OCF Crosspoint Podcast: Recent Episodes

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Opening Summary

COL Chels Chae, USA (Ret.), served nearly 30 years in the Army, from West Point graduate, infantry officer and 75th Ranger Regiment veteran to commander of the Wolfhound Battalion at Schofield Barracks. He finished his career as Chief of Staff for Joint Task Force Homeland Defense and Deputy Chief of Staff for U.S. Army Pacific. For 13 of those years, he and his wife, Christine, walked through their son's mental health crisis, a season no military school prepared him for. In this episode, Chae talks with host Josh Jackson about the difference between competence and dependence, why his prayers once sounded like mission briefings, and how a solitary drive to a hospital in Pasadena, Calif., reshaped the way he talks to God. If you've been trained to project strength while privately carrying something you can't fix, this conversation offers a hard-won picture of God's providence—usually visible only in the rearview mirror. Chae is the author of the devotional One Life Under God: Back to Faith—A Daily Roadmarch. More information at his author site.

Questions answered and themes covered in this interview include:

How do you find your identity in Christ after retiring from the military?

Start by separating who you are from what you've done. Rank, position, and assignment all change; identity in Christ doesn't. Twenty years ago, Chae says, he would have answered the identity question with "I'm an Army officer, I'm a Ranger, airborne." Today he answers first as a follower of Jesus Christ, then as Christine's husband and a father—and everything else, he says, is simply something he has done. That reordering came shortly after retirement, when he realized someone else was sitting in his office, someone else was commanding his units, and life just kept moving. He describes God asking him a direct question in that season: "Who are you now?" Titles were never meant to define him. They were window dressing.

Why do my prayers feel like a mission briefing?

Because military training teaches you to arrive with the problem already solved—and that habit follows you into prayer. Chae's prayers, by his own account, followed the briefing format: explain the problem, present the proposed solution, ask God to bless the plan. He wasn't intentionally excluding God; he simply assumed he already understood what needed to happen. The danger of leadership, he says, is believing that a careful enough plan and enough hard work can solve almost anything. Eventually a season arrived where no rank, no leadership training, no planning process, and no amount of grit produced an answer. He now calls that one of the greatest gifts God gave him, because it taught him the difference between competence and dependence—and mature Christian leadership, he argues, requires both.

How do I trust God when I can't fix my child's problem?

You trust God's character instead of your own ability to solve it. Chae and Christine walked a 13-year journey with a son in a mental health crisis, initially diagnosed as a lifelong condition. From the outside, the family looked fine—promotions, a strong marriage, active in church. Inside, he faced something none of his skills touched: gathering information, developing courses of action, deciding, leading. He kept asking God to change the circumstances and heal his son; looking back, he believes God was changing him instead, exposing where he trusted his own ability over God's authority and sovereignty. Faith, as he defines it, isn't confidence in what you hold in your hands—it's confidence that God remains good whether you understand his plan or not. What held them together was finding a private place and praying out loud together.

How do you pray when you're angry at God?

Pray honestly, without a mask—anger, tears, and unanswered questions included. Chae's most formative prayer wasn't composed or reverent. He was alone in a car, driving to the hospital where his son was, yelling and weeping, asking God why an innocent child at the very start of his life had to go through this. In the silence afterward, he sensed God's answer: "Now you know how you should pray to me." He anchors this in Psalm 22, which he says gives him permission to be honest with God without pretense or protocol. If David (and later Jesus) could say "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Psalm 22:1), nothing needs hiding from a God who already sees the heart. The same season changed what he asks for—less "fix this, Lord," more "what do you want to teach me today?"

How do you know God's will for your future as a Christian?

Stop trying to figure out God's plan for 10 years from now and start walking faithfully with him today. God is the only one who lives on what Chae calls "the far side of the future"—he already knows tomorrow, and the lamp you're holding only lights the ground directly in front of you. Chae tells the story of a young manager who had decided he'd change jobs in a year; Chae asked whether every decision between now and then would be colored by that plan. A week later the man dropped it and committed to being faithful to his team—"Don't worry, God's got you." Chae's own summary of Jesus is blunt: don't worry about tomorrow, seek the kingdom of God and his righteousness (Matthew 6:33-34). Give today the effort God assigned you, and be able to say you were loyal to it.

Why can't I see God's plan while I'm going through it?

You usually don't see it in the moment—you see it looking back. Chae puts it this way: nothing in the windshield helped him figure out what the future held for his sons or his family. But in the rearview mirror he sees all of it—God's faithfulness, goodness, and purpose he couldn't have identified while he was living it. He describes being embarrassed, in hindsight, by how much energy he spent on the horrifying feeling of not knowing what came next, only to look back and say, "Oh. Okay. Now I see." His own immigration story reads the same way: born in London, back to Korea, then to New York and Chicago at 12 as his father chased a better education for the family. He didn't recognize God's providence at the time. He sees it now. Asked what he'll say first in heaven, his answer is one word—aha—because that's where he'll finally see all of it.

Editor's note: In this episode, the passage about going into your room and closing the door to pray is cited as Matthew 5. The correct reference is Matthew 6:6, part of Jesus' teaching on prayer in the Sermon on the Mount.

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Summary

Can real discipleship survive in a world of influencers, algorithms, and unlimited Christian content—especially inside a transient military life?

In this episode of OCF Crosspoint, we continue the conversation on influencer culture with Lt Gen Clint Hinote, USAF (Ret.), and CH(COL) Light Shin, USA. Together they draw a sharp line between being inspired, informed, and truly discipled, and explain why spiritual formation depends on proximity, accountability, and community rather than content consumed alone.

They tackle discipleship amid PCS moves and deployments, what it means to point others to Christ rather than yourself in uniform, and why grace—not performance—sustains it all. The episode closes with one practical first step any Christian military leader can take this week.

Resources mentioned:

• The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
• The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

Questions answered and themes covered in this interview include:

How can Christians in the military stay discipled through frequent moves and deployments?

Frequent moves, deployments, and training cycles make the in-person proximity that discipleship requires harder, but a transient military life also creates constant opportunities because new people are always arriving and need to be welcomed. The practical key is welcoming the stranger: those already established at a base should intentionally invite newcomers into a small group, offer a meal, even offer to pick them up. Practical advice for newcomers? Don't wait; get plugged in fast. This is a strong argument for keeping small groups open rather than closed. Discipleship also doesn't have to last a lifetime to be real. Jesus discipled His followers for about three years, roughly a single assignment cycle, so the quality of the time matters more than its length. Video tools can also help sustain a relationship after a PCS.

What does "follow me as I follow Christ" mean for a Christian military leader?

For a Christian military leader, "follow me as I follow Christ" is first something you do rather than something you say. You live your faith out consistently, and that example earns the credibility to explain it when others notice you're different. When people ask what makes you different, you point past yourself to Christ, admitting you're imperfect and fail often but are genuinely trying to follow Him—a 1 Peter 3:15 moment. The deeper aim isn't building a personal brand but acting as a signpost pointing to Christ as the ultimate Commander, much like faithfully carrying out the commander's intent. Following the Apostle Paul's example also means imitating a life that lays down its rights, absorbs costs, serves others, and is willing to suffer well—not one measured by worldly success. Philippians 2 is an excellent chapter for further study on these themes.

Can Christians be discipled through podcasts, sermons, and Bible apps, or do they need community?

Short answer: No, content cannot disciple you. Christian content like podcasts, sermons, and Bible apps is genuinely valuable, and God can use it powerfully, but on its own it isn't discipleship because consuming content is largely one-way, while real discipleship is two-way and relational. You can't be truly formed by a curated persona or a platform; formation happens through proximity—sharing meals, offering hospitality, doing life together, and holding one another accountable. A helpful picture is apprenticeship: a master shows the apprentice, works alongside them, then releases them to do the work while staying available. That's a progression content can't replicate, especially for leadership and the Christian life. Content is best treated as supplemental to connection and grounded first in Scripture. Barna research (2022) found that 39% of Christians aren't engaged in any form of discipleship.

How is Christian discipleship based on grace instead of performance?

Christian discipleship is grounded in grace rather than performance. It isn't about earning check marks or leveling up spiritually, but about responding to what Christ has already accomplished. The means of grace include knowing and storing God's Word in your heart (not just reading it on a Bible app), living a life of repentance when you fall short, and resting your confidence in Christ's finished work rather than your own efforts. This kind of formation is slow—more like a slow cooker than a microwave—which can frustrate a culture that wants quick hacks. But it's freeing: unlike an algorithm that demands constant performance and can cancel you, the gospel means that when you fail, you're forgiven rather than canceled. That freedom is a distinct mark of grace-based discipleship.

How can a Christian start a discipleship or mentoring relationship?

A simple, concrete way to start a discipleship relationship is to invite someone to coffee—or a Coke, lunch, or a meal at home—and let honest conversation grow from there. If you're a younger or emerging leader hoping to learn from someone more experienced, invite them; most people who are worth being discipled by genuinely enjoy this and may not even realize you're interested. If you're the more seasoned leader, take the initiative with someone you'd like to know better—ask questions, get to know them, and let one conversation lead to the next until a real relationship forms. Another step is to pray, by name, for a specific person to invest in or to be invested in by. It might also be a good idea to take a fast from technology by turning off social media for a while to make space for that prayer. You can also find more information about mentoring on our website: https://ocfusa.org/mentoring

Data and metrics related to the topic:

Mental Health and the Anxious Generation:

Nearly half (47%) of Gen Z ages 12–26 report feeling anxious often or always. More than 1 in 5 (22%) report feeling depressed often or always. Source: Gallup / Walton Family Foundation survey, 2023

Rates of anxiety among Gen Z increased 134% between 2010 and 2018. Depression rose 106% in the same period. Source: Jonathan Haidt, The Anxious Generation (2024), citing epidemiological data

Loneliness and the Mentoring Gap:

Young adults (18–34) report the highest loneliness rates of any age group, which is counter to the common assumption that elderly people are most at risk. Source: Gallup, 2024; Cigna national survey

24% of young people with no adult mentor say they never feel their life has meaning and purpose. With even one adult mentor, that number drops to 6%. Source: Springtide Research Institute

Only 8% of Gen Z respondents say there is a religious leader they can turn to. Source: Springtide Research Institute

Trust: Influencers vs Institutions:

Gen Z's most trusted sources: family members (88%), friends (84%), ordinary people doing good (81%). Religious/faith leaders rank at 44% — below doctors (77%), scientists (75%), and teachers (74%). Source: Edelman Gen Z Trust Survey — 9,600 Gen Zers ages 14–24 across six markets

Confidence in religious institutions fell from 60% in 2001 to 37% in 2021. Source: Gallup, cited by AEI Survey Center on American Life (2025)

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Summary

Lt Gen Clint Hinote, USAF (Ret.), and CH(COL) Light Shin, USA, join host Josh Jackson to examine influencer culture through a biblical lens. Hinote brings decades of military leadership experience and is now building a speaking ministry focused on integrating Christian faith and leadership into a single, unified message. Shin serves as an active-duty Army chaplain and father of three daughters, navigating influencer culture's effects on faith and family in real time. Both will be speaking on the theme of influence at OCF's White Sulphur Springs Conference Center this summer.

The conversation begins by establishing a biblical framework for thinking about influence—one that applies to all Christians before it applies to military officers specifically. A few key distinctions anchor everything that follows.

First, the platform versus the algorithm. Both guests agree that social media platforms are morally neutral—the tool itself is neither good nor evil. Hinote compares them to the Roman road system: the same infrastructure used to carry armies also carried the early gospel across the known world. What man built for one purpose, God can use for another. The YouVersion Bible App is offered as a contemporary example of Christians using technology with vision for gospel purposes. The algorithms driving those platforms, however, are a different matter. They are deliberately engineered not to inform or build up users, but to keep them scrolling—by targeting base impulses, feeding comparison, and manufacturing shame. Hinote frames these as the "flaming arrows" of Ephesians 6, and the first thing you see on social media that triggers envy, comparison, or temptation is an arrow. Recognize it. Raise your shield of faith.

Second, influencer versus witness. Shin draws a sharp distinction from Acts 1:8, saying that an influencer seeks to build a following but a witness tells the truth about what they have seen and heard, regardless of the audience's reaction. Both guests agree that Christian influence should be a byproduct of a Christ-centered life—not a goal pursued in its own right. When influence becomes the goal, self replaces God at the center. The framework they offer is simple: know Christ above all things, do what Christ commanded, and become more like Jesus through that ongoing, lifelong process. Influence, rightly understood, flows from that. As Shin puts it, the question worth asking regularly is: "Whose kingdom did I build today—God's or mine?"

Third, authenticity over curation. The lie of influencer culture, Hinote argues, is that you have to look like you have it all figured out. In reality, authenticity builds trust, and trust is what creates genuine influence. This is as true in the gospel as it is in personal branding, and the early church wrestled with the same pull toward following personalities over Christ, as Paul addresses directly in 1 Corinthians 1:12. The standard the guests return to throughout is 1 Peter 3:15 (ESV): "Always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you—yet do it with gentleness and respect."

With that foundation in place, the conversation turns to what this means specifically for Christian officers serving in uniform.

Referenced in this conversation:

• Summer R&R 2 at WSS (Hinote)
• Summer R&R 6 at WSS (Shin)
• YouVersion Bible App
• The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness by Timothy Keller

Questions answered and themes covered in this interview include: How is social media affecting the younger generation entering military service?

Young people entering the military are increasingly shaped by a worldview centered on self-promotion, curated personas, and metrics of online acceptance. This stands in direct tension with what military formation is designed to accomplish. The foundational goal of basic training is the breakdown of individual ego and the subordination of self to the unit. Shin references Timothy Keller's The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness as the counterpoint to what he observes: recruits arriving not in freedom, but in what he calls "bondage of self-obsession"—more concerned with how they're perceived on a platform than how they're showing up for the person next to them. Hinote adds that this tension isn't new, and that American individualism has always been something the military has had to address. However, the platforms intensify that individualism by continuously reinforcing exactly the self-focused impulses that military culture is trying to dismantle. Character development must be continuous and intentional, not treated as something institutions address only when there's time. Resource: The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness by Timothy Keller How do I share my faith as a military officer without it being weird or forced?

Start by living the message before communicating it, and know which role you're speaking from at any given moment. Hinote, drawing from his own experience rising through senior military ranks, offers a framework that proved practically useful. When you are on a platform, in uniform, with rank on your shoulders and a flag behind you, you are speaking from a position of institutional authority, and conflating that authority with the authority of Christ risks manipulation and coercion, which is not Christlike leadership. In settings where you have more personal freedom—as a church member, a neighbor, a citizen—you have more latitude to speak openly about your faith. The key is empathy: always consider what role your audience sees you occupying. In either context, when you fail—and you will—own it and apologize. Authenticity builds trust. Trust creates real influence. A practical starting point Hinote recommends for any developing leader is this: keep a journal, write down every role you hold, and identify the through line connecting them all. Then live that through line. The standard throughout is 1 Peter 3:15 (ESV): "Always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you—yet do it with gentleness and respect."

Statistics and data shared this episode (plus a few extra not included):

• A working definition of influencer culture: Influencer culture is a social and economic phenomenon created when social media platforms reward people for curating a public identity, performing for engagement, and building an audience around themselves. Influencers use their platform to shape the opinions, lifestyles, and purchasing decisions of their audience.
• Every generation is influenced in some way by influencer marketing: 55% of Gen Z trust influencer recommendations, compared with 44% of Millennials, 35% of Gen X, and 28% of Baby Boomers (2025 Clutch survey).
• StoryBox says there are approximately 127 million active social media influencers worldwide—roughly 2.4% of the global social media user base of 5+ billion people.
• EMarketer breaks that down into 4 tiers of influencers: Nano: 1,000–10,000 followers; Micro: 10,000–100,000 followers; Macro: 100,000–1 million followers; and Mega/celebrity: 1 million+ followers.
• The vast majority of influencers on TikTok (nearly 88%) are nano-influencers and Instagram follows a similar pattern with nano-influencers representing about 76% of its influencers (eMarketer).
• According to some reports, military-related content on TikTok alone amassed over 15 billion views in 2023; look up #MilTok. Military.com calls it the rise of soldier influencers.
• Influencer culture is not just shaping what people buy (or which branch to join)—it's doing three things: It's shaping how an entire generation sees themselves, forms relationships, and decides who to trust. Consider the following:
• In terms of how they see themselves: Writer and Substack author Freya India, whose book GIRLS was published earlier this year, frames influencer culture this way—girls as young as 12 packaging themselves for Instagram, getting feedback on their appearance, measuring their worth in likes and followers. An adjacent stat is this: 47% of Gen Z often or always feel anxious (Gallup, 2023). That's the self-perception toll.
• In terms of forming relationships: A Harvard study says 61% of young adults ages 18–25 report profound loneliness—the highest rate of any age group. This is the one that tends to surprise people, because the assumption is that hyper-connected generations would be less lonely or that older generations would be the loneliest.
• In terms of deciding who to trust: Only 8% of Gen Z say there's a religious leader they can turn to (Springtide Research). And from Edelman—religious and faith leaders rank at 44% trust rate among Gen Z, well below doctors, scientists, and teachers. But here's the flip side: family members rank at 88% trust. The hunger for relational authority is still there and it's real. Instead, it's institutional authority that's taken a hit.

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Matters of Conscience, Part 2:

In Part 2 of this two-part series, CH(CPT) Chris Erickson and West Point professor LTC Lee Robinson join host Josh Jackson to continue their candid conversation on matters of conscience for Christian military leaders.

Building on the flight line moment that closed part one (where Robinson made a split-second decision to pray after losing two soldiers) this episode gives Christian officers a practical three-step framework for navigating the gray areas where faith and military service intersect—know your boundaries, check your motives, discern your impact. Erickson also unpacks what he calls the "theology of your approach"—the conviction that a leader's beliefs need to be settled before the moment of decision arrives, not during it.

This episode is essential listening for any Christian officer wrestling with how to faithfully and effectively lead in a pluralistic military environment.

ICYMI: Listen to Part 1 of this conversation here or on your favorite podcast app.

Questions answered and themes covered in this interview include:

How should a Christian military officer decide when it's appropriate to express faith in a professional setting?

Start with three questions: What's allowed? Why am I doing this? And how might this affect others? The legal boundaries matter, but they rarely answer the harder question, which is "it's permissible, but should I?" That's where motive becomes the real test. Robinson frames it this way: is this coming from pride, or from love? Authentic faith expression tends to emerge naturally from who you are — it doesn't need to be forced into a conversation or staged for visibility. As Erickson puts it, if your faith isn't surfacing organically in the moments that call for it, that's worth examining before asking whether the setting is the problem.

How do I figure out what God wants me to do when my faith and my military role conflict?

The answer starts before the conflict arrives. Erickson calls this working out the "theology of your approach" — going back to what you actually believe Scripture says and what you believe God is directing, so you're not improvising under pressure. He points to Romans 14 as an example: each person stands individually before God, which reframes a leader's sense of responsibility for those they lead. Having that settled conviction means you're not making it up in the moment, whether the situation is a change-of-command ceremony, a conversation about a soldier's marriage, or a policy decision that touches personal conscience.

As a Christian officer in a position of authority, how do I know if sharing my faith is genuinely motivated by love rather than self-promotion?

Examine whether what you're sharing would actually benefit the other person today, not in the abstract, and not primarily because it validates your own beliefs. Erickson uses the woman at the well in John 4 as a reference point: her testimony was compelling because it was personal and transformational, not because she had a persuasion strategy. He challenges leaders to ask: am I trying to get this person to agree with me, or am I genuinely sharing something I believe will help them? If you're having to force it into the conversation—meaning, if the Bible needs to be on the desk so people notice it—that's a signal worth sitting with. Effective faith witness, in his framing, is desirable rather than imposed.

Can a Christian officer lead prayer at a change of command or official military event?

Yes, but context should shape the approach significantly. Erickson draws a clear distinction between an invocation at a change-of-command ceremony (where attendance is mandatory and the audience holds diverse beliefs) and a Sunday chapel service where participation is voluntary. At the official function, he deliberately avoids language that would require non-Christians to engage his personal faith. At the chapel service, he's free to pray as a Christian pastor. He argues this isn't compromise; rather, it's stewardship of the chaplain's access and effectiveness. A chaplain who prays identically in both settings may win a moment of expression while losing the long-term trust that allows ministry across belief backgrounds. Robinson extends this further: as a battalion commander, he avoided leading prayer specifically because he didn't want subordinate leaders to interpret that as an authorization for them to do the same.

OCF Crosspoint is produced by Officers' Christian Fellowship and is a podcast for Christian military officers at every stage of service. Learn more about OCF at www.ocfusa.org/learnmore.

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Matters of conscience, Part 1:

What does it look like for a Christian military officer to navigate the space between what's legally permissible and what's wise?

In Part 1 of this two-part series, CH(CPT) Chris Erickson, USA, an active-duty Army chaplain serving with 1-41 Infantry Battalion at Fort Carson, Colo., and LTC Lee Robinson, USA, an Army aviator and West Point professor who directs the American Politics Program, join host Josh Jackson to explore matters of conscience—those gray areas where Scripture doesn't hand you a policy memo.

Using real-world examples from their own service, including a moment on a flight line after two soldiers were killed in combat, Chris and Lee unpack how military leaders can develop a principled, faith-informed framework for decisions about expressing belief in uniform.

This episode is worth hearing if you are trying to navigate the space between religious liberty, leadership responsibility, and wise judgment in uniform, or if you have ever wondered: Should I do this—not just can I?

This is Lee's third time as a guest on OCF Crosspoint. While it isn't necessary to listen to his previous interviews, consider listening to both episodes since Chris and Lee will reference them at a few points. Listen here:

• Navigating the wall of separation between church and state
• Faithful Leadership: You won't get this perfect—and that's OK

Questions answered and themes covered in this interview include:

What's the difference between what's legal and what's right for a Christian military leader?

A matter of conscience goes beyond what's legal—it's the harder question of what should be done. Consider Jefferson's 1802 letter to the Danbury Baptists to as a way to frame things: a matter of conscience involves a conviction that civil government has no real authority over, something arrived at through reason, study, and Scripture. Another consideration is this: law is always broad by necessity, so the Christian leader has to go "three or four steps deeper" than legality. The real question isn't am I allowed to do this? but what should be done? Romans 14:5 (ESV) frames the tension well: "Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind." How should a Christian military leader share their leadership philosophy with a subordinate when it's rooted in their faith?

When a subordinate opens the door by asking, that's an invitation, but context still shapes how you walk through it. Robinson describes a moment in a hangar when a soldier asked about his leadership philosophy, which is rooted in his Christian faith. He shared the substance (servant leadership drawn from Scripture) without explicitly naming his faith, citing concern about using his position to compel belief, particularly with other soldiers nearby who hadn't entered the conversation. However, Erickson pushed back: when a soldier starts the conversation, that's a green light. He draws on his hospital chaplaincy experience, where the guiding principle was never to initiate faith conversations, but once someone opened the door, "that was kind of the green light for me to then share my hope or share where I come from." A shared principle when answering this question is this: let those you lead guide the conversation. A direct question from a soldier is different from a Bible on a desk or a prayer before a meeting with the latter making it difficult for a subordinate to lead that exchange in the first place. How do I know when it's appropriate to express my faith as a military officer?

Three primary questions emerge as a practical test for military leaders:

1. What is my motive? Am I seeking to promote my faith, or to genuinely serve the person in front of me? 2. Is this a public or private conversation? Has someone specifically invited me into a personal exchange, or are others who didn't ask also listening? 3. Could this—in fact or in perception—be viewed as using my position to compel others toward a belief?

Context and setting are also key. Ask, where am I? There's a meaningful difference between a hangar bay and the walk to a deployed chapel. Such situations can be "so situationally dependent," but working through these questions gives leaders a repeatable process rather than a reactive, in-the-moment guess. Here's another approach: develop your theology of approach before you're ever in the moment: "Before you ever walked into that hangar, this is what I believe," said Erickson. Is it ever appropriate for a Christian commander to pray with soldiers?

It depends on the circumstances, and even then it warrants honest reflection afterward. Robinson describes standing on a flight line after two soldiers were killed by enemy fire, looking into the faces of 38 people who "needed more." With no prior intention to pray, he offered a non-denominational prayer, but prefaced it by telling the formation: "If you're not a praying person, I certainly respect that, and you are welcome to not engage in this with me." Reflecting back, he says he would make the same call again given those specific circumstances, but he also notes he never prayed as a battalion commander; that was the chaplain's role. Erickson affirms the instinct while clarifying this distinction: Robinson wasn't promoting his faith; he was providing comfort through his faith. "Those people shared your need for comfort in that moment and received comfort from you—ironically through your religious beliefs." The motive, not the act itself, is what matters. How does a Christian officer lead people who don't share their faith?

Romans 14:12 (ESV) anchors the answer: "Each one of us will give account of himself to God." Every person—soldier and commander alike—stands individually before God, and that shapes how a leader holds the faith of those they lead. Erickson frames it this way: his approach as a battalion chaplain to more than 600 soldiers—most of whom don't share his faith—is rooted in the conviction that "I don't have to convince you to share my faith in order for me to provide comfort." Robinson adds that modeling religious pluralism within a formation (keeping personal religious expression in appropriate spaces rather than the workplace) is itself a form of witness: "Religious pluralism is our greatest moral argument to the world." The goal isn't silence about faith. It's stewardship of the platform.

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Guest Spotlight:

Approximately 60% of active-duty officers commission through ROTC programs at more than 1,500 colleges and universities—making campus ministry to cadets and midshipmen a strategic mission field.

In this episode of the OCF Crosspoint podcast, we hear from John Hoyman, OCF's Director of ROTC Ministry and a 30-year Army veteran (Active Duty, National Guard, and Army Reserve), about the renewed vision and momentum in ROTC outreach.

John shares his personal connection to OCF, why evangelism and discipleship are central to his vision, what he is witnessing spiritually among cadets and midshipmen, and how OCF members can tangibly invest in the next generation of Christ-following officers.

If you are an active duty, Guard, Reserve officer, retiree, or ROTC cadet wondering how faith intersects with military leadership, this conversation offers both encouragement and clear next steps.

Learn more: https://www.ocfusa.org/rotc Contact: rotc@ocfusa.org

Questions answered and themes covered in this interview include:

1. Why is Christian evangelism and discipleship in ROTC programs essential for future military officers?

John explains that his vision for ROTC Ministry begins with "evangelism and discipleship." His first priority is "how do we bring cadets and midshipmen to Christ and then build that relationship and help them become more Christ-like." Because these students are preparing to lead in the military, their faith decisions now will shape their entire careers.

While he affirms the value of campus ministries such as Cru, Navigators, and Baptist Student Union, he emphasizes that OCF uniquely helps cadets think about "how to apply their coming profession in their spiritual life." ROTC ministry allows them to ask, "How do they become an officer that represents Christ?" It also connects them to a lifelong fellowship that continues beyond graduation and throughout a military career.

1. What is God doing spiritually among ROTC cadets and midshipmen right now?

John describes the current season as "total excitement." He points to the Eastern ROTC Retreat, which has exceeded previous attendance—filling both the Heritage House and the Harrison House with a waitlist still growing weeks before the event. He sees "an outpouring of people that want to grow in their faith… find out who Jesus Christ is… connect with other believers."

Beyond numbers, he highlights student initiative. Cadets are stepping into leadership, asking how to start fellowships, and seeking to serve younger students. He also observes "a renewed interest in spiritual things," with young people asking deeper questions—not just about occupation, but about purpose and truth. John calls it "an exciting time to be in this ministry."

1. How can a Christian military officer disciple and mentor ROTC cadets in a practical way?

John shares a simple framework from former ROTC Director Tom Hemingway: "Find a cadet, pray daily, communicate weekly, and meet monthly." He encourages active-duty officers, retirees, and even those in graduate school near campuses to invest in one-on-one mentoring and discipleship relationships.

He describes what he calls the "OCF diaspora"—officers who retire or relocate and may unknowingly live near a university with an ROTC program. Even visiting a campus Bible study once a month can be impactful. John notes that his own monthly investment at Penn State has been spiritually refreshing, saying it was "really refreshing to see these young people seeking Christ." Those interested can email John (rotc@ocfusa.org) to explore involvement.

1. Why does OCF provide unique Christian fellowship continuity for officers throughout their military careers?

John explains that while cadets should find a local church during school and after commissioning, military life often involves frequent moves and limited continuity. OCF offers a network that "carries with you past your undergraduate years into a vital relationship with other believers throughout your career."

Unlike most campus ministries that naturally conclude after graduation, OCF fellowship continues into active duty and even retirement. John highlights how retired officers can later reinvest in ROTC ministry, creating a generational cycle of mentorship. This continuity helps officers integrate faith with profession over the long term, rather than compartmentalizing their spiritual lives from their leadership responsibilities.

1. How are Christian military ministries collaborating to serve ROTC cadets more effectively?

John emphasizes a spirit of cooperation rather than competition among ministries serving ROTC students. He references collaboration with Valor (Cru's ministry to ROTC students) and leaders such as David Preston and CH(MAJ) Jeff Struecker, USA (Ret.), including work on a film series addressing the moral ramifications of killing from a Christian perspective.

He describes "a cool synergy" between young cadets eager to grow in Christ and seasoned officers who have sought to honor Christ in their careers. From retreats to weekly calls to shared leadership at programs like Rocky Mountain High, John says there is consistent partnership happening behind the scenes. He expresses gratitude for standing "on the shoulders of giants" who have built strong inter-ministry relationships.

