society (served as national director for 15 years).Pastored a Dallas church for 21 years.Founded Finishing Well Ministries about 10 years ago to encourage seniors to live purposefully for Christ.Calling & Focus on AgingIn his 50s became aware of how seniors often feel alienated or insignificant in culture and church.Passion to affirm the value of aging people in God's plan.Inspired by Psalm 90:12 (“teach us to number our days”) and Robert Browning's poem “Grow Old Along with Me.”Believes every decade can be the most influential, especially the later years.Emphasis: last words are lasting words – the legacy of one's final years matters deeply.Key Teachings – Seven Essentials for Living & Finishing WellNever stop growing in knowledge of Christ.Never stop building friendships—combat isolation.Never stop loving others as Christ commands.Never stop pouring into younger generations (multi-generational discipleship).Never stop being available & eager for God's next assignment.Plan ahead for when you're gone (legal, family, spiritual legacy).Anticipate eternity with Christ; keep heaven in view.Books/resources:What Does the Bible Teach About Growing OlderSeven Essentials for Living Well and Finishing WellAging with PurposeBiblical Examples of Finishing Well (or Not)Joseph, Joshua, Daniel – faithful through hardship into old age.Hezekiah – strong early life but did not finish well after God extended his years.Insights for Seniors & ChurchesBoomers = fastest-growing aging population; church must address their value.Current church culture often silos age groups, limiting multi-generational life.Seniors should dream, envision, and engage rather than assume they're “done.”Legacy begins with personal growth and example, especially to children & grandchildren.Psalm 71:17–18 – call to declare God's power to the next generations.Distance from family can be bridged through technology, but the example of life lived for Christ is the greatest gift to pass on.Send your support for FIRST PERSON to the Far East Broadcasting Company:FEBC National Processing Center Far East Broadcasting CompanyP.O. Box 6020 Albert Lea, MN 56007Please mention FIRST PERSON when you give. Thank you!

In this episode, Alexa sits down with voice teacher and performer Conor Angell to explore his influential article How Do You Teach Voice? Six Vital Non-Musical Teaching Principles. They discuss how these principles shape effective teaching, what's changed since 2019, and the importance of kindness, agency, and adaptability in the studio. Conor also reveals what he'd now add as a seventh principle, offering fresh insights for voice teachers, singers, and educators alike.  WHAT'S IN THIS PODCAST? 0:34 What makes a good teacher according to Conor?2:40 What are the signs that your teaching principles aren't working?6:41 How can we get out of our own heads in the teaching room?9:59 How to keep learning fun15:02 Understanding intrusive teaching approaches21:08 Balancing challenge and support27:56 Teaching approaches for specific vocal targets33:10 Which of Conor's six principles have proven to be the most successful?36:37 How can HE programmes make room for teaching philosophy?40:56 What would be Conor's 7th principle? About the presenter, click HERE RELEVANT MENTIONS & LINKSDr BraceySinging Teachers Talk Podcast Ep.224 Your Brain on Art: The Science of Creativity and HealingYour Brain on Art by Susan Magsamen and Ivy RossDaniel Levitin This is Your Brain on Music by Daniel LevitinJournal of SingingHow Do You Teach Voice? Six Vital Nonmusical Teaching Principles by Conor AngellToward a Theory of Applied Music Instruction by Richard KennelLev Vygotsky's Zone of Proximal DevelopmentSomatic VoiceworkIndianapolis OperaSinging Teachers Talk Podcast Ep.219 10 Songs for Male Contemporary Musical Theatre Singers ABOUT THE GUESTBorn in Ireland, baritone Conor Angell joined the music faculty at Taylor University in 2013 after teaching at Houghton and Wabash Colleges. A versatile performer, he has appeared in opera, musical theatre, orchestral concerts, recitals, and recording studios. His stage credits include roles in Le nozze di Figaro, La bohème, Rigoletto, The Sound of Music, and The Music Man, with companies such as Opera North, Kentucky Opera, and Indianapolis Opera. He is a prizewinner in competitions including the Chicago Oratorio Competition and the American Prize in Vocal Performance. As a director, Angell has led productions ranging from Mozart operas to Broadway classics, earning recognition from the National Opera Association, also a writer and collaborator in professional recording projects. SEE FULL BIO HEREWebsiteBAST Training helps singers gain the confidence, knowledge, skills & understanding required to be a successful singing teacher. "The course was everything I hoped it would be and so much more. It's an investment with so much return. I would recommend this course to any teacher wanting to up-skill, refresh or start up." Kelly Taylor, NZ ...morebasttraining.com | Subscribe | Email Us | FB Group

