Podcasts about Temptation

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There is something almost frightening about the stories preserved for us in the Evergetinos. They are frightening not because they portray extraordinary wickedness, but because they reveal how quietly the heart can change. The monk described by Palladios is not a beginner. He is a man of profound silence and prayer, one who has surrendered himself so completely to God that even the necessities of his bodily life have been entrusted to Providence. His life has become contemplation. Prayer is his delight. God provides for him in a miraculous manner. He has tasted something of the life of the age to come. And yet the beginning of his fall is almost imperceptible. He sleeps a little longer. His prayer becomes somewhat shorter. His attention wanders. Earthly concerns begin to occupy a little more space within him. Thoughts once immediately rejected are permitted to remain for a moment. Nothing, at first, seems catastrophic. That is precisely the warning. The Fathers understood that the great falls of the spiritual life rarely begin as great falls. They begin with small permissions. Something formerly guarded carefully is treated casually. Something that once troubled the conscience is dismissed as insignificant. A thought is entertained rather than rejected. Prayer is postponed. Vigilance relaxes. A little comfort is allowed to become necessary. The heart whispers that such things hardly matter. But they matter because the heart matters. There is something extraordinarily precious hidden within the human person: the place of communion with God. The Fathers speak of guarding the heart so insistently because they know what has been entrusted to us. Grace has entered there. The Name has been received there. Desire for God has been awakened there. A fire has been kindled that does not originate in ourselves. The spiritual life, therefore, is not primarily the anxious avoidance of infractions. It is the guarding of a treasure. This changes how we understand vigilance. We do not guard ourselves because God is waiting to punish the smallest mistake. We guard ourselves because love is delicate. Communion can be obscured. Desire can cool. The eye of the heart can become clouded. What has become luminous through prayer can gradually become opaque again. The evil one understands this very well. He does not always attempt to tear a person immediately away from God. With someone who has given himself deeply to prayer, such an assault might be too obvious. Instead, he waits. He works through what appears negligible. A little negligence. A little self-confidence. A little relaxation of watchfulness. A thought that seems harmless enough to entertain. The enemy is patient because he knows that a heart need not renounce God explicitly in order gradually to lose sight of Him. Palladios gives us an extraordinary image of this darkening in the bread. At first the monk receives heavenly bread, pure and provided by God. As his interior life becomes disordered, the bread appears grimy and gnawed. Later it is almost entirely spoiled. What is happening visibly to the bread corresponds to what is happening invisibly within the monk. The gift has not ceased to be gift, but his capacity to receive it has become corrupted. The tragedy is not simply that temptation has appeared. Temptation comes to everyone. The decisive moment comes earlier: he notices the diminishment and does not respond to it. He regards the first symptoms as trivial. This is one of the most penetrating insights in the story. The monk does not suddenly decide to abandon his vocation. He fails to take seriously the cooling of his love. The Fathers would have us become sensitive to precisely this. When prayer becomes burdensome, notice. When mercy toward another begins to disappear, notice. When resentment becomes pleasurable, notice. When the imagination begins feeding upon something we would once have rejected, notice. When silence becomes uncomfortable and distraction increasingly necessary, notice. When we begin excusing in ourselves what once brought us immediately to repentance, notice. Not because every movement of weakness is a catastrophe, but because small movements reveal the direction in which the heart is turning. The story attributed to St. Maximos makes the warning still more sobering. The young monk possesses astonishing spiritual authority. Even wild animals obey him. Those around him naturally interpret such gifts as evidence of sanctity. St. Anthony is less impressed. He sees a ship filled with precious cargo and says, in effect: Yes—but will it reach the harbor? Everything is contained in that image. Grace received is not yet grace preserved. Virtue acquired is not yet virtue safely possessed. Spiritual gifts are not guarantees. Years of asceticism are not guarantees. Miracles are not guarantees. The harbor is reached only through perseverance. This is why Maximos interprets the command to “turn away from evil, and do good” as something more than the avoidance of sin. We must fight to diminish the passions; we must labor to acquire the virtues; and then—we must remain awake in order to preserve what has been given. He connects this with Adam's vocation in Eden: to cultivate and to keep. The heart is a garden. Grace cultivates it with us. Prayer waters it. Tears soften its soil. The remembrance of God makes it fruitful. Virtue slowly becomes something beautiful and living within us. But the garden must also be kept. Perhaps this is why the Fathers can appear severe about things modern people consider insignificant. Their severity is not necessarily born from fear. At its deepest, it arises from wonder. They know what the heart can become. They have seen human beings filled with God. They have seen the mind made luminous through prayer, the passions transfigured, the hardened heart made merciful, and ordinary human beings become bearers of the Holy Spirit. Having seen such things, they cannot regard anything that gradually extinguishes that life as trivial. The treasure is too precious. And yet neither story finally teaches despair. Palladios' monk awakens. Remarkably, his awakening comes while he is teaching others. He hears himself speaking truths that he has ceased to live, and suddenly sees himself. The contradiction becomes unbearable. He runs back into the desert, casts himself upon the ground, and repents. God receives him. The angel's words are filled with mercy: “God has accepted your repentance and has had mercy on you.” Something has nevertheless changed. The miraculous bread does not return. His remaining years are marked by mourning. This is not because God refuses forgiveness. Rather, the story preserves the terrible seriousness of freedom. Forgiveness is complete, yet our choices are real. Grace is not magic, and repentance does not make our history unreal. The Fathers hold together what we so often separate: immense mercy and immense seriousness. Never despair. But never presume. Never imagine that a fall places you beyond the mercy of God. But never imagine that what darkens the heart is therefore insignificant. The Christian life is lived between these truths. Perhaps the most important question, then, is not simply, Have I committed some great sin? It may be much quieter: What is happening to my desire for God? Is the flame growing brighter or dimmer? Is prayer becoming more truthful or merely habitual? Is my heart becoming softer or harder? Am I becoming freer to love, or increasingly absorbed in myself? Have I begun calling “small” those things that slowly make me forget the One whom I love? The evil one is willing to wait. He knows that great falls can grow from tiny seeds of forgetfulness. We too must learn to wait—but differently. We remain before God. We keep the heart. We cultivate the garden. We guard the treasure. And when we discover even the smallest cooling of love, we do not panic and we do not despair. We turn again toward Christ. Immediately. Simply. Humbly. For vigilance, rightly understood, is not living in terror that we might lose God. It is living with the knowledge that nothing is more precious than having found Him. --- Text of chat during the group: 00:08:19 Fr. Charbel Abernethy: Page 61 Section C 00:14:06 Jacqulyn Dudasko: I received my books today! Even had a bit of time to start reading!