Key Takeaway:

John hopes listeners remember that "God is doing a work among college students right now." There is a present opportunity for investing in the spiritual lives of future military leaders. Whether through prayer, mentoring, or partnership, OCF members are invited to join that work while the door is open.

OCF Ministry News:

Enjoy an impactful Conference Center visit: If you're looking for an opportunity to hit the pause button and reconnect with loved ones, consider a summer program at White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.) or Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.).

Support OCF during your visits to the grocery store: Find out if a store near you is eligible, enroll using OCF's organization number, then shop as normal to contribute effortlessly to OCF's mission and vision at no added cost to you.

Share your life updates: Visit ocfusa.org/deployment to let us know about an ongoing or upcoming deployment. Visit ocfusa.org/update to let us know of a change in rank, duty status, contact information, or something else.

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Guest Spotlight

What does it look like to lead with foresight in an uncertain world, and what does Scripture say about it?

Lt Gen Clint Hinote, USAF (Ret.), who served as the Air Force's futurist, joins host Josh Jackson to explore future-minded leadership from both a military and biblical perspective. Drawing on his experience leading organizational change during the rise of China as a military power, Hinote unpacks how Christian leaders at every level can develop long-term vision, navigate resistance to change, discern God's calling over time, and guard against the pride that blinds.

This episode is for any Christian officer—or everyday leader—wrestling with how to lead wisely when the future is anything but clear.

Questions answered and themes covered in this interview include:

How can a Christian leader think strategically about the future without claiming to know God's prophetic plan?

Strategic foresight isn't prophecy—it's disciplined preparation in the face of uncertainty. A futurist reads signals about where the world is heading, examines an organization's strengths and weaknesses against that backdrop, and builds scenarios that help leaders make wise decisions today. Some signals are strong enough to act on with confidence; others require humility and flexibility. The biblical principle at work is vision, not foreknowledge, but a compelling picture of a future worth working toward. Consider Jesus investing in 12 unlikely disciples. From a worldly perspective, that investment looked foolish. But He had a vision for what those people would become and for what they would build, and He made decisions accordingly. Future-minded leadership does the same: it acts today in light of what could unfold tomorrow.

How should a Christian leader lead change when the organization has experienced significant success doing things the old way?

The hardest change to lead is the change that follows success because success makes the case for staying the course. The key is helping people see that not changing carries its own risk. If an adversary is investing in ways that negate your strengths, and you keep training the same way and buying the same equipment, you will lose. Nobody wants to lose. The why behind the change has to be communicated clearly and repeatedly—not just the destination, but the reason the current path leads somewhere no one wants to go. And once people are convinced of the why, the leader has to go further: "What do I do different? I'm sitting at my computer answering emails. What do you want me to do different?" Conviction about tomorrow has to connect to actionable steps today. Explaining the reasoning behind change is simply a way of communicating respect in that it signals that the people being led are valued, not just directed.

What are biblical examples of leaders who had a future-minded vision and acted on it?

Paul's vision for the early church is one of the clearest examples of future-minded leadership in Scripture. He held a conviction that the gospel was for everyone—not only the Jewish people, but Gentiles across the known world—and he did the practical work to make that vision real. He traveled, communicated, and built a network of fellow workers: Barnabas, Timothy, and others who spread the message one relationship at a time, one conversation at a time. The early church didn't grow because Paul had a strategy document. It grew because he had a compelling vision and took concrete steps toward it, even without knowing exactly how it would unfold. That combination—clear vision, practical action, and a willingness to build toward something not yet visible—is what future-minded Christian leadership looks like in any era.

What are the warning signs that a leader is casting vision without God's guidance?

Pride and arrogance are the clearest warning signs, and they are more common, and more subtle, than most leaders want to admit. The higher the rank, the harder it becomes for others to offer genuine critique. Without honest feedback, false confidence grows: the leader becomes convinced their vision is right, their judgment is sound, and they can do no wrong. This is the Pharisees' pattern. They were doing many things right—working to uphold God's law and demonstrate its importance to the people—but over time, a shared prideful mindset left them unable to hear correction or see where they were actually taking those they led. That arrogance blinds, and in most cases, a significant fall follows. The antidote is deliberately creating space for honest, contrary voices and remaining genuinely open to them.

How do you discern if a calling from God requires immediate action or a longer season of preparation?

Both are legitimate, and learning to recognize the difference is part of walking closely with God. Some callings arrive as a sudden, undeniable inner conviction—a tug that says, "I have to do this now." Others settle in gradually, such as a vision that won't leave, that doesn't yet make practical sense, but grows clearer over time. Nehemiah is a useful example of the slow burn. He didn't arrive in Jerusalem the day he was released by the king. He had been preparing—mentally, logistically—long before he made the journey. He had a list of provisions and construction materials ready to go when the king asked. For either type of calling, the counsel is the same: pray, stay attentive, and talk to people you trust who are themselves walking with God. God is not trying to hide His will. If He's calling you to something, He will make it clear.

What does the Bible say about making wise decisions as a leader facing an uncertain future?

Proverbs counsels seeking multiple advisors, and that principle is as practical today as it is ancient. Wise future-minded leadership begins with creating a genuine safe space where people can present ideas, offer honest critique, and work through disagreement respectfully. The leader's role is to facilitate that process, not suppress it. Once a decision is made, it doesn't have to be permanent, and most decisions are not one-way doors. If evidence later shows a different path is better, adjusting course is not failure; it's learning. Organizations that thrive in uncertainty tend to be the ones flexible enough to change direction when the evidence warrants it, combining conviction about the vision with humility about the path.

Mentioned in this episode:

• White Sulphur Springs' Summer R&R #2, during which Clint will serve as the guest speaker
• "Good leadership lifts others": Practical truths for Biblical leadership, Part 1 / October 2025
• "No perfect leaders, no perfect lives": Five common qualities of Biblical leaders / November 2025
• Clint's Nehemiah Bible study, developed during a prior deployment and used at WSS

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

Ministry News

Enjoy an impactful Conference Center visit: If you're looking for an opportunity to hit the pause button and reconnect with loved ones, consider a summer program at White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.) or Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.).

Check out the OCF Sisterhood: Visit our newest webpage to stay in the know, join the conversation, or help shape women's ministry efforts.

Meet the Council Class of 2029: Learn more about and pray for our newly elected Council members.

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Guest Spotlight

Today's episode features a conversation between Crosspoint host Josh Jackson and LTC Brittany Simmons, USA (Ret.). Brittany served 20 years in the Army Military Police Corps, including deployment to Iraq as a platoon leader from 2004-2005.

In this episode, Brittany challenges the common individualistic reading of the Armor of God passage in Ephesians 6. Drawing from her combat experience and understanding of Roman military formations, she explains why Paul's analogy was always meant to be understood not only individually, but also collectively—as a unit linking shields together, not isolated soldiers fighting alone.

She discusses finding battle buddies, the danger of spiritual isolation, and practical ways to intentionally build Christian community whether you're actively serving, recently relocated, or settled in one place.

Brittany also mentions two upcoming events, which women can attend for Biblical teaching, fellowship, and more:

• OCF Leading Women: 20-22 March at White Sulphur Springs in Manns Choice, Pa.
• Summer Celebration #4B (Women's Track): 28 June-3 July at Spring Canyon in Buena Vista, Colo.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

Points to ponder

As you listen to this conversation with Brittany, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. When you read Ephesians 6:10-18, do you naturally think of individual armor or collective defense? Why?
2. Who are the "battle buddies" in your spiritual life right now—people you're intentionally linking shields with?
3. Brittany mentions that in combat, soldiers who go off alone become the most vulnerable. Where in your spiritual life might you be trying to fight alone?
4. How does understanding prayer as "communication with the Commander" change the way you approach it—both individually and collectively?
5. What's one practical step you could take this week to find or deepen community with other believers?
6. How might your military experience give you unique insight to share with civilian Christians about the power of working together?

Ministry News

Read others' stories about impactful Conference Center visits: If you're considering a family retreat, ministry gathering, or just need to step away and breathe, check out stories from those who have enjoyed the same at OCF's Conference Centers.

Listen to OCF's newest podcast: Anchored & Armed, hosted by Mackenzie and Naomi, will feature authentic, relatable conversations about military life for women in uniform or women who love someone in uniform. Be sure to subscribe to keep up with their new episodes.

Register for one of four upcoming regional retreats for ROTC cadets and midshipmen:

• Eastern ROTC OCF/Valor/Navs Retreat: 6-8 February at White Sulphur Springs in Manns Choice, Pa.
• Rocky Mountain ROTC Spiritual Fitness Retreat: 13-15 February at Spring Canyon in Buena Vista, Colo.
• Midwest All-Service ROTC Retreat: 13-15 February at Riverside Bible Camp in Story City, Iowa
• Southern California ROTC Retreat: 20-22 February at Owl Creek Farms in Temecula, Calif.

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Today's episode features Col Scott Fisher, USAF (Ret.), who serves as OCF's CEO and executive director. Throughout his 27 years of service in the U.S. Air Force, Scott and his wife Christie were involved in OCF ministry as Local Leaders across the globe, on OCF Council, and to our chaplains.

Scott joins Crosspoint host Josh Jackson to share about the meaning of the Christmas story, to address those facing the unique challenges of military life during the holiday season, and to discuss God's faithfulness to individuals and to the OCF ministry.

After also sharing some expectations and prayerful plans for 2026, Scott encourages OCF members to get involved in one of various ways to glorify the Lord through the military community.

Here are links to the resources and stories mentioned in this episode:

• Annual Impact Report
• Local fellowships, details of which are visible on the OCF Directory
• Women's ministry efforts, led by Kristin "KG" Goodrich (kristin.goodrich@ocfusa.org)
• Partnership opportunities

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

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OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Support widows and widowers across OCF this GivingTuesday: Your gift—large or small—directly provides opportunities for widowed members of the OCF family to find comfort, community, and Christ-centered encouragement at our Conference Centers. Visit ocfusa.org/givingtuesday to learn more and donate now. https://www.ocfusa.org/givingtuesday/
• Read the latest Annual Impact Report: Visit ocfusa.org/air to check out financial reports, members' stories of impact, and year-in-review reports from OCF Service Academy & Gateways, Regional Coordinators, and Conference Centers. https://www.ocfusa.org/air/
• Join OCFers in prayer: Visit ocfusa.org/pip to download the current month's prayer list or ocfusa.org/needprayer to submit a prayer request. https://www.ocfusa.org/pip/ https://www.ocfusa.org/needprayer/

Register for a Winter Retreat session at one of OCF's Conference Centers:

• 20-27 December, 28 December-4 January at Spring Canyon in Buena Vista, Colo. https://www.springcanyon.org/winter-retreat/
• 21-26 December, 27-30 December, 30 December-2 January at White Sulphur Springs in Manns Choice, Pa. https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/winter-retreat/

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

Today's episode features two individuals—Naomi and Mackenzie—whose voices you'll hear more in the future as they begin hosting a new podcast called "OCF Anchored & Armed." Naomi lives at Edwards Air Force Base with her active-duty husband and their three kids, while Mackenzie is a first lieutenant stationed at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

Naomi and Mackenzie discuss their inspiration for the upcoming podcast designed for Christian women in uniform and military wives, share their passion for encouraging other women in the military community, participate in Crosspoint's first-ever lightning round, and more.

Interested in connecting with them? You can send an email to anchored@ocfusa.org. And keep an eye out for the Google Form that will be featured in the show notes of each OCF Anchored & Armed episode to come.

OCF Anchored & Armed launches in January 2026.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Naomi and Mackenzie, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Thinking of Hebrews 6:19, what does it mean to you to be "anchored and armed" in Christ?
2. What helps you feel connected to others who come from similar walks of life?
3. What difference does that connection make?

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OCF MINISTRY NEWS

Apply for the youth program manager position: If you are interested in this opportunity at White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.), contact WSS Center Director Paul Robyn (wssdirector@ocfusa.org) or WSS Director of Hospitality Susanne Pappal (wssoffice@ocfusa.org) or call (814) 623-5583 for further information and an application.

Support widows and widowers across OCF this GivingTuesday: Your gift—large or small—directly provides opportunities for widowed members of the OCF family to find comfort, community, and Christ-centered encouragement at our Conference Centers. Visit ocfusa.org/givingtuesday to learn more and donate now.

Register for a Winter Retreat session at one of OCF's Conference Centers:

• 20-27 December, 28 December-4 January at Spring Canyon in Buena Vista, Colo.
• 21-26 December, 27-30 December, 30 December-2 January at White Sulphur Springs in Manns Choice, Pa.

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

Today's episode continues the conversation between Crosspoint host Josh Jackson and Lt Gen Clint Hinote, USAF (Ret.). Listen to part 1 here.

In this portion, Clint talks about common qualities of Biblical leaders, the cost of leadership, prayer habits, and practical advice. He closes the episode with reminders that the Lord works in and through imperfect leaders, and an openness to answer His calls to lead may bring great cost but may also bring great reward.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF's "Be a Guest" webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Clint, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. What leaders in the Bible do you admire and why?
2. How does the way God used broken leaders in Scripture encourage you to lead for His glory despite your own brokenness?
3. Which of the five principles Clint mentions do you struggle with most?
4. In the midst of your leadership role(s), how would you describe your prayer life?
5. How is the cost of leadership actually a cost for everyone?
6. Have you felt isolated as a leader? How did you work through that?

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In the final episode of this Crosspoint Highlights micro-series on leadership, Col Jassen Bluto, USAF (Ret.), shares his third core principle—caring—and what it truly means to care for the people you lead. Far from being sentimental, Bluto explains that genuine care is a leader's responsibility to meet both the physical and emotional needs of those under their command.

Drawing from his military experience, he shares how simple, compassionate acts—like ensuring subordinates have proper equipment or recognizing when someone needs time to regroup—can transform a unit's morale and trust. Rooted in a Christ-centered approach to leadership, Bluto reminds listeners that when leaders genuinely care for their people, they strengthen both the mission and the hearts of those who serve alongside them.

If you'd like to listen to the full interview, titled "Practice what we profess: Three leadership principles for the Christian in the military," it can be found here.

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In part two of this Crosspoint Highlights micro-series on leadership, Col Jassen Bluto, USAF (Ret.), explores the second core principle—respect—and breaks it down into four key expressions: respect for your unit, for each other, for yourself, and for the authority entrusted to you. He explains that genuine respect begins with love for the people you serve alongside and extends to humility in how you lead them.

Bluto cautions against the pride that can accompany rank or privilege, urging leaders instead to see their authority as a responsibility to mentor, develop, and care for others. Through stories and reflection, he illustrates how leaders who model humility and honor those they lead can transform struggling teams, cultivate trust, and ultimately glorify God through their leadership.

If you'd like to listen to the full interview, titled "Practice what we profess: Three leadership principles for the Christian in the military," it can be found here.

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In this first part of the Crosspoint Highlights micro-series on leadership, Col Jassen Bluto, USAF (Ret.), unpacks the foundational principle of trust. He explains that true leadership requires both character and competence: the moral integrity that inspires confidence and the professional skill that earns respect.

Drawing from personal experience as a squadron commander, Bluto discusses how accountability, care for people, and technical excellence work together to build trust within a team. He shares real-life examples of mentoring, correction, and difficult personnel decisions, showing that trustworthy leadership isn't about authority or manipulation, but about inspiring others through consistency, humility, and faithfulness in both life and work.

If you'd like to listen to the full interview, titled "Practice what we profess: Three leadership principles for the Christian in the military," it can be found here.

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OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Keep an eye out for this fall’s Connected print newsletter: A digital copy of the newsletter is also available online at ocfusa.org/connected https://www.ocfusa.org/connected/

• Serve as the ministry support volunteer position: Check out the full volunteer listing for details and the application. https://www.ocfusa.org/volunteer/ministry-support-volunteer/

• Calling all female cadets & mids: Connect with your peers via OCF Sisters in Service’s monthly Zoom calls. Find out more on SIS’ Instagram: @sisters_in_service_ocf

Register for a Winter Retreat session at one of OCF’s Conference Centers:

• 20-27 December, 28 December-4 January at Spring Canyon in Buena Vista, Colo. https://www.springcanyon.org/winter-retreat/

• 21-26 December, 27-30 December, 30 December-2 January at White Sulphur Springs in Manns Choice, Pa. https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/winter-retreat/

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

Today’s episode features the first half of Crosspoint host Josh Jackson’s conversation with Lt Gen Clint Hinote, USAF (Ret.). After a 35-year career as a fighter pilot, military strategist, and senior leader, Clint retired in 2023 and now serves as a futurist for the Air Force. He is also a professor of policy analysis at the RAND School of Public Policy.

Interested in leadership since his teen years and having gained experience through a variety of leadership roles ever since, Clint shares his thoughts on the definition of leadership, the importance of leaders’ influence, and lessons to learn from the book of Nehemiah.

Resources mentioned during this episode include:

• Clint’s Nehemiah Bible study, developed during a prior deployment and used at WSS

• Jim Collins’ Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap...And Others Don't https://www.amazon.com/Good-Great-Some-Companies-Others/dp/0066620996

• White Sulphur Springs’ Summer R&R, where Clint served as a speaker this past summer https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/summer-rnr/

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Clint, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How would you define leadership? Is “influence” a sufficient definition?

2. How have your own leadership roles affected your understanding of leadership?

3. Why is it important to remember the “human connection” aspect of leadership?

4. What role does consistency have in a leader's communications skills?

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OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Check out and attend any of these local events:

• Aspentime Retreat: 26-28 September at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) https://www.springcanyon.org/aspentime/

• BBQ Bonanza: 3-4 October at Fort Leavenworth (Kan.) https://www.ocfusa.org/event/fall-bbq-bonanza-2025/

• OCF Hampton Roads Region Annual Fall Picnic: 4 October at Fort Monroe, Va. https://evite.me/M6xMVkCshv

• USNA Fall Retreat: 10-13 October at White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.) mailto:usna@ocfusa.org

• OCF Mid-Atlantic Fall Retreat: 14-16 November at White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.) https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/ocf-mid-atlantic-fall-retreat/

• Start an OCF small group: Read Rich's article, full of practical guidance to help you take the next step. https://www.ocfusa.org/2011/01/starting-ocf-small-group-fellowship-2/

• Help OCF steward its ministry buildings: Email Director of Infrastructure and Facility Management Joe Orosz (joe.orosz@ocfusa.org) to get more information or offer your expertise in master planning, design, construction, and/or facility maintenance. mailto:joe.orosz@ocfusa.org

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

Today you’re going to hear from Kristin “KG” Goodrich, a Navy veteran and OCF’s new director of women’s ministry. KG talks about ministry efforts from her role, the impact of our current cultural climate, and an update about the military sisterhood KG discussed in a 2019 episode of OCF Crosspoint. https://www.ocfusa.org/2019/11/47-goodrich-military-sisterhood/

She mentions a few resources in today's episode: American Bible Society and Planting Roots’ Bible Boot Camp for Military Women and Planting Roots’ Growing Deeper: Spiritual Nourishment for Military Women by Kasey Raia Stout. https://resources.armedservicesministry.org/products/bible-boot-camp-for-military-women https://www.amazon.com/Growing-Deeper-Spiritual-Nourishment-Military/dp/B0FHH4FT6J

Save the date for these events KG mentioned, and keep an eye out for more details and registration links in the coming months:

1. Growing Deeper Conference: 31 January at Grace Community Church (Pensacola, Fla.)

2. OCF Leading Women Retreat: 20-22 March at White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.)

3. Women’s Week of Summer Celebration: 28 June-3 July at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.)

Contact KG via kristin.goodrich@ocfusa.org with any input regarding women’s ministry, and be sure to follow @sisters_in_service_ocf on Instagram, too. https://www.instagram.com/sisters_in_service_ocf/

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with KG, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. What challenges would you say women in the military face today?

2. How can you as an individual and OCF as a parachurch ministry support them in those challenges?

3. KG talks about a scaffolding approach to her role as OCF's director of women's ministry. How can you take a similar approach to come alongside and mentor the next generation for ministry and service?

4. KG also talks about the isolation female officers can sometimes feel when they’re the only one among all male officers. How has finding someone with similar experiences been an encouragement to you?

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Show Notes

In this second part of “Military Brats React,” host Courtney Burdick continues the roundtable conversation with 2LT Dani Volle, USA, ENS Mary Ann Leonard, USN, and Matt Taylor as they reflect on their experiences growing up in military families. Listen to Part 1 here.

While the first part of the discussion centered on the challenges and mental health struggles faced by military kids, this episode shifts to the “strengths-based perspective”—seeing the good that can come out of a hard, transient lifestyle—discussed in Josh Jackson’s Crosspoint interview with Claire Anderson.

Have thoughts or want to share your own experience? Reach out to Josh at josh.jackson@ocfusa.org and/or Courtney at courtney.burdick@ocfusa.org.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with the brats, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Looking back on your own military or life experiences, what unexpected strengths have you developed through hardship?

2. Who or what helped you most in your difficult seasons, and how might you offer that same support to someone else today?

3. What role has your faith (or your family’s faith) played in helping you navigate challenges?

4. How do you think churches or ministries could better support military families in your community?

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In a recent Crosspoint episode, Josh Jackson and Claire Anderson discussed the “hidden epidemic” of mental health challenges among military kids. In this follow-up conversation, Courtney Burdick hosts three fellow military kids—2LT Dani Volle, USA, ENS Mary Ann Leonard, USN, and Matt Taylor—for a roundtable-style reaction episode.

Having met at White Sulphur Springs, OCF’s eastern camp and conference center, they discuss stories from their respective military kid experiences, thoughts on Claire’s research, and more.

Have thoughts or want to share your own experience? Reach out to Courtney at courtney.burdick@ocfusa.org.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with the brats, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Which challenge of military life (deployments, moving, role confusion, food insecurity, etc.) has impacted you or someone you know the most, and how did you see God at work in it?
2. What do you think might help military kids and families?
3. What struck you about this conversation?
4. How do you see military culture—often marked by toughness and stoicism—affecting kids’ ability to talk about struggles openly?

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The July episode of Crosspoint served as Part 1 of a conversation with LTC Lee Robinson, USA, director of the U.S. Military Academy’s American Politics Program and an academy professor in the Department of Social Sciences.

We began answering this overarching question—"What does it look like to follow Christ in uniform, when your faith is personal, your authority is public, and the Constitution sets the boundaries?”

In Part 2 we continue this timely discussion on how Christian military leaders can live out their faith with integrity, while respecting the pluralism of today’s armed forces.

Lee emphasizes that faith in leadership must never take the form of pressure or compulsion. Drawing from both Scripture and military experience, he outlines the importance of being a faithful witness without overstepping the boundaries of official authority. When senior leaders bring faith into their roles, the question isn't “Can I?” but “Should I?”—and wisdom is key to navigating that tension.

A central focus of this conversation is the principle of religious liberty for all, not just Christians. Lee speaks to the importance of defending others’ rights, even when you disagree with their beliefs because a free society depends on reciprocal freedom.

Lastly, Lee offers both encouragement and challenge to Christian leaders: You won’t get this balance perfect. But grace, humility, and a deep dependence on God are essential as you try to be salt and light in a diverse military environment.

This episode does a pretty good job of standing on its own, but we do encourage you to go back and listen to part 1 to get the full context of the conversation.

Key points from the conversation

• Coercion and leadership don’t mix. Your influence as a Christian officer must be grounded in love and respect, not pressure.
• Religious liberty is for everyone. Defending others’ freedoms strengthens your own witness and integrity.
• Wisdom matters. Just because something is legally allowed doesn’t always mean it’s wise or helpful in a given leadership context.
• Mistakes will happen. What matters most is how you respond—with humility, grace, and a willingness to grow.

Questions to ponder

1. How can you create a culture in your unit where spiritual questions and discussions are welcome but never forced?
2. Are there moments where your leadership presence might unintentionally signal pressure around faith?
3. What does it look like to advocate for religious freedom in a way that honors others’ beliefs?
4. How do you respond when you realize you didn’t strike the right balance between faith and official duty?
5. What role does humility play in spiritual leadership?

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OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Become findable on the OCF Directory: Visit ocfusa.org/list-me to add or update your group’s information on our online directory of Bible studies.
• Apply for Spring Canyon’s Deputy Center Director opening: Check out the job description and apply NLT 15 August.
• Check out our new Widowed Ministry webpage: Visit ocfusa.org/widowed-ministry/ to access helpful resources, invitations to fellowship, and scholarship funding for summer programs at the Conference Centers.

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

Why is mentoring important to the Christian in the military? Answering that question and others in this episode are COL Jim Brown, USA (Ret.), and Navy veteran and OCF Director of Women’s Ministry Kristin “KG” Goodrich.

Jim and KG discuss the unique elements of Christian mentoring, their own personal experiences with mentors or mentees, and how military culture might create challenges to the idea of mentoring, among other topics.

Mentoring has always been part of OCF’s DNA—from prayer and accountability to sharing wisdom across generations. Check out our Mentoring Program page, which offers a structured approach to equipping Christian military leaders to grow in their faith and leadership while walking alongside others.

Whether you feel called to invest in someone else’s journey—or you’re looking for someone to invest in yours—we invite you to get involved.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage for consideration. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with KG and Jim, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How would you define mentoring, and what have your experiences as a mentor or mentee been like?
2. In what areas of your life might you most benefit from having a mentor?
3. How might God be equipping you to mentor others around you?
4. What barriers might you see to mentoring, and how can you go about overcoming those?

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Guest: LTC Lee Robinson, USA

In this Crosspoint Highlight from July 2025, LTC Lee Robinson explores the delicate balance military leaders must strike between free exercise of religion and non-establishment under the First Amendment.

He emphasizes that the amendment’s brevity—and its ambiguity—stem from the compromises between Federalists and Anti-Federalists at the time of America’s founding. Lee explains how the language evolved, rejecting broader proposals like prohibiting any laws “touching religion” to avoid overly limiting the federal government.

He encourages military leaders to wrestle with the historical context and constitutional principles behind the First Amendment to better understand their own oath to support and defend the Constitution, particularly in gray areas where religion intersects with public duty.

What do you think?

How does understanding the historical compromise behind the First Amendment help shape your approach to religious liberty in leadership?

What practical steps can you take as a military leader to uphold both the free exercise of religion and the principle of non-establishment?

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Guest: LTC Lee Robinson, USA

In this Crosspoint Highlight from July 2025, LTC Lee Robinson tackles the complex question: Was America founded as a Christian nation?

Lee draws a distinction between the first founding (e.g., Puritan colonies with explicitly religious laws) and the constitutional founding rooted in liberty and freedom of conscience.

He explains that while America’s early cultural fabric was deeply influenced by Christianity, the U.S. Constitution intentionally avoided establishing a state religion—rejecting even a proposed religious test in Article VI.

Citing Alexis de Tocqueville, Lee paints a vivid picture of early Americans shaped by both faith and civic engagement, underscoring the enduring impact of Christian values on the nation's moral habits, even if not enshrined in its legal foundation.

What do you think?

What does the balance between personal faith and civic freedom look like for Christian leaders today?

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OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Sign up for summer programs at the Conference Centers: Visit ocfusa.org/CCexperience to find the right program and week for you at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) or White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.). https://www.ocfusa.org/CCexperience/

• Consider your next steps at the Caleb Challenge Career Transition Strategies Workshop (12-14 September): Visit White Sulphur Springs’ website to learn more about and sign up for this impactful weekend. https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/caleb-challenge-career-transition-strategies-workshop/

• Update your information and stay connected: Whether it's your address, military status, rank, contact information, or something else, take 30 seconds to let us know via the Update My Info form. https://www.ocfusa.org/update/

• Check out Crosspoint Highlights: Don’t miss our new episode format, designed to share just a portion of a previously posted podcast for an encouraging listen even when you’re short on time. Find Crosspoint Highlights wherever you get your podcasts.

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

What does it look like to follow Christ in uniform? LTC Lee Robinson, USA, director of the U.S. Military Academy’s American Politics Program and an academy professor in the Department of Social Sciences, joins the podcast to address questions like this.

Hailing from Georgia and having graduated from West Point in 2000, Lee now teaches and researches topics like civil-military relations and organizational leadership. In this episode, Lee shares about the cadet ministry that takes place through USMA OCF, led by Field Staff Bob & Tracy Phillips, then dives into complex topics ranging from balancing personal and professional choices to studying the United States’ historical approach to religion.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Lee, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Why is it important to understand the historical context of the First Amendment?

2. How does the vague language of the First Amendment impact us today?

3. As you listen to Lee's example of the company commander with the cross on his desk, how would you respond if you were in Lee’s position?

4. How do you think you balance your private and public personas?

5. What do you learn from Jesus' example of rejecting political power?

6. “In essentials unity, in non-essentials liberty, in all things charity.” How does this quote from seventeenth-century German Lutheran theologian Rupertus Meldenius tie into today’s conversation?

7. In what ways can your life be an example of the gospel and the work of Christ?

8. What Scriptures shape your leadership philosophy, even in ways that might be subtle to the non-believer?

9. Where's the line between encouraging religion and morality and compelling it?

10. What can we learn from the Founding Fathers as they faced tension and disagreement regarding the government's approach to religion?

11. Lee explains that "liberty is freedom to follow laws and freedom of conscience." What are your thoughts on this definition?

12. Why is it important to understand not only what the Constitution says but also why it says what it does?

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Information about Summer R&R 7 at White Sulphur Springs, and speaker LtGen Clint Hinote, USAF (Ret.):

About the Topic: Wherever we are, God calls us to lead. He calls us to lead ourselves, our families, our units, our communities, and our culture. The Bible contains many accounts of leaders, including stories about their successes and failures. In this session, we will examine Biblical leaders and learn from their experiences. We will celebrate the good and be honest about the bad. In doing so, we will seek practical truths we can apply to our lives because we can always learn and grow as leaders.