Shaping Christ-Centered LeadersAfter nearly four decades in banking — culminating in a role leading over 7,000 employees across 1,000 Huntington Bank branches—Jon Greenwood knows a thing or two about leadership. He didn't just climb the corporate ladder; he built the culture beneath it, rooted in trust, consistency, and hard work. A self-proclaimed “overachiever,” Jon thrived by showing up, outworking everyone around him, and staying grounded in who he was in Christ.Now, he's bringing that lifetime of experience back to where it all started — Cedarville University.Jon's path to Cedarville wasn't exactly planned. As a high school senior in Springfield, Ohio, he was bound for Taylor University — just like many of his family members. But through a series of unexpected twists, including a last-minute golf tournament and his pastor father's connection to Cedarville University, he became a Yellow Jacket.  That seemingly small pivot shaped everything that followed — from his marriage to his professional life — and taught him to trust God's guidance, even when it didn't make sense.That trust became the foundation of Jon's leadership style. Throughout his banking career, he focused on building cultures where people could thrive, trust mattered more than titles, and integrity trumped efficiency. Even to this day, he believes “culture eats strategy for lunch.”Now, Jon is pouring that wisdom into CU Lead, Cedarville's new leadership initiative. It's more than a program — it's a movement. CU Lead will help college students and business leaders discover how God wired them. It reaches across disciplines — welcoming pastors, pharmacists, engineers, and teachers alike — because every field needs leaders who are anchored in character.CU Lead also opens doors to the marketplace through conferences, a speakers series, and practical partnerships with businesses. The goal? To produce graduates who are not only professionally competent but spiritually grounded — leaders who can be trusted with influence.Jon Greenwood's story is a testament to what God can do with a life fully surrendered. And now, he's helping others write their own stories — starting with who they are in Christ. He recently shared more about this journey on the Cedarville Stories podcast, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the faith and leadership that have defined his path.https://share.transistor.fm/s/40a621bdhttps://youtu.be/-R_v_So-JKU

Leading With Purpose Summer SeriesJoin Philip Dearborn, President of ABHE, for a special summer series designed to strengthen your leadership and renew your sense of mission. Every other week, you'll hear one of the most-listened-to conversations from past seasons. Each episode offering practical encouragement and a fresh reminder of why Christ-centered higher education matters.This episode originally aired Oct 2024Michael Lindsay, President of Taylor University, joins the show to share how the principles of grace and truth guide his leadership, especially in the turbulent times facing Christian higher education.Michael tells us why he believes the pandemic elevated expectations for the value proposition of biblical higher ed and how Christian leaders can turn these challenges into opportunities. He also provides insights into a successful fundraising campaign for some of Taylor's exciting projects, including community outreach and campus expansions.Tune in to hear how Taylor University is helping to shape the next generation of Christian leaders through discipleship initiatives.Join us as we discuss:[5:17] Finding the motivation in a college president's work[13:16] How Taylor University is giving back to their community [18:59] Discipleship and seeking counsel from your predecessorsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:ABHE 78th Annual MeetingHinge Moments: Making the Most of Life's Transitions by Michael LindsayPresidential Fellows Program - Taylor UniversityTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Are your eyes open to see the needs that are all around you?In this episode, Jeff and Tommy discuss: Meeting Jesus in the midst of life.The power of good friends.Deeply caring for people through business.Asking “is it worth it” rather than “do I like it.”  Key Takeaways: Having a friend group that can lift you up and won't drag you down in high school can be extremely strengthening to one's testimony.Think about what you need to do to make your life and work feel purposeful. It may be something practical - what changes can be made now?Align your hearts and values, then separate the duties and responsibilities to align with strengths.Be willing to do things you don't like if it's worth it in support of some of the most vulnerable people around the world.  "We embrace the joy and the burden of the call…it's truly kind of God to give us a burden." —  Tommy Martin  Episode References: Tim Tebow Foundation: https://timtebowfoundation.org/Night to Shine: https://timtebowfoundation.org/night-to-shine/ About Tommy Martin: Tommy is The Tebow Group's CEO and a Mammoth Scientific partner. The Tebow Group exists to fuel and amplify faith, hope, and love in support of the Tim Tebow Foundation, which serves some of the most vulnerable people (the real MVPs) around the globe. Before leading The Tebow Group, Tommy founded, led, and exited multiple nationwide financial firms, including broker/dealers, RIAs, and insurance agencies, collectively managing over $2 billion for high-net-worth clients. For his work in the financial services industry, Tommy was named to Investment News' inaugural list of the Top 40 Advisors Under Age 40. He was also named one of the top 8 visionaries who “will pull the financial service industry into the next stratum.” Tommy is a former professor who served as the Financial Planning Department Chair at Taylor University. He carries numerous finance licenses, is an alumnus of Harvard Business School, and is a best-selling financial author. Tommy lives with his lovely wife of twenty-three years and three children in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Connect with Tommy Martin:Website: https://tebowgroup.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-martin  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