Send us Fan MailThe devil told three great lies in the Garden of Eden—and he still wants us to believe those same lies today.In this episode, we expose these three lies and look at how they can quietly creep into our thinking: causing us to distrust God, minimize the consequences of sin, and seek happiness apart from Him.We'll also look at how Catholics can resist these lies through trust and obedience, repentance and Confession, and the humility modeled for us by the Blessed Virgin Mary.The devil's lies don't always sound like lies. Sometimes they sound surprisingly reasonable. The question is: could we be believing them without realizing it?Support the showSupport this show and get all future episodes by email atwww.kenandjanelle.com

We are all faced with moments of temptation. In those times Satan is trying to entice us to disobey God. He is masterful at his craft and so subtle, until we often don’t even realize in that moment what is happening. In this sermon Brother Luke looks at those moments and how to prepare ahead …

You ever notice how your worst decisions show up right when you're running on empty?  Tired. Stressed. Worn down. And in that moment, you tell yourself it's no big deal…you can handle it.  That's not strength. That's exactly when you're most exposed.  In this 5-Minute Drill episode of Coming Up Clutch with J.R.™, J.R. breaks down why temptation isn't random. This episode targets a specific window of vulnerability and gives you a simple 3-step strategy to defend it. He shares the story of one of the darkest seasons of his own life, a nearly four-year stretch where exhaustion and isolation led him into the worst decisions he's ever made…and the wake-up call that turned it all around.  This episode is about one powerful truth: The enemy doesn't need you to be evil. He just needs you to be exhausted. So stop waiting until you're already depleted to defend yourself. Start recognizing your danger zones before they cost you everything. In this episode, you'll hear: Why your worst decisions cluster around fatigue, stress, and isolation…and what that reveals about how temptation actually works. J.R.'s personal story of the darkest season of his life, and the isolation that nearly cost him his marriage, career, and life. The research on sleep deprivation and decision-making, and why your prefrontal cortex essentially goes offline when you're exhausted. How chronic stress and cortisol impair memory, weaken your immune system, and erode emotional regulation. King David's downfall in 2 Samuel, and how an idle, isolated king became vulnerable to the decision that defined his legacy. Why isolation, not weakness, is the enemy's favorite setup. The 3-step Drill to recognize your Danger Zones and defend against them before they devour you. What you'll walk away with… You'll learn how to: Identify your personal dangerzones…the conditions and circumstances that make you most vulnerable to bad decisions. Build a daily check-in practice to pause, reflect, and catch exposure before it becomes a crisis. Reframe isolation as the real threat, not a sign of strength. Stay connected to 1-2 people you can call for anything…before you need them, not after. Show up more alert, more guarded, and more ready to play offense in your career, leadership, and home. KEY QUOTES "The enemy doesn't need you to be evil. He just needs you to be exhausted." - J.R. "Just because you're surrounded by people doesn't mean you can't feel alone." - J.R. "You're not weak for needing help, you're wise for asking for it." - J.R. "Being surrounded isn't the same as being supported." - J.R. NEXT STEPS Listen to the full episode: https://jamesreid.com/episode372  Want to bring your best home more consistently? Take the Invisible Four™ Assessment and uncover what's quietly blocking you: https://jamesreid.com/assessment Follow J.R. on Social (@jamesJRreid): Facebook | Instagram | Linkedin | X | YouTube Visit J.R.'s website: https://jamesreid.com RATE & REVIEW this episode on Apple: https://jamesreid.com/review. We'd love it if you could drop a review or 5-star rating! Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. SHARE this episode with someone who wants to be challenged, pushed, and positioned to come up clutch more often. SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss out on any new episodes and Special Guests! Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. LISTEN to previous episodes on Apple, Spotify, or whatever podcast platform you prefer!

Today's Promise: 1 John 5:4 Every Christian faces the pressure of a world that is constantly pulling us away from God. Temptation, sin, and the values of our culture can make us wonder if we can really live a victorious Christian life. But God's Word gives us a powerful promise: "Whatever is born of God overcomes the world." Your victory is not found in your own strength or ability. It comes through faith in Jesus Christ.   In today's Daily Promise, we look at what it means to live as an overcomer. Jesus has already won the victory through His death and resurrection, and that victory is available to you today. You don't have to wait until heaven to experience it.   You are a new creation in Christ. You can stand firm, resist the pull of the world, and walk in the victory Jesus has secured for you. Through faith, you can overcome the world.

In DTWOL... Identity* we dive into... who are you... and who possesses the authority to answer that question? In a world constantly assigning labels, encouraging self-definition, and telling us to look within; Identity* dives beneath what can be seen on the surface to examine what the only true God says is true about humanity—and about those who are in Christ. From what was true FORMERLY, to the life-changing intervention of BUT GOD, we discover that biblical identity is not something we manufacture, achieve, or earn; it begins with the Creator and, for the disciple, is made new in Jesus Christ. And when the only true God changes what is happening under the skin, new desires, new affections, and a new direction increasingly become evident in the way His disciples walk, talk, and live. So perhaps the question isn't merely, “Who am I?”—but something considerably deeper: “Whose am I?”God's Word: Key Verses: Genesis 1:26–27; Ephesians 2:1–5; Colossians 1:13–14; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ezekiel 36:26–27; Additional Scripture references are woven throughout the Godcast and can be gleaned from the full transcript. Amen? Email: walkingtheway3@gmail.com

Bay Shore is a multi-campus, non-denominational church based in Millsboro, Delaware, with campuses in Rehoboth Beach and Fenwick Island — one church in multiple locations.Our mission is to connect to God, connect to people, and serve our community. We've created a culture where anyone can belong before they believe, offering a home of faith to those who don't have one.Rehoboth Campus:Address: 19331 Lighthouse Plaza, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971Sunday Services: 8:30AM, 9:45AM, 11AM (each about an hour)Environments for babies (6 weeks–Pre-K) and kids (K–5th grade) are available during each service.• • Expect live music, practical messages, and a relaxed, casual atmosphere — come as you are!