About the Speaker: Clint retired from the U.S. Air Force in 2023 after a 35-year career as a fighter pilot, military strategist, and senior leader. In his last assignment, he served as the futurist for the Air Force, responsible for creating the vision for the future force. He now writes and speaks on defense reform and leadership. He also teaches leadership and policy implementation at RAND’s School of Public Policy.

Links:

• Direct registration link: http://www.ultracamp.com/info/sessiondetail.aspx?idCamp=294&campCode=wss&idSession=495759
• WSS Summer R&R page: https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/summer-rnr/
• Spring Canyon Summer Celebration page: https://www.springcanyon.org/summer-celebration/

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OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Sign up for summer programs at the Conference Centers: Visit ocfusa.org/CCexperience to find the right program and week for you at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) or White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.). https://www.ocfusa.org/CCexperience/

• Connect with OCFers at USNA and USAFA:

• OCF at USAFA: Pre-Inprocessing Day Reception (Class of 2029), 24 June, Monument, Colo. https://www.ocfusa.org/event/ocf-at-usafa-pre-inprocessing-day-reception-class-of-2029/

• USNA OCF: Class of 2029 Open House, 25 June, Annapolis, Md. https://www.ocfusa.org/event/usna-ocf-class-of-2029-open-house/

• Volunteer as a Local Leader at one of these locations: Columbus AFB, Fort Campbell, Fort Drum, Fort Eisenhower, Fort Jackson, Fort Riley, Fort Stewart / Hunter AAF, Goodfellow AFB, JB Charleston, MCAS Beaufort, MCB Quantico, Norwich University, NSB New London / Groton, Schofield Barracks / Wheeler AAF, Sheppard AFB, Texas A&M University, The Citadel, Tyndall AFB, University of North Georgia, USCG Air Station and Base Kodiak, USCG Air Station Miami, USCG District 11 and Base Alameda, USCG District 13 and Base Seattle, USCG Sector Key West, USCG Sector St. Petersburg, USCG Station Port Canaveral, Virginia Tech. When you are ready to volunteer, complete our quick List Me form so that members can find you on the OCF Directory and OCF staff can equip you based on local needs. https://www.ocfusa.org/list-me/

• Help OCF steward its ministry buildings: Email Director of Infrastructure and Facility Management Joe Orosz (joe.orosz@ocfusa.org) to get more information or offer your expertise in master planning, design, construction, and/or facility maintenance. mailto:joe.orosz@ocfusa.org

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

Today’s guest spotlight features Claire Anderson, a military child and new graduate of Liberty University. Claire joins the podcast to talk about the military kid experience, informed by her own upbringing and her recent honors thesis, titled “Analysis of the At-Risk Mental Health of Military Children and Proposed Intervention Plans To Be Implemented by Mental Health Professionals.”

Having gotten connected to OCF through friends as a freshman in high school, Claire shares how her summers at White Sulphur Springs, particularly her work with youths attending the Camp Caleb program, piqued her interest in the military child experience. She and Josh discuss some statistics from her thesis research, connections to The Performance Paradox: The Unexpected Way to Grind Less, Grow More, and Unlock Success by Eduardo Briceño, and a Biblical view of trials.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Claire, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. If you’ve grown up in the military and/or raised children in the military, what of your own firsthand or secondhand experiences relate to what Claire discussed today?

2. How did the statistics shared during this episode impact you?

3. What factors of the military lifestyle have you seen contribute to low mental health, and how might you work to address and/or mitigate those factors?

4. Claire’s thesis and interview talks about taking a “strengths-based perspective,” and Josh mentions Romans 5:3-4, too. How can our relationship with Jesus transform our view of trials we may experience?

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Crosspoint Highlights: Big ideas, short episodes … for your busy schedule

Guests: Joshua and Lindsey Bowen

From Episode 54: “The importance of small group fellowship.” Listen to the full episode here.

Highlight Summary:

In this Crosspoint Highlight, Joshua and Lindsey Bowen reflect on the lasting impact of biblical community, mentorship, and servant leadership during their time in the military. They share how their early experiences in a diverse OCF small group at Fort Carson shaped their spiritual maturity and inspired them to pour into cadets at West Point years later. From late-night Bible studies to one-on-one mentoring moments, Josh and Lindsey offer a deeply personal look at how fellowship across generations can transform lives and prepare future military leaders for both spiritual and professional challenges.

• Find an OCF group near you
• Find out more about Christian mentoring

Key Takeaways:

• Intergenerational fellowship fosters growth: Being surrounded by older couples in their Fort Carson group helped Josh and Lindsey mature spiritually and understand what Christlike leadership looks like in marriage, military life, and beyond.
• Mentorship happens in everyday moments: Watching how mentors cared for their spouses, shared struggles, and modeled vulnerability left a deep and lasting impression on the Bowens—one they now strive to replicate.
• Leading means serving: As small group leaders at West Point, Josh and Lindsey invest time, energy, and emotional bandwidth into cadets—not just during Bible study, but through desserts, coffee chats, and showing up when it matters most.
• Spiritual black holes are real: Without proactive preparation, cadets can find themselves spiritually adrift after graduation. Josh shares candidly how his own post-academy faith stagnated, and how he now helps cadets plan ahead to avoid the same pitfall.
• God equips those He calls: Lindsey never saw herself in women’s ministry or spiritual mentorship—until someone invited her. Now she thrives in that space, walking alongside young women facing challenges she never imagined when she was in their shoes.

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OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Sign up for summer programs at the Conference Centers: Visit ocfusa.org/CCexperience to find the right program and week for you at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) or White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.). https://www.ocfusa.org/CCexperience/

• Free Bible studies for OCFers and groups: Visit ocfusa.org/library to download, dive in, and leave a rating to help others discover one of these 18 impactful resources. https://www.ocfusa.org/library/

• Help us keep the OCF community connected: If you or someone in your OCF circle has celebrated a birth, wedding, or experienced a loss since 1 March, please send updates to Courtney Burdick (courtney.burdick@ocfusa.org) for the next issue of our print newsletter.

• Introducing Crosspoint Highlights: Don't miss our new episode format, designed to share just a portion of a previously posted podcast for an encouraging listen even when you’re short on time. Find Crosspoint Highlights wherever you get your podcasts.

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

Today’s guest spotlight features COL Kurt & Donna Schosek, USA (Ret.), who share their stories of hope through grief as they each lost a spouse before meeting and marrying one another. They talk about what surprised them most in the midst of their respective loss, GriefShare, the importance of community, what hurts, what helps, and more. https://www.griefshare.org/

They both have a heart to walk alongside those who have lost their spouses in any season of life, and the Schoseks will do just that later this year when they serve as speakers during the Summer R&R #6 program at White Sulphur Springs. https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/summer-rnr-6/

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Kurt and Donna, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. If you've lost a loved one before, what helped you in the midst of your grief?

2. How would you describe what it means to grieve well?

3. What are your takeaways from the Schoseks about how you can care for others as they grieve?

4. What Bible passages comfort you most during loss?

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Welcome to Crosspoint Highlights: Big ideas. Short episodes. For your busy schedule.

Guest: Col Chet Arnold, USMC (Ret.)

From Episode 46: “May a Christian Serve in the Military?” Listen to the full episode here.

Highlight Summary:

Can a Christian serve in the military and still follow Jesus’ command to love their enemies? In this Crosspoint Highlight, Col Chet Arnold, USMC (Ret.), tackles the difficult topic of killing in combat from a Biblical perspective. Drawing from both the Old and New Testaments, Chet explains why understanding the sanctity of life and the God-given authority of government is essential for military believers. He also challenges listeners to avoid dehumanizing their enemies and to grieve the loss of life—even in war—through the lens of being made in God's image.

Be sure to check out our article by the same name, "May A Christian Serve in the Military?"

Key Takeaways:

• The sanctity of life is foundational: All people are made in God’s image—even those considered enemies.
• God delegates authority to governments: Genesis 9 establishes the basis for protection and justice, even when that includes the use of force.
• Jesus’ command to turn the other cheek applies to personal offense, not to military or governmental responsibility (Matthew 5:39).
• Dehumanizing the enemy leads to spiritual and emotional damage: Christians are called to mourn every life lost, even in war.
• Grieving rightly matters: Proper understanding of life’s value can reduce the impact of trauma and moral injury after combat.

Mentioned Bible Verses:

• Genesis 1 – Humans are created in the image of God.
• Genesis 9 – God delegates to human government the authority to take life in matters of justice.
• Matthew 5:39 – “Do not resist the one who is evil… turn to him the other [cheek] also.”

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Quick links:

• Summer R&R 1 at White Sulphur Springs
• All Summer R&R sessions at WSS
• All Summer Celebrations at Spring Canyon
• The Starting Point Project website

Episode summary:

In this bonus episode, Jay Seegert, managing director of the Starting Point Project, shares his journey from a Christian upbringing to becoming a prominent speaker on defending the Christian worldview. He discusses the importance of understanding the differences between a biblical and a Christian worldview, emphasizing the need for clarity in definitions to engage in meaningful discussions.

Jay also highlights the challenges of defending faith in a secular environment and the significance of grounding beliefs in Scripture rather than external influences. In this conversation, Jay and Crosspoint host Josh Jackson explore the relationship between science and the Christian worldview, addressing skepticism, the purpose of defending faith, and the importance of gentleness in apologetics. They emphasize that understanding Scripture does not require extensive scientific knowledge and that foundational questions about God's existence and the Bible's inspiration are crucial for Christians.

The discussion highlights the need for respectful dialogue and the power of God's Word in addressing doubts and skepticism. There’s also discussion on the intersection of science, faith, and the interpretation of Biblical texts regarding the age of the Earth, the concept of death, and the existence of dinosaurs. Jay emphasizes the importance of understanding one's beliefs and the implications of those beliefs on one's worldview.

Listeners also will hear more about the Starting Point Project, which aims to help individuals explore their foundational beliefs and engage in meaningful conversations about faith and science.

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OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Staff changes across the OCF team: Visit ocfusa.org/job-openings to learn more about vacant positions as a result of OCF's ongoing job moves. https://www.ocfusa.org/job-openings/

• Sign up for summer programs at the Conference Centers: Visit ocfusa.org/CCexperience to find the right program and week for you at Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) or White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.). https://www.ocfusa.org/CCexperience/

• Take the next step in growing as a Local Leader: Visit springcanyon.org/3b to learn more about the upcoming OCF LEAD! Local Ministry Leadership Track at Spring Canyon this June.

ASK OCF

Landon Spaulding, who now serves as OCF’s Online Training Development Coordinator, shares his experience as a SkillBridge intern with OCF.

To learn more about SkillBridge opportunities, read our latest article or visit ocfusa.org/skillbridge. https://www.ocfusa.org/2025/03/serving-beyond-the-uniform-ocfs-skillbridge-internships/ https://www.ocfusa.org/skillbridge/

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

Today’s guest spotlight features an excerpt of a conversation with Jay Seegert about defending the Christian worldview. Author, international speaker, and managing director of The Starting Point Project, Jay holds degrees in both Physics and Engineering Technology and has been lecturing on the authority of Scripture for the last 40 years. https://www.thestartingpointproject.com/

He explains what it means to defend the Christian worldview, the significance of addressing the existential questions, and how the Bible ought to be our key source for these conversations. Jay also shares what our motive should be when engaging in discussions with those who hold other worldviews.

Interested in hearing more from Jay about similar topics discussed in today’s episode? Stay tuned for the full, bonus episode coming this month, and consider attending the first week (6-13 June) of White Sulphur Springs’ Summer R&R program as Jay will lead speaker sessions related to his topic: “Defending the Christian Worldview.” https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/summer-rnr-1/

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Jay, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. In your own words, why is it important to be able to defend your Christian worldview?

2. When speaking with individuals of other worldviews, how do you ensure you care more about the individual with a need for the gospel than you do about winning the argument?

3. What topics have you been faced with during worldview-oriented conversations that you’d like to study further?

4. Jay mentioned 1 Peter 3:15. What other relevant verses come to mind when thinking about how to discuss worldviews?

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This month’s special episode enables you to listen to the Global Town Hall, which OCF hosted on 8 February at its Home Office in Colorado Springs, Colo., and over Zoom for members around the world.

You’ll hear from OCF Council President Dale Holland, OCF CEO/Executive Director Scott Fisher, Director of Field Operations Colin Wooten, Local Leaders Josh and Lindsey Bowen, USMA OCF Field Staff Bob Phillips, and OCF Conference Center Directors Paul Robyn and Kim Hawthorne. After the ministry updates from these individuals, attending members asked a variety of questions of the staff present.

If you’d prefer to watch the video of GTH 2025 and/or provide follow-up questions, comments, or feedback, visit ocfusa.org/gth2025.

Here are the links for some of the resources mentioned in this episode:

• Local fellowships https://www.ocfusa.org/directory/

• OCF Conference Centers https://www.ocfusa.org/experience/

• ROTC ministry https://www.ocfusa.org/rotc/

• OCF LEAD! Local Ministry Leadership Track (during Spring Canyon’s Summer Celebration #3) https://www.springcanyon.org/event/summer-celebration-3b/

• Fellowship of Christian Military Ministries Annual Conference (21-24 March) https://militarybeliever.com/fcmm-conference/

• OCF Handbook https://www.ocfusa.org/handbook/

• Mentoring opportunities https://www.ocfusa.org/mentoring/

• OCF’s Annual Priorities: What you need to know and how you can get involved https://www.ocfusa.org/2023/03/ocfs-annual-priorities-what-you-need-to-know-and-how-you-can-get-involved/

Interested in sharing your own story on a future Crosspoint episode? Complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to these ministry updates and Q&A session, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How have you seen God work through OCF in your own life?

2. What can OCF do to serve you better? (And visit ocfusa.org/gth2025 to let us know!)

3. What obstacles—whether personal, logistical, or financial—have kept you from engaging more deeply with Christian community and discipleship opportunities?

4. As you listen to this recording, what might the Lord be putting on your heart to do to engage with military ministry in a new way?

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OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Watch the latest OCF Global Town Hall: Visit ocfusa.org/gth2025 to watch the Town Hall. https://www.ocfusa.org/gth2025/

• Serve and adventure at an OCF Conference Center this spring: Make this March a meaningful mix of service, growth, and adventure through one of these two opportunities.

• Spring Break Service Project Week, 10-16 March, White Sulphur Springs (Manns Choice, Pa.) https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/event/sbsp-week/

• Spring Break Service and Adventure Week, 21-30 March, Spring Canyon (Buena Vista, Colo.) https://www.springcanyon.org/event/spring-break-service-and-adventure-week-2/

• Support OCF during your trips to the grocery store: Visit our Ways to Give page and scroll to the bottom to see if a store near you is eligible for the Community Rewards Program. https://www.ocfusa.org/donate/

ASK OCF

Col Houstoun Waring, USAF (Ret.), who serves as OCF’s Central Regional Coordinator, answered this frequently asked question from another OCFer: Why did OCF develop a Handbook? Who should use it? How should people use it?

To learn more about this impactful resource for military ministry, read the article about the Handbook’s background. https://www.ocfusa.org/2022/09/introducing-the-newest-tool-for-military-ministry-the-ocf-handbook/

Visit our website to access the online version of the OCF Handbook. https://www.ocfusa.org/handbook/

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

This month’s episode features not one but two guests: Lt Col Scott and Lisa Bedrosian, USAF (Ret.). The Bedrosians have been longtime supporters of White Sulphur Springs, OCF’s eastern Conference Center located in Manns Choice, Pa. Having had roles there as guests, staff, and volunteers over the years, Scott and Lisa recount some of their cherished memories made at WSS and share how God has used this special home away from home in their lives. https://www.whitesulphursprings.org/

The Bedrosians describe how WSS helped them navigate the challenges of military life through mentorship, Biblical teachings, and a sense of belonging. They share influential anecdotes, like being reminded of their identity as missionaries in uniform, keeping symbolic “rocks” with spiritual truths, and renaming chores “blessings” because of a simple spatula on a dining room table at WSS. Knowing the conference center’s spiritually rich and personally challenging programs might be intimidating to some, they also answer the frequently asked question: “But will I have fun?”

Interested in having your own impactful experience at a Conference Center? Visit ocfusa.org/experience to learn more about White Sulphur Springs and its sister center Spring Canyon, located in Buena Vista, Colo. https://www.ocfusa.org/experience/

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Scott and Lisa, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. When was a time you were able to truly step away from your daily rhythms to rest and spend time with the Lord?

2. How did that experience affect your day-to-day life?

3. The Bedrosians share a few examples of life-changing advice through connections made at WSS. What impactful advice have you received, and have you shared it with others?

4. Scott calls a stay at WSS an “investment in your family and in your ministry.” What might be the difference that makes your average vacation that kind of investment instead?

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OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• OCF Global Town Hall: Visit ocfusa.org/gth2025 to learn more about and register for the next iteration of this annual, virtual event, scheduled for 8 February.
• Regional ROTC retreats: Visit ocfusa.org/rotc to find the next regional ROTC retreat near you.
• Annual impact report: To hear more about Freddy’s OCF experience and other stories of impact from our conference centers, field locations, and more, download our Annual Impact Report by visiting ocfusa.org/air2024.
• Mentoring opportunities: If you’re interested in mentoring or being trained in mentoring and want to learn more, visit ocfusa.org/mentoring or contact Bill Rue via bill.rue@ocfusa.org.

ASK OCF

LT Will Parker, USN, who serves as the OCF Submarine Community Coordinator, answered this frequently asked question from another OCFer: How do you balance/integrate OCF involvement with commitment to the local church?

To learn more about church-OCF dynamics and ways you can integrate your involvement in both, visit ocfusa.org/handbook/chapter-22.

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

This month’s episode puts the guest spotlight on CAPT Terry Wichert, USN (Ret.). Having served in the U.S. Navy for 30+ years, he now serves as the executive director for Association for Christian Conferences, Teaching and Services (ACCTS), a sister ministry of OCF.

Through personal experiences and some of the 650+ recorded prayers in the Bible, such as those in the books of Nehemiah and Daniel, Terry unpacks the power of persevering prayer. He explains what prayer is and what it isn’t, gives some ideas for developing a prayer life, and viewing prayer as a way to have a relationship with our Lord and align our hearts with His.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

POINTS TO PONDER

1. As you listen to this conversation with Terry, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:
2. Terry reminds us that God “loves for us to pray” and “hears our prayer.” How do these reminders affect your view of prayer?
3. To pose the question Terry says he often asks other believers: Are you satisfied with your prayer life? Why or why not?
4. Terry mentions a monthly habit of spending an entire day in prayer before the Lord. What habits might benefit you in your prayer life?
5. When was a time you prayed often about a certain topic but ultimately the Lord orchestrated circumstances that differed from your prayers? How did you respond? How did that experience grow you in your faith in Him?

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Show Notes

In this bonus episode, Josh, Beth, and Corrie explore the challenges of bitterness and resentment in military marriages, highlighting the influence of faith, perspective shifts, and community support. They discuss the importance of diverse friendships, flexibility in family life, and seeking counseling. Emphasizing teamwork, Beth and Corrie share strategies for balancing responsibilities and overcoming feelings of isolation and resentment.

Beth introduces insights from her new book for military spouses called “Another Move, God?: 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife,” while Corrie shares about her dynamic Instagram platform, @ajoyfulmilspouse, that celebrates military life. Together, they stress that community and shared experiences can strengthen relationships amid military life’s unique challenges.

In the course of this conversation, we also reference Beth’s list of 10 ways to overcome bitterness and resentment, which you can view here.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest/

Takeaways

• The person most affected by bitterness is often the one holding onto it.
• Military spouses often feel bitterness due to the challenges of military life.
• Community support is crucial for military spouses to overcome feelings of isolation.
• Engaging in activities outside of the marriage can help alleviate pressure on the spouse.
• Maintaining connections with friends, even if they are far away, is important.
• Perspective shifts can help in dealing with feelings of loss and resentment.
• Faith and reliance on God can transform bitterness into growth.
• Assuming the best in your spouse fosters a healthier relationship.
• God has a purpose for every assignment in life.

Points to Ponder

As you listen to this conversation with Beth and Corrie, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How does unresolved bitterness affect not only the individual experiencing it but also their relationships with family, friends, and community members? How can someone recognize when bitterness is taking a toll on their life and relationships?
2. In what ways can military spouses balance the demands of military life with self-care and maintaining friendships, even with distance involved? How might maintaining these connections positively impact their mental health and family life?
3. How can a change in perspective help military spouses navigate feelings of loss, resentment, or inequality in responsibilities? What strategies can help shift perspective from bitterness to personal growth?
4. Why is community support so crucial for military families, and what are some effective ways to build a support network? How can this support network contribute to overcoming isolation and fostering resilience?

View Details

OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• New Bible study available: Visit ocfusa.org/suffering to access this newest study, A Faithful Approach to Hardship and Suffering, on our website.

• GivingTuesday fundraiser: Give the gift of Christlike leadership this GivingTuesday (3 Dec.) by visiting ocfusa.org/givingtuesday and donating now.

• Job opening at WSS: If you would like more information and/or an application for this ministry opportunity, contact the WSS Center Director Paul Robyn (wssdirector@ocfusa.org) or the WSS Director of Hospitality Susanne Pappal (wssoffice@ocfusa.org), or call the main office via 814-623-5583. Visit ocfusa.org/job-openings to learn more about or to apply for the new facilities director position at White Sulphur Springs in Pennsylvania.

• Winter Retreats at OCF Conference Centers: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/winter-retreat to register for one of White Sulphur Springs’ Winter Retreat sessions, or visit springcanyon.org/winter-retreat to register for one of Spring Canyon’s Winter Retreat sessions.

• Ministry update from MMI OCF: Visit ocfusa.org/directory to learn more about and connect with local fellowships like the one at MMI in Alabama.

ASK OCF

Lt Col Larry Sherbondy, USAF (Ret.), who serves as the OCF Director of ROTC Ministry, answered this question from another OCFer: How much time might be involved in participating in or starting an ROTC OCF group?

Many resources and opportunities await those interested in plugging into ROTC ministry. Visit ocfusa.org/rotc to get in touch with Larry, check out upcoming ROTC events, and more.

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

Today’s guest spotlight features two military spouses: Beth Runkle and Corrie Reeter. Beth and her husband currently serve with Cru Military, and she recently published a book called “Another Move, God?: 30 Encouragements to Embrace Your Life as a Military Wife.” Corrie is a blogger with a dynamic following on Instagram as @ajoyfulmilspouse, where she and her followers celebrate the uniqueness, blessings, and adventures of military marriage and family life.

Speaking from their experiences as military spouses, Beth and Corrie discuss the bitterness that may arise for some military spouses as they experience deployments, moves, and more. In the course of this conversation, we reference Beth’s list of 10 ways to overcome bitterness and resentment, which you can view here.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Beth and Corrie, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. When was a time you personally experienced bitterness in your life as a military service member and/or spouse?

2. How did you overcome that bitterness?

3. In what ways is the military life a sanctifying one?

4. What is the value of counting your blessings, entrusting everything to the Lord, and maintaining an eternal perspective?

View Details

Show Notes

OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Job opening at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy: Contact PK Carlton (pk.carlton@ocfusa.org) or Marci Morris (marci.morris@ocfusa.org) for more info, or visit ocfusa.org/job-openings to learn more about and apply for the opening at USCGA. Applications are open until 31 Oct.

• In His Service Retreat for women in uniform: Visit events.navigators.org/women-in-uniform-in-his-service-retreat-2024 for more details about this retreat coming up in Jefferson, Texas.

• OCF Mid-Atlantic & Northeast Fall Retreat: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/events to learn more and register, and email any questions to the Chiaravallottis at midatlantic@ocfusa.org.

• Winter Retreats at OCF Conference Centers: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/winter-retreat to register for one of White Sulphur Springs’ Winter Retreat sessions, or visit springcanyon.org/winter-retreat to register for one of Spring Canyon’s Winter Retreat sessions.

ASK OCF

LTC Ryan Wainwright, USA (Ret.), who serves as the Assistant Director of Field Operations, answered this question from another OCFer: Is our membership expanding or contracting?

OCF isn’t just for military officers—anyone sincerely able to sign the Statement of Faith and Participation and agree with the OCF Biblical Guidelines for Member Conduct can become a member of OCF. To become a member, first acknowledge your agreement with the Statement of Faith, then visit ocfusa.org/join to fill out the form.

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

Today’s guest spotlight features Col PK Carlton, USAF (Ret.), who currently serves as OCF's Director of Field Staff. In this role, he focuses on the care and engagement for our Field Staff at the four Service Academies and our Gateway ministries at Leavenworth and Maxwell.

PK and his wife Lindsey have served as Local Leaders across their Air Force career, later serving as Ministry Team at USAFA that led to them leading the USAFA ministry for two years. They love having cadets over and mentoring young officers and have a heart for the Field Staff and their families that serve our key ministries.

Earlier this year, PK led a retreat session for USAFA cadets at Spring Canyon (springcanyon.org) to unpack this frequently asked question in OCF circles: “How do I evangelize in uniform?” PK joined us on Crosspoint to share some of the encouragement he gave those cadets and to share his own testimony as well.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with PK, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How do you feel about evangelism, and what experiences have shaped your impression?

2. Why is it important to keep Matthew 5:16 and Romans 10:14 in mind when thinking about sharing your faith?

3. Who might be able to mentor you in evangelism?

4. What techniques have you found work well for sharing your own testimony?

View Details

In this episode, COL Andy MacLean, USA (Ret.), the coordinator for Latin America at the Association for Christian Conferences, Teaching and Services (ACCTS (https://accts.org/)), discusses the mission of ACCTS and its work in developing Christian leaders in the armed forces worldwide.

He shares his experiences working with military communities in Latin America and the challenges and opportunities he encounters. Andy also highlights the upcoming AMCF World Conference and the need for financial support and prayer for the conference's success.

Andy then shares his testimony and the five fingerprints of God in his life. He discusses his journey from being a missionary kid to a military officer and the unexpected opportunities and doors that God opened for him. He emphasizes the importance of being a good steward of what God has entrusted to us and thinking strategically about where God has placed us.

He encourages Christians in the military to use their credentials and experiences to make an impact for the kingdom of God and to be mindful of the bigger picture in their actions and decisions.

Andy mentions a few resources in this interview: OCF small groups (https://www.ocfusa.org/directory/), Rocky Mountain High (https://www.springcanyon.org/rocky-mountain-high/), and the AMCF World Conference (https://www.worldconferenceamcf.com/en).

Takeaways

• ACCTS' mission is to assist in the development of Christian leaders in the armed forces worldwide and establish military Christian fellowships.

• Andy works as the coordinator for Latin America, supporting military Christian fellowships in 20 countries.

• The AMCF World Conference aims to encourage and equip military Christians from around the world and provide a vision for their mission.

• Financial support and prayer are needed for the success of the conference and the ongoing work of ACCTS.

• There is a need for more people to get involved in ACCTS and support military Christian communities globally.

• Be a good steward of what God has entrusted to you.

• Think strategically about where God has placed you.

• Use your credentials and experiences to make an impact for the kingdom of God.

• Be mindful of the bigger picture in your actions and decisions.

Points to Ponder

1. Andy talks about the Lord using his military career to prepare him for his role with ACCTS. How have you seen God use an experience in your life for another?

2. When have you seen hardship bear fruit?

3. Andy shares about connections and networking being a way to further the gospel elsewhere. What do his anecdotes remind us of when it comes to the Lord and His church?

4. Thinking of the theme for this year’s AMCF World Conference, what does it mean to you to “arise and shine” (Isaiah 60:1)?

5. How are you stewarding what God has given you?

View Details

OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Fort Knox OCF update: Continue praying for the ROTC cadets as they’ve returned to their campuses and begun new semesters. To learn more about and/or get involved with OCF’s ROTC ministry, visit ocfusa.org/rotc

• Connected print newsletters: If you don’t receive this biannual piece in your mailbox this fall, be sure to update your info via ocfusa.org/update so that we don’t miss you next spring. This fall’s newsletter will also be available online at ocfusa.org/connected

• Ted & Beverly Kaiser: Contact this newest couple on the OCF team by emailing europe@ocfusa.org

• OCF Mid-Atlantic & Northeast Fall Retreat: Visit whitesulphursprings.org/events to learn more and register, and email any questions to the Chiaravallottis at midatlantic@ocfusa.org.

• The Bowens’ Fort Carson OCF group: Visit ocfusa.org/directory to connect with groups like the Bowens’, and visit ocfusa.org/list-me to start your own group wherever you are.

ASK OCF

COL Steve & Miriam Shambach, USA (Ret.), who serve as the OCF Mountain Central Regional Coordinator couple, answered this question from another OCFer: Retired, I don't live near a military base, no local OCF folks near me...what opportunity is there for fellowship/training through Zoom?

In case you missed the Shambachs’ article in the spring 2024 issue of Connected print newsletter, you can find it here: From Service to Support: How Veterans Can Stay Engaged in OCF.

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

COL Andy MacLean, USA (Ret.), graduated from the U.S. Military Academy in 1995 and later returned there to be a professor. After retiring in 2019, he joined the Association for Christian Conferences, Teaching, and Services (ACCTS), a sister ministry of OCF. He currently serves as the ACCTS coordinator for Latin America.