00:00 - 12:00 - Adam Alexander of NASCAR Amazon Prime Video, Turner Sports and more joins the show! Adam will be on the call of the Brickyard 400 at IMS next week, and he talks about being an Indiana kid getting to call a race at the legendary track. 12:01 - 26:43 - Gabel Pentecost, the pitcher out of Taylor University who was drafted by the Houston Astros in the 6th round of MLB Draft, joins the show! Gabel and Greg discuss his draft experience, his baseball beginnings and more! 26:44 - 36:04 - Butler OF Jack Moroknek, who was selected by the Washington Nationals in the MLB Draft, joins the show as well to discuss his experience in the draft, what his future holds in the Nationals organization, and more!Support the show: https://1075thefan.com/the-ride-with-jmv/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the path to hope isn't found in overcoming pain, but in naming it? In this episode, Loren Richmond Jr. speaks with Dr. May Young, Associate Professor of Biblical Studies at Taylor University and author of Walking with God Through the Valley: Recovering the Purpose of Biblical Lament. Together, they explore why lament—too often overlooked in modern Christianity—is not just a personal cry, but a prophetic act of faith. Dr. Young vulnerably shares from her own experience of heartbreak and disorientation, and how discovering the biblical practice of lament became a turning point in her spiritual life. From the Psalms to the prophets, she explains how lament gives believers a faithful way to grieve, resist injustice, and grow in spiritual resilience—even when nothing changes. Topics explored: Why biblical lament is more than venting—it's rooted in God's character and promises How lament helps churches stand with the suffering and resist apathy Why modern worship often skips lament, and why that's a problem How unprocessed pain from the COVID era may still be shaping us The difference between stoic acceptance and faithful sorrow What it means to trust God when healing or justice may not come on our timeline May Young (PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) is associate professor of biblical studies and chairs the Department of Biblical Studies, Christian Ministries, Intercultural Studies, and Philosophy at Taylor University. She has contributed to several volumes focused on lament, including Reading the Psalms Theologically (Lexham) and World Christianity and COVID-19: Discourses and Perspective (Routledge). She is a member of the Evangelical Theological Society and the Society of Biblical Literature and serves on the board of directors of the Institute of Biblical Research, as well as the editorial board for Sacred Roots.   Mentioned Resources:

Inside INdiana Business Radio for the morning of June 30, 2025. With the Pacers' NBA Finals run over, Indianapolis turns its focus to the WNBA All-Star Game in July. Indiana's cigarette tax will triple starting July 1, and the state's gas tax will rise by 1 cent. Also: Subaru celebrates 6 million vehicles made in Lafayette, Taylor University launches a physician assistant program, and Angola's new trail project moves ahead with Lilly Endowment support. Get the latest business news from throughout the state at InsideINdianaBusiness.com.