FOLLOWING JESUS If you are deciding to follow Jesus, click here: https://www.xrchurch.com/new-life-in-jesus PRAYER You can share your prayer request or praise report by clicking here: https://www.xrchurch.com/prayer JOIN US IN PERSON For location & service times https://www.xrchurch.com/visit GIVE Your generosity is making a difference! To worship the Lord through your giving and support the growth of what God is building through Crossroads Church, click here: https://www.xrchurch.com/give 

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Ryan Michler and Kipp Sorensen tackle four powerful questions in this week's Ask Me Anything, covering stepfatherhood, confidence versus arrogance, addiction and sobriety, and the challenge of coaching your own child. They discuss why a biological father and a dad aren't necessarily the same thing, how confidence is earned, why temptation may never completely disappear, and how fathers can balance high standards with grace. Ryan also gets candid about a time he pushed a young athlete too hard and reflects on what truly matters when raising and leading children. The episode closes with an invitation to the upcoming Order of Man War Room.   SHOW HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 - Episode Introduction 00:37 - Wholesome Segment: Guns and Shooting 09:54 - Viewer Questions Begin 10:17 - Stepfatherhood and the Meaning of "Dad" 19:08 - Confidence vs. Arrogance 26:06 - Sobriety, Temptation and Addiction 35:26 - Coaching Your Own Child 46:13 - War Room Invitation and Closing   Battle Planners: Pick yours up today! Order Ryan's new book, The Masculinity Manifesto. For more information on the Iron Council brotherhood. Want maximum health, wealth, relationships, and abundance in your life? Sign up for our free course, 30 Days to Battle Ready  

Pastor Sean Azzaro interviews actor, director, and Fellowship for Performing Arts founder Max McLean, known for his stage work bringing C.S. Lewis to life and for recording the NIV Listener's Bible (along with ESV and King James). McLean shares how The Screwtape Letters stage adaptation began nearly 20 years ago, why Lewis's “morally inverted universe” offers unique insight into spiritual warfare, and how the character Toadpipe helped make the show theatrical. They discuss The Most Reluctant Convert, a docudrama drawn from Surprised by Joy about Lewis's conversion, Lewis's lasting relevance, and McLean's mission to integrate faith and theater. Screwtape comes to San Antonio's Tobin Center August 30 at 3:00 PM,00:00 Show Intro and Tease01:26 Discovering C.S. Lewis02:58 Screwtape Tobin Details04:15 Interview Begins Max McLean04:23 Recording the Audio Bible05:28 Why Adapt Screwtape07:34 Staging and Toadpipe09:43 Lewis Wit and Temptation11:33 Most Reluctant Convert13:00 Why Lewis Still Matters16:23 Fellowship for Performing Arts18:12 Screwtape Film Plans19:10 Post Interview Reactions20:35 Humor Quote and Truth21:33 Church Invite and Wrap22:38 Final Thanks and Goodbye

Pastor Sean Azzaro interviews actor, director, and Fellowship for Performing Arts founder Max McLean, known for his stage work bringing C.S. Lewis to life and for recording the NIV Listener's Bible (along with ESV and King James). McLean shares how The Screwtape Letters stage adaptation began nearly 20 years ago, why Lewis's “morally inverted universe” offers unique insight into spiritual warfare, and how the character Toadpipe helped make the show theatrical. They discuss The Most Reluctant Convert, a docudrama drawn from Surprised by Joy about Lewis's conversion, Lewis's lasting relevance, and McLean's mission to integrate faith and theater. Screwtape comes to San Antonio's Tobin Center August 30 at 3:00 PM,00:00 Show Intro and Tease01:26 Discovering C.S. Lewis02:58 Screwtape Tobin Details04:15 Interview Begins Max McLean04:23 Recording the Audio Bible05:28 Why Adapt Screwtape07:34 Staging and Toadpipe09:43 Lewis Wit and Temptation11:33 Most Reluctant Convert13:00 Why Lewis Still Matters16:23 Fellowship for Performing Arts18:12 Screwtape Film Plans19:10 Post Interview Reactions20:35 Humor Quote and Truth21:33 Church Invite and Wrap22:38 Final Thanks and Goodbye

How should we view those who say they're saved yet keep on sinning? And what if they end up in jail or prison? Why does the Lord's Prayer say "lead us not into temptation"? Why does Jesus talk about getting a return that's a hundredfold or sixtyfold or thirtyfold? What's He talking about?

Christ can give us the words to send the devil away. He can give us the words to rebuke the devil. In this message, Jill Briscoe gives us tools to handle temptation, even as we see it lived out in the life of Jesus.Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'” To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/508/29?v=20251111

In this episode, Sathya sits down with Noah Filipiak to explore pornography addiction, childhood emotional needs, marriage, entitlement, and the path to genuine freedom. Noah shares how his struggle with pornography began in middle school but was rooted in deeper emotional needs formed during childhood. Despite being deeply involved in Christian ministry, the addiction continued through his youth and college years until he recognized that freedom required vulnerability, accountability, and community. Noah also discusses how purity expectations within Christian culture contributed to entitlement and resentment in his early marriage, eventually leading to relapse and damaging both his marriage and relationship with God. He explains how faulty theology shaped his belief that righteousness should result in a “sexual payoff,” and how God challenged that mindset by showing him that he didn't need what he believed he deserved, but instead needed to receive His mercy and grace. That shift from entitlement to gratitude transformed Noah's marriage and relationship with God and ultimately shaped his mission to help other men find freedom from pornography.    SATHIYA'S RESOURCES: Free Recovery Book (The Last Relapse) Join the brotherhood (DeepClean Inner Circle) Live Training To Quit Porn For Good   NOAH'S RESOURCES: Visit the website Check out the community group   Timestamps: 01:15 Porn addiction from childhood, struggles, key role of community and grace in recovery. 06:15 Entitlement from purity theology, sexual needs reframed as emotional connection/ intimacy. 26:10 Structured groups & alumni for vulnerability, accountability, healing beyond addiction. 36:34 Overwork due to insecurity, need for boundaries and margin in life and recovery. 41:36 40-day Psalm devotional for finding God's shelter and presence amid unresolved hardships. 49:37 God's design requires care and patience, rewards are deep and lasting versus fleeting fixes. 55:33 Beyond the Battle community and Noah's website as critical tools for ongoing recovery support.