Whether discussing the origin story of ACCTS, the countries he works with as an ACCTS staffer, or his own life, Andy’s passion for sharing how God works in the details is clear. He talks about the upcoming AMCF World Conference, approaching this October in Brazil, which you can support by attending, praying for the gathering, and/or contributing to a scholarship for other guests.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Andy, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How can you engage in the international ministry ACCTS does?

2. When have you seen God work through hard situations, whether in your own life or in events across the world?

3. Why is it important to discuss how God is working in other nation’s military communities?

View Details

Show Notes

In this bonus episode of OCF Crosspoint, podcast host Josh Jackson continues his discussion with CH(CPT) Michael Will, USA (Ret.), focusing on the theme of hardship and suffering.

The conversation delves into defining suffering, recognizing its various sources—such as persecution, sin, and the actions of others—and understanding its impact. They address the dangers of comparison, which can undermine endurance, and emphasize the importance of acknowledging our lack of control as a starting point for discovering God's purpose in suffering.

The episode offers practical advice for navigating hardship, including perseverance and concentrating on what we can control. It also explores the purpose behind suffering, such as being shaped into the image of Christ and learning obedience. The conversation touches on the challenging yet transformative concept of rejoicing in suffering and finding hope amidst adversity. Silence and listening to God are highlighted as crucial practices in these times, along with the importance of seeking God's will through prayer.

Additionally, the discussion covers the role of discipline and training in preparing for suffering, encouraging believers to embrace it with a mindset of rejoicing. By viewing suffering as something appointed by God rather than accidental, believers can appreciate the transformative work God accomplishes through these hardships.

Points to Ponder

As you listen to this conversation with CH Will, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. What personal experiences have shaped your definition of suffering?
2. How have you seen God use suffering in your own life and in the lives of others?
3. What Bible verses encourage you in the midst of hardship?
4. Michael talks about prayer as “the most effective tool” in his toolkit. What additional tools can you use when facing hard times?

View Details

Show Notes

OCF MINISTRY NEWS

New hires; jobs still available on OCF team: While couples have stepped forward to fill open positions at USMA and USCGA on an interim basis, the application window at both West Point and the Coast Guard Academy is now extended to 31 October with an expected start date in the summer of 2025. To learn more and apply, visit our job openings page.

Fall programs await at Spring Canyon and White Sulphur Springs:

Caleb Challenge Career Transition Strategies Workshop, 13-15 September, at WSS: Jump-start your career transition with a weekend of interactive work, group discussions, and personal exercises, all facilitated by retired military leaders with over 200 years of combined leadership and life-coaching experience.

Climb Together, September 2024, at SC: This three-day wilderness experience, complete with outdoor activities, campfires, spectacular mountain vistas and events, is tailored to meet the needs of busy families who yearn to “Reconnect in the Rockies.”

Parent-Youth Adventure Weekends, October-November 2024, at WSS: Designed for one parent and one child, these weekends are an opportunity to build memories that will last a lifetime.

ASK OCF

TSgt Ryan Padgett, USAF (Ret.), answered the FAQ: Is OCF only for officers? Ryan shares about his own experience with joining OCF and encourages other enlisted service members to get involved, too.

Interested in getting involved in OCF? Fill out our membership form and/or find an OCF study near you.

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

CH(CAPT) Michael Will, USA (Ret.), spoke on this month’s episode about hardship and suffering, topics which also served as his focus while he was the speaker for a week of Summer R&R at White Sulphur Springs last month.

Having enlisted in 1992 and later commissioned as a chaplain, Michael has also pastored churches in Ohio and Canada. He currently serves as the associate pastor for discipleship at Grace Evangelical Congregational Church in Knox, Pa.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Michael, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. What personal experiences have shaped your definition of suffering?
2. How have you seen God use suffering in your own life and in the lives of others?
3. What Bible verses encourage you in the midst of hardship?
4. Michael talks about prayer as “the most effective tool” in his toolkit. What additional tools can you use when facing hard times?

View Details

Show Notes

OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• OCF purchased a new staff home at Spring Canyon: To contribute to OCF's purchase of this house, make an online donation to the Refreshing the Canyon Fund.
• OCF is expanding efforts in ROTC ministry with a new job opening at The Citadel: To learn more about the Council’s approval of this opportunity and/or find the link to apply, click here.
• July marks the halfway point of OCF’s conference center ministry: Visit our conference center webpage to learn more about programs and opportunities available later this summer and fall.
• The AMCF World Conference 2024 in Brazil is coming up: This transformative opportunity to connect with other military communities around the world is scheduled for 16-20 October. Click here to learn more and register. Can't attend? Donate to this fund that will provide financial scholarships to other attendees.
• OCF small group spotlight: OCF Field Staffer Paul Homan shared one of several questions posed during the OCF at USAFA spring retreat and spiritual commissioning. What’s your small group studying? What questions are you wrestling with? Let Courtney know by emailing her at courtney.taylor@ocfusa.org.

ASK OCF

CH(COL) Douglas H. Ball, USA answered the FAQ: What are the challenges that our Christian Military Chaplains are facing? His three-part answer mentions busy schedules, role expansion, and cultural change.

Interested in learning more about resources for chaplains and ways to support your chaplains? Check out Chapter 17 of the OCF Handbook.

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

This month, Josh sat down with Brig Gen Jeff H. Hurlbert, USAF (Ret.), who retired from the Air Force in 2023 after 32 years of service. He's currently the chief security officer for Applied Materials, a global leader in the semiconductor, display, and solar panel industries.

Jeff is also a longtime OCF member and current member of the OCF Council. This month, Jeff is speaking at Spring Canyon during the sixth week of Summer Celebration on the topic of humility, and he discusses that same topic here in today’s episode of Crosspoint.

Inspired by an OCF Bible study he participated in 15 years ago in Germany and having seen the impact of humility in his own life and career, Jeff addresses several questions such as why humility matters to the military leader, what it is and what it isn’t, and more.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Jeff, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How would you define humility?
2. What’s a personal example of humility making a difference, whether you were the one displaying humility or observing someone observing humility?
3. How does Christ’s example encourage you to lead and live humbly?
4. What gifts has God given you that you can use to serve others for His glory?

View Details

Crosspoint Show Notes, June 2024:

Today’s episode introduces a new format for the OCF Crosspoint podcast. Moving forward, each monthly episode will consist of three segments: OCF ministry news, an “Ask OCF” segment, and an interview with a guest about a particular topic or personal story.

Read on for links and details from each of these three segments for June 2024.

OCF MINISTRY NEWS

• Volunteers needed for Fort Knox CST ministry: If interested in leading small groups for cadets during summer training at Fort Knox, particularly in July, reach out to Bob Deckard via rwdeckard@gmail.com or to Larry Sherbondy via ROTC@ocfusa.org.

• Conference Center summer programs begin: Visit ocfusa.org/experience to watch our newest video about opportunities at OCF’s two Conference Centers—White Sulphur Springs in Manns Choice, Pa., and Spring Canyon in Buena Vista, Colo. From there, check out each Conference Center’s website to learn more about summer programs and discounts available to first-time guests, active-duty military, and OCF Local Leaders.

• SkillBridge opportunities now available at OCF: Visit ocfusa.org/skillbridge to check out OCF’s newest webpage about our new opportunities available through SkillBridge.

• OCF small group spotlight: Maj Nathan Flack, USAF, serves as the Local Leader for Barksdale AFB OCF and shared what question his group wrestled with recently. What’s your small group studying? What questions are you wrestling with? Let Courtney know by emailing her at courtney.taylor@ocfusa.org.

ASK OCF

OCF Council President Col Dale Holland, USAF (Ret.), answered some FAQs about Local Leaders and mentioned resources available online. Visit ocfusa.org/toolkit to access these resources. If you’d like to become a Local Leader or if you’ve not yet listed yourself on our online directory, visit ocfusa.org/list-me to do so.

If you have a question that you want us to consider for a future “Ask OCF” segment, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

GUEST SPOTLIGHT

Have you thought about what that next season of life might look like after military service? What does it look like to have a Biblical approach when it comes to a career transition? And what does your identity have to do with this?

This month, Josh sat down with Maj Gen Pete Peterson, USAF (Ret.) to discuss these questions. Pete is a co-founder of Caleb Challenge, an organization that uses Biblical principles to help men and women transition from military service to the next season that God has planned for them.

Having experienced a career transition himself after 34 years of service in the Air Force, Pete shares his own lessons learned, Biblical principles for a career change, and details about Caleb Challenge. Caleb Challenge is hosting its next workshop at OCF’s White Sulphur Springs in Manns Choice, Pa., later this fall. Visit WSS’ website to learn more and register for this valuable 13-15 September workshop.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

POINTS TO PONDER

As you listen to this conversation with Pete, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Consider Pete’s big question for those who will eventually transition out of a military career: What’s your real focus?

2. How can you start preparing for your own career transition now?

3. What does it mean to you to “include God in the process”?

4. Why is our identity in Christ important to consider when going through a big life change like a career transition?

View Details

In this special episode of OCF Crosspoint, you’re going to hear audio from the inaugural OCF Global Town Hall, which was broadcasted live on 10 February from the new Home Office in Colorado Springs, Colo.

The first voice that you’re going to hear is OCF Council President Col Dale Holland, USAF (Ret.). He and OCF’s CEO / Executive Director, Col Scott Fisher, USAF (Ret.), started by discussing the impactful journey and future visions for OCF. After their opening remarks, the remaining hour or so was used as a Q&A time.

During the Q&A portion, you’ll also hear the voice of LTC Colin Wooten, USA (Ret.), who helped moderate and also posed a mix of both real-time questions from the event and questions submitted ahead of time.

The questions covered in this episode centered on these 12 topics:

1. Local Leader training and information.
2. Balancing OCF involvement with commitment to the local church.
3. Starting an OCF ROTC group at a university that does not have one.
4. Opportunities for retired ex-military to get involved with OCF.
5. Creating more awareness about OCF.
6. Challenges that our Christian military chaplains are facing.
7. OCF funding shortfalls.
8. Focusing on the National Guard and Reserves.
9. Reaching out beyond U.S. membership.
10. Pursuing GRACE relations amid a divisive and dismissive culture.
11. Regional training conferences.
12. Two to three things that both Dale and Scott are excited about in the upcoming year.

If you’d rather watch a video of the Global Town Hall, visit ocfusa.org/townhall. On that page, there’s also a form you can fill out if you have questions, comments, or feedback, or send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org. We’ll make sure your message is sent to the appropriate person.

View Details

Today, you’ll hear audio from the conclusion of a speaking session by CH(MAJ) Jake Snodgrass, USA, this past fall at Spring Canyon’s Aspentime Retreat. If you’re new to OCF and you’ve never heard of Spring Canyon, it’s OCF’s western conference and retreat center located near Buena Vista, Colorado. And if you’ve never heard of Aspentime, it’s a weekend getaway at Spring Canyon for Christian military members and families, and it features teaching and small group sessions led by a speaker like CH Snodgrass.

Participants at the weekend retreat explored the profound concept of spiritual formation through the lens of renowned authors such as John Mark Comer, Dallas Willard, John Ortberg, and Donald Whitney, and they uncovered principles and practices that challenge contemporary ideals, emphasizing the necessity of community in the pursuit of spiritual growth. There were also interactive discussions, activities, and real-life applications in which leaders discovered how to build and sustain a vibrant military ministry while fostering personal renewal in an increasingly secular world and military.

About CH(MAJ) Jake Snodgrass, USA

Chaplain Jacob Snodgrass is a native of Ames, OK, and graduated from the University of Oklahoma and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Applied Theology at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City. He was commissioned from ROTC in 2002, and has served as a Chaplain since 2009, endorsed by the Southern Baptist Convention. He currently serves as the 10th Special Forces Group Chaplain and as the lead pastor of Agape Carson, Fort Carson, CO.

Chaplain Snodgrass has served numerous assignments as a chaplain, pastor, and church planter, including Camp Humphreys, Korea; Fort Lewis, WA; and Kandahar, Afghanistan. He was named U.S. Army Chaplain of the Year in 2019. Chaplain Snodgrass has been married for 18 years to the former Heather Dostal of Leakenheath, UK, and they have six kids: Manuel 24, Karmen 22, Gage 15, Boyce 14, Jovie 11, and Bennett 8.

View Details

Today, you’ll hear audio from Part 2 of a speaking session by CH(MAJ) Jake Snodgrass, USA, this past fall at Spring Canyon’s Aspentime Retreat. If you’re new to OCF and you’ve never heard of Spring Canyon, it’s OCF’s western conference and retreat center located near Buena Vista, Colorado. And if you’ve never heard of Aspentime, it’s a weekend getaway at Spring Canyon for Christian military members and families, and it features teaching and small group sessions led by a speaker like CH Snodgrass.

Participants at the weekend retreat explored the profound concept of spiritual formation through the lens of renowned authors such as John Mark Comer, Dallas Willard, John Ortberg, and Donald Whitney, and they uncovered principles and practices that challenge contemporary ideals, emphasizing the necessity of community in the pursuit of spiritual growth. There were also interactive discussions, activities, and real-life applications in which leaders discovered how to build and sustain a vibrant military ministry while fostering personal renewal in an increasingly secular world and military.

About CH(MAJ) Jake Snodgrass, USA

Chaplain Jacob Snodgrass is a native of Ames, OK, and graduated from the University of Oklahoma and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Applied Theology at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City. He was commissioned from ROTC in 2002, and has served as a Chaplain since 2009, endorsed by the Southern Baptist Convention. He currently serves as the 10th Special Forces Group Chaplain and as the lead pastor of Agape Carson, Fort Carson, CO.

Chaplain Snodgrass has served numerous assignments as a chaplain, pastor, and church planter, including Camp Humphreys, Korea; Fort Lewis, WA; and Kandahar, Afghanistan. He was named U.S. Army Chaplain of the Year in 2019. Chaplain Snodgrass has been married for 18 years to the former Heather Dostal of Leakenheath, UK, and they have six kids: Manuel 24, Karmen 22, Gage 15, Boyce 14, Jovie 11, and Bennett 8.

View Details

Today, you’ll hear audio from a speaking session by CH(MAJ) Jake Snodgrass, USA, this past fall at Spring Canyon’s Aspentime Retreat. If you’re new to OCF and you’ve never heard of Spring Canyon, it’s OCF’s western conference and retreat center located near Buena Vista, Colorado. And if you’ve never heard of Aspentime, it’s a weekend getaway at Spring Canyon for Christian military members and families, and it features teaching and small group sessions led by a speaker like CH Snodgrass.

Participants at the weekend retreat explored the profound concept of spiritual formation through the lens of renowned authors such as John Mark Comer, Dallas Willard, John Ortberg, and Donald Whitney, and they uncovered principles and practices that challenge contemporary ideals, emphasizing the necessity of community in the pursuit of spiritual growth. There were also interactive discussions, activities, and real-life applications in which leaders discovered how to build and sustain a vibrant military ministry while fostering personal renewal in an increasingly secular world and military.

About CH(MAJ) Jake Snodgrass, USA

Chaplain Jacob Snodgrass is a native of Ames, OK, and graduated from the University of Oklahoma and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Applied Theology at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City. He was commissioned from ROTC in 2002, and has served as a Chaplain since 2009, endorsed by the Southern Baptist Convention. He currently serves as the 10th Special Forces Group Chaplain and as the lead pastor of Agape Carson, Fort Carson, CO.

Chaplain Snodgrass has served numerous assignments as a chaplain, pastor, and church planter, including Camp Humphreys, Korea; Fort Lewis, WA; and Kandahar, Afghanistan. He was named U.S. Army Chaplain of the Year in 2019. Chaplain Snodgrass has been married for 18 years to the former Heather Dostal of Leakenheath, UK, and they have six kids: Manuel 24, Karmen 22, Gage 15, Boyce 14, Jovie 11, and Bennett 8.

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Show Notes:

Today’s guest is Col Jassen Bluto, USAF, (Ret.), a 32-year veteran who commanded four squadrons, served in combat in Iraq, and oversaw physical security and anti-terrorism policy and training at Air National Guard headquarters. He also gained extensive leadership experience in academia and then in law enforcement, where he served on three separate police agencies before retiring as a detective from an agency in Los Angeles County.

Pulling from decades of experience in enlisted and commissioned roles, Jassen shares three leadership principles–trust, respect, and caring–principles that inspired his short book titled Three Leadership Principles for the Christian in the Military. While the military certainly provides ample leadership training and experience, Jassen shares about the importance of leading from a Christ-centered life, Bible verses that shape his leadership style, and more.

Check out these resources mentioned in Jassen’s interview:

• Three Leadership Principles for the Christian in the Military, Jassen’s short book that features Biblical examples and methodology
• Leadership Essentials Podcast, Jassen’s podcast that focuses on practical insights for leaders

Study questions for this episode

As you listen to this conversation with Jassen, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How would you characterize a good leader and a bad leader?
2. What effect does right relationship with God have on our relationships with others on earth, especially in leadership contexts?
3. What Bible verses come to mind to shape your leadership practices?
4. How does humility produce good leadership?
5. Why is it important to have deeper relationships with those operating under your leadership?
6. Who in your life is providing you with feedback in order to develop your leadership skills?

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Show Notes

How do emotional intelligence (known as EQ) and leadership go together? What does EQ have to do with leading in the military? How does EQ line up with scripture?

Noble Gibbens, also known as the EQ Gangster, joins me on the podcast to answer these questions. An Oklahoma-born West Point graduate who served in the U.S. Army in the 82nd Airborne Division, Noble combined his entrepreneurial spirit and experience with his passion for emotional intelligence to become a certified emotional intelligence practitioner, corporate speaker & trainer, and executive leadership coach.

After growing up in a home where he “learned absolutely nothing about conflict resolution” and realizing his emotional dysfunction in his own home as an adult, Noble met with a counselor and began his emotional fitness journey. In this episode, he defines emotional intelligence, shares experiences with leadership in and out of the military context, talks about David and other biblical examples of emotional intelligence, and more.

Check out these resources mentioned in Noble’s interview:

• Emotional Intelligence 2.0 by Dr. Travis Bradberry and Dr. Jean Greaves
• EQ-i 2.0, an online self-rating assessment tool
• EQ Gangster podcast, Episode #273: Dr. Brooks Gibbs, Emotional Resilience in Teens & Adults, and Creating Unstoppable Humans
• Changes That Heal: Four Practical Steps to a Happier, Healthier You by Dr. Henry Cloud
• Boundaries: When to Say Yes, How to Say No to Take Control of Your Life by Dr. Henry Cloud, Dr. John Townsend
• Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box by The Arbinger Institute
• Running on Empty: Overcome Your Childhood Emotional Neglect by Jonice Webb, PhD, with Christine Musello
• Running on Empty No More: Transform Your Relationships With Your Partner, Your Parents and Your Children by Jonice Webb, PhD

As you listen to this conversation with Noble, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How would you define emotional intelligence?
2. Think back to your own upbringing. How did your community, family, etc. talk about emotions? How has that impacted your understanding of emotional intelligence now?
3. To pose Noble's question mentioned in this episode: How often do anxiety and frustrations, motivation, impulses, fear, and distress affect and impact your decision-making?
4. Having listened to Noble explain the impact emotional intelligence can have on working relationships, what can improve within your own workplace?
5. We talk about Jesus as the biblical model of being unoffendable, a trait that indicates high emotional intelligence. What can we learn from His example?

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Show Notes

So many conversations within the OCF community circle back to this question: How ought Christians in the military integrate their faith and profession? One week after graduating from high school, CW4 Rich Smith, USA (Ret.), embarked on 24 years of military service that provided him experiences that answer that very question. Upon retiring from the Army, Rich has developed a passion for encouraging other service members not to camouflage their faith in Christ during their years in the military.

In this episode, we discuss what hinders and helps Christians live out their faith in the military, his personal experiences with Christian fellowship during years on active duty, and more. He also shares about his book, Camouflaged Christian, which provides a deeper dive on the topics he discussed on Crosspoint. Rich now resides in his hometown of Rome, New York, with wife Teri and granddaughters Amerie, Elodie, and Maisy.

As you listen to this conversation with Rich, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. What motivates you to camouflage your faith while serving in the military context?
2. How does Ephesians 6:10-20 encourage you to live out your faith in all areas of life?
3. Rich shares a couple of personal anecdotes about how fellowship with other believers strengthened his walk during his time in the Army. What impact have you seen fellowship or the absence of it have in your own life?
4. What Scripture can you commit to memory for the seemingly impossible tasks you’ll face at work?
5. Rich talks about the value of turning to the Bible first in all circumstances. What things do you find yourself turning to first for encouragement, comfort, etc.?

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Show Notes:

After graduating from West Point in 1989, Ricky Preciado served in the Army on active duty for five years then as a reservist for an additional five before shifting into business operations for a variety of manufacturing companies. Since 2017, he’s been working for Chick-fil-a, and he currently works for them as an owner-operator in the San Diego area.

Ricky joined USS Somerset OCF for a day to share about one of his favorite topics, servant leadership, with Chick-fil-a in tow, of course, and he joined Assistant Director of Communications Courtney Taylor on the podcast to discuss the very same topic. He breaks down what can often seem to be a “Christianese” term in the church, shares what he’s learned about servant leadership via his work with Chick-fil-a, and recaps his visit with USS Somerset OCF.

To find a small group fellowship similar to the USS Somerset OCF group Ricky visited, check out the OCF directory online.

As you listen to this conversation with Ricky, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How would you define servant leadership?
2. Who are your role models, biblical or personal, for servant leadership? Why?
3. What personal experiences have humbled you and can be used in developing your own servant leadership?
4. How does surrendering your responsibilities to God enable better servant leadership?
5. Ricky talks about taking the focus off yourself as an impactful means to being a servant leader. What are some practical ways you can focus on others?

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Show Notes

What is resilience? Is there a correlation between resilience and the prevalence of suicide in the military? How do you know if you’ve become resilient? Minutes after leading a session about the topic of resilience during OCF’s annual Local Leader Conference held at Spring Canyon earlier this year, Col Tim Hale, USAF (Ret.), sat down with me in the dining hall of Hartley Holmes Lodge to address these questions and others.

Raised in a military community near Scott AFB, Tim began his own career in the Air Force after completing Air Force ROTC at St. Louis University. Throughout his decades of service, Tim’s command positions at a variety of levels, bolstered by post-retirement experiences as a cabinet secretary for the New Mexico Department of Veteran Services and as an elder at his church, enabled him to see the importance of resilience firsthand.

Tim now resides in Oklahoma, where he serves as OCF’s Area Coordinator for Central Oklahoma, Southern Kansas, and Northern Texas.

Check out the various resources mentioned throughout this episode

• “March or die”: Turning to Christ & community in times of trauma, OCF Crosspoint episode with Jeremy Stalnecker that focuses on topics related to today’s episode with Tim
• Path to Resiliency by Chad Robichaux, Jeremy Stalnecker, and John Mizerak (foreword by MG Bob Dees, USA (Ret.))
• Days of Anguish, Days of Hope by Bill Keith
• The Resilience Trilogy by MG Bob Dees, USA (Ret.)

As you listen to this conversation with Tim, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor

1. Tim says the best time to build resilience is before a traumatic event takes place. How can you build resilience now so that you’re better prepared if and when potentially traumatic life events occur?
2. Referring to Path to Resiliency, Tim reminds us that God can heal our trauma and enable us to move forward. What examples, biblical or personal, come to mind as you think of God restoring people after a traumatic event?
3. Specifically, what spiritual disciplines can you cultivate now so that those habits are already established if and when traumatic experiences occur?
4. Who do you consider your community to support you through trauma and recovery?
5. Tim shares 2 Corinthians 1:3 as a biblical encouragement that God sustains us through trials. What scripture can you begin clinging to now that will encourage you through the hardships of life?
6. Tim suggests that a self-examination of behavior in day-to-day life–even when things are good–can help assess personal resilience that will prove necessary in hardships. Reflect now on how you’re handling the “small things” during this season of life, and ask yourself if there are spiritual disciplines to pursue as you seek to develop this resilience.

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Show Notes:

Earlier this season, Nicole Breining spoke about her husband’s pornography addiction that resulted in betrayal trauma and a serious strain on their relationship. But what impact does pornography addiction have on the rest of the family? Do kids experience a similar type of trauma when they learn of a parent's struggle with a problematic sexual behavior? How should parents respond if and when they discover their children are viewing pornography? In this episode of Crosspoint, Dr. John Thorington addresses these questions.

John is a licensed professional counselor and certified sexual recovery therapist, and he has a private practice in Huntsville, Ala., called Restoring Hearts Counseling. If you haven’t already, listen to his first episode with Crosspoint from its first season, titled “The Theological Implications of Addiction.”

In this episode, John talks about how parents might navigate a conversation with kids when a parent is struggling with problematic sexual behaviors, how to set boundaries in recovery, and what resources to use in next steps. We then flip the script to talk about how parents can move forward when they learn their child is the one struggling with problematic sexual behaviors, turning to God’s design rather than the world’s during ongoing conversations.

**Check out the various resources mentioned throughout this episode:**

• Restoring Hearts Counseling, John’s practice that offers competent counseling and treats teen pornography addiction and other compulsive online behaviors with a Christian perspective
• Pure Desire Ministries, which seeks to provide hope, freedom, and healing from sexual brokenness through Jesus Christ
• Be Broken Ministries, which helps men, women, and families move from sexual brokenness to wholeness in Christ and equips others to do the same

• Treading Boldly through a Pornographic World: A Field Guide for Parents by Daniel Weiss and Joshua Glaser, written to help parents navigate conversations with their kids about pornography

  • Honest Talk: A New Perspective on Talking to Your Kids About Sex by John Fort, a guide that provides parents a new approach to help children safely navigate today’s hypersexual culture
  • The Porn Phenomenon: The Impact of Pornography in the Digital Age, a Barna Report published in partnership with Josh McDowell Ministries
  • Focus on the Family, a global Christian ministry dedicated to helping families thrive
  • Covenant Eyes: Screen Accountability™

  • Sexpectations: Helping the Next Generation Navigate Healthy Relationships by Barb Winters

  • Pure Teens: Honoring God, Relationships, and Sex by Dr. John Thorington

As you listen to this conversation with John, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. What is the value of backing up promises with action when navigating recovery from addiction with your family?

2. If you’re a parent finding out that your child is viewing pornography, how can you make sure you respond well so that your relationship is not damaged?

3. What can we learn from Jesus’ example as He interacts with the woman at the well in John 4:1-26?

   1. How can you be proactive in educating your kids about God’s design for sex and sexuality in a world where we often see a rebellion against that design?

4. John talks about the potential harm we can do by framing conversations about sex in a negative light. How ought God’s design and His positive view of it shape how we talk about sex?

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Show Notes:

On the heels of several episodes on the topics of pornography and sexuality with CAPT Brent & Nicole Breining, USN (Ret.), Dr. Joy Skarka joins me on the podcast for a similar conversation, except we’ll approach this topic from the perspective of single or dating women.

Joy currently serves as the director of discipleship at Authentic Intimacy, a ministry devoted to teaching on God's design for intimacy and sexuality.

Joy discusses the meaning behind and value of a phrase that contains two words we likely wouldn’t expect to go together: sexual discipleship. She then shares her own story with pornography addiction and how God turned a source of brokenness, pain, and trauma into a passion through which she helps other women navigate similar struggles. You can connect with Joy by following her on Instagram: @joyskarka.

Check out the various resources mentioned throughout this episode:

• Authentic Intimacy, the ministry Joy works for that offers online groups, resources, and more
• Java with Juli, Authentic Intimacy’s podcast with the ministry’s president and co-founder Juli Slattery

• Rethinking Sexuality: God's Design and Why It Matters by Dr. Juli Slattery

  • The Girl Defined Show: Freedom from Porn & Sexual Struggles for Women with Joy Skarka

As you listen to this conversation with Joy, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Quoting Juli Slattery’s book Rethinking Sexuality, Joy says, “Every sexual question is ultimately a spiritual one.” Do you agree? Why or why not?

2. How might a lack of education from the church result in a poor or even harmful understanding of sexuality?

   1. Joy talks about how addiction to pornography can start so subtly. What are some ways we can proactively guard against developing such addictions?

3. If we truly understand that the point of being a Christian is to be made more like Christ, how does that understanding affect our contentment in Him alone, regardless of relationship status, circumstances, etc.?

4. Who are the trustworthy mentors in your life with whom you can discuss heavy topics like the ones covered in today’s episode?

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Show Notes:

CAPT Brent & Nicole Breining, USN (Ret.), return to the podcast today to continue our series on pornography and sexuality. If you haven’t listened to the first three episodes in this series, I encourage you to check out those episodes first and then return to hear today’s episode as we discuss the three parts of the healing process, resources for recovery, and more.

The Breinings break down the three parts of addiction recovery—breaking denial structures, understanding the addictive cycle, and accessing the wound. We then address why we can feel so discouraged by the time and effort required to heal, the value of understanding the nature of addiction regardless of personal experience, and the importance of addressing these sin struggles for the purpose of restoration rather than rejection.

Check out the various resources mentioned throughout this episode:

• Pure Desire Ministries, through which Brent and Nicole help men and women heal from unwanted sexual behaviors and their repercussions

• Unraveled: Managing Love, Sex, and Relationships, a resource for women

• Sexual Integrity 101, an eight-week study for men, women, and churches

  • Unwanted: How Sexual Brokenness Reveals Our Way to Healing, a book that explores the “why” behind self-destructive sexual choices

• Covenant Eyes: Screen Accountability™

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

As you listen to this conversation with Brent and Nicole, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Brent says, “Sexual bondage is not about sex, but medicating the pain in your life.” No matter what addictions you might struggle with, what pain might you trying to be medicate?