Skip the banter: 00:05:18 (this can change depending on ads, but it's a good guess) Summary: Two Michigan families, strangers to each other, are forever linked by a devastating accident in 2006. When a truck crashes into a Taylor University van, the Cerak and Van Ryn families face unimaginable loss and hope. This episode dives into a story of grief, faith, and a twist so profound it defies belief. Don't miss this one. Seriously. You'll be thinking about it for days. Check out Sierra and Ben's podcast, Unsolved Couple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unsolved-couple/id1765628508 Support us and become a Patron! Over 100 bonus episodes: https://www.patreon.com/crimeandcoffeecouple Our Amazon Shop (stuff we like that we share on the show): https://www.amazon.com/shop/crimeandcoffee2 All our links (YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Merch, etc): https://linktr.ee/crimeandcoffee Facebook Group to discuss episodes: www.facebook.com/groups/crimeandcoffeecouplepodcast/ References available at https://www.crimeandcoffeecouple.com a few days after this podcast airs. Case Suggestions Form: https://forms.gle/RQbthyDvd98SGpVq8 Remember to subscribe to our podcast in your favorite podcast player. Do it before you forget! If you're listening on Spotify please leave us a 5-star review, and leave a comment on today's episode! If you're on an iPhone, review us on Apple Podcasts please! Scroll to the bottom of the page and hit the stars ;) Ma and Pa appreciate you more than you know. Reminder: Support us and become a Patron! Over 100 bonus episodes: https://www.patreon.com/crimeandcoffeecouple Podcast Intro and Outro music: Seductress Dubstep or TrippinCoffee by Audionautix http://audionautix.com Creative Commons Music by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com

Inside INdiana Business Radio for the morning of April 17, 2025. Upland-based satellite company NearSpace Launch is getting a boost from students at nearby Taylor University. Plus, the latest state revenue forecast is throwing a wrench in the state legislature's budget plans. Get the latest business news from throughout the state at InsideINdianaBusiness.com.

This is a special episode where Sam Somesan delivers a lecture at Taylor University on the topic of informative speech preparation and sermon construction.

In this episode of Inside INdiana Business with Gary Dick, we take off with big news in Indiana aviation: Carmel-based Republic Airways is merging with Mesa Air Group to form the second-largest regional airline in the U.S. The deal brings a major boost to Republic's Carmel headquarters, a massive training center in Indianapolis, and continued momentum for Indiana's aviation sector. Plus: How the $200 million Republic campus in Carmel is shaping the future of pilot training. Why Mayor Sue Finkam says U.S. 31 is becoming a top destination for corporate HQs. Terre Haute's $100 million casino impact: new housing, downtown investment, and a revitalized Wabash Valley. The future of Oregon-based Entek's $1.5 billion EV battery plant—and what Mayor Brandon Sakbun wants from Washington. Also in this episode: New $40M distribution center headed to Gary's lakefront. Western Governors University opens a state-of-the-art simulation center in Indianapolis to train 1,000 new nurses. A Ball State student with muscular dystrophy conducts an orchestra using assistive technology—and changes what's possible in performance arts. Meet Indiana's newest world food champion: Collin Hilton of Cunningham Restaurant Group wins big at the World Food Championships. Why a small satellite company in Upland is putting Taylor University engineering students on a path to outer space. Oliver Winery in Bloomington rises into the top 30 in the nation—and brings Midwest flavor to the wine world.

As the Trump Administration works to re-envision, revise, and rewrite the ways in which the United States engages with the world, it remains important that people understand the why and the how of U.S. foreign policy.  Whether you want to make America safer, more prosperous, and more secure, or you take a broader look at the importance of global engagement, understanding the goals and limitations of U.S. power can inform your thinking of the U.S.' role in the world.Speaking with Andrew Albertson, Executive Director of Foreign Policy For America, this episode outlines what a principled approach to foreign policy looks like and how the current administration diverges from the traditional approach. From respecting human rights, building important alliances, and engaging the global economy, there is a lot about U.S. foreign policy that can be improved, but we must ensure we do not throw the proverbial baby out with the bath water. By listening to this month's episode you will gain insights into the state of U.S. global engagement, hear about why it remains important to U.S. prosperity, and how you can help shape the U.S.' approach to the world. Andrew Albertson is the founding Executive Director of Foreign Policy for America. He previously served at USAID's Office of Transition Initiatives (OTI), where he was Deputy Regional Representative for OTI's programs in South and Southwest Afghanistan. Prior to that, Andrew was the founding executive director of the Project on Middle East Democracy (POMED), a nonprofit advocacy organization dedicated to examining how genuine democracies can develop in the Middle East and how the U.S. can best support that process. Andrew serves on the board of directors for Secure Families Initiative, the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), and the Middle East Democracy Center. He received a B.A. from Taylor University and a Master of Science in Foreign Service degree from Georgetown University, where he was the Huffington Fellow at the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy.