Sometimes the strongest opposition comes right before God does something incredible.In this episode of ThisIsKingdom, we discuss Elder Renlund's General Conference message "Because of Jesus Christ"and share personal experiences about temptation, preparing for missions, trusting God, and remembering that every trial is an opportunity to rely more fully on Jesus Christ.If you're facing doubt, discouragement, temptation, or wondering why life feels especially difficult right now, this conversation is for you.Because of Jesus Christ, you are never fighting alone.⏱️ Timestamps0:00 Big church changes & exciting announcement2:32 Introducing this week's episode3:07 Hollis' mission call story (Thailand)5:12 "Every temptation is an opportunity to depend on Jesus."8:02 Temptation doesn't mean you're failing10:15 Why Satan fights hardest before something good13:06 Learning to rely on Christ instead of yourself15:37 Alma 7 — Jesus knows exactly how to help you17:50 Looking for evidence that God is working20:35 "Something good must be coming."22:48 Joshua 3:5 — God is preparing miracles25:22 "Mission is all that matters."28:18 What should your sticky note say?31:18 Weekly Challenge32:48 Closing testimony & music

In the opening chapter of James, trials and temptations reveal two very different paths. Trials can become places where God tests and strengthens our faith, producing steadfastness and spiritual maturity. Temptation, however, draws us through disordered desires toward sin and ultimately death. The wisdom of God teaches us how to recognize the difference and respond faithfully. Our instinct is often to escape pressure as quickly as possible, but the pressure of a trial may be the very thing God is using to form something deeper within us. Instead of only asking God to remove the difficulty, James invites us to look beyond the pain and recognize what God may be producing through it. When temptation comes, wisdom also calls us to look within and identify the desires, patterns, and behaviors that repeatedly lure us toward sin. Finally, James directs our eyes above, reminding us that every good and perfect gift comes from a Father who does not change. We can navigate trials and temptation by looking ahead, looking within, and fixing our eyes on Jesus. 

1. Five Years ago, I Preached on this. 2. Why Did the King James Version State that People Can Have Their Names Blotted out of the Book of Life? 3. Both Moses and Paul Are Willing to Be Lost that Their own People Would Be Saved. 4. Other Passages in Revelation Teach that People's Names Were Written in the Lamb's Book of Life Before the Foundation of the World. 6. Everything We Have Ever Done, Said, or Temptation we Have Embraced Has Been Written Down. 7. The Lord Jesus Was Tempted in Every Way we Have, but He Never Sinned. 8. How Can I Know my Name Has Been Written in the Lamb's Book of Life? 9. There Are False Christians who Leave the Church. 10. The Proof of my Being a True Christian Is that I Persevere in Christ.

In Galatians 4:1–20, Paul reminds us that because God has adopted us as His children through Christ, we must continue growing in Christ and resist the temptation to return to slavery. I. The Adoption of the Galatians (vv. 1–7) II. The Temptation of the Galatians (vv. 8–11) III. The Exhortation to the Galatians (vv. 12–20) A. Consider how you received me. (vv.12–15) B. Consider what has changed. (vv. 16–17) C. Consider what I desire for you. (vv.18–20)

Episode Summary James warns that a double-minded man is unstable in all his ways. Jim Van Gelderen explains how the soul can be driven by changing circumstances, moving between faith and doubt and often producing anger, discouragement, or sinful coping. This message diagnoses the danger of a divided soul and points toward the engrafted Word as the answer developed in the next episode. Topics Discussed The meaning of saving the soul within Christian sanctification The spirit, soul, and flesh in the Christian life How circumstances and sensory evidence can produce wavering faith The connection between unbelief, anger, discouragement, and sinful coping Lessons from Elijah after Mount Carmel and Israel at Jericho Prayer opportunities for WAR Special Forces and the Thee Generation Youth Summit Key Takeaways Spiritual instability grows when circumstances decide whether God can be trusted. The flesh cannot be reformed; it must be crucified as the believer depends upon Christ. Unchecked doubt often expresses itself through anger, discouragement, or destructive responses. The Word of God remains true even when sensory evidence appears to say otherwise. Recognizing a double-souled condition prepares the heart to receive the engrafted Word with meekness. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.

The world is full of temptations, and the devil is constantly offering anything we could want in return for our soul to stay dead in trespasses and sins. Jesus came and died for us, making it possible to be saved. The only way for our soul to be in eternity with God forever is by choosing to deny the temptations of this world and our flesh and follow Jesus.

C-Temptation is back with us on the program. She always brings passion and knowledge to the program. Let's get into it.

C-Temptation is back with us on the program. She always brings passion and knowledge to the program. Let's get into it.

In this lesson from the Gate of Fear of Heaven (Shaar Yirat Shamayim), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the deeper structure of the human soul through the concepts of nefesh, ruach, and neshamah. Drawing from the teachings of Orchot Tzaddikim, he explains that the nefesh is associated with physical desire, the ruach with emotion, honor, and ego, and the neshamah with the intellect and our highest spiritual aspirations. These three forces operate simultaneously within every person, creating the lifelong struggle between immediate physical gratification and the soul's desire for closeness to Hashem.Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that reality extends far beyond what our physical eyes can perceive. Spiritual causes and consequences may exist even when they are hidden from us. Through a story involving a businessman who sought guidance from a Kabbalistic sage, he illustrates the Torah perspective that our spiritual choices can influence aspects of life in ways that are not visible on the surface. The broader lesson is that Judaism asks us to look beyond the purely material world and recognize that our actions affect both the physical and spiritual dimensions of existence.The lesson then focuses on the central battle between intellect and emotion. The heart may crave what feels pleasurable in the moment, even when the mind knows that the choice is harmful. Rabbi Wolbe uses the example of someone warned by a doctor to avoid unhealthy food who nevertheless places himself in a tempting environment and gradually rationalizes giving in. Spiritual maturity requires training the mind to govern the heart rather than allowing emotions and impulses to dictate our choices.Rabbi Wolbe concludes by describing life as an ongoing contest between the physical forces that pursue pleasure, wealth, honor, and comfort and the neshamah that continually asks a deeper question: What will bring me closer to Hashem? Whichever side we strengthen becomes more powerful. When physical desires dominate, spiritual sensitivity weakens. When the neshamah leads, humility, wisdom, and closeness to God flourish. The struggle itself is the purpose of life—and every choice gives us another opportunity to allow the highest part of ourselves to lead._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on February 23, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on August 12, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #FearOfHeaven, #YiratShamayim, #Nefesh, #Ruach, #Neshamah, #JewishSoul, #MindOverEmotion, #YetzerHara, #SelfControl, #InnerBattle, #LiveWithPurpose ★ Support this podcast ★