   1. Who can you trust and talk to about your traumatic experiences and addictive behaviors? How can you be someone others can talk to about their struggles as well?

2. How does our quick-fix culture present challenges in recovering from addiction?

3. In what ways can you help the church adopt a culture of grace when it comes to ministering to broken people in this context?

4. What tools can you utilize to overcome unwanted sexual behaviors and/or keep in mind to recommend to others struggling with such behaviors?

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Show Notes:

CAPT Brent & Nicole Breining, USN (Ret.), return to the podcast today to continue our series on pornography and sexuality. If you haven’t listened to the first two episodes in this series, I encourage you to check out those episodes first, get to know Brent and Nicole’s story, then return to hear today’s episode as we explore the concept of betrayal trauma in the context of marriage and romantic relationships.

In this episode, we discuss how the symptoms and effects of betrayal trauma present uniquely in different individuals, then Brent and Nicole share their personal experiences with betrayal trauma. The Breinings remind us that this betrayal trauma falls under the category of inevitable struggles Jesus promised we’d face in this life, but they remind us of our hope we have in Him.

Check out the various resources mentioned throughout this episode:

• Your Sexually Addicted Spouse: How Partners Can Cope and Heal by Dr. Barbara Steffens

  • Struggle Well by Ken Falke and Josh Goldberg
  • Pure Desire Ministries, through which Brent and Nicole help men and women heal from unwanted sexual behaviors and their repercussions

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

 As you listen to this conversation with Brent and Nicole, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Have you experienced hurt that has prompted you to question God’s goodness? How did you work through that doubt?

2. How might a desire for control over your own life be connected to betrayal trauma?

3. How do traumatic experiences shake your understanding of your core beliefs?

4. What is the value of processing past traumatic experiences to better understand your reactions to present circumstances that might result in trauma?

   1. Nicole shares several things she found helpful in her recovery from betrayal trauma: finding community she could trust, practicing self-care, educating herself about sexual addiction and betrayal trauma, not rushing into big decisions when working through betrayal trauma, and creating boundaries for safety. What practical ways within those categories might you be able to work through or help a loved one work through betrayal trauma?

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Got an idea for a guest or topic?

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

Show Notes:

CAPT Brent & Nicole Breining, USN (Ret.), return to the podcast today to continue our series on pornography and sexuality. If you haven’t listened to the first episode in this series, I encourage you to check out that episode first, get to know Brent and Nicole’s story, then return to hear today’s episode as we dive into the nature of addiction.

We discuss statistics and real-world case studies regarding the pornography industry that reveal the magnitude of its harmful effects on society and on individuals alike. Brent and Nicole then unpack terms and concepts such as the cyclone of addiction, the shame cycle, and neurochemistry of the brain that all point to God’s intricate design for His creation.

Check out the various resources mentioned throughout this episode:

· Restoring the Soul podcast: Part 1 with Tony Anderson, and Part 2 with Tony Anderson

· Fight the New Drug

· The Social Dilemma

· Pure Desire Ministries, through which Brent and Nicole help men and women heal from unwanted sexual behaviors and their repercussions

As you listen to this conversation with Brent and Nicole, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. We refer to the statistic that 49% of rescued sex trafficking victims were forced to participate in the production of pornographic material. How ought that knowledge affect decisions to consume that pornographic material?
2. How does the pornography industry harm our perceptions of others as individuals made in the image of God?
3. Why might “rigid, disengaged homes,” per Brent’s description, often become an environment in which many individuals become sex addicts?
4. What habits can you establish to “live in this world of technology… but do it in a healthy manner,” as Brent says?
5. What sin struggles have prompted you to feel shame and hide from God and from fellow believers?

Loads of Additional Resources on this topic

Problematic Sexual Behavior (Men):

Books:

Laaser, M. (2004). Healing the Wounds of Sexual Addiction (3rd ed.). Zondervan.

Roberts, T. (2008). Pure Desire: How one man’s triumph can help others break free from sexual temptation. Regal.

Roberts, T. (2021). Seven Pillars of Freedom (5th ed.). Pure Desire Ministries International.

Stringer, J. (2018). Unwanted: How sexual brokenness reveals our way to healing. NavPress.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, January 19). What If My Betrayed Spouse Doesn’t Want

Healing? (No. 185) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/what-if-my-betrayed-spouse-doesnt-want-healing/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, March 8). How To Help Your Spouse Heal From Your

Sexual Betrayal (No. 244) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/how-to-help-your-spouse-heal-from-your-sexual-betrayal/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, November 22). The Impact of Sexual Addiction w/ Dr.

Adrian Hickmon (No. 281) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/the-impact-of-sexual-addiction-w-adrian-hickmon/

Video Series:

Kolb, H. [Editor]. (2020). Sexual Integrity 101 [Video series]. Pure Desire Ministries International.

Ward, G., Wiles, J., & Wiles, T. [Executive Producers]. (2013). Conqueror Series: The battle plan for purity [Video series]. KingdomWorks Studios.

Problematic Sexual Behavior (Women):

Books:

Kolb, H. [Editor]. (2019). Unraveled: Managing love, sex, and relationships. Pure Desire Ministries International.

Stringer, J. (2018). Unwanted: How sexual brokenness reveals our way to healing. NavPress.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2020, October 20). The Female Addict and Unraveled (No.

172) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/the-female-addict-unraveled/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, January 19). What If My Betrayed Spouse Doesn’t Want

Healing? (No. 185) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/what-if-my-betrayed-spouse-doesnt-want-healing/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, March 8). How To Help Your Spouse Heal From Your

Sexual Betrayal (No. 244) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/how-to-help-your-spouse-heal-from-your-sexual-betrayal/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, November 22). The Impact of Sexual Addiction w/ Dr.

Adrian Hickmon (No. 281) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/the-impact-of-sexual-addiction-w-adrian-hickmon/

Video Series:

Kolb, H. [Editor]. (2020). Sexual Integrity 101 [Video series]. Pure Desire Ministries International.

Betrayal Trauma:

Books:

Kolb, H., Jameson, A., & Roberts, D. (2022). Betrayal & Beyond: Healing the trauma of sexual

betrayal (3rd ed.). Pure Desire Ministries International.

Pure Desire Ministries. 7 Keys to Understanding Betrayal Trauma (ebook). https://puredesire.org/free-ebook-7-keys-to-understanding-betrayal-trauma/

Steffens, B. & Means, M. (2021). Your Sexually Addicted Spouse: How Partners Can Cope and

Heal (2nd ed.). Armin Lear Press Inc.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2020, November 3). Boundaries in Recovery (No. 174) [Audio

podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/boundaries-in-recovery/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, May 11). What If My Struggling Spouse Doesn’t Want

Healing? (No. 201) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/what-if-my-struggling-spouse-doesnt-want-healing/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, July 13). Hope for Betrayed Men (No. 210) [Audio

podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/hope-for-betrayed-men/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, July 27). 7 Keys to Understanding Betrayal Trauma (No.

212) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/7-keys-to-understanding-betrayal-trauma/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, February 1). Women’s Takeover #1: Healing From

Betrayal w/ Dr. Barbara Steffens (No. 239) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire

Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/womens-takeover-1-healing-from-betrayal-w-dr-barbara-steffens/

Healthy Sexuality:

Books:

Gregoire, S. (2022). The Good Girl’s Guide to Great Sex (2nd ed.). Zondervan Books.

Gregoire, S. & Gregoire, K. (2022). The Good Guy’s Guide to Great Sex. Zondervan Books.

Roberts, T. & Roberts, D. (2010). Sexy Christians: The Purpose, Power and Passion of Biblical Intimacy. Baker Books.

Slattery, J. (2018). Rethinking Sexuality: God’s Design and Why It Matters. Multnomah.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2019, July 9). Soul Ties (No. 105) [Audio podcast episode]. In

Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/soul-ties/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2019, July 30). Sexual Discipleship w/ Juli Slattery (No. 108)

[Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/sexual-discipleship-w-juli-slattery/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, April 26). The Good Guide to Great Sex w/ Dr. Keith and

Sheila Wray Gregoire (No. 251) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/the-good-guide-to-great-sex-w-dr-keith-sheil-wray-gregoire/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, November 1). The Four Pillars of Sexual Love w/ Dr. Juli

Slattery (No. 278) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/the-four-pillars-of-sexual-love-w-dr-juli-slattery/

Young Adults/College Age:

Books (Young Men):

Bennett, B., Butcher, B., & Roberts, T. (2016). Living Free. Pure Desire Ministries International.

Books (Young Women):

Bradley R. & Roberts, D. (2012). Behind the Mask: Authentic living for young women. Pure Desire Ministries International.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2018, January 30). Living Free w/Ben Bennett (No. 30) [Audio

podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcast/living-free/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2019, September 17). Love, Sex, and Dating (No. 115) [Audio

podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/love-sex-and-dating/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2020, March 31). Getting Healthy Before Marriage w/ Drew

Boa (No. 143) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/getting-healthy-before-marriage-w-drew-boa/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, January 12). Groups for Young Women (No. 184) [Audio

podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcast/groups-for-young-women/

Parents:

Books:

Roberts, B. & Kolb, H. (2018). Digital Natives: Raising an Online Generation. Pure Desire Ministries International.

Wright, R. & Wright, T. (2020). How to Talk with Your Kids About Sex. Pure Desire Ministries International.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2019, August 13). What Parents Need to Know about Porn

(No. 110) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/what-parents-need-to-know-about-porn/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, August 3). The Effects of Pornography w/ Josh

McDowell (No. 213) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/the-effects-of-pornography-w-josh-mcdowell/

Pastors/Chaplains/Churches:

Books:

Laaser, M. (2004). Healing the Wounds of Sexual Addiction (3rd ed.). Zondervan.

Roberts, T. (2008). Pure Desire: How one man’s triumph can help others break free from sexual temptation. Regal.

Stumbo, N. (2017). Safe: Creating a Culture of Grace in a Climate of Shame. Pure Desire

Ministries International.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, August 3). The Effects of Pornography w/ Josh

McDowell (No. 213) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/the-effects-of-pornography-w-josh-mcdowell/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2020, October 27). No Shame Churches (No. 173) [Audio

podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/no-shame-churches/

Singles:

Books:

Gregoire, S. (2022). The Good Girl’s Guide to Great Sex (2nd ed.). Zondervan Books.

Gregoire, S. & Gregoire, K. (2022). The Good Guy’s Guide to Great Sex. Zondervan Books.

Slattery, J. (2018). Rethinking Sexuality: God’s Design and Why It Matters. Multnomah.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2019, September 17). Love, Sex, and Dating (No. 115) [Audio

podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/love-sex-and-dating/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2020, March 31). Getting Healthy Before Marriage w/ Drew

Boa (No. 143) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/getting-healthy-before-marriage-w-drew-boa/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, July 26). Unmet Longings & Unhealthy Behaviors w/

Ben Bennett (No. 264) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/unmet-longings-unhealthy-behaviors-w-ben-bennett/

Miscellaneous:

Books on Trauma:

Falk, K. & Goldberg, J. (2018). Struggle Well: Thriving in the Aftermath of Trauma. Lioncrest.

Van Der Kolk, B. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score. Penguin Books.

Websites:

Association of Partners of Sex Addicts Trauma Specialists: https://www.apsats.org/

Authentic Intimacy: https://www.authenticintimacy.com/

Pure Desire Ministries International: https://puredesire.org.

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Got an idea for a guest or topic?

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

Show Notes:

In January 2023, Pensacola OCF hosted a one-day workshop to discuss sexual brokenness and unwanted sexual behaviors like pornography addiction and to introduce solutions for healing and wholeness. CAPT Brent & Nicole Breining, USN (Ret.), led sessions throughout that one-day workshop, and they join me today on the podcast as we begin a series of episodes focusing on similar topics.

Brent and Nicole share their story and the impact that porn had on their marriage in this episode, and their remaining three Crosspoint episodes will cover topics such as the nature of addiction, the shame cycle, and the neurochemistry of the brain.

Having reached a breaking point in their marriage in 2012 and recovered since then by God’s grace, Brent and Nicole talk about why that addiction placed such a strain on their marriage, how God worked through accountability partners in their healing process, and more. Above all, their desire is for listeners to understand there is hope and that God can restore anyone struggling with problematic sexual behaviors.

Brent retired from the Navy in 2017 after a distinguished 27-year career, and he currently serves as a Foursquare Institutional Chaplain with Pure Desire Ministries, through which he helps men walk in sexual purity and break free from unwanted sexual behaviors.

Nicole received a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry from the University of Illinois and a Doctor of Pharmacy from the University of Illinois at Chicago, going on to work as a hospital pharmacist for 25 years. Nicole also has been working with Pure Desire Ministries, leading their betrayal and beyond groups for spouses for about three years. Both Brent and Nicole are accredited pastoral professionals.

As you listen to this conversation with Brent and Nicole, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. How can the church establish a culture of grace, especially as applies to this topic of addiction?
2. Brent refers to Ephesians 5:25, which says “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” How does this verse shape your view of emotional intimacy in marriage?
3. Brent talks about the iPhone’s contribution to an increased accessibility to pornography in recent years. What steps can you take to ensure your own devices aren’t contributing to addictive behaviors?
4. How does our freedom in Christ set us free from the shame of our secrets?
5. Nicole talks about realizing her husband’s struggles with pornography prompted her to react in sin as well. If you’ve been hurt by someone else’s sin, what’s the value of not using their sin as license to sin in response?
6. If you’re struggling with addictive behaviors, sexual or otherwise, what positive habits can you establish to replace those behaviors?
7. Why is assessing your heart posture in all things so critical?

Loads of Resources on this topic

Problematic Sexual Behavior (Men):

Books:

Laaser, M. (2004). Healing the Wounds of Sexual Addiction (3rd ed.). Zondervan.

Roberts, T. (2008). Pure Desire: How one man’s triumph can help others break free from sexual temptation. Regal.

Roberts, T. (2021). Seven Pillars of Freedom (5th ed.). Pure Desire Ministries International.

Stringer, J. (2018). Unwanted: How sexual brokenness reveals our way to healing. NavPress.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, January 19). What If My Betrayed Spouse Doesn’t Want

Healing? (No. 185) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/what-if-my-betrayed-spouse-doesnt-want-healing/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, March 8). How To Help Your Spouse Heal From Your

Sexual Betrayal (No. 244) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/how-to-help-your-spouse-heal-from-your-sexual-betrayal/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, November 22). The Impact of Sexual Addiction w/ Dr.

Adrian Hickmon (No. 281) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/the-impact-of-sexual-addiction-w-adrian-hickmon/

Video Series:

Kolb, H. [Editor]. (2020). Sexual Integrity 101 [Video series]. Pure Desire Ministries International.

Ward, G., Wiles, J., & Wiles, T. [Executive Producers]. (2013). Conqueror Series: The battle plan for purity [Video series]. KingdomWorks Studios.

Problematic Sexual Behavior (Women):

Books:

Kolb, H. [Editor]. (2019). Unraveled: Managing love, sex, and relationships. Pure Desire Ministries International.

Stringer, J. (2018). Unwanted: How sexual brokenness reveals our way to healing. NavPress.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2020, October 20). The Female Addict and Unraveled (No.

172) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/the-female-addict-unraveled/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, January 19). What If My Betrayed Spouse Doesn’t Want

Healing? (No. 185) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/what-if-my-betrayed-spouse-doesnt-want-healing/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, March 8). How To Help Your Spouse Heal From Your

Sexual Betrayal (No. 244) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/how-to-help-your-spouse-heal-from-your-sexual-betrayal/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, November 22). The Impact of Sexual Addiction w/ Dr.

Adrian Hickmon (No. 281) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/the-impact-of-sexual-addiction-w-adrian-hickmon/

Video Series:

Kolb, H. [Editor]. (2020). Sexual Integrity 101 [Video series]. Pure Desire Ministries International.

Betrayal Trauma:

Books:

Kolb, H., Jameson, A., & Roberts, D. (2022). Betrayal & Beyond: Healing the trauma of sexual

betrayal (3rd ed.). Pure Desire Ministries International.

Pure Desire Ministries. 7 Keys to Understanding Betrayal Trauma (ebook). https://puredesire.org/free-ebook-7-keys-to-understanding-betrayal-trauma/

Steffens, B. & Means, M. (2021). Your Sexually Addicted Spouse: How Partners Can Cope and

Heal (2nd ed.). Armin Lear Press Inc.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2020, November 3). Boundaries in Recovery (No. 174) [Audio

podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/boundaries-in-recovery/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, May 11). What If My Struggling Spouse Doesn’t Want

Healing? (No. 201) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/what-if-my-struggling-spouse-doesnt-want-healing/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, July 13). Hope for Betrayed Men (No. 210) [Audio

podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/hope-for-betrayed-men/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, July 27). 7 Keys to Understanding Betrayal Trauma (No.

212) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/7-keys-to-understanding-betrayal-trauma/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, February 1). Women’s Takeover #1: Healing From

Betrayal w/ Dr. Barbara Steffens (No. 239) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire

Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/womens-takeover-1-healing-from-betrayal-w-dr-barbara-steffens/

Healthy Sexuality:

Books:

Gregoire, S. (2022). The Good Girl’s Guide to Great Sex (2nd ed.). Zondervan Books.

Gregoire, S. & Gregoire, K. (2022). The Good Guy’s Guide to Great Sex. Zondervan Books.

Roberts, T. & Roberts, D. (2010). Sexy Christians: The Purpose, Power and Passion of Biblical Intimacy. Baker Books.

Slattery, J. (2018). Rethinking Sexuality: God’s Design and Why It Matters. Multnomah.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2019, July 9). Soul Ties (No. 105) [Audio podcast episode]. In

Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/soul-ties/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2019, July 30). Sexual Discipleship w/ Juli Slattery (No. 108)

[Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/sexual-discipleship-w-juli-slattery/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, April 26). The Good Guide to Great Sex w/ Dr. Keith and

Sheila Wray Gregoire (No. 251) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/the-good-guide-to-great-sex-w-dr-keith-sheil-wray-gregoire/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, November 1). The Four Pillars of Sexual Love w/ Dr. Juli

Slattery (No. 278) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/the-four-pillars-of-sexual-love-w-dr-juli-slattery/

Young Adults/College Age:

Books (Young Men):

Bennett, B., Butcher, B., & Roberts, T. (2016). Living Free. Pure Desire Ministries International.

Books (Young Women):

Bradley R. & Roberts, D. (2012). Behind the Mask: Authentic living for young women. Pure Desire Ministries International.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2018, January 30). Living Free w/Ben Bennett (No. 30) [Audio

podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcast/living-free/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2019, September 17). Love, Sex, and Dating (No. 115) [Audio

podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/love-sex-and-dating/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2020, March 31). Getting Healthy Before Marriage w/ Drew

Boa (No. 143) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/getting-healthy-before-marriage-w-drew-boa/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, January 12). Groups for Young Women (No. 184) [Audio

podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcast/groups-for-young-women/

Parents:

Books:

Roberts, B. & Kolb, H. (2018). Digital Natives: Raising an Online Generation. Pure Desire Ministries International.

Wright, R. & Wright, T. (2020). How to Talk with Your Kids About Sex. Pure Desire Ministries International.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2019, August 13). What Parents Need to Know about Porn

(No. 110) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/what-parents-need-to-know-about-porn/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, August 3). The Effects of Pornography w/ Josh

McDowell (No. 213) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/the-effects-of-pornography-w-josh-mcdowell/

Pastors/Chaplains/Churches:

Books:

Laaser, M. (2004). Healing the Wounds of Sexual Addiction (3rd ed.). Zondervan.

Roberts, T. (2008). Pure Desire: How one man’s triumph can help others break free from sexual temptation. Regal.

Stumbo, N. (2017). Safe: Creating a Culture of Grace in a Climate of Shame. Pure Desire

Ministries International.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2021, August 3). The Effects of Pornography w/ Josh

McDowell (No. 213) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast. https://puredesire.org/podcasts/the-effects-of-pornography-w-josh-mcdowell/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2020, October 27). No Shame Churches (No. 173) [Audio

podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/no-shame-churches/

Singles:

Books:

Gregoire, S. (2022). The Good Girl’s Guide to Great Sex (2nd ed.). Zondervan Books.

Gregoire, S. & Gregoire, K. (2022). The Good Guy’s Guide to Great Sex. Zondervan Books.

Slattery, J. (2018). Rethinking Sexuality: God’s Design and Why It Matters. Multnomah.

Podcasts: https://puredesire.org/podcasts/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2019, September 17). Love, Sex, and Dating (No. 115) [Audio

podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/love-sex-and-dating/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2020, March 31). Getting Healthy Before Marriage w/ Drew

Boa (No. 143) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/getting-healthy-before-marriage-w-drew-boa/

Stumbo, N. & Winsor, T. (Hosts). (2022, July 26). Unmet Longings & Unhealthy Behaviors w/

Ben Bennett (No. 264) [Audio podcast episode]. In Pure Desire Podcast.

https://puredesire.org/podcasts/unmet-longings-unhealthy-behaviors-w-ben-bennett/

Miscellaneous:

Books on Trauma:

Falk, K. & Goldberg, J. (2018). Struggle Well: Thriving in the Aftermath of Trauma. Lioncrest.

Van Der Kolk, B. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score. Penguin Books.

Websites:

Association of Partners of Sex Addicts Trauma Specialists: https://www.apsats.org/

Authentic Intimacy: https://www.authenticintimacy.com/

Pure Desire Ministries International: https://puredesire.org.

View Details

Hi friends! We’re putting the finishing touches on the next season of the podcast, which should be ready to go by the week of May 8.

For at least the first 6 episodes, we’re going to be discussing the topic of pornography, sexual addictions, and problematic sexual behaviors. We’ll spend time discussing this topic from the perspective of men, women, married couples, families, and singles (in particular, single women).

Yes—it’s a really heavy dose of a really heavy topic. But this is an issue that affects everyone, both inside and outside the church, regardless of relationship status or gender. These sorts of problematic behaviors have also ended up destroying the careers of some very successful military leaders.

Also, this might be an issue affecting you. Right now.

Here are a few questions to challenge you and make you think a little deeper on this topic between now and when we start the next season in a couple of weeks:

· Is pornography addiction just a guy’s problem?

· What should the church’s role be when discussing sexuality and these sorts of topics?

· If you’re single and have a porn or sexual addiction, OR if you are dating someone and find out they are struggling with this issue, what should you do? Break up? Continue the relationship?

· If you’re a parent, and you find out your child or teen is looking at porn, what should you do?

As always, if you have ideas for guests, topics, or stories you think we should consider on a future episode of the show, you can send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org or fill out our short podcast guest form located online at https://www.ocfusa.org/podcastguest.

Thanks for listening, and we’ll be back in a couple of weeks.

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Show Notes:

For the finale of our three-part series on leadership, Brig Gen Robert “Gwyn” Armfield, USAF (Ret.), former OCF executive director Lt Gen Bruce Fister, USAF (Ret.), and current OCF executive director Col Scott Fisher, USAF (Ret.) discuss how to navigate matters of conscience–circumstances where your job and your faith seem to be at odds.

Gwyn, Bruce, and Scott begin this conversation by referencing scripture to shape the way we approach such circumstances, serving as a “biblical blueprint” of sorts. Speaking from personal experiences and conversations with friends of all ages, they remind us not be surprised by the tensions we see around us today, but rather to look back and learn from past examples regarding matters of conscience. Above all and in all things, these leaders exhort us to keep Christ at the center of the challenging choices that are sure to come.

In today’s episode, Scott mentions OCF’s Pray-Discover-Obey model, which we invite you to use as a means to be still before God and ask Him for wisdom and direction before future actions are planned out. For an additional resource on the topics we covered throughout this three-part series, consider ordering Gwyn and Bruce’s recently released book, Lead to Serve and Serve to Lead: Leading Well in Turbulent Times.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

As you listen to this conversation with Gwyn, Bruce, and Scott, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. When was a time you found your job to be at odds with your faith, and how did you handle it?
2. Scott quotes John Stonestreet: “Too many believers right now are interested in making a point rather than making an influence.” How might that quote shape how you navigate tensions between your job and your faith?
3. Bruce then refers to Matthew 22:37-38. What practical ways can you weave Jesus’ commands into your service in uniform?
4. What other Bible passages come to mind when Gwyn, Bruce, and Scott discuss verses that can shape our framework for navigating tensions like the ones described?
5. What can we learn from Daniel’s example of serving in environments where we might be asked to do things that don’t align with our faith?

View Details

Show Notes:

Today’s episode is the second in a 3-part series on leadership, featuring guests Brig Gen Robert “Gwyn” Armfield, USAF (Ret.), former OCF executive director Lt Gen Bruce Fister, USAF (Ret.), and current OCF executive director Col Scott Fisher, USAF (Ret.). The topic that’ll be discussed is failure and how to deal with it as a leader in the high-stakes military profession. As my guest Bruce Fister points out, “We’re all going to fail at one point … But you have to deal with it because otherwise no one is going to learn from it.”

Some of the aspects of failure that Bruce, Gwynn, and Scott touch upon include how leaders can create a culture of trust by “being real” about their failures, the importance of setting up those you lead for success—and the space to fail, how smart leaders understand their strengths and weaknesses and rely on others for help, and what can happen when you act too quickly in decision-making without taking it to prayer.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

Here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. What keeps us from facing our failures—let alone dealing with and learning from them? How can honesty about failures as a leader create a culture of trust with those you lead?
2. Do you believe that you could never rise up to the level of your leaders because they have never failed, and you have? Examine the lives of King David, the Apostle Peter, and others in the Bible who have failed, but were used by God as leaders. Still true of you? Why?
3. The panelists underscore that young leaders learn how to make good decisions because someone allowed them to make bad decisions and learn from them. Do you do that as a leader? What steps could you take to create space for others to fail and learn from it?
4. The Book of James instructs us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (1:19). Think of a time when those attributes were absent either from another leader or in your own leadership. How would you handle that situation now?
5. How does communicating with God in prayer and developing a biblical eternal perspective and spiritual resilience make it possible to learn from and move on in the military profession when it comes to injury and death?
6. “Listen to God, seek what He would have us do, and obey whatever that is.” Why are those so often regarded as last resort when it comes to decisions in life, and especially so as Christian leaders?

View Details

Show Notes:

This episode begins a three-part series featuring Brig Gen Robert “Gwyn” Armfield, USAF (Ret.), former OCF executive director Lt Gen Bruce Fister, USAF (Ret.), and current OCF executive director Col Scott Fisher, USAF (Ret.). Speaking from nearly 90 years of combined service in the Air Force, these three leaders share their personal stories as followers of Christ and as military officers.

On this first installment, Gwyn, Bruce, and Scott discuss how leaders can approach employing God’s Word effectively, integrating the calling to serve in uniform and the calling to serve the Lord, and leading in times of crisis. The cornerstone of being an effective leader who can do these three things well, they assert, is being a leader of character.

Gwyn and Bruce’s recently released book, Lead to Serve and Serve to Lead: Leading Well in Turbulent Times, inspired today’s roundtable conversation and the two to come. Gwyn describes his and Bruce’s book as a “discipling guide on how to lead things and get things done in a way that honors Christ with a tactical-level implementation,” written for people of all ages and walks of life.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

As you listen to this conversation with Gwyn, Bruce, and Scott, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Scott described character as the “cornerstone of an effective leader.” What examples, biblical or personal, prove that concept?
2. For biblical principles of effective leadership, Gwyn references Philippians 2:3-4, and Bruce references Proverbs 12. Read those passages for yourself and consider what you can apply to your own leadership roles.
3. Throughout your military career, you’ll likely find yourself in conversations about leadership where you can incorporate biblical principles. What verses can you incorporate into those conversations?
4. As a uniformed service member, how can you share your faith in a wise and understanding way?
5. Bruce says people won’t remember a crisis, but they’ll remember how a leader performed during a crisis. What crisis response comes to mind when you hear Bruce’s point, and what can you learn from the leader’s or leaders’ response to said crisis.

View Details

Show Notes:

This episode begins a three-part series featuring Brig Gen Robert “Gwyn” Armfield, USAF (Ret.), former OCF executive director Lt Gen Bruce Fister, USAF (Ret.), and current OCF executive director Col Scott Fisher, USAF (Ret.). Speaking from nearly 90 years of combined service in the Air Force, these three leaders share their personal stories as followers of Christ and as military officers.

On this first installment, Gwyn, Bruce, and Scott discuss how leaders can approach employing God’s Word effectively, integrating the calling to serve in uniform and the calling to serve the Lord, and leading in times of crisis. The cornerstone of being an effective leader who can do these three things well, they assert, is being a leader of character.

Gwyn and Bruce’s recently released book, Lead to Serve and Serve to Lead: Leading Well in Turbulent Times, inspired today’s roundtable conversation and the two to come. Gwyn describes his and Bruce’s book as a “discipling guide on how to lead things and get things done in a way that honors Christ with a tactical-level implementation,” written for people of all ages and walks of life.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

As you listen to this conversation with Gwyn, Bruce, and Scott, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Scott described character as the “cornerstone of an effective leader.” What examples, biblical or personal, prove that concept?
2. For biblical principles of effective leadership, Gwyn references Philippians 2:3-4, and Bruce references Proverbs 12. Read those passages for yourself and consider what you can apply to your own leadership roles.
3. Throughout your military career, you’ll likely find yourself in conversations about leadership where you can incorporate biblical principles. What verses can you incorporate into those conversations?
4. As a uniformed service member, how can you share your faith in a wise and understanding way?
5. Bruce says people won’t remember a crisis, but they’ll remember how a leader performed during a crisis. What crisis response comes to mind when you hear Bruce’s point, and what can you learn from the leader’s or leaders’ response to said crisis.