What if the secret to lasting organizational success isn't just strategy but a flourishing workplace culture? In this episode, Dr. Michael Lindsay, president of Taylor University, shares how faith-driven leadership, values-based decision-making, and investing in people have led to remarkable growth in both employee engagement and institutional impact. Find full show notes here: https://bit.ly/434drmichaellindsay Share the love. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate it on Apple Podcasts and write a brief review. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flourishing-culture-podcast/id1060724960?mt=2   By doing so, you will help spread our podcast to more listeners, and thereby help more Christian workplaces learn to build flourishing cultures. | Follow our Host, Al Lopus, on X https://twitter.com/allopus  | Follow our Host, Al Lopus, on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/allopus/ | Email our host at al@workplaces.org  

In this episode of the America Pray Now Podcast, we continue the incredible journey of Samuel Morris, a young African man whose deep faith and powerful prayer life led him to America to seek a deeper understanding of the Holy Spirit. His unwavering trust in God's guidance transformed lives, from a humble rescue mission in New York City to a lasting legacy at Taylor University. Join us as we explore the impact of Sammy's simple yet profound connection with God, reminding us all of the power of prayer and the invitation to walk closely with our Heavenly Father.-------------------https://americapraynow.com/

Have you ever been the recipient of kindness that was surprising or unusual in nature? How did that kindness cause you to respond?On today's episode of the Live Like It's True podcast, Shannon is joined by author, Kristen Elizabeth Couch, to discuss Paul's journey from Acts 28, where he is shipwrecked, and thrown into an unknown territory with unknown people - the recipe for possible disaster! However, we see how God showed kindness to Paul through these unusual circumstances. We also see God's kindness to the native people, by bringing them Paul, a servant of Jesus and bringer of the greatest news and kindness - the Gospel.Where else can I listen to this podcast?Go HERE to find this episode on your favorite podcast app, including Apple, Google, Spotify, and more.Guest: Kristen Elizabeth CouchBible Passage: Paul on Malta - Acts 28:1-10 ESVGet your Free Resource: False Narrative WatchlistRecommended Resources: Check out Kristen Elizabeth Couch's new book, "Deep Roots, Good Fruit," on Shannon's Amazon Storefront HEREResound Media Network: www.ResoundMedia.ccMusic: Cade PopkinKristen Elizabeth CouchKristin Elizabeth Couch is a pastor's wife, the mother of four grown children, and a grandmother. She graduated from Taylor University in 1994 with a Bachelor of Arts in English Writing. In her new book, Deep Roots, Good Fruit, Kristin shares stories of the Holy Spirit's work in the midst of everyday life, and encourages you to reflect on how to grow the fruit of the Spirit in your life too.  She invites you to read her stories published weekly at The Palest Ink.Connect with Kristen:Website - The Palest Ink Get our free "Pray God's Promises" prayer guide. Go to Shannonpopkin.com/PROMISES/ for more information on my neww Bible study, Shaped by God's Promises: Lessons from Sarah on Fear and Faith. Get your free False Narrative Watchlist. Learn more at ShannonPopkin.com.

Can a Christian university create both spiritual depth and genuine joy? Dr. Michael Lindsay, President of Taylor University, reveals how his institution ranks #3 for happiest students nationwide while maintaining spiritual and academic rigor. In this episode, the Princeton-educated sociologist shares insights on developing faith-centered leaders, navigating college admissions, and integrating faith in the workplace.  https://www.taylor.edu/ https://x.com/dmichaellindsay Parent Practicum events are hosted around the globe each year, inspiring and equipping parents to become better “everyday educators.” Combining the encouragement of community, integration of ideas, and practice with the classical skills, Parent Practicum is a once-a-year parent investment.  Let us help you find a Parent Practicum event near you at www.ccpracticum.com