In this lesson from the Gate of Fear of Heaven (Shaar Yirat Shamayim), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the deeper structure of the human soul through the concepts of nefesh, ruach, and neshamah. Drawing from the teachings of Orchot Tzaddikim, he explains that the nefesh is associated with physical desire, the ruach with emotion, honor, and ego, and the neshamah with the intellect and our highest spiritual aspirations. These three forces operate simultaneously within every person, creating the lifelong struggle between immediate physical gratification and the soul's desire for closeness to Hashem.Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that reality extends far beyond what our physical eyes can perceive. Spiritual causes and consequences may exist even when they are hidden from us. Through a story involving a businessman who sought guidance from a Kabbalistic sage, he illustrates the Torah perspective that our spiritual choices can influence aspects of life in ways that are not visible on the surface. The broader lesson is that Judaism asks us to look beyond the purely material world and recognize that our actions affect both the physical and spiritual dimensions of existence.The lesson then focuses on the central battle between intellect and emotion. The heart may crave what feels pleasurable in the moment, even when the mind knows that the choice is harmful. Rabbi Wolbe uses the example of someone warned by a doctor to avoid unhealthy food who nevertheless places himself in a tempting environment and gradually rationalizes giving in. Spiritual maturity requires training the mind to govern the heart rather than allowing emotions and impulses to dictate our choices.Rabbi Wolbe concludes by describing life as an ongoing contest between the physical forces that pursue pleasure, wealth, honor, and comfort and the neshamah that continually asks a deeper question: What will bring me closer to Hashem? Whichever side we strengthen becomes more powerful. When physical desires dominate, spiritual sensitivity weakens. When the neshamah leads, humility, wisdom, and closeness to God flourish. The struggle itself is the purpose of life—and every choice gives us another opportunity to allow the highest part of ourselves to lead._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on February 23, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on August 12, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.orgv_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #FearOfHeaven, #YiratShamayim, #Nefesh, #Ruach, #Neshamah, #JewishSoul, #MindOverEmotion, #YetzerHara, #SelfControl, #InnerBattle, #LiveWithPurpose ★ Support this podcast ★

Temptation in marriage does not disappear just because you love your spouse. In this episode of Life After I Do, Nesha G and Moelethal talk about what temptation looks like, when it becomes dangerous, and why self-control matters more than blaming someone else for being attractive.The conversation covers gym culture, women being called distractions, emotional temptation, social media algorithms, validation, comparison, secrecy, and the difference between noticing someone and crossing a boundary. Nesha and Moe also discuss whether men and women experience temptation differently and whether a strong marriage makes you less tempted or simply better at handling it.Then Our 2 Cents brings listener stories about an affair with an ex-husband's best friend, a date who wanted to be reimbursed after rejection, and a partner who froze during a violent attack. This episode is funny, honest, layered, and full of the kind of real marriage conversation the Booskis expect.Send us Fan MailSupport the show Thanks for rocking with us! Don't forget to follow Life After I Do so you never miss an episode. Got a relationship situation you want us to weigh in on? Hit us at https://beacons.ai/laidpodcast — we just might talk about it in a future episode. 

“There was a boy called Eustace Clarence Scrubb, and he almost deserved it.”Join the gang as we dive into The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by C. S. Lewis. Our one word summaries tell the tale: Adventure, Temptation, Transformation, and Humility. We join Prince Caspian's search for the 7 lost lords of Narnia. Kate and the boys connected the lords to the 8 evil temptations. Eustace turned into a dragon so his outside would match his heart. It is interesting that he was unable to become a boy again by his own strength.Great Aslan quote: “I am the great bridge builder.”  Edmund, Lucy, and Eustace (their complaining cousin) are in the throes of action and danger as they join King Caspian on the Dawn Treader, are you ready to hop on board?Blessings dear listeners! Let's connect to reflect. For more on the eight evil temptations that tripped up these seven lords who were once good you can visit Recap Book Chat Episode 239

Genesis 39 - the story of Joseph in Potiphar's houseThe Book of Genesis Series - In The Beginning, God https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FD-EKLAyvI&list=PLrgvg1IJfGEoNskcuggMJPDwYu1n9alpmPastor Nate ClarkeAugust 9, 2026Virginia's proposed Constitutional amendments on Abortion & Marriage - How to VOTE BIBLICALLY: https://youtu.be/Y8z8xTFsOn8How should Christians respond to wickedness in the world? https://youtu.be/2OJUIM9YRwASERMON NOTES:- Genesis 39- Joseph was blessed by God- Find favor with God by living by faith according to His word- Keep doing that for a long time- Find favor with people through faithful work- Luke 2:52- Colossians 3:23-24- Proverbs 22:29- If you're faced with the decision to live in favor with God OR man, choose God and leave the consequences to Him. - Joseph resisted temptation- Proverbs 23:27a- How Joseph resisted temptation    - Call sin, sin- Genesis 39:9b    - Look at the people affected- Genesis 39:8-9    - See sin as an offense against God, because it is- Genesis 39:9b- Psalm 51:4    - If sexual temptation, run!- 1 Corinthians 15:58- Ephesians 6:11- 1 Corinthians 6:18- 2 Timothy 2:22- Proverbs 5:8- Joseph was free- Genesis 39:20-23- Genesis 42:20-22- James 1:13-15Oasis Church exists to Worship God, Equip the believers, and Reach the lost.We are led by Pastor Nate Clarke and are located in Mechanicsville outside Richmond in Central Virginia.STAY CONNECTEDInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/oasischurchva/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OasisChurchRVA/Website: https://oasischurch.online

The most dangerous temptation is discouragement. Throughout our lives we will meet obstacles, small and large. Even when we do good and what God calls us to do, we will ask at times, "Have I failed? Is God disappointed in me?" This temptation is a barrier to perseverance. It leads you to believe you are far from Our Lord. And ultimately, it compels us to give up unless we remember, through prayer, that God is always with us. That reality overcomes every temptation.