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Show Notes:

Today’s episode takes us back to the topic of small groups. If you've listened to some of the more recent episodes of this podcast, you might be asking, “Haven't you guys said enough about small groups already?”

In this episode, however, we're going to hit that topic from a slightly different angle as LT Will Parker, USN, and LT Sam Alexander, USN, sit down to talk about their experiences while serving aboard submarines. They discuss the challenges of such a unique environment, the challenges of beginning and maintaining a small group Bible study aboard a submarine, and practical applications for similarly isolated environments.

They also get into the importance of seeking out fellowship with others wherever you can, whether that’s through an OCF small group, a local church body, or with a few peers at work.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

As you listen to this conversation with Will and Sam, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Will and Sam talk about the unique schedules, or lack thereof, of service aboard a submarine and the challenge such irregularity presents in many aspects of life. How do you make time for investing in relationships with God and with others when you can’t control your own schedule?
2. Recall a time when you had an atypical fellowship group. What made those relationships most impactful despite your unique life circumstances?
3. Sam mentions a “grab bag” of pre-structured Bible study resources that helped him lead a small group when he didn’t have much time to prepare between gatherings. What resources could you place in your own “grab bag” for future use?
4. How can you use technology as a tool for pouring into others and receiving encouragement even as you’re away from in-person fellowship?
5. What practical, realistic goal can you set in your own walk with the Lord? Don’t set a goal for the sake of setting a goal and checking something off your to-do list, but let this goal serve as a reminder to factor its objective into your everyday life.

View Details

Show Notes:

Today’s episode takes us back to the topic of small groups. If you've listened to some of the more recent episodes of this podcast, you might be asking, “Haven't you guys said enough about small groups already?”

In this episode, however, we're going to hit that topic from a slightly different angle as LT Will Parker, USN, and LT Sam Alexander, USN, sit down to talk about their experiences while serving aboard submarines. They discuss the challenges of such a unique environment, the challenges of beginning and maintaining a small group Bible study aboard a submarine, and practical applications for similarly isolated environments.

They also get into the importance of seeking out fellowship with others wherever you can, whether that’s through an OCF small group, a local church body, or with a few peers at work.

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

As you listen to this conversation with Will and Sam, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Will and Sam talk about the unique schedules, or lack thereof, of service aboard a submarine and the challenge such irregularity presents in many aspects of life. How do you make time for investing in relationships with God and with others when you can’t control your own schedule?
2. Recall a time when you had an atypical fellowship group. What made those relationships most impactful despite your unique life circumstances?
3. Sam mentions a “grab bag” of pre-structured Bible study resources that helped him lead a small group when he didn’t have much time to prepare between gatherings. What resources could you place in your own “grab bag” for future use?
4. How can you use technology as a tool for pouring into others and receiving encouragement even as you’re away from in-person fellowship?
5. What practical, realistic goal can you set in your own walk with the Lord? Don’t set a goal for the sake of setting a goal and checking something off your to-do list, but let this goal serve as a reminder to factor its objective into your everyday life.

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Show Notes:

Today we're going to talk about a topic that pops up from time to time on the podcast, and that topic is trauma. In this episode, we're going to consider this overarching question: What's a biblical approach to dealing with or healing from trauma?

Here to help me answer that question is Jeremy Stalnecker, who served as an infantry officer in the United States Marine Corps. He currently serves as the executive director of the Mighty Oaks Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping America's military warriors and their families suffering from the unseen wounds of combat such as post-traumatic stress.

Raised in southern California as a pastor’s kid, Jeremy watched his parents serve in the church and was convinced the Lord would ever call him to serve in ministry. Nonetheless, Jeremy’s parents taught him the importance of service, prompting him to pursue a future as a Marine. Commissioning in 1999 and serving in Kuwait and Iraq, Jeremy returned to the States, left the Marine Corps, and, despite his earlier assertions he’d never go into ministry, joined a church staff shortly thereafter.

His service as a Marine and the years to follow have given Jeremy opportunities to deal with and heal from his own trauma, resulting in a passion for helping others, particularly within the military community, do the same. In our conversation, he unpacks a functional definition of “trauma,” its relationship with identity, the impact of spiritual resilience, and next steps to take when you or a loved one are dealing with trauma.

Check out the various resources mentioned throughout this episode:

• Mighty Oaks Foundation
• March or Die (book)
• March or Die (podcast)
• The Anatomy of Courage: The Classic WWI Study of the Psychological Effects of War by Lord Moran

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

As you listen to this conversation with Jeremy, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Jeremy talks about feeling lost and alone when he quickly left the Marine Corps and joined a church staff. Have you ever had a similar experience when the course of your life changed quickly and unexpectedly? How did you feel during that season?
2. When have you had to choose to take a faith-filled step forward?
3. How would you describe the role of identity in trauma or healing from trauma?
4. If you haven’t yet, what spiritual disciplines can you cultivate to develop spiritual resilience?
5. Jeremy reminds us that “isolation kills.” Who can you ask for help when dealing with and healing from trauma? How can you help others when they’re experiencing trauma?
6. Thinking of Jeremy’s earlier statement that trauma pervades the Bible, what scripture comes to mind as you listen to this conversation?

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Show Notes:

Today we're going to talk about a topic that pops up from time to time on the podcast, and that topic is trauma. In this episode, we're going to consider this overarching question: What's a biblical approach to dealing with or healing from trauma?

Here to help me answer that question is Jeremy Stalnecker, who served as an infantry officer in the United States Marine Corps. He currently serves as the executive director of the Mighty Oaks Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping America's military warriors and their families suffering from the unseen wounds of combat such as post-traumatic stress.

Raised in southern California as a pastor’s kid, Jeremy watched his parents serve in the church and was convinced the Lord would ever call him to serve in ministry. Nonetheless, Jeremy’s parents taught him the importance of service, prompting him to pursue a future as a Marine. Commissioning in 1999 and serving in Kuwait and Iraq, Jeremy returned to the States, left the Marine Corps, and, despite his earlier assertions he’d never go into ministry, joined a church staff shortly thereafter.

His service as a Marine and the years to follow have given Jeremy opportunities to deal with and heal from his own trauma, resulting in a passion for helping others, particularly within the military community, do the same. In our conversation, he unpacks a functional definition of “trauma,” its relationship with identity, the impact of spiritual resilience, and next steps to take when you or a loved one are dealing with trauma.

Check out the various resources mentioned throughout this episode:

• Mighty Oaks Foundation
• March or Die (book)
• March or Die (podcast)
• The Anatomy of Courage: The Classic WWI Study of the Psychological Effects of War by Lord Moran

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

As you listen to this conversation with Jeremy, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Jeremy talks about feeling lost and alone when he quickly left the Marine Corps and joined a church staff. Have you ever had a similar experience when the course of your life changed quickly and unexpectedly? How did you feel during that season?
2. When have you had to choose to take a faith-filled step forward?
3. How would you describe the role of identity in trauma or healing from trauma?
4. If you haven’t yet, what spiritual disciplines can you cultivate to develop spiritual resilience?
5. Jeremy reminds us that “isolation kills.” Who can you ask for help when dealing with and healing from trauma? How can you help others when they’re experiencing trauma?
6. Thinking of Jeremy’s earlier statement that trauma pervades the Bible, what scripture comes to mind as you listen to this conversation?

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This episode of OCF Crosspoint is a chance to hear from CDR Carl Crabtree, USN (Ret.), who currently serves with his wife, Christy, as the OCF Field Staff Representative at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.

A man on a mission in this episode to share how God has healed him from “PTSD, trauma, moral injury, habitual sin,” Carl shares about his experiences as a foster-to-adopt kid and onward. While the conversation doesn’t get overly detailed or specific, please be advised to listen with care or listen to a different episode altogether if you are still healing from your own past trauma.

Carl pulls from countless personal experiences as an officer in the Navy, a leader in his local church, a husband to his wife, and others, reflecting on how God worked through hardship in all those circumstances to deepen his relationship with Him.

Along the way, the Lord redefined and brought to life some commonly used Christian terms like forgiveness, grace, and trust for Carl. In addition to biblical passages and relationships with friends and family, Carl mentions a few resources that aided his walk with the Lord, linked below:

• Victory Over the Darkness by Neil T. Anderson of Freedom in Christ Ministries
• How People Change by Timothy S. Lane and Paul David Tripp
• The Ragamuffin Gospel: Good News for the Bedraggled, Beat-Up, and Burnt Out by Brennan Manning

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

As you listen to this conversation with Carl, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. What do you turn to as a means of escape from difficult life circumstances?
2. How would you describe the tone of your conversations with God when He brings hardship your way?
3. Why is it vital to read Ephesians in its entirety rather than focus on one half of the book?
4. Carl talks about approaching his military career and his walk with the Lord with a “performer” mentality. In what area of your own life do you find yourself being a performer?
5. Despite the distractions of the world, how do you stay focused on your own identity in Christ?
6. When have you seen the Lord use your vulnerability to impact others?

View Details

This episode of OCF Crosspoint is a chance to hear from CDR Carl Crabtree, USN (Ret.), who currently serves with his wife, Christy, as the OCF Field Staff Representative at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.

A man on a mission in this episode to share how God has healed him from “PTSD, trauma, moral injury, habitual sin,” Carl shares about his experiences as a foster-to-adopt kid and onward. While the conversation doesn’t get overly detailed or specific, please be advised to listen with care or listen to a different episode altogether if you are still healing from your own past trauma.

Carl pulls from countless personal experiences as an officer in the Navy, a leader in his local church, a husband to his wife, and others, reflecting on how God worked through hardship in all those circumstances to deepen his relationship with Him.

Along the way, the Lord redefined and brought to life some commonly used Christian terms like forgiveness, grace, and trust for Carl. In addition to biblical passages and relationships with friends and family, Carl mentions a few resources that aided his walk with the Lord, linked below:

• Victory Over the Darkness by Neil T. Anderson of Freedom in Christ Ministries
• How People Change by Timothy S. Lane and Paul David Tripp
• The Ragamuffin Gospel: Good News for the Bedraggled, Beat-Up, and Burnt Out by Brennan Manning

If you would like to share your own story, complete the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

As you listen to this conversation with Carl, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. What do you turn to as a means of escape from difficult life circumstances?
2. How would you describe the tone of your conversations with God when He brings hardship your way?
3. Why is it vital to read Ephesians in its entirety rather than focus on one half of the book?
4. Carl talks about approaching his military career and his walk with the Lord with a “performer” mentality. In what area of your own life do you find yourself being a performer?
5. Despite the distractions of the world, how do you stay focused on your own identity in Christ?
6. When have you seen the Lord use your vulnerability to impact others?

View Details

Show Notes:

LT Jonathan Gentry, CHC, USN, discusses the seemingly simple concept of trusting God, specifically within the context of Jonathan’s calling to the ministry and to the military. Since December 2020, Jonathan has been serving as a chaplain at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, but the Navy chaplaincy was not always on his radar.

A Georgia native and pastor’s kid, Jonathan wrestled with the same questions many high school graduates face: What should I do next? Where should I go? What career should I pursue? Based on his own love for theatre in high school, Jonathan chose to pursue a degree in theatre at the University of Memphis while also growing spiritually through leadership roles with his church and Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM).

Later in college, Jonathan realized the Lord was pulling him away from theatre studies toward ministry instead, leading him to Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. The years to follow were ones of trusting God and waiting on Him with decisions about education, vocation, and relationships. He reflects on past experiences where he can now retroactively see God’s hand at work and encourages other Christians in the military to trust Him in all things from job assignments to work dynamics to personal relationships.

Jonathan answered the call for podcast guests by completing the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage, and you are invited to do the same if you would like to share your own story. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic that should be considered for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

As you listen to this conversation with Jonathan, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Describe a time when you wrestled with discerning God’s calling for your life.
2. What did you learn about God’s character through that experience?
3. Where can you look back retroactively to see the Lord’s hand at work in circumstances you didn’t understand at the time?
4. Jonathan describes a hard experience with a church that he “wouldn’t trade” because he can see how that prepared him for the Navy chaplaincy. What challenging but growing experience would you not trade?
5. What does trusting God look like in a practical sense?
6. What spiritual disciplines help you trust the Lord in all things?

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Show Notes:

LT Jonathan Gentry, CHC, USN, discusses the seemingly simple concept of trusting God, specifically within the context of Jonathan’s calling to the ministry and to the military. Since December 2020, Jonathan has been serving as a chaplain at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, but the Navy chaplaincy was not always on his radar.

A Georgia native and pastor’s kid, Jonathan wrestled with the same questions many high school graduates face: What should I do next? Where should I go? What career should I pursue? Based on his own love for theatre in high school, Jonathan chose to pursue a degree in theatre at the University of Memphis while also growing spiritually through leadership roles with his church and Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM).

Later in college, Jonathan realized the Lord was pulling him away from theatre studies toward ministry instead, leading him to Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. The years to follow were ones of trusting God and waiting on Him with decisions about education, vocation, and relationships. He reflects on past experiences where he can now retroactively see God’s hand at work and encourages other Christians in the military to trust Him in all things from job assignments to work dynamics to personal relationships.

Jonathan answered the call for podcast guests by completing the form on OCF’s “Be a Guest” webpage, and you are invited to do the same if you would like to share your own story. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic that should be considered for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

As you listen to this conversation with Jonathan, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Describe a time when you wrestled with discerning God’s calling for your life.
2. What did you learn about God’s character through that experience?
3. Where can you look back retroactively to see the Lord’s hand at work in circumstances you didn’t understand at the time?
4. Jonathan describes a hard experience with a church that he “wouldn’t trade” because he can see how that prepared him for the Navy chaplaincy. What challenging but growing experience would you not trade?
5. What does trusting God look like in a practical sense?
6. What spiritual disciplines help you trust the Lord in all things?

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Show Notes:

After commissioning through the ROTC program at the University of Missouri, Lt Col JB Kump, USAF (Ret.), spent just over 20 years serving wherever the Air Force sent him. Along the way, he and his wife quickly connected with various OCF and church small groups. The “home-away-from-home” fellowship he and his young family found during an early assignment in Germany provided the prayer and support they needed while stationed overseas, and JB has been an avid advocate for small groups ever since.

In this episode of OCF Crosspoint, JB shares what made those small groups so impactful in his own life, practical tips for those currently interested in leading small groups, how his passion for those local fellowships led to his current post-military career, and more.

JB now serves as Minister of Small Groups, Retreats, & Visitation at Great Outdoors Community Church in Titusville, Fla. He additionally holds roles on the boards of directors for both the American Evangelical Christian Churches and Berlin U.S. Military Veterans Association.

JB answered the call for podcast guests by completing the form on our “Be a Guest” webpage, and we invite you to do the same if you would like to share your own story. Alternatively, if you have an idea for a guest or topic we should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

As you listen to this conversation with JB, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. What factors have made a small group impactful in your own life?
2. Do you view small groups primarily as a chance to study the Word or to build relationships with other believers? How do you find the balance in your own group?
3. How can we as members of the military community effectively invest in relationships despite the frequent turnover that comes with the military lifestyle?
4. Have you felt the Lord calling you to lead and/or participate in a small group? What next steps might you take to follow the Lord’s calling?
5. In what ways has the Lord grown you through an experience in which you were reluctant to participate?
6. What Scripture comes to mind when you think about what a biblical small group ought to look like?
7. How does Ecclesiastes 4:12 apply to small groups?

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Show Notes:

CH(COL) Bob Phillips, USA (Ret.), joins us on the podcast today to speak from his 26 years of military service and his ongoing work as the chaplain to the Corps of Cadets at his own alma mater, Virginia Military Institute.

Bob shares his stories of coming to faith with his parents, “straddling the fence” in high school and in college, and meeting his wife Tracy, before diving into what his current ministry looks like at VMI. He observes that one of the predominant topics of discussion among cadets and college students across the country today is anxiety.

While anxiety can often seem unavoidable and unbeatable, Bob shares how he and Tracy use relationships and group Bible studies to address anxiety and point cadets back to Christ.

Bob also serves on the OCF Council, this ministry’s governing body, where he provides perspectives and input to shape OCF’s strategic goals, ministry-wide decisions, and more.

Interested in learning more about generation-specific ministry? Check out the following resources Bob mentioned throughout this episode:

• College Ministry 101: A Guide to Working with 18-25 Year Olds by Chuck Bomar
• Generation iY: Secrets to Connecting With Today’s Teens & Young Adults in the Digital Age by Tim Elmore
• Generation Z Unfiltered: Facing Nine Hidden Challenges of the Most Anxious Population by Tim Elmore
• Meet Generation Z: Understanding and Reaching the New Post-Christian World by James Emery White

If you have an idea for a guest, topic, or story that I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org or visit OCF’s new “Be a Guest” webpage.

As you listen to this conversation with Bob, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Bob shares that his family’s dining room table is their “greatest resource for evangelism… and discipleship.” How could you similarly use a seemingly everyday item to make an impact for the Kingdom?
2. What topic seems to “come to the surface” often in your own local community, and how can you engage with that topic biblically?
3. How does Christ address the anxiety many face today, such as the VMI cadets Bob serves?
4. How have you seen the power of relationships with other believers impact your own life?
5. Do you have a mentor?
   • If you do, how can you start preparing to mentor others in the future?
   • If you don’t, who in your local community could you ask to pour into you spiritually in that capacity?

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Show Notes:

CH(COL) Bob Phillips, USA (Ret.), joins us on the podcast today to speak from his 26 years of military service and his ongoing work as the chaplain to the Corps of Cadets at his own alma mater, Virginia Military Institute.

Bob shares his stories of coming to faith with his parents, “straddling the fence” in high school and in college, and meeting his wife Tracy, before diving into what his current ministry looks like at VMI. He observes that one of the predominant topics of discussion among cadets and college students across the country today is anxiety.

While anxiety can often seem unavoidable and unbeatable, Bob shares how he and Tracy use relationships and group Bible studies to address anxiety and point cadets back to Christ.

Bob also serves on the OCF Council, this ministry’s governing body, where he provides perspectives and input to shape OCF’s strategic goals, ministry-wide decisions, and more.

Interested in learning more about generation-specific ministry? Check out the following resources Bob mentioned throughout this episode:

• College Ministry 101: A Guide to Working with 18-25 Year Olds by Chuck Bomar
• Generation iY: Secrets to Connecting With Today’s Teens & Young Adults in the Digital Age by Tim Elmore
• Generation Z Unfiltered: Facing Nine Hidden Challenges of the Most Anxious Population by Tim Elmore
• Meet Generation Z: Understanding and Reaching the New Post-Christian World by James Emery White

If you have an idea for a guest, topic, or story that I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org or visit OCF’s new “Be a Guest” webpage.

As you listen to this conversation with Bob, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. Bob shares that his family’s dining room table is their “greatest resource for evangelism… and discipleship.” How could you similarly use a seemingly everyday item to make an impact for the Kingdom?
2. What topic seems to “come to the surface” often in your own local community, and how can you engage with that topic biblically?
3. How does Christ address the anxiety many face today, such as the VMI cadets Bob serves?
4. How have you seen the power of relationships with other believers impact your own life?
5. Do you have a mentor?
   • If you do, how can you start preparing to mentor others in the future?
   • If you don’t, who in your local community could you ask to pour into you spiritually in that capacity?

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Show Notes:

Jesus follower, wife, mother, military veteran, USAFA ’97 graduate, counselor, nutritional healing-foods lover, author. These phrases all describe today’s guest, Aurelia Smith. Aurelia served as an active-duty Air Force officer both in the United States and abroad and separated from the military in 2002 as a Captain, and she’s been involved with OCF in many capacities since her cadet years.

GRACE: God’s Reconciliation At Christ’s Expense.

To say race relations is a complex issue is an understatement, and every facet of this topic cannot be covered in this one episode. Aurelia and I simply sat down to start the conversation, talk through Aurelia’s experiences in the military community, and her passion for helping other believers answer the question: How do I minister to the person in front of me who’s hurting from an ethnic or cultural incident?

Aurelia and I are both members of OCF’s R7:9 Project (Revelation 7:9) committee, which examines the critical subject of race relations and explores how believers should engage in this topic in a biblical manner.

Throughout this episode, Aurelia mentions a few books and resources linked below:

• One Race One Blood: The Biblical Answer to Racism by Ken Ham and Charles Ware
• Weep with Me: How Lament Opens a Door for Racial Reconciliation by Mark Vroegop
• Ministering to Military Women: Biblical Help & Hope by Aurelia Smith
• Truth in Love podcast, episode 358
• Truth in Love podcast, episode 369
• Programs at Spring Canyon
• Programs at White Sulphur Springs
• Caleb Challenge Career Transitions Strategies

If you have an idea for a guest, topic, or story that I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org or visit OCF’s new “Be a Guest” webpage.

As you listen to this conversation with Aurelia, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time, with a small group, or with a mentor:

1. What does it look like to engage with race relations in a biblical manner as Christ followers?
2. How should the passages Aurelia read from John chapters 13 and 17 shape our understanding of the love and unity to which we’re called?
3. How can you align your heart with God’s heart for the nations expressed in Revelation 7:9?
4. In what ways does your local church engage with today’s topic?
5. How would you respond to the first situation Aurelia described in which an interracial couple faces backlash within the church body?
6. What Scripture would you share with Adam in the second scenario?
7. What counsel would you give Tanya in the third scenario?
8. How can OCF as a ministry to the military community continue to engage with the topic of GRACE relations? Contact R7:9 Project Coordinator Larry Simpson to continue the conversation: pacificnorthwest@ocfusa.org.

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What keeps you from sharing your faith with others? I sat down with Capt Ryan McCary, ANG, to talk about this question and others. Ryan shares his own story of growing up in a missionary family, joining AFROTC at the University of Central Florida, and debating between military service and vocational ministry. He recounts his own failures to share his faith and how the Lord changed Him through those experiences, then he offers practical steps on how to be bold in your faith today.

Ryan also hosts his own podcast. Check out his MIL SPEC Believer podcast and follow him on Instagram (@mil_spec_believer) to stay connected with Ryan as he continues the conversation about being a Christian in the military.

If you have an idea for a guest, topic, or story that I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org or visit OCF’s new “Be a Guest” webpage.

As you listen to this conversation with Ryan, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time or with a small group or mentor:

1. How would you define a “testimony”?
2. When was a time you saw the Lord work through someone sharing their testimony, and why was it so impactful?
3. How do you stay “prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have,” as 1 Peter 3:15 exhorts?
4. What’s the value of not only reflecting on your story but sharing it as well?
5. Can God use failure both in your individual story and His bigger story?
6. What practical step can you take to be bold for Christ and share the story He’s given you?

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I interviewed Maj Chris Reardon, USMC, who shares his testimony as well as his experiences with integrating faith and profession. For some people, that can perhaps be an ambiguous topic. What exactly does it mean to integrate faith and profession? Chris unpacks what that looks like for him as a Marine and shares some practical application.

In the spirit of the topic, Chris also talks about his nonprofit called Freedom Fitness America, a fusion of fitness and faith, as a means of integrating his faith and profession and helping others do the same.

This conversation with Chris kicks off the third season of OCF Crosspoint, and don’t miss the episodes to come in the months ahead. If you have an idea for a guest, topic, or story that I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org or visit OCF’s new “Be a Guest” webpage.

Places to find FFA online:

• Freedom Nation Virtual Live and Video on Demand Fitness Classes: https://moxie.xyz/freedomnation
• Website: https://freedomfitnessamerica.org
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/freedomfitnessamerica
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fit4thefightlife
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/freedom-fitness-america/
• LinkedIn Personal Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisreardon7872
• YouTube “Shoot, Move, Communicate” Channel:
• https://www.youtube.com/c/ShootMoveCommunicate

Questions to ponder:

As you listen to Chris’ story, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time or with a small group or mentor:

1. Chris shares that he knew from a young age that he wanted to serve in the military, but his father “was not keen” on Chris’ aspirations. How do we as Christians seek to honor our father and mother as we’re commanded to while also honoring what the Lord puts on our hearts to do?
2. How did hearing Chris’ experiences of integrating faith and profession shape your understanding of intertwining those two facets of life? What does it mean to you to integrate faith and profession?
3. Recall a time in your own life when you submitted to the Lord’s calling. How did obeying Him in that circumstance change your relationship with Him?
4. What are your thoughts on Chris’ comparison of a Christian in the military to a palm tree?
5. Chris shares that a friend often used tracts to share Christ with strangers while the Lord showed Chris He would use his relationships instead. How are these two approaches to telling others about Christ effective in different ways?
6. How can you come alongside the chaplaincy in your own life to make an impact for the Kingdom together?
7. Consider your own God-given skills, talents, and passions. How could God use these unique interests of yours to glorify Himself?

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This episode marks the end of season 2 of OCF Crosspoint. Thank you to each of our listeners, whether you’re tuning in for the first time or you’re a longtime listener. If you haven’t heard each episode this season, be sure to go back to episode 1 and catch up on some amazing stories.

Was there an episode that really stood out to you this season? Maybe one that you could relate to on some level or that had some other significance? If so, I’d really like to hear from you. Share your favorite episode with me at podcast@ocfusa.org.

Likewise, a big thank-you to all of my guests this season. I appreciate the willingness of each guest to share some deep and personal parts of their life stories.

As we head into this break between podcast seasons and start working on interviews for season 3 in April, here are three ways you can help the podcast:

1. First, if you have an idea for a guest, topic, or story that should be considered for the podcast, send an email to me at podcast@ocfusa.org and let me know. At least a couple episodes in season 2 happened as a result of listeners like you reaching with ideas.
2. Next, if you think OCF Crosspoint is a valuable resource, would you consider leaving a review for the show wherever you listen to podcasts, and would you also tell someone else about this podcast? We’ve found that word-of-mouth advertising is extremely helpful in getting the word out to others about the show.
3. And finally, since this podcast is a resource of Officers’ Christian Fellowship, be sure to find out more about OCF if you haven’t heard of our ministry. Otherwise, take a look at the website for ways to get involved in OCF, for additional resources to help you integrate your spiritual calling and military calling, and with winter approaching, check out the holiday programs at our two conference centers, Spring Canyon and White Sulphur Springs.

My guest this episode is ENS Nelson Chiaravallotti, USN. Here are a few questions to ponder as you listen to his story of military life at the intersection of faith, family, and profession.

• Nelson’s childhood desire to become a Navy officer was sparked by his parents, both Navy commanders, and their friends, who he calls “role models,” for the way they lived out their Christian faith and character in leadership. Of those in your life who influenced you either positively or negatively, what are some of the ways you have built upon the positive examples? What about the negative ones?
• Nelson emphasizes several times about the quality of perseverance—which he defines as an “enduring and faithful pursuit in the face of affliction,” essential to the Christian walk, and is “built on your why,” which is trust in God. Consider this Scripture: “…we also celebrate in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character” (Romans 5:3-4, NKJV). How do all those things help hone Christlike leadership as military leaders?
• Nelson quotes John 18:8-9 as a backdrop to the importance of taking ownership as a leader of “what you’re doing, your job, your role, and your people most of all.” How does ownership of what Christ has entrusted to you as a leader impact how you lead others? Is it true that “their well-being is your well-being”? What are some of the ways you care for those you lead in ways that others leading you don’t do?

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My guest this episode is MAJ Liliane Delva, USA. Liliane was initially interviewed for an article on Christian Mentoring that appeared in the Spring 2021 issue of COMMAND magazine. In this episode, Liliane talks about the significance of the 9/11 attacks on her Army career, how her parents immigrated from Haiti and made it a point to keep the family away from some of the voodoo practices they saw while living there, and she also talks about how trauma from a molestation as a child had a profound impact on her life, creating much fear and anxiety, before she followed that gentle nudging from God to get help and healing.

As a reminder: If you have an idea for a guest, topic, or story that I should consider for a future episode of the show, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org or to josh.jackson@ocfusa.org.

As you listen to Liliane’s story, here are a few questions to ponder in your personal time or with a small group or mentor.

• Liliane discusses joining the military at a time when a military career was “marketed” as an opportunity for college scholarships and developing skill sets, and how the events of 9/11 caused her to reconsider what her military service really meant. How does her resolve to fulfill her commitment, to “not go back on my word,” align with what Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:37 to “…let your ‘yes’ be ‘yes,’ and your ‘no’ be ‘no’”?
• Liliane was born and raised in Haiti where the “blending of different belief systems” including voodoo was common. With a “reverence for God” intact from her Catholic upbringing, as a teen Liliane determined to “find out and establish a relationship with God for myself.” How does establishing a relationship with God differ from merely practicing a religion?
• “The way we envision the word ‘father,’ and the image that we see regarding ‘father’ or ‘dad’ is very important because it can influence the way we see God.” Liliane says she sees in God the Father the same attributes that she felt from her earthly father in how he loved, cared, and protected her as an authority figure. What is your view of God? How does that impact your life—or the way you treat others, especially if you have kids?
• Reflect on these statements from Liliane: “God is really in everything we do, and He is really present in every aspect of our lives,” and “There is a greater strength in you than you realize that allows you to overcome, and that’s the strength you find in God.” In what ways do these thoughts amaze you, especially in knowing these are from a woman who overcame sexual abuse?

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Have you ever been in a situation where it seemed like God was using affliction to draw you to Him? Or maybe you’re in that situation now. How do you respond in those circumstances? In the face of a chronic illness that seems to have no end, Karis Meier chooses to respond in this way—give thanks.