In this episode of Thinking Christian, Dr. James Spencer welcomes back Dr. May Young, Associate Professor and Department Chair of Biblical Studies at Taylor University, to discuss her newly published book, Walking with God Through the Valley: Rediscovering the Purpose of Biblical Lament. Together, they explore the ancient Near Eastern context of lament, its unique role in Scripture, and its relevance for modern Christians. Discover how biblical lament contrasts with the practices of Israel’s neighbors, emphasizing a direct and intimate relationship with God. Learn why lament is essential for cultivating hope and resilience and how neglecting it can subtly erode our faith. Dr. Young also shares practical insights on engaging with lament personally and communally, and how this spiritual practice can deepen our intimacy with God—even in life’s mundane and difficult moments. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation about rediscovering lament as a vital part of the Christian life. Plus, find out how to get 20% off Dr. Young’s book through InterVarsity Press using the exclusive discount code below. To connect with James, visit usefultogod.com or get his latest book Serpents and Doves: Christians, Politics, and the Art of Bearing Witness on amazon.com. You can also take the Serpents and Doves online course here. You can purchase Dr. Young's book at ivpress.com (use IVPPOD20 for a 20% discount). Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Chris Balkema was sworn in as the new Senator for the state's 53rd District. As part of the 104th General Assembly, Balkema steps into the role with a promise to diligently serve and address the needs of his constituents. Before this, he built a robust political and professional background, notably serving as the Chairman of the Grundy County Board and holding leadership positions at Caterpillar. Balkema plans to collaborate closely with local leaders to foster positive change across the 13 counties within his district. His proactive engagement has already seen him meeting with numerous mayors to fully grasp district-wide priorities. His tenure is now eagerly anticipated as he advocates for growth and unity throughout Illinois. Senator Balkema has a Bachelor of Science in Business Systems from Taylor University and an MBA from Bradley University. He and his wife of 26 years reside in Channahon and are parents of two sons in college.

The Navy Midshipmen broke a three-year losing streak to the Army Black Knights.The Blake Horvath show! He led the Navy in rushing and passing. Travis Hunter won the Heisman trophy. Baseball free-agency is heating up with some great players still out on the market. The Silent Night game from Taylor University was wild and crazy. Thanks for listening and enjoy the rest of your Sports Weekend. We will be back next week with Episode 249. The 250th will be the end of the year special.

The guys lead off with the epic, all-Indiana battle between IU and Notre Dame to begin the first ever 12-team College Football Playoff. Also, the Colts face a virtual must-win in Denver coming off the bye, why the Pacers aren't worth your time right now, and Jake shares his first Silent Night experience at Taylor University.

In this episode, Kelsi talks with author, Amy Mantravadi, about her new historical novel Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, released by 1517 Publishing last month. Amy talks about her journey to Reformation theology and history, and why she decided to write a novel detailing the feud between Erasmus and Martin Luther which began in 1524. Amy Mantravadi lives in Dayton, Ohio with her husband, Jai, and their son, Thomas. She holds a B.A. in biblical literature and political science from Taylor University and received her M.A. in international security from King's College London. In addition to writing essays on theological topics, she also writes historical fiction and has two novels about the Reformation forthcoming. She also previously hosted the (A)Millennial podcast. Show Notes: ⁠Support 1517⁠ ⁠1517 Podcasts⁠ ⁠The 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠1517 on Youtube⁠ More from Kelsi: ⁠Kelsi Klembara⁠ ⁠ Follow Kelsi on Instagram⁠ ⁠Follow Kelsi on Twitter⁠ ⁠Kelsi's Newsletter⁠ Subscribe to the Show: ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠Youtube⁠ More from Amy: Order Broken Bonds Amy's Substack Follow Amy on X