We live in a world that conditions us to strive—do more, achieve more, become more, and somehow find rest when everything is finally finished. But what if true rest was never meant to be something we manufacture, earn, or chase? In DTWOL… REST, we dive beneath physical relaxation and explore Jesus' invitation, “Come to Me… and I will give you rest,” discovering how faith, His finished work, waiting upon the Lord, and dependence upon His power bring rest to the soul. And we'll discover that biblical rest doesn't mean the disciple stops walking, serving, enduring, or even striving—it means we stop trying to accomplish in our own strength what only the only true God can supply. So… are you tired from the journey—or tired from trying to be the source of the strength needed for it?God's Word: Key Chapters: Matthew 11; Hebrews 3–4; Isaiah 40; John 14; Colossians 1Additional Scripture references are woven throughout the Godcast and can be gleaned from the full transcript. Amen?Email: walkingtheway3@gmail.com

Join Dan and Stephanie Burke as they answer your questions on the spiritual life. Don't miss out as they dive into what a temptation is versus a sin, and how mental illnesses play a role in your spiritual journey!

You are viewing the sermon given during the evening worship service at Reformed Baptist Church of McKinney, Texas on Sunday, August 09 , 2026 at 5:00 pm. The weekly live stream of the Worship service begins at 5:00 pm (US Central Time) every Lord's Day Sunday on facebook, youtube, and our website. For more information about the life of our church, visit our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://rbcmckinney.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠To support our ministry and give of your tithes and offerings, click on the link below: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://rbcmckinney.churchcenter.com/giving⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook/Instagram/X: @rbcmckinney McKinney, Texas

This week we continued the story of Joseph, picking up with his encounter with Potiphar's wife. We learn from this story to run away from temptation and to run toward the one who rescues us from temptation.

Genesis 22 opens at a moment of rest in Abraham's life. After decades of waiting, wandering, and trusting God through uncertainty, Isaac has finally arrived. The covenant promise is alive and breathing. And then God shows up with a command that seems to contradict everything He had promised. This is not a story about chaos. It is a story about what happens when we grow comfortable holding onto what God gave us, and whether we trust the Giver as much as we treasure the gift.The passage draws a clear line between temptation and testing. Temptation pulls us toward sin and away from God. Testing draws out what we truly trust and deepens faith through obedience. God did not test Abraham because He lacked information. He tested him to move faith from profession to demonstration. The same dynamic plays out in our own lives. The Isaac in your life is not necessarily something sinful. It may be something deeply good, a relationship, a career, a dream, a ministry, an answered prayer. The danger comes when a good gift begins to occupy the place that only belongs to God. Nothing created can carry the weight of being God in your life.Abraham's response to the command is striking. There is no recorded argument, no negotiation, no request for another sign. He rises early and starts walking. And he walks for three days, looking at his son, carrying a command that could not be reconciled with the promise he had held for decades. Somewhere on that road, he reasoned that God could raise the dead. He trusted the Promiser even when he could not understand the method. That is mature faith. It does not demand a complete map before taking the next faithful step. The story ultimately points beyond Abraham and Isaac to a greater sacrifice. Isaac is spared. Jesus is not. The ram dies in Isaac's place. Jesus dies in ours. The deepest provision God has ever made is not something He placed in our hands. It is Someone He gave in our place.

Temptation offers shortcuts that satisfy our feelings but cost us later, so we must trust God’s timing, resist compromising His plan, and patiently wait for His promises. … Source

Welcome to the Sunday Morning Worship Service of New Covenant Christian Ministries with Pastor Bill and Dr. D'Ann Johnson. Our mission is “Transforming all people into fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ.”  In today's sermon, Dr. D'Ann Johnson continues in the "Faith in 4K" series, focusing on when our faith is tempted..

If you died with Christ in baptism, how should you now live? Romans 6 calls every believer to stop letting sin reign and to walk in the new life of righteousness through prayer, obedience, the holy sacraments, and continual repentance.Drawing on the wisdom of the Church Fathers, this episode offers practical guidance for living the victory already won in baptism.Key takeaways:• Baptism is real participation in Christ's death—not mere symbolism• Temptation is not sin; yielding to it is• A life of prayer, fasting, Eucharist, and repentance keeps us free• Remember your baptism daily and refuse to return to the old ways

Overcoming pornography isn't just about what you do when temptation shows up. It's about learning to recognize what's happening in your heart before temptation ever becomes overwhelming.In this episode, we're exploring one of the most overlooked parts of recovery: the subtle tendencies that reveal your Hungry Heart long before you find yourself reaching for pornography.Maybe you withdraw from people.Maybe you become overly busy.Maybe you start scrolling mindlessly, procrastinating, feeling irritable, or chasing distraction.These moments may seem insignificant, but they're often the earliest signs that your heart is hungry and looking for relief.The sooner you recognize these patterns, the sooner you can respond with intention instead of reacting out of habit.This is the final episode in the Red Zone portion of the Personal Recovery Plan series. Once you learn to notice these early warning signs, you'll be ready to begin building your Green Zone - a personalized strategy for responding to your Hungry Heart in ways that actually bring life.In this episode, you'll learn:Why temptation rarely comes out of nowhere.How your daily tendencies reveal what's happening beneath the surface.The difference between reacting to temptation and recognizing it early.Why earlier awareness makes emotional regulation easier and more effective.How paying attention to small moments can lead to lasting freedom from pornDuring a Personal Recovery Plan Session, we'll uncover the patterns, tendencies, and Hungry Heart driving your struggle, then build a personalized roadmap to help you respond with clarity and confidence instead of simply reacting to temptation.Ready to stop guessing and build a recovery strategy that fits your story?Book your Personal Recovery Plan today:https://secrethabit.ca/call

Everyone faces temptation. Whether you are young, old, single, married, wealthy or poor, Satan wants to trap you in sin. That's not a new struggle. The early Christians faced the same battle. In this message, we continue learning from the book of James; we will learn key lessons about temptation and the way it can be defeated. We are praying for a breakthrough in your life!

God promises His presence, His strength, His wisdom, and His peace through every season.