In this episode, Karis is joined by her husband, LTC Ben Meier, USA, and throughout my conversation with them, you’ll hear at least three themes in their story:

First, marriage. Both Karis and Ben talk about the difficult aspects of marriage that often come along with the commitment to that marriage.

Second, patience in suffering. Karis talks about contentment and endurance as she daily battles a disease and continually asks for healing. And Ben shares how not being able to help Karis with her physical health has taught him to be more compassionate.

And third, sustainability. As a couple and as individuals, Karis and Ben talk about practical applications that have helped them on their marriage journey.

Click here to visit Karis’ blog, Suffering Well.

As you listen to their story of military life at the intersection of faith, family, and profession, here are 4 questions to reflect on:

1. Seasons of change can often be difficult to adjust to. Karis talked about not only the change that comes from being newly married, but also the “new culture” of military that she had to get adjusted to and the start of what has been a mysterious illness. God brought Psalm 121:1 to her mind (“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come?” ESV). What verses of Scripture have helped you during difficult seasons of change?
2. Ben said that his 15-deployment to Iraq and Karis’s multiple health struggles were “opportunities” God used to grow their marriage, “to force us to learn to communicate in ways that we weren’t doing well,” and it was an experience “brought us to our knees and to each other.” Why is it so hard to communicate with others, especially spouses or family? What factors play into the difference between really communicating as opposed to a he-said-she-said dialogue?
3. Read 2 Corinthians 1:8-9. Have you ever experienced a health issue or life challenge that has rendered you feeling burdened beyond strength, even despairing of life itself? Why do you think that even then, the tendency of humans is to rely upon ourselves, to find satisfaction in things other than God? What does that say about us in our walk of faith as Christians?
4. Prayer and worship together, developing a key support system around them, and a 10-minute couch time to connect. Karis and Ben talked about specific and practical ways they’ve incorporated these disciplines into their marriage and family to help navigate the challenges stemming from Karis’ ongoing health issues and Ben’s career challenges as an officer in the Army. What are some of the ways that trusting in God makes it possible to confront the problems of life? Or does it? If not, what do you rely on instead?

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Some 2,500 years after the time of the prophet Habakkuk, Lt Col Ron Bracy, USAF (Ret.), found himself asking the same question as the Old Testament prophet: “How long, O Lord, will I call and you will not hear me?”

I first met Ron back in 2019, and soon after, interviewed him for this podcast. We had a great conversation as Ron unpacked how God used Habakkuk to help him through some very dark days after the death of his son, Todd. However, I recently learned that on August 11, 2021, Lt Col Bracy had died.

Ron graduated from the United States Air Force Academy and served 42 years in the Active, Reserve, and Guard components of the United States Air Force. Ron is a veteran of Vietnam with 183 combat reconnaissance missions, recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross, 15 Air Medals, and other medals for outstanding military service. Ron also was an Air Force chaplain and was deployed throughout the "hotspots of the world" as he called them. His last active-duty assignment was at the Pentagon, where he was on duty the morning of the terror attacks on 9/11.

He also earned a Ph.D. in Biblical Studies and Ethics; taught at seminary, college, and secondary schools; was a pastor for 25 years; and is also the author of Walk On, a book that uses Habakkuk to go deeper on topics such as despair, faith, and praise.

In this episode, I want to share some of the conversation we had and tell you the story of Ron Bracy, and his journey through the valley of despair, and ultimately, how he reached the mountaintop of praise.

This is Ron's story of military life at the intersection of faith, family, and profession. As you listen to his story, here are some questions to ponder.

1. Read Habakkuk 1, where the prophet questions God about the lawlessness, wickedness, and the lack of justice surrounding him, and why God was not setting things right. Why does God allow us to see, even experience, iniquity and trouble in others? Or ourselves? Do those things lead you to God, or away from Him?
2. Ron says that “every person who’s ever lived on this earth will deal with the issue of despair in their lives.” The death of his son on a training mission left him—a pastor—struggling for years: “My son was dead, and so was I.” In what ways has faith in Christ helped you cope with the despairs of life?
3. Ponder this observation of Ron’s: “‘Be still, and know that I am God.’ Honestly, how many of us are ‘still’ in our lives? We fill our day with activity, we can’t stand the silence. We fill our lives with things, we’re never still. How do we expect to hear God?” Is that a true statement for you? What is your remedy?

Ron’s book, Walk On, is still available at Amazon. To purchase a paper or digital copy, click here.

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Hope and healing. If you've ever experienced a trauma, you need both.

But how do you know when healing has actually begun? For Capt Amanda Yashack, United States Air Force Reserve, the genesis of the hope and healing that she so desperately needed could have easily gone unnoticed. It began in the back of a church after Sunday services, as a stranger offered Amanda a tissue and sat silently with her as she cried.

In the previous episode, Amanda shared the first part of her story, which centered on the trauma she experienced as a result of a sexual assault. If you missed that part of her story, be sure to go back and take a listen. As I mentioned last episode, if you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, please get help. Consider starting with the National Sexual Assault Hotline. They offer confidential 24/7 support, and their number is 800-656-4673.

In this episode, Amanda concludes her story by sharing how God began to radically heal her heart and change her life through a series of events.

As you listen to Amanda’s story of military life at the intersection of faith, family, and profession, here are a few questions to ponder:

1. The kindness and dignity given her from an unknown lady at church, or the pilot school classmates’ “by a different playbook” life of faith that she wanted for herself—those are some of the ways other Christians impacted Amanda during her faith journey to Christ. Have you ever thought about how the way you live your life impacts others, both positively and negatively?
2. Amanda came to believe that “God gives us the free choice to choose Him because real love does not force anybody to do anything.” By first recognizing God’s “free and loving choice to forgive me,” Amanda was moved “to understand that I can freely and lovingly forgive the people who assaulted me.” Is it possible to forgive others outside of loving them? What would need to change for forgiveness in love to happen?
3. Amanda participated in RMH, an outdoor leadership program largely for young officers. What do you think this mentor’s statement from their Bible study sessions, “We shouldn’t live our lives to be better Christians but that we should seek Christ with everything, and the rest will follow”?

In this episode, Amanda also mentioned:

• Episode 47, “Building Community in the Military Sisterhood” (47. Kristin Goodrich: Building community in the military sisterhood - Officers' Christian Fellowship (ocfusa.org))
• Rocky Mountain High, OCF’s premier leadership development program for cadets, midshipmen, junior officers and Christian leaders (Rocky Mountain High – Spring Canyon Conference Center)

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A caution for listeners: This episode deals with a topic that may affect some listeners. Part of my guest’s story involves trauma resulting from sexual assault. If you’ve experienced a similar trauma, if you have children around, or if you might be around someone who has experienced trauma, please consider coming back to this episode later and using caution when listening.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, please get help. If you’re unsure about where to get help, consider starting with the National Sexual Assault Hotline. They offer confidential 24/7 support, and their number is 800-656-4673.

It’s been just over a year since I interviewed Capt Amanda Yashack, United States Air Force Reserve. In fact, at that time, she was still Amanda Blaschko and was just weeks away from getting married.

Amanda’s story will be divided into two parts. In this episode, Amanda will talk about how her life spiraled out of control when she was in ROTC, largely as a result of the trauma she experienced, and then how that led to burnout, compartmentalizing her pain, and as she calls it…rock bottom. In the next episode, you’ll hear her story of hope and healing as God began doing a mighty work in her life.

As you listen to Amanda’s story of military life at the intersection of faith, family, and profession, here are a few questions to ponder:

• We often hear from others that we can “be anything we want to be, do anything we set our minds to.” Are those true statements? How do they stack up against Jesus’ statement that “I am the vine; you are the branches…apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5, ESV).
• Amanda describes suppressing her sexual assault experiences and instead relying on “all the little victories” in pursuit of her dreams as “building a world on a foundation of sinking sand.” Read Matthew 7:24-25. In what ways do you think building our lives on the rock that is Christ sustains us through the storms of life?
• Amanda cautions that “if you have anything you haven’t dealt with, it’s not a matter of if but when it will bubble to the surface.” By not dealing with her sexual assault experiences, Amanda says the “place I was in got even darker.” Is there anything in your life that has you trying to live life as if nothing happened? Does pride, fear, or embarrassment keep you from seeking help?

Tune in next episode when Amanda shares the rest of her story.

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A few months ago, I received an email from LT Sam Alexander, USN, wanting to tell me how much appreciated hearing the stories on this podcast—especially in a hectic environment where it's not always easy to make time for the Lord, as he says.

Today, Sam will share some of his story, and he’ll give a peek into submarine culture, how isolation can have an impact on one's faith, and the importance of developing a spiritual support system or a mentoring relationship.

As you listen to Sam’s story of military life at the intersection of faith, family, and profession, here are a few questions to ponder:

• Reflect upon a time when you felt isolated, whether by the circumstance of life or because of duty requirements. Was your focus on only getting through it, or allowing God to speak to you through the circumstances? Would you react differently today if confronted with a similar situation?
• When the struggles of life come upon us, why is it easier to focus on a job, or the busyness of life, rather than spend time with God? What does our response to that say about our relationship with Him?
• Sam refers to Nehemiah and his leadership in the rebuilding of the wall in Jerusalem, that it was not about him, but rather focused on the mission and the king he served. Why is a kingdom mindset of mission and focus upon those you both serve and lead so important in Christlike leadership?
• Get to know your sailors. Be approachable. Be vulnerable—unafraid to share your fears. In what ways do those leadership attributes Sam mentioned contribute toward building community among those in isolated duty stations?
• Sam talks about the iron sharpening iron power (Proverbs 27:17) “that can mold you into something better” from seeking out community, valuing deep friendships, and in mentoring. What keeps you from these relationships if you avoid them—fear, distrust, self-sufficiency? Have you ever thought about bringing this before the Lord?

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This episode marks the end of an intentional four-episode focus on identity. Last week, I interviewed Grant Johnson about his dream to be a jet pilot and how he wrapped up his identity in what he hoped would be his military career. Today you're going to hear from his wife, LT Hannah Johnson, USN, as she talks about her struggles with spiritual perfectionism, and as she says, the fear of being a fraud or being found out.

I started this episode with a short passage from Paul Tripp's devotional book “New Morning Mercies.” Here's what trip has to say about identity, and I hope it's an encouragement to you:

“No need to search for myself. No need to grasp for meaning for my life or purpose for what I do. No need to hope for inner peace, that sense of wellbeing for which every heart longs. No need to hope that someone or something will make me happy or give me joy. I no longer need any of these things because grace has connected me to you, and you have named me your child.”

As you listen to Hannah’s story of military life at the intersection of faith, family, and profession, here are a few questions to ponder:

• Have you ever asked yourself this question about your calling to the military: “God must not have called me to this because this is impossible and I don't belong here”? How did you work through the doubts?
• When it comes to your identity, if you had to give an elevator speech on who you are, how would you respond?
• Hannah said that she struggled with thinking that in order to glorify God, she had to “have it all together and get it all right.” Have you struggled with similar spiritual perfectionism? In what way?
• Fear of failure or of being seen as a fraud is a label that Hannah says she has struggled with during her military career. What fears are defining you right now? How can your identity in Christ help you combat those fears?
• Colossians 3:17 (and 3:23-24) are Scripture passages that Hannah says have been pivotal in her understanding of identity and also how that works itself out in her purpose. What Scripture references are your “go-to” verses in your understanding of your identity in Christ?

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Think about something in your life that you really, really wanted. It was always on your mind, and when you had the chance to finally grab hold of whatever it was you were wanting or striving toward, you came up short.

As we continue this multi-episode focus on the topic of identity, you’re going to hear from LT Grant Johnson, USN, as he shares his story of dreaming to be a jet pilot, only to come up short. If you subscribe to OCF’s COMMAND magazine, then you might have seen the article on identity in the Fall of 2020 that featured both Grant, and his wife, LT Hannah Johnson, USN. You’ll hear from Hannah in the next podcast episode.

Today, Grant’s going to unpack his story from that article in a bit more detail. You’ll hear about how that experience of coming up short shook his faith and his identity, and also what he’s still learning about his himself.

As you listen to Grant’s story, here are a few questions to ponder:

• Has there been a time in your life where you found yourself willing to ignore personal relationships, even your faith, to achieve a deeply held dream?
• How does mourning the loss of falling short of a goal or no longer being able to do it help you to accept what God wants to do differently in your life? Or does it?
• Think of a difficult time or circumstance in your life. What are some things from that experience that have made it possible to thank God or even be joyful about?
• Why is it important to recognize exactly what your identity is rooted in? How does what you deem as the priorities in your life negatively or positively shape your identity?
• How does processing your ambitions, goals, and dreams with God and trusted mentors or peers help you assess the condition of your heart concerning your identity?

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Email me at podcast@ocfusa.org or josh.jackson@ocfusa.org.

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In this episode, OCF Communications Intern Joshua Schumacher interviews MAJ Lynda Johnson, USA (Ret.).

Who am I? That was the big question behind the article that I wrote for COMMAND magazine in the fall of 2020.

The article, which focused on the topic of identity, briefly included the story of Lynda Johnson and how her identity was shaken after she was told she couldn’t run anymore unless she wanted to risk more damage to her health. As it turns out, there is a whole lot more to her story than what we covered in COMMAND. Today, you’ll hear both her life story and the story of how she found her identity in Christ as she shares her testimony of military life at the intersection of faith, family, and profession.

As you listen to Lynda’s story, here are four questions to consider:

1. Lacking her Christ-centered identity, Lynda’s self-described work ethic was a “dream for bosses” but a “nightmare for subordinates and peers.” How would those you lead describe your treatment of them?
2. What do you think Lynda means when it comes to identifying in Christ that “I longer see myself as the star of my movie that God had already seen before”?
3. “Embracing powerlessness in self” is an important aspect of developing our identity in Christ. How does the restraint of our power in our professional, personal, and societal relationships allow others to benefit?
4. Meekness is fully grasping God’s grace, to receive what we’re undeserving of, such as eternal life. How does having our identity in Christ help us model the meekness He demonstrated in a world that scorns meekness as weakness?

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Email me at podcast@ocfusa.org or josh.jackson@ocfusa.org.

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Christian athlete and Marine aviator are two things first lieutenant Aaron Zimmerman wanted to be known for. Aaron comes from a family that absolutely loves lacrosse, and he says, “if my family had its own crest, it would include a lacrosse stick.”

Aaron’s story is one that deals not only with the struggles of how we want to define ourselves, but also how God is continually working in our lives, chipping away at the rough edges, molding us, shaping us, and ultimately crushing our idols of identity.

For Aaron, that meant going from high school All American in lacrosse, to playing from the bench as a backup at the Naval Academy. Then as a Marine, a medical diagnosis would ground his aspirations of being a Marine aviator.

As you listen to his story, here a few questions to ponder:

1. Aaron says his lacrosse dreams slipped into an obsession that had “too much power and became an idol.” Is there an activity, aspiration, or relationship that has crossed into something you idolize?
2. He acknowledges “not allowing people to speak into my life as would have been beneficial.” Do you allow trusted loved ones or those in a good Christian community to speak into your life? If not, why?
3. Aaron initially asked God, “If I wasn’t making flight school and my Marine Corps career an idol like I had lacrosse, then why did you take it away from me?” How does a right relationship with Christ help counter feelings of disappointment or loss?
4. Once officers and enlisted leave the military, there can be a struggle over a lost sense of identity. As a leader, how would you encourage those you lead to not make their military service their identity?

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Comment below or email me at podcast@ocfusa.org or josh.jackson@ocfusa.org.

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On the evening of Jan. 23, 2015, Marine Corps Maj Elizabeth Betsy Kealey and Capt Adam Satterfield were piloting their helicopter above the high desert landscape of Twentynine Palms, Calif., when a catastrophic malfunction caused the Huey to plummet to the ground. Both Marines died in the crash.

Kealey graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy with honors in 2005, and she received her pilot's wings in September of 2007. She deployed twice with the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit and once in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Kealey's mother, Chris Thompson, said Betsy was remembered by many as a woman devoted to her faith, to her family, and to her friends. Chris shared a couple of entries from Betsy's journal:

“This quote is from Betsy's journal when she was on the trek during Rocky Mountain High at Spring Canyon. She said, ‘I pray that my focus on this trek is hearing from you and loving all of your people. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’

“Another quotation from her journal was how to witness, and this was later that same year, 2005. She was asking questions in her journal: ‘How can I witness. How can I be more than just righteous? I can look for opportunities to talk about the Lord, have faith in the Lord's plan for my life, let others see me spending time with the Word.’”

In this episode, Chris shares her story of military life at the intersection of faith, family, and profession by telling Betsy’s story and offering insights on life as a Gold Star Mother.

As you listen to her story, here are a few questions to ponder:

1. Based on her journal entry, Betsy endeavored to do three things as a Christian serving in the military: “I can look for opportunities to talk about the Lord, have faith in the Lord's plan for my life, let others see me spending time in the Word.” How about you? What things define your witness as you serve in uniform?
2. Betsy left a legacy of living out her faith everywhere that she went and allowing her faith to affect those around her. What would your legacy be?
3. If you’re a Gold Star Mother, have you seen God at work? How has he revealed himself to you?
4. If you know a Gold Star Mother, when’s the last time you reached out to them just to talk or pray? If it’s been a while, consider contacting them today.

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Email me at podcast@ocfusa.org or josh.jackson@ocfusa.org.

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Capt Rico Lane, USAF, shares his story of military life at the intersection of faith, family, and profession.

His “blessedtimony” (that’s a nod to his ministry, Blessedtimony) includes three primary themes. First, a big part of his story revolves around fatherhood: how our earthly fathers can often influence what we think about our Heavenly Father. Faith is a second theme in his story. You’ll hear about his two tours in Iraq and how witnessing the devotion of the Muslims in the area really caused him to question Christianity and what it means to be a follower of Christ. Then there’s family, and specifically how God used the Bible verse text messages of a grandfather to begin changing Rico’s life.

Also, take a closer look at Rico’s ministry: https://linktr.ee/Blessedtimony%C3%82%C2%A0

As you listen to Rico’s story, here are three questions to ponder:

1. Think about your relationship with your earthly father. How has it shaped your interactions and beliefs about your Heavenly Father?
2. Rico talks about how seeing the religious devotions of Muslims (specifically, Muslim fathers) shook his own faith and belief in God when he wasn’t yet a believer. What has shaken your faith, and how did you respond?
3. How are you using your story, or “blessedtimony,” to point others to Christ?

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Email me at podcast@ocfusa.org or josh.jackson@ocfusa.org.

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Today, Capt Becky Haggerty, USAF, shares her story of military life at the intersection of faith, family, and profession.

This episode starts with an original composition from Becky called “I Speak.” She wrote the song in 2015 and says it’s about praying to God and feeling like He’s just not hearing you. That’s a theme that she says would become more applicable in the coming years. You see, Becky’s story is one of battling through anxiety and self-worth. It’s a story that tells of her journey to be in a right relationship with her Heavenly Father even when it seems like life sometimes has more valleys than mountaintops, even when it seems like God just doesn’t care.

As you listen to Becky’s story, here are four questions to ponder:

1. In her song, Becky sings about speaking to God and feeling as if He isn’t hearing her. Can you recall a time in your military career (or life) when you wondered the same thing? What was your response?
2. Are you struggling with a mentality of perfectionism, or some of the attributes that often accompany it—inadequacy, self-worth, and self-hate? What do you think drives you to strive for being perfect?
3. How do you cope with the stresses of military life? What spiritual support systems do you have in place?
4. When you face trials and tribulations, and life just isn’t going as planned, do you find yourself wanting to rush to the mountaintop and focus on being only optimistic, or do you take time to rest in your struggles and see how God might be trying to grow you—even if it’s uncomfortable? Why?

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Email me at podcast@ocfusa.org or josh.jackson@ocfusa.org.

You can listen to her song in its entirety at the end of the episode, starting at 40:27. Here are the lyrics to “I Speak”:

I speak.

I speak, can you hear me?

Lord, can you hear me?

And I speak,

Cause they tell me you’re near.

So I speak.

And I speak.

But I don’t know where we’re headed, or where we’ll go.

And I can’t see in the distance what you already know.

And I can’t feel your redemption washing me as white as snow.

So I let go,

Give you control,

And I speak, on my knees.

Lord, teach me to trust you.

Cause you’re all I have.

I’m alive through you.

So with this breath in my lungs, these scars on my heart…

I’m here, nowhere to start,

So I speak.

And I speak.

Cause you hear me.

You’re near; hear my prayers.

Yes, you’re near; hear my prayers. (repeats twice)

God, I can’t see beyond me. I can’t let go.

At times I feel so hopeless. Why is this so?

Help me to hand to you my heart, my mind, my soul.

Jesus, let’s go… we’ll walk this road.

Jesus, you know… mine eyes please show.

When I speak.

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In this episode, you’ll hear the story of 2nd Lt Chip Chu, USAF. When I interviewed Chip over a year ago, he was still a Firstie at the Air Force Academy. COVID-19 wasn’t exactly a household word yet. There was no point of reference or context for things like “flatten the curve,” “social distancing,” “wear your mask”… or who could forget the “8pm howl” for first responders and medical personnel in the early days of the pandemic?

As you listen to Chip’s story, here are some questions to ponder:

• Think of your own story. When was the first time you recall hearing about God, Jesus, and the concepts of sin, grace, and salvation? How did you respond?
• Chip described OCF as his “family.” If you’re involved in OCF, how would you describe it? If you are not involved in OCF, do you have a body of believers to come alongside you?
• What did you think about the three challenges Chip talked about—figuring out the future; struggling with competition and identity; and properly using our time and resources? How have you struggled with these in your military career?
• What was your key takeaway from Chip’s story?

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Email me at podcast@ocfusa.org or josh.jackson@ocfusa.org.

About Chip

Second Lieutenant Chipu Chu is a Master’s of Asian International Affairs candidate at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. Originally from Princeton, N.J., Chip earned his commission from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 2020 and will serve as a logistics readiness officer upon completing his master’s program. Chip joined OCF in 2016 after basic cadet training and served as the cadet-in-charge at OCF USAFA during his Firstie (senior) year. He currently resides in Honolulu, HI.

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OCF Crosspoint returns April 26 with a new season and new stories of military life at the intersection of faith, family, and profession. 

In some of the episodes coming up this season, you’ll find that struggling through adversity is at least one common thread as guests tell their stories. They all went through their own type of liminal space: They all struggled with the loss of what was, and they all faced the uncertainty, maybe even anxiety of what was next.

As you wait for this next season of OCF Crosspoint to launch, take some time to catch up on previous episodes of the podcast, and be sure to subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts so that you’ll always get the latest episodes of OCF Crosspoint when they’re released.

If you have an idea for a topic that should be considered, or if you know of a story that needs to be told, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

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Today, you’re going to hear the story of Midshipman Isaiah Walker, he’s a senior in the ROTC program at Ole Miss who has struggled with isolation and the challenges of integrating faith and profession. I first heard about Isaiah from Lt Col Tom Falconer, USAF (Ret.). Tom’s a longtime OCF member, and he’s also a local leader and area coordinator in the Colorado Springs area.

What caught my attention about Isaiah’s story is how he found out about OCF in the first place—it was through this podcast. A key takeaway from Isaiah’s story comes from his struggle to integrate faith and profession, which largely is a result of isolation and feeling alone. As Isaiah shares his story, you’ll hear how important community is in the life of the Christian serving in the military. And if you find yourself relating to Isaiah in this regard, then I hope you’ll be encouraged by his story.

If you’re in need of community with other Christians serving in the military, check out the OCF Directory to see if there’s a group near you, or contact me directly at podcast@ocfusa.org.

This episode also includes a special appearance by CPT Lindsey Bowen, USA, who was my guest in episode 54, along with her husband, CPT Joshua Bowen, USA.

There are also references to three previous Crosspoint podcasts:

Episode 54: The Importance of Small Group Fellowship

Episode 5: Thriving in the Unbalance

Episode 2: Navigating the Storms of Life

// Quotes from this episode:

“I probably took ROTC a little too seriously the first three years—freshman, sophomore, junior year—you know, prepping for officer candidate school that we go to after our junior year. And I can count on one hand how many times that I went out and hung out with friends during those three years” (Isaiah Walker on neglecting community).

“You know, my church friends, they understood my spiritual life, what's going on there and everything. But anytime I tried to bring up the military, they had no idea what was going on. They didn't know how to address it or anything like that” (Isaiah Walker on the struggle of finding indigenous fellowship).

“I can say the support I've received from OCF has been absolutely insane. Ever since I kind of listed myself as the local leader/member [at Ole Miss], I've gotten email after email, phone call after phone call, and meeting after meeting from the OCF community and OCF members. You just really find out how tight knit a community it is” (Isaiah Walker on finding fellowship within OCF).

“God wants to be involved in every single aspect of your military career because he is the reason you're there and he's the reason you're serving. So in everything you do, whether it's leading an infantry unit in combat or it's waking up and going over logistics for a mission to come about or getting up and going to PT, you know, God wants to be there. He wants you to acknowledge him. So I would just say to anyone listening—ROTC or officer Corps or military period—make sure you're including Christ and every ounce of your military specialty” (Isaiah Walker’s key takeaway from the conversation).

“When a new person shows up to your group, it may be such a big leap for them to show up or to have even come at all to even contacted you. So be there for them. Take interest in them as much as you can with how many people you're already taken care of. When people feel that you care about them, that's when they'll continue to show up for you” (Lindsey Bowen on making new people feel welcome to your small group).

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If you've been around OCF long enough, then you've no doubt heard about the importance that OCF places on small group fellowships—after all, fellowship is one of our spiritual pillars and it's even in our name.

Well, today you're going to hear the story of Joshua and Lindsey Bowen, both captains in the Army. And, while their story contains a few themes, such as mentoring, leadership, and spiritual growth, the one common thread throughout their story is the small group fellowship and the importance that fellowship has played in their lives...going all the way back to when they first met.

Josh is an Army engineer officer, who graduated from West Point in 2010 and served as a combat engineer at Fort Bragg and Fort Carson. His wife, Lindsey, is a medical service corps officer and currently a company commander. She graduated from Baylor University out of the ROTC program back in 2014.

In this episode I also mentioned a couple of resources from OCF. First, if you're new to OCF or in case you didn't know, we have an online directory to help you find a small group or an OCF contact in your area. Just point your browser to ocfusa.org/directory.

And for our small group leaders, or maybe if you're thinking about one day becoming a small group leader, be sure to download our popular booklet called "Leading Effective Small Groups."

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Have you ever been invited to do something only to wonder…why did I agree to that? My guest today went through something like that, and ultimately, it might have saved her life and the lives of her children.

Today, I’m going to share with you the story of CDR Carlos and Sara Estevez, USCG. Carlos is a medical officer assigned to the US Coast Guard Academy. He and Sara arrived at the academy in 2016, and almost immediately got plugged into OCF through Carl Crabtree, the OCF field staff rep based in New London, CT.

As for Sara, she homeschools their three kids, and like Carlos, helps teach Bible studies to the cadets. For Sara, being a mentor is an important part of their ministry. Sara was approached by then-cadet Deb King, whom she had been mentoring, who asked her to sign up for a Spartan Race. Deb is an Ensign now, serving as the support officer aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Active.

Little did Sara know that the role she began as a mentor to Deb in 2016 would come to have a profound impact on her life and the lives of her children a few years later.

On the afternoon of April 12, 2019, Sara and the kids packed up, arranged for the neighbors to watch their two dogs Nellie and Moose, and headed for New York City, where Carlos would join them as Sara planned to compete in the Spartan Race the next day.

However, in the early morning hours of April 13 while the Estevez family was away, their house was destroyed in a blaze that also claimed the lives of their beloved dogs.

In this episode, the Estevezes share the details of their story in the weeks leading up to the devastating fire, how they responded when they received word of the fire, and some of the things they’ve learned about their faith in the aftermath of the fire. You’ll also hear about how God miraculously spared some love letters and other personal items from the fire, and how Deb King rallied the USCG Cadets to help out the Estevez family.

And in the middle of everything, Sara was wrapping up a Bible study she had written on the life of Jeremiah—it’s a 10-week inductive study—and as Sara pointed out to me, Jeremiah also knows a thing or two about loss since his entire book was burned by King Jehoiakim.

If you want more information about the Bible study, it’s called “Born to Lead: From Complacency to Calling.” And be sure to check out Sara’s website for more resources.

Finally, there’s also a mention of two previous guests to Crosspoint:

• Michelle Qureshi from episode 41
• Brigit Jogan from episode 44

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Episode 52 show notes

Have you ever known anyone who’s been passed over for promotion? Maybe it’s your name that wasn’t on the promotion list.

Today you’re going to hear from COL Stu McRae, USA (Ret). When the 1997 promotion list was due to be officially released, a friend called him to say,

“Stu, this is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. I’m sorry, but your name isn’t on the list.”

It was a lynchpin moment for Stu, as he began examining what it meant to be a successful officer in the eyes of God, where he was placing his identity and self-worth, and why was he wanting to be the best at his job—what were his motives?

Stu McRae was raised in Montana where he was part of a multi-racial family, born to parents who loved God and humbly lived a life reflecting His love for others. In addition to Stu and his oldest sister who was born to his parents, his mother and father adopted 11 other children (mostly Native American). This played a significant role in teaching Stu about the love and acceptance of God.

In 1987, Stu was commissioned as a lieutenant in Military Intelligence and branch transferred to Aviation in 1990. Stu went on to command the 224th Military Intelligence Battalion, which was a fixed-wing aviation battalion, and then was the rear detachment commander for the 3rd Infantry Division in 2010. After graduating from the U.S. Army War College in 2011, Stu was selected to command the garrison of Fort Rucker, Alabama. He retired from the Army as a colonel in 2017 and now resides in Wyoming where he works developing business opportunities for Kennon Products, as well as continuing to fly airplanes as a contractor in Afghanistan.

// What we talked about

• Introducing COL McRae, His anticipation of promotion, and the reality of being passed over for promotion.
• Learning more about who COL McRae is.
• COL McRae explains what he meant by

“A young officer works long hours characterized by daily, rigid discipline… ever-expecting that his branch of service will recognize his dedicated labors and reward them with promotion to the next rank. He lives and breathes his service culture, often putting the military before self and family. After all, isn’t that what is expected of a successful officer?”

From the article “So You’ve Been Passed Over”

• COL McRae points out two questions as he reflects on what it means to be a successful officer:
  1. Where is your identity?
  2. How close is your relationship with Christ?
• COL McRae explains what is expected, not of a successful officer, but a Christian officer.
• COL McRae looks back on his military career, and how his idea of what a successful officer looks like has changed.
• COL McRae explains what he meant when he wrote,

“My whole identity was so wrapped up in the Army that it dictated how I felt about myself. If I did something well or was commended, I felt good about myself; if I was not commended or worse, was reprimanded, I was devastated.”

• COL McRae explains how he learned to put things in their proper perspectives and place his identity in Christ.
• We talk about motives. Why do we want to do the best we can do in our jobs, and other area of our lives, and what are some ways we can test our motives? Col McRae shares the story of a note on a bathroom mirror that changed his perspective.

• COL McRae examines motives by asking these 5 questions:

• Am I willing to surrender all areas of my life to God?

• If not, what specific areas of my life have I not yet surrendered to Him?
• From where or whom do I derive my identity?
• Who am I trying to please?

• What is the order of my priorities with regard to God, family, and my career?

• Psalm 37:4, says, “Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.” COL McRae wrote,

“From the start of my career to now, God has steadily changed my desires to be more in line with His by eliminating unnecessary baggage. As we willingly submit to His authority, He is faithful to refine us and help us to find our complete fulfillment in Him.”

• Col McRae updates us on where God is using him now, and how his view on identity has changed so drastically.
• Col McRae gives his final recommendations for others struggling with the question of identity.

John Bevere: The Bait of Satan

• Col McRae’s final thoughts

“One, if you go through and come out the other end and everything seems to be rosy again, the changes that you have put in place because God has worked you through things, just know that you are going to be tested on that! Two, God does want to bless you. Three, our identity in Christ is what will get us through the challenges, no matter what that challenge is.”

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Happy New Year and thanks for joining me for the first Crosspoint podcast of 2020. Today, we’re focusing on the topic of personal transformation with my guest, Col Darren Duke, United States Marine Corps. Col Duke is the Deputy Director of Operations at Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps in Washington, DC. He is a career intelligence and special operations officer and has commanded Marine and Joint special operations in garrison and abroad.

Col Duke he will be speaking on the topic of personal transformation at the upcoming Northeast Academy & ROTC Retreat, on 7-9 February at the Toah Nipi Retreat Center in New Hampshire. And for those of you in ROTC, there are upwards of 9 different events you can take part in between now and April. Click here for details.

Let’s jump into my conversation with Col Darren Duke as we talk about personal transformation and what a life transformed by God might look like for believers serving in the military.

// What we talked about

Col Duke expresses about his gratitude for the heritage of faith from his family, making that faith his own through USNA OCF, led by Cal & Linda Dunlap, and the influences from his roommate and many others helping him see “the prevailing unbelief in my life.”

"Through the pages of the Bible I met a God who was utterly holy, completely powerful and sovereign, yet who extended mercy to sinners like me."

Q: Tell me about the OCF conference you're speaking at and the topic for the conference.

Col Duke talks about really enjoying the ROTC conference he spoke at last year at WSS, and how important weekend conferences were to him as an USNA midshipman both in his walk with Christ and to be with other believers to study God’s Word. To him, there’s not a better topic than personal transformation “because the gospel of Jesus Christ is at its core about transformation.”

"Come be transformed from a rebel against the sovereign King of the cosmos to a son of the Living God. Come, and look at Jesus Christ, and you will be changed. Life from death is the height of transformation."

Col Duke discusses the importance of personal transformation, particularly to the audience he’s speaking to. Col Duke talks about trusting God in His promises and obeying His commands, faith and repentance, and the necessity for new Christians growing in their faith to live it out.

"Faith and repentance are two sides of the same coin, distinct, but inseparable attributes of living faith in Jesus. You can’t have one without the other."

"Young Christians who are growing in their faith need to understand what it is to walk in Christ in the way they live, not just in what they believe in inside their minds and hearts."

Col Duke talks about the influences of the American culture that offers transforming philosophies or transforming programs to try teach others how to transform themselves, and he also discusses “heady” theological words that can be difficult concepts to grasp and that transformative changes comes from “faith in Jesus, where He changes us from the inside out.”

"A life changed by God is one where a believer acts on new affections, that is, the inclination of the will of the heart. One law of human worship is that you become like what you worship (Psalm 115). Thankfully, the opposite is also true: the more we behold the perfections of Christ and rejoice in them, the more we will become like Him (1 Corinthians 3:18)."

Col Duke talks further about the concepts of justification and sanctification, the danger of “pseudo-holiness” because of our sin nature, false alternatives for true transformation, and the false sense of personal transformation in thinking God loves us less or more depending on our performance.

Q: What should be our standard of measure when it comes to personal transformation? Seems like it could be pretty easy to compare ourselves to others and either come away with a bad case of imposter syndrome or walk away thinking more highly of ourselves than we should.

Col Duke says the standard for measuring personal transformation rests in the vital necessity of using God’s Word “to see what God says about both our heart and actions.”

"Comparison with others is a sure-fire recipe for disaster. It’s difficult to love someone if you’re comparing yourself with them. You’ll either idolize those you uphold as the standard or look down at those you deem as inferior."

Col Duke talks about the specific applications and implications of personal transformation for Christians serving in the military. Col Duke’s conversation touches upon the “affections” based on Christ’s promises and how they show themselves in our responses to our fears, family life, and careers. He also talks about how military Christians will appear differently, because of the way their hearts are oriented toward God.

"In combat, Christians will remember that even our enemies are created in God’s image, which is the basis for humane treatment of prisoners of war. We will pray for our enemies even as we do our combat duties, to include use of lethal force for righteous ends."

Col Duke discusses the “very serious business” that the profession of arms is when asked about the most important thing for newly commissioned officers to keep in mind as they transition into their careers. He also talks about the challenges nonbelievers face in combat in trying to “measure the violence they’re seeing around them,” and the ways they try to put value on what they’ve seen and experienced “that persists beyond the memorial service after the deployment is over.”

"Norse paganism has become the symbols of what many young soldiers or Marines use because the culture is questioning the value of war itself right now, and yet they need some framework to place the loss of their friends, and all the death and destruction they’ve seen around them. In Norse mythology…you can have merit, and the sacrifice in combat, and hope beyond that death—even for the person you killed in combat."

Col Duke and Josh discuss young Christian officers’ opportunities to demonstrate the hope they have in Christ, the portrayal of war in today’s video games or movies, Global War on Terror “brov-ets,” and books Col Duke recommends on personal transformation.

// Resources

God is the Gospel by John Piper https://www.desiringgod.org/books/god-is-the-gospel

Future Grace by John Piper https://www.desiringgod.org/books/future-grace

Redemption Accomplished and Applied by John Murray https://www.amazon.com/Redemption-Accomplished-Applied-John-Murray/dp/080287309X

The Christian’s Great Interest by William Guthrie https://www.amazon.com/Christians-Great-Interest-Puritan-Paperbacks/dp/0851513549

// Final Point

Col Duke’s one key takeaway for listeners today

"The Bible is clear that we are transformed, our lives are changed not by self-help books and gurus—even by Christian ones—but by seeing Jesus Christ as He is presented in the Scriptures, resting in His promises to be the righteousness and peace with God that we need. He will do what He has promised. He will bring us to God, and we will marvel and delight forever."

// Special Announcement

We just launched a separate podcast called “Leader, Draw Near.” It’s a weekly podcast devotional, and if the title of that podcast sounds familiar to you, it’s because the podcast is based on the book by the same name, written by COL Larry and Bobbie Simpson, United States Air Force, retired.

The Simpsons published the book a few years ago, and since then, we’ve recorded each weekly devotional using several different narrators from all branches of service, and now we’re distributing the audio content as a weekly podcast.

Each podcast episode averages around 4 minutes, so it’s a quick and simple way to get your day started with a great leadership devotional centered on God’s Word.

Just go into your favorite podcast app and search for “Leader, Draw Near" or click here.

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As 2019 comes to an end—with several weeks of travel in my future plus the Christmas holidays—I'm taking a break from the podcast and sharing a series of encore episodes with you. Starting in January, you'll get to hear some fresh, new interviews. As a reminder: encore episodes are episodes that I selected from among the early days of the podcast, and each encore episode will feature only a portion of the original interview, so I encourage you to go back to that episode if you want to hear all of it.

The third and final encore episode I want to share with you comes from episode 27, when I got to chat with LTC Todd Plotner about leadership lessons for young warriors. Our conversation was based on an article he wrote for Command magazine back in 2013 when he was the Army ROTC Professor of Military Science at Washington State University.

One of the cool things that's happened since that interview is that LTC Plotner and his wife, Andrea, are moving to Buena Vista, CO, where he will assume the role of Director of Operations at OCF's Spring Canyon Conference Center—in fact, they're supposed to start mid-December, which means they're probably already there getting settled in right now as you listen to this.

Let me tell you a little about Todd and Andrea: Todd is a 1993 West Point graduate and served in a variety of command and staff positions in the Army Corps of Engineers and he's is also a strategic planner as a graduate of the Army’s School of Advanced Military Studies. His final Army assignment was serving as ROTC Professor of Military Science. His wife, Andrea, is no stranger to military ministry, either, as she was the final PWOC International President before the chaplaincy decentralized that ministry.

OK, this is another great podcast episode for young officers, so if you know a young officer, tell them about this episode.

// Four lessons in leadership for young warriors

1. Find strength in fellowship: We can’t go it alone. When you arrive at your first assignment, promptly find a Christian small group fellowship. If there is no small group fellowship, start one.
2. Be faithful and competent: Humbly recognize that the “so help me God” in your commissioning oath is a solemn appeal to God, acknowledging Him as the source of your competence and authority.
3. Honor God with your effort: You have a responsibility to give 100 percent to accomplish the mission and care for your people. Your work is a very real facet of worshipping God, but do not worship your work. Resist the temptation to become a workaholic. Know that you will experience failures. Whether because of moral shortcomings, unexpected circumstances or enemy action, you and your people will not always succeed as intended.
4. Don’t complain: The leader who perseveres amid difficulty without complaint, argument or profanity is uncommon. Complaining or criticizing your peers, superiors or subordinates behind their backs will strip your credibility and moral authority.

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As 2019 comes to an end, with several weeks of travel in my future plus the Christmas holidays, I'm taking a break from the podcast and sharing a series of encore episodes with you. Starting in January, you'll get to hear some fresh, new interviews. In case you're wondering: encore episodes are episodes that I selected from among the early days of the podcast because I think they have a great message for you. Each encore episode will feature only a portion of the original interview, so I encourage you to go back to that episode if you want to hear all of it. The second encore episode I want to share with you comes from episode 9, and in that episode, I interviewed First Lieutenant Ryan Menicucci—who I believe now is a captain in the US Army. There were three things that he shared during that episode: first, we must have faith in something that is worthy of our faith; second, we must know who we are in Christ; and third, we must be prepared to fight the good fight, as we engage in spiritual warfare. This was an excellent conversation I had with LT Menicucci, and while the message is relevant to anyone who is serving or who has served in the US Armed Forces, do me a favor: if you know someone at one of the academies or who's just getting started in their military calling, share this episode with them. There are a lot of good points that might be especially helpful to young officers. Three questions as you listen: 1. Do you have faith in something that is worthy of your faith? 2. Do you know who you are in Christ? 3. Are you aware of and prepared for spiritual warfare?

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As 2019 comes to an end, I'm taking a break from the podcast. So, between now and the end of the year, you're going to hear a series of encore episodes. These are episodes that I selected from among the early days of the podcast because I think they have a great message for you—an evergreen message you might call it. Each encore episode will feature only a portion of the original interview, so I encourage you to go back to that episode if you want to hear all of it. The first encore episode I want to share with you comes from episode 2, and in that episode, Managing Editor Karen Fliedner interviewed Lieutenant James Rader, who flew multiple search-and-rescue missions in the Houston area during Hurricane Harvey. In fact, Lt. Rader was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross on Oct. 9, 2019, for extraordinary achievement while participating in life-saving rescue operations during the hurricane as he flew under 200-foot cloud ceilings, navigated unlit towers and exhaust stacks in near-zero visibility to conduct multiple search and rescue missions including medivacing a two-year old girl, as well as a patient who required specialized medical care due to their injuries. And while the stories that Lt. Rader recounts are pretty awesome, I found two other points he made during the podcast even more profound. First, he shares his thoughts on where is God during the middle of both our literal and figurative storms of life. And second, he talks about his identity in Christ being foremost in his life—even above his profession. // Two questions as you listen: 1. Where is God during the storms of your life? 2. Where do you put your identity—career or Christ? For the full interview, go check out episode 2, which we titled "Navigating the Storms of Life."

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What do you think of when I say, “Military Sisterhood”? That was the question Kristin Goodrich posed to about 50 women at the beginning of a weekend retreat last March at OCF's White Sulphur Springs Conference Center. One West Point cadet’s response stood out amid the varied responses, "Sisterhood? What sisterhood?"

Today you’re going to hear from Kristin, a U.S. Naval Academy graduate who is now the Executive Officer for Planting Roots, a ministry for Christian military women. She will talk about the importance of building community among women within OCF, the importance of friendships, and will zero in on a couple points of author Peter Scazzero’s list of the “Top 10 Symptoms of Emotionally Unhealthy Spirituality.”

You can also read more from Scazzero in his book “Emotionally Healthy Spirituality.”

A second Leading Women Retreat is scheduled in 2020 from March 26-29 at White Sulphur Springs Conference Center in Pennsylvania. So mark your calendars now. Check out the OCF and White Sulphur Springs websites for more information about the retreat. Those sites will be updated as details and registration become available. You can also join the Leading Women private Facebook group by clicking here (or by sending an email to Kristin if you have trouble accessing the group).

// WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT

• Introducing Kristin Goodrich, her involvement in USNA OCF and later OCF Council, and her calling to military women ministry.
• What was the purpose behind the Leading Women Retreat at WSS?
  More about the question “What do you think of when I say Military Sisterhood?” and why you asked it.
• What sorts of answers did you get, and what did those answers tell you?
• How did others respond, and then how did you follow up to continue that discussion?
• You said friendship in an art, not a science. How so?
• What is a key takeaway for listeners regarding friendship?
• Peter Scazzero’s “Top 10 Symptoms of Emotionally Unhealthy Spirituality.” Kristin talks about two of the ten points: Dying to the wrong things, and doing for God rather than being with God. “We have become human ‘doings’ rather than human ‘beings.’ We work for God rather than with God.”
• How does emotionally unhealthy spiritually tie back into military sisterhood? What kind of questions were generated by going through that Top 10 list?
• Kristin talks about the military community largely being Type-A, mathematical, with strategic mindsets leaning towards a “science mindset.” But the art of friendship is subjective on how to make it happen.
• Any books you recommend? One book used during the retreat last year: John Ortberg book “Soul Keeping.”
• Kristin recommends “Free to Be Brave: Moments with God for Military Life” and “Flourish Wherever the Military Sends You” for those wanting resources that point women to Christ so they thrive in military life. More information can be found at the Planting Roots website. You can hear from Planting Roots Director Kori Yates in Episode 25, when she appeared as a guest on Crosspoint.
• What’s the takeaway for listeners from our conversation? Kristin’s final thought: That Christian military women accept the challenge to develop a healthy sisterhood, to view each other as a sisterhood—encouraging, exhorting each other, telling the family stories where we can poke at each other, and yet we are all for each other.

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May a Christian serve in the military? When it comes to taking the life of an enemy combatant, how does someone reconcile that with Jesus’s command to love your enemy and to pray for him?

This past August in Pensacola, Fla., a group of military men and women came together for a panel discussion that addressed a topic they titled “Can you be a Christian and serve in the military?” About 40 to 50 people attended the event, and you can watch the full 90 minutes of the discussion here.

One of the members of the panel was COL Chet Arnold, USMC (Ret). He and his wife, Michelle, are the OCF field staff reps in Pensacola.

Today, you’re going to hear from Chet as he addresses the topic of not only being a Christian and serving in the military, but also being a Christian and killing while serving in the military. Chet will also talk about what it means to live a distinct life within the military culture, biblical truths about serving in the military, and other questions that came up during the panel discussion.

What we talked about

• Introducing COL Chet Arnold and how he got involved with OCF Pensacola.
• How did the panel discussion come together, and what were some overall thoughts and impressions on how well it was received?
• Is this topic one that you hear about frequently?
• What truths do we find in the Bible with regards to serving in the military?
• Is the military focused on taking human life, as some like to suggest?
• How can a Christian see someone on the battlefield as an image-bearer of God and still carry out an order that will end up in the death of that enemy combatant? How can a Christian follow Jesus’ commands to love our enemies and to pray for them, and then go out and kill them?
• One of the chaplains, Chris Terrell, raised this question: How do we as Christians live distinct within the military culture? Chet weighs in with his thoughts.
• 10 Commandments: Some versions say “thou shalt not kill” and others say “thou shalt not murder.” How can we know which one is correct? Chet talks about the difference between killing and murder in the context of the larger topic.
• A young Marine in the audience asked this question: “How can I better relate to my parents who are pacifists and don’t understand how I can reconcile serving in the military and being a Christian?” How can one handle those difficult questions from any friend, family member, or loved one?
• From the article “May A Christian Serve” on the OCF website, Chet addresses this question: “What are your thoughts about putting ourselves as Christians in situations where others are telling us to take live for reasons that may be unclear—or perhaps even unjust? How do we know those giving orders are doing what is right?”
• One final, key takeaway from the discussion this episode.

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The story of Captain Nick Koza, USMC, has a few striking similarities with that of the apostle Paul when he was converted on the road to Damascus. However, that’s not to imply Captain Koza was going around persecuting and arresting Christians—because he wasn’t—but the fact that he wasn’t a believer, then was blinded and cared for by some guys he hardly knew, and through that process became a follower of Christ... well, the resemblance to parts of Paul’s story is pretty remarkable.

As you listen to the conversation with Captain Koza, pay close attention to not only the similarities with the story of Paul, but also to the themes of fellowship, friendship, and faith through his interactions with Matt Haskins and Kory Defore.

I’d like to hear from you—tell me what you think about Captain Koza’s story, or maybe you have a story of your own you’d like share. Send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

// What we talked about

• Capt. Koza talks about his background, growing up in a Catholic family, and why he signed up with the Marines.
• When he first arrived in Pensacola, he wasn’t a believer. Capt. Koza answers this question: What was Nick Koza like then…spiritually speaking, friends, etc.?
• October 8, 2013: Capt. Koza recounts the events surrounding his blindness, as well as how a couple members of OCF Pensacola stepped up to help him in his time of need.
• Regarding his friend and fellow Marine Matt Haskins: “What he needed to be doing was studying for his first flight the next day. He took a lot of time out of his day to take me to the hospital.”
• Capt. Koza talks about a variety of things: What’s going through his mind at this point? What impact did the actions of Matt and Kory have on your life? How did God speak to you during this time and transform your life?

// “It blew me away. What are you guys drinking? What is the Kool-Aid? I need it. It was awesome to see the amount of respect and caring that somebody would have for someone else they’d never known.”//

• What did the experience teach you about the value of fellowship?
• How do people usually react or respond when they hear your story?
• If listeners took away only one thing from your story, what would you hope that it would be?

//“Don’t be afraid to invite people out to church. Don’t be afraid to talk about your faith. You will definitely get pushback. They will give you a decent amount of crap for it initially but eventually they’ll grow to respect you.”//

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// Episode 44 show notes

What comes to mind when you hear that someone had a “mountaintop experience”? Maybe you think about Moses, who hiked back down the mountainside literally glowing because he had been in the presence of God. Or Peter, James, and John—the inner circle of Jesus—who saw Jesus in His true, divine nature as he was transfigured right in front of them. You might recall that was an event that impacted Peter so deeply that he wanted to camp out and build a few memorials for Jesus, Elijah, and Moses.

The point is this, we regard mountaintop experiences as those moments when God moves in such a mighty and unexpected way, that, at least figuratively, we come back glowing like Moses or wanting to build a memorial like Peter. And while a mountaintop experience can take place anywhere, for some people, such an event actually takes place on a mountaintop.

Take for example my guest today—First Class Cadet Brigit Jogan, a senior at the United States Coast Guard Academy. During her time at Rocky Mountain High this past summer, Brigit hiked the summit of Mount Antero in Colorado’s Collegiate Peaks, and it was during that physical climb to the mountaintop that she experienced the Spirit of God moving in a mighty way. Today, Brigit is going to talk about that experience as she shares her story.

// What we talked about

Here’s an outline of the questions Brigit answered this episode:

• Tell me about where you’re from, and why the Coast Guard?
• As you look back over your time at the Coast Guard Academy, what’s academy life been like for you? What are some things you’ve learned about yourself, and what are some challenges you’ve faced?
• Share a little about your spiritual journey. When did you accept Jesus and begin following Him?
• What’s it like being a Cadet and also being a Christian? Are there difficulties you’ve experienced when it comes to integrating your faith into your life in the Coast Guard?
• Talk about your involvement in OCF at the Coast Guard Academy—how you first heard about OCF and why you decided to give it a try and then stay involved?
• Talk more about what it is you do with the ministry team.
• Tell me more about your Rocky Mountain High experience. What was it like?
• What sorts of things would best equip you to live out your calling as someone who is very early in her military career?
• If listeners were going to take away only one thing from our conversation today, what would you hope that it would be?

// About my guest

Originally from Grosse Pointe Park, MI, Brigit Jogan is currently a 1/c cadet (senior) at the United States Coast Guard Academy. She participates actively in OCF as cadet president, studies electrical engineering, swims distance freestyle, and frequently shares terrible jokes with those unfortunate enough to be in earshot. Her other hobbies include completing adult coloring books and looking at pictures of her beautiful dog, Phinn. In the future, she hopes to continue her education through the Coast Guard and to continue to stay very involved with ministry, with whatever adventures that entails.

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Have you ever thought about what it means to be a good steward of your time? Maybe you can recall getting to the end of a day and thinking, “Why did I waste so much time?” Joining me on the show to talk about time stewardship is LTC Gil Jacobs, USA (Ret.). He was also my guest back in episode 18, when we talked about transformational leadership. Today, LTC Jacobs and I will talk about his new book called “Time for Christ.”

// Book giveaway

LTC Jacobs has given me three copies of “Time For Christ” to give away for free. If you’d like to be entered for a chance to win one of the copies, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org and mention “Time For Christ book giveaway” in the subject line. Deadline to enter is 30 September. Winners will be selected and notified by 4 October.

// What we talked about

Here are a few of the questions LTC Jacobs and I discussed:

• What led you to write the book?
• What does stewarding your time look like? Why is it important to be good stewards of our time?

• Talk more about the 7 ways of time stewardship that you wrote about:

• Spend time with God.

• Our time should demonstrate a love for other people.
• Be a good steward and enjoy what God has given you.
• Be trustworthy with your little portions of time.
• Count the cost.
• Live in harmony with God’s plan.

• Rest, and remember the Sabbath and keep it holy.

• There’s a good leadership principle you write about that is centered on Proverbs 27:23. What does this look like for military leaders?

• The Stewardship Model: what is it and how might leaders use it?

• From principle 5, Count the cost: “Can you afford to add a new activity or commitment to your day?” How can we determine when it’s appropriate to take on new tasks or activities? How can we best determine when to eliminate something from our list, or learn to just say no?

• If listeners took away only one thing from our conversation today, what would you hope it would be?

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//About today’s guest

Jeff Struecker enlisted in the United States Army as an Infantryman at age 18 and retired as a Chaplain with over 22 years of active federal service. In 2017, he was inducted into the US Army Ranger Hall of Fame. He served for ten years in the 75th Ranger Regiment in positions from Private to Platoon Sergeant. While serving in this unit, Jeff competed in and won the David L. Grange Best Ranger Competition in 1996. He taught ROTC at the University of Louisville and was recognized in 1998 as the US Army ROTC, Noncommissioned Officer of the year. Jeff spent his final ten years in the US Army serving as a chaplain in Airborne and Ranger units.

Throughout his career, Jeff has attended numerous professional military schools and has received many awards and commendations. Some of his awards include the Ranger Tab, Combat Infantryman’s Badge, Pathfinder Badge, Master Parachutists Wings, Military Freefall Master Parachutist Wings, several foreign jump wings and the Combat Action Badge. He has been awarded other commendations and decorations throughout his military career.

His combat experience includes participation in the invasion of Panama, Operation Desert Storm, Black Hawk Down in Somalia, and more than a dozen combat tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. Jeff has been awarded medals for valor in combat and has received many medals as recognition for his service in the US Army.

Jeff holds a Ph.D. from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, NC. He also has several other earned and honorary degrees. Jeff in an award-winning author with five books in print. He and his wife, Dawn, have five children and two grandchildren.

//About our conversation

Jeff’s book, "The Road to Unafraid," is the centerpiece for the conversation. Any number of perspectives or themes can be found in the book—God’s calling; knowing God’s will; His providence—but Jeff and I focused on trusting in God. In the face of fear and uncertainty at certain times throughout his life, I asked Jeff to talk about how God asked Jeff to trust Him and what that looked like in his life, particularly his military career.

I also picked out a few key points in his life and quotes from the book and had Jeff fill in the blanks as we discussed the broader topic of trusting God in all things.

//What we talked about

Where Jeff’s from and his family life.

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Three things from Jeff’s childhood: First, his fear of death and all the questions that go along with it; second, the fact that he walked alone to a nearby church because no one from his family would go with him; and third, the young couple who visited him to share the Gospel. What was God doing during those early years?

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Jeff went from Burger King to the Army after high school and talks about that period of his life. Looking back, where were God’s fingerprints during this period of life?

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Jeff comments on these two quotes:

• “What I was learning about the unknown was that sometimes its advance billing sounds worse than the reality…The experience, in fact, can be an opportunity to train for an even greater task down the road.”
• “I had learned to keep performing even if the circumstance wasn’t fair. The enemy wasn’t always going to fight fair. No use whining about it.”

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The impact of Kurt Smith in Jeff’s life, and how Kurt’s conversion caused a lot of guilt and introspection in Jeff’s life.

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Jeff comments on this quote from his book: “A lot of people look down on a soldier who’s a Christian, thinking he’s automatically weaker than the rest. He is assumed to be too compassionate and distracted with moral restrictions to be tough, that the enemy on the battlefield can exploit his weakness more easily.”

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When he was with the Third Ranger Battalion, Jeff talked about being afraid of failing morally and spiritually.

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Jeff’s deployment to Kuwait, and some difficulties there, would come into play when he deployed to Somalia. “Submitting to a higher authority is one of those life struggles that frustrates us all from time to time, both in and outside of the military.”

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Jeff gives a quick summary of what was going on in Somalia, why we were there, and his role in the mission. What did it look like to trust God during this deployment?

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After the events in Mogadishu, Jeff found himself fielding all sorts of questions, and some frustrations about God and other spiritual matters, from the men he served with because they knew he was a Christian. “I didn’t try to talk them out of their strong feelings. I just let them vent. Far greater minds than mine have struggled with why pain and suffering are so rampant in our world and how much of it is humanity’s fault.”

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How God called Jeff into the ministry and the ruckus that news caused around Ft. Benning. Jeff talks about what did this do to his faith and trust in God while he waited on Him for a clearer direction.

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After some time, Jeff found himself back in the Army, but this time as a chaplain assigned to the Second Ranger Battalion. During a deployment to Iraq, Jeff said those old fears from earlier in his career tried to resurface: “That’s the way it usually is with our fears. We don’t beat them back once and for all. They keep returning to test us, to see if we still have the faith and courage we showed last time.”

“The opposite side of fear is not courage. The opposite side of fear is faith.”

_

Where does God have Jeff now? What’s on the horizon?

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I ask Jeff: If listeners took away only one thing from our conversation, what would you hope that it would be?

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Jeff recommends “Walking With God Through Pain and Suffering” by Tim Keller for those wanting to read more about the topic of handling difficulties and the struggles of life.

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Jeff closes by talking about one of his books, “Hide and Seek.”

//Book giveaway

We have one signed copy of "Hide and Seek" to give away. Just send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org by 31 August for your chance to win.

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My guest today is Michelle Qureshi. Michelle is a graduate of the United States Coast Guard Academy, and she served 9 years in the military, leaving the Coast Guard as a Lieutenant. If that last name sounds familiar, then it’s probably because you’re familiar with speaker and author Nabeel Qureshi. He’s Michelle’s late husband who wrote two NY Times bestsellers, “Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus” and “No God But One,” and who died in 2017 after being diagnosed with stage 4 stomach cancer in 2016.

Michelle’s story of military life at the intersection of