00:00-24:13- Jimmy has yet to return from his vacation, but Jake has plenty of news to share. Jake starts with what is fruit cake. Jake recaps and previews the upcoming sports schedule. Then Jake moves on to the Notre Dame/IU matchup, where College Football Fans in Indiana could be torn. 24:13-36:24- South Bend Tribune's Tom Noie joins. Noie discusses Notre Dame facing IU in the College Football Playoff, what the feeling is in South Bend after Sunday's draw, and more. Also, who's the biggest impact player for the Irish in the upcoming playoffs. 36:24-44:22- Jake discusses the 113-109 loss by the Pacers to the Charlotte Hornets on Sunday. Tyrese Haliburton scored only nine points, a season low for him at home. 44:22-1:07:56- The Dean, Mike Chappell of FOX59/CBS4 joins. Chappell breaks down the important game for the Colts in Denver coming up on Sunday, the Colts' playoff hopes, and more. Also, Chapp shares his thoughts on if the Colts can be trusted this season. 1:07:56-1:20:42- The Voice of the Hoosiers Don Fischer joins. Fischer shares his thoughts on IU traveling to Notre Dame for the first round of the CFP, the Hoosiers upgrades over the season, and more. 1:20:42-1:30:34- Jake shares his experience at Taylor University's “Silent Night” game this past Friday. 1:30:34-1:54:23- Jake shares his thoughts on Purdue hiring Barry Odum as their next Head Football Coach. Jake then circles back to the College Football Playoff and the field of 12. Jake takes listener phone calls on who they're rooting for on December 20th. Also, Jakes' thoughts on what went wrong for the Pacers on Sunday night. If Tyrese Haliburton is hurt, why aren't the Pacers sitting him? 1:54:23-2:08:16- Steve Cofield from ESPN Radio Las Vegas joins. Cofield shares what Purdue is getting in new Head Coach Barry Odom, what impresses him about Odom, and more. Also, will any UNLV coaches be following Odom to West Lafayette. 2:08:16-2:18:19- Jake wraps up with a look ahead for the Pacers. Also, the Colts with a big game in Denver and how the NFL Playoffs could look.Support the show: https://1075thefan.com/query-and-company/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whitney Cerak and Laura van Ryn were involved in a tragic accident in April of 2006. They were both students at Taylor University in Indiana, when a van they were riding in collided with a semi truck a top speed and several people were killed instantly. In the aftermath, a mistake was discovered, leading to a heartbreaking revelation for both the Cerak and Van Ryn families. Whitney and Laura's story gained significant media attention and raised discussions about identity and loss. Their experiences were later chronicled in books and a documentary, exploring themes of forgiveness and resilience. Find the book here: https://a.co/d/bl5Zuri Click here to join our Patreon.  Connect with us on Instagram and join our Facebook group.  To submit listener stories or case suggestions, and to see all sources for this episode: https://www.inhumanpodcast.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Lindsay, President of Taylor University, joins the show to share how the principles of grace and truth guide his leadership, especially in the turbulent times facing Christian higher education.Michael tells us why he believes the pandemic elevated expectations for the value proposition of biblical higher ed and how Christian leaders can turn these challenges into opportunities. He also provides insights into a successful fundraising campaign for some of Taylor's exciting projects, including community outreach and campus expansions.Tune in to hear how Taylor University is helping to shape the next generation of Christian leaders through discipleship initiatives.Join us as we discuss:[5:17] Finding the motivation in a college president's work[13:16] How Taylor University is giving back to their community [18:59] Discipleship and seeking counsel from your predecessorsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:ABHE 78th Annual MeetingHinge Moments: Making the Most of Life's Transitions by Michael LindsayPresidential Fellows Program - Taylor UniversityTo hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this conversation, Russ Ramsey talks about the power of art, beauty, and storytelling - and how they can help us make sense of the brokenness in our world. Russ is the author of books like "Rembrandt is in the Wind" and "Van Gogh Has a Broken Heart," where he dives into the lives and works of these iconic artists. And what he uncovers is so much more than just the paintings themselves. It's about the human experience - the joy, the suffering, the hope that these artists poured into their art. We talk about how engaging with beauty and art, can actually be a window into understanding the glory of God. And how even in the midst of tragedy and heartbreak, art can help us find language for our own struggles and emotions. Russ also shares some incredible stories behind famous works of art - like the Mona Lisa and why it became so famous. Spoiler alert: it's not because of the painting itself! So get ready for a rich, thought-provoking conversation about the intersection of faith, art, and the human experience. Russ has so much wisdom to share, so join us. Russ Ramsey grew up in the wheatfields of Indiana. He studied at Taylor University and Covenant Theological Seminary (MDiv, ThM) before becoming a pastor. He and his family live in Franklin, Tennessee. Russ is the author of Van Gogh has a Broken Heart: What Art Teaches Us About the Wonder and Struggle of Being Alive (Zondervan 2024) and Rembrandt is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art through the Eyes of Faith (Zondervan, 2022).Russ' Book:Van Gogh Has a Broken HeartRuss' Recommendation:Mary OliverJoin Our Patreon for Early Access and More: PatreonConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcastConsider 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 belowLight in the DarknessA supernatural & paranormal podcast with Christian perspectiveListen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Friar TimeThrough meaningful interviews and heartfelt conversations, Friar Time, hosted by Fr....Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

Greg Dyson, Campus Pastor at Taylor University, teaches from John 13. This is part two of our series "Around the Table." Greg specifically taught about Jesus washing the disciples' feet, and challenged us to serve like Jesus. He encouraged us to do the "little" things, because by living out or faith doing little things we prove that we have a faith. Pastor Steve Gill closes us with some final thoughts and a prayer.