Episode Summary In this Bible teaching from 1 Corinthians 10:12–13, Bobby Bosler places two familiar verses back into Paul's warning against idolatry and compromise. The Corinthians could excuse disobedience either by assuming they were already standing or by believing their circumstances left them no way to obey. This episode calls young people to reject both pride and despair, flee compromise, surrender to Jesus Christ, and depend on the faithful God who always provides grace to obey. Topics Discussed The Corinthian context of idol participation and personal rights Israel's wilderness failures as a warning to believers Spiritual pride and the danger of merely thinking you stand Hidden compromise beneath an outwardly godly appearance Why temptation is common rather than uniquely hopeless God's faithfulness, control, and promised way of escape Surrender to Christ and dependence on the Holy Spirit Key Takeaways Outward spirituality does not excuse hidden areas of disobedience. Pride says no correction is needed, while despair says obedience is impossible. No temptation makes you uniquely abandoned or beyond God's care. God remains faithful and provides the strength either to escape temptation or endure it obediently. Victory comes through surrender to Christ and dependence on the Holy Spirit, not self-confidence. Stop justifying compromise and obey the truth God has already made clear. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.

By William Paz - Temptation works by disguising itself. It shifts our focus and leads us to doubt God's Word and distrust His character. The way through temptation is to recognize its disguise and keep trusting the goodness and truth of God.

Ezekiel's Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@UC38bNJV-Z15_bObHOwCiPSA Deep End Websitehttps://deependtv.com

Some of us want comfort and happiness more than we want the will of God. For forty days in the wilderness, Jesus showed us how to depend on the Father. In this message, Pastor Lutzer explains how God's Word, work, and people protect us in our greatest temptations. What if our deepest desires can only be fulfilled in God? To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29?v=20251111

In a barren wilderness, Jesus was led by the Spirit to be tempted by Satan. Weakened by hunger and thirst, the Son of God faced His enemy. In this message, Pastor Lutzer distinguishes the purpose God brings in testing versus the devil's purpose. What if our temptation in life's deserts actually glorify God?  To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/172/29?v=20251111

Episode Description:This is a From the Archive episode with one of my favorite guests: Steven Pressfield.Steven Pressfield has spent his career writing about war, creativity, discipline, storytelling, and the inner battle every artist faces. In this archive conversation, James and Steven explore how stories work—and why the same structures that power novels and movies also show up in real life.They begin with The Legend of Bagger Vance, which Pressfield built from the structure of the Bhagavad Gita. James connects that idea to his own writing, where ancient texts like the Yoga Sutras became frameworks for modern essays about entrepreneurship. Their point is simple: if a story has survived thousands of years, it probably contains a structure worth studying.From there, the conversation moves into the hero's journey. The ordinary world. The call to adventure. The refusal of the call. The mentor. The threshold. The extraordinary world. The tests, allies, enemies, ordeal, return, and gift.But Pressfield pushes the idea further. In real life, people do not always answer the call. Some people refuse it for years. Some cross the threshold and then run back. Some sacrifice security, status, money, family expectations, or even relationships to follow the deeper pull of their lives.James shares his own story of walking out of a finance job after three days, leaving his coat on the chair, taking the elevator down 40 floors, getting on a train, and never returning. Pressfield recognizes it immediately as a real-life threshold moment.The conversation then turns to The Artist's Journey. Pressfield explains that the hero's journey ends when the hero returns home with a gift. The artist's journey begins when the artist asks: What is the gift I am meant to give? What is my material? What is my voice? What am I here to make?They discuss Resistance as the real villain in every story, why the question “Who am I?” often drives the inciting incident, why villains often do not change, why opening and closing images matter, and why genres have rules that writers ignore at their own risk.This episode is a masterclass in story, but it is also a meditation on identity. The deeper question is not just how to write a story. It is how to recognize the story already trying to live through you.Editorial Note:This is a "From the Archive" episode. References to “new” or “upcoming” books, projects, or events reflect the timing of the original recording.What You'll Learn:Why Steven Pressfield built The Legend of Bagger Vance on the structure of the Bhagavad Gita.How ancient myths and spiritual texts can become frameworks for modern stories.Why the hero's journey begins only when the hero answers the call.What separates the ordinary world from the extraordinary world.Why Resistance appears immediately after the call to action.Why crossing the threshold changes how other people see you—and how you see yourself.How the artist's journey begins after the hero's journey ends.Why the artist's real question is: What gift am I bringing back?How to go deeper into theme instead of just telling a surface-level story.Why success, awards, money, and status can become forms of Resistance.How dreams, intuition, and recurring ideas can point toward a person's real work.Why every strong story creates a first pole and second pole: the question and the answer.Why the villain may be a person, a force, or Resistance itself.Why genre conventions matter, even for experienced writers.How opening and closing images can reveal the full emotional transformation of a story.Timestamped Chapters:[02:00] Steven Pressfield and the Ancient Structure of StoryJames introduces Pressfield through The Legend of Bagger Vance, The Authentic Swing, and the Bhagavad Gita.[03:33] Ancient Wisdom in Modern WritingJames explains how he used the Yoga Sutras as a hidden structure for one of his most popular entrepreneurship essays.[04:42] Stories That Have Been Tested for Thousands of YearsWhy myths, sacred texts, and ancient epics still work as storytelling engines.[05:00] Pressfield's Small Books on StorytellingJames introduces Pressfield's mini-books on how stories begin, what they are about, and how artists find their material.[05:31] Are You the Hero or the Red Shirt?James asks whether everyone is really the hero of their own story—or whether some people refuse the call.[07:13] The Call to Adventure and the Refusal of the CallPressfield walks through Joseph Campbell's structure: ordinary world, call, refusal, and threshold.[08:31] It Is Never Too Late to Answer the CallThe hero's journey can begin late, and people may have more than one journey in a lifetime.[09:08] Ordinary World vs. Extraordinary WorldLuke Skywalker, Star Wars, Christopher Vogler, Blake Snyder, and the moment a story crosses into Act Two.[10:45] Resistance at the Edge of the ThresholdWhy no one enters the extraordinary world without hesitation, fear, or circumstances forcing the break.[11:23] Mentors, Books, and Virtual TeachersJames questions whether every hero needs a mentor and describes books and podcast guests as his own collective mentors.[12:32] What Steven Gave Up to Become a WriterPressfield recalls sacrificing security, a marriage, and stable advertising jobs in order to keep writing.[13:25] The Temptation to Stay SafeThe boss offers the title, the office, the raise—and the artist has to decide whether to cross the threshold anyway.[14:15] James Walks Out of the Ordinary WorldJames tells the story of leaving a finance job after three days, taking the elevator down 40 floors, and never returning.[15:36] Real Life Follows the Hero's JourneyPressfield explains that threshold moments happen before we understand them as story structure.[16:44] The Books That Made Steven Pressfield a Creative MentorJames names The War of Art, Turning Pro, Nobody Wants to Read Your Sht*, The Knowledge, and The Artist's Journey.[17:36] How the Hero Becomes Known DifferentlyPressfield explains how crossing the threshold changes the hero's identity in the eyes of others and themselves.[20:26] Breaking Bad and the Discovery of the Real SelfWalter White becomes an example of a character realizing who he really is inside the extraordinary world.[21:08] What the Audience Sees Before the Villain DoesJames explains how the hero, villain, and audience may recognize transformation at different moments.[22:13] Crossing the Threshold Means Losing PeoplePressfield and James discuss how entering a new life attracts new people and repels old ones.[23:38] Real Life Is Messier Than StoryUnlike a focused screenplay, a life can contain many themes at once: parenthood, business, art, family, and identity.[24:36] Ignorance, Arrogance, and FaithWhy artists and entrepreneurs need enough irrational confidence to begin before they know whether they have anything to say.[26:53] Peeling Back the OnionJames and Steven discuss how artists move from surface ideas to deeper themes over time.[29:04] The Rolling Stones, the Beatles, and Artistic EvolutionHow great artists begin by imitating what they love and eventually discover what they are really trying to express.[32:08] What Are We Actually Talking About?Pressfield pauses the conversation to ask whether a theme is emerging from the discussion itself.[33:25] The Calling Is Already Inside YouPressfield argues that each person is born with a destiny, identity, or inner pressure that eventually wants to surface.[35:21] The Hero's Journey Across GenerationsJames and Steven discuss World War II, the Greatest Generation, the boomers, and social movements as mass threshold moments.[39:48] The Full Shape of the Hero's JourneyOrdinary world, call, mentor, inciting incident, trials, return, and the gift brought back to the people.[41:17] When the Artist's Journey BeginsPressfield explains that the artist's journey starts when the hero's journey ends.[42:33] What Is the Gift?The artist asks: What is my act? What is my material? What is my medium? Who am I?[44:20] Good Will Hunting and the Beginning After the EndingWhy the end of one story often marks the beginning of the artist's real work.[45:17] Catch Me If You Can and the Artist After the AdventureJames uses Frank Abagnale as an example of a hero's journey followed by a less cinematic but still meaningful artist's journey.[47:00] The Return Home and the Embedded SelfPressfield explains that the person at the end of the journey was already hidden inside the person at the beginning.[49:05] Who Am I?James identifies the core question behind the inciting incident: am I ordinary, or am I extraordinary?[51:28] Who Am I, Why Am I Here, What Do I Want?Pressfield connects story structure to Stanislavski's dramatic questions and real-life identity.[53:37] Taken, Jason Bourne, and the Hidden SelfThe extraordinary world reveals the self that was always there but could not appear in the ordinary world.[55:00] Why Stories Let Us Practice the ExtraordinaryJames describes storytelling as a safe space where people in ordinary life can rehearse crossing the threshold.[55:45] Steven Pressfield: Servant of the MusePressfield answers James's question “Who are you?” by describing himself as a servant of the muse.[56:31] Success, the Muse, and the Second Half of LifePressfield discusses process, hierarchy, status, Richard Rohr, and why chasing awards can become Resistance.[01:03:00] Becoming a Second-Half Person at Any AgeJames and Steven discuss moving past external goals earlier in life and clearing the channel for deeper work.[01:05:25] The 10,000-Hour Rule and Cross-PollinationWriting, advertising, finance, comedy, podcasting, and entrepreneurship all become grist for the mill.[01:07:16] Inventing Yourself as You GoPressfield tells James that he is creating something that has never existed before: the James Altucher version of the artist's journey.[01:08:20] How to Find the Extraordinary WorldPressfield advises people to listen to their dreams, journal them, and pay attention to the signals coming from the deeper self.[01:10:40] Inner Work and Learning to Hear IdeasSteven recommends Robert A. Johnson's Inner Work and describes creativity as the skill of noticing what is already arriving.[01:11:49] The First Pole and the Second PoleThe inciting incident creates a question the audience needs answered, as in The Bourne Identity: Who is he?[01:13:31] The Villain Is EverywhereJames and Steven discuss why villains keep returning and why Resistance may be the real villain in every story.[01:15:05] Does the Villain Ever Change?Darth Vader becomes an example of a character who may look like the villain but is really on another journey.[01:16:16] Opening Image, Closing ImageThe Godfather shows how a story can begin and end in similar places while revealing total transformation.[01:17:19] Why Everyone Can't Just Write a ThrillerEven with formulas available, genre rules and obligatory scenes still have to be understood and honored.[01:18:24] Rules, Genres, and Why Audiences Feel CheatedPressfield explains that if a genre's necessary beat is missing, the audience may feel the story is hollow.[01:18:42] Romance, Tragedy, and The Way We WereJames and Steven discuss romance structure and why a love story can still work when the couple does not end up together.[01:20:54] No One Is Born a ProJames reads a Pressfield line about falling before hitting bottom and connects it to the artist's journey needing the hero's journey first.Additional Resources:Steven Pressfield Official WebsiteSteven Pressfield BooksThe War of Art by Steven PressfieldTurning Pro by Steven PressfieldThe Artist's Journey by Steven PressfieldNobody Wants to Read Your Sht* by Steven PressfieldThe Authentic Swing by Steven PressfieldThe Legend of Bagger Vance by Steven Pressfield“How Does a Story Start?” by Steven PressfieldThe Writer's Journey by Christopher VoglerSave the Cat! by Blake SnyderInner Work by Robert A. JohnsonFalling Upward by Richard RohrSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

IT'S HERE! Pre-Order the 4th installment of the Ashtown Burial Series at ashtownburials.com.In this episode, Nancy considers Proverbs 4:23 and the diligence required to guard our hearts from sinful thoughts while teaching our children to practice the same kind of watchful self-government. Find more from Nancy and others on Canon+: https://canonplus.com/tabs/none/pages/nancy-wilson