Stories Series: God Delights in His Children with Pastor Brad Habegger   1 Peter 5:7 (NIV) "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."   Questions or Topics We Cover: Reflecting back, can you identify any specific habits or experiences that seemed to be catalysts for deepening your faith? How did God show you He sees our individual needs and delights in blessing His children? What are a few of your favorite stories that come to mind from working with children for so many years?   Brad Habegger has been attending Grace Church since he was five years old and attended the children's ministries he now oversees as the Associate Pastor of Children's Ministries. After graduating from Morton High School, he earned a degree in Christian Education from Taylor University. For the next 12 years, he served as Program Director and later Executive Director at Camp of Champions USA (COCUSA), a Christian summer day camp. In November 2014, he became Grace Church's first Children's Ministry Pastor. Brad and his wife, Cali, were married in September 2004 and have two daughters. In addition to being a faithful mom, Cali works a few days a week as a sign language interpreter at Illinois State. Brad likes playing basketball and tennis and following the St. Louis Cardinals and college basketball.   Thank You to Our Sponsor: Sam Leman Eureka   Connect with The Savvy Sauce on Facebook or Instagram or Our Website   Also, check out our Patreon Page to find out how to gain access to additional podcasts and goodies!   Please help us out by sharing this episode with a friend, leaving a 5-star rating and review, and subscribing to this podcast!   Gospel Scripture: (all NIV)   Romans 3:23 “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,”   Romans 3:24 “and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”   Romans 3:25 (a) “God presented him as a sacrifice of atonement, through faith in his blood.”    Hebrews 9:22 (b) “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”    Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”    Romans 5:11 “Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.”    John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”   Romans 10:9 “That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”    Luke 15:10 says “In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”   Romans 8:1 “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”   Ephesians 1:13–14 “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation. Having believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession- to the praise of his glory.”   Ephesians 1:15–23 “For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength, which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.”   Ephesians 2:8–10 “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God‘s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.“   Ephesians 2:13 “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.“   Philippians 1:6 “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

This week I speak with Jasman and Juanita Rolle. Jasman is a christian creative coach with a heart to see others excel in their areas of giftedness. He is a graduate of Taylor University in Upland, Indiana, with a degree in Music Marketing. Jasman is an international-award-winning songwriter, and has worked in a number of capacities within the Music industry. Jasman is the founder of Purposed 365 and Higher Level Agency. Jasman and his amazing wife Juanita are blessed with 7 wonderful children. Juanita is an author, speaker, vocalist, and life coach. She is a woman working in her purpose. As CEO and founder of Beautiful Inside and Out LLC and the BIO women's conference, Juanita has been poised to teach, train, and coach women in the Art of saying Yes to God so that they can make a meaningful impact in the world using their gifts and talents. She has more recently offered her knowledge and expertise to women in the area of marital relationships by launching “The Wife Life Coach podcast.”  She is excited to be of service in an area that she says is underserved. When Juanita is not coaching or speaking, you can find her on stage with her family group, The Bomparts, as seen on Nickelodeon's Americas Most Musical family.  When she's not on stage, Juanita enjoys relishing new experiences and  exploring great adventures with her amazing husband, Jasman, and their 7 beautiful children.  Juanita has a heart for widows and the fatherless and thus has founded a nonprofit organization, The Elijah Project, to help educate and equip widows with resources that give them support so they may thrive using their God-given gifts and talents. @IPOPCreativesIn Purpose On Purpose Creatives workshop on August 15th In Franklin TN@Beautifuliocoachingwww.beautifuliocoaching.com@wifelifecoachpodcastwww.thewifelifecoach.comThe Blended Purposed Podcast

Dear Pennies and Pallers, Letter one comes from Caleb, who writes to us from Burning Man! In letter two, Greg loves reffing and wants to know what we've tried that has exceeded our expectations. We also talk the 12 Days of Christmas, pickles and bacon, Taylor University, and more! We wish you well, sincerely, Your Pen Pals Daniel Van Kirk and Rory ScovelSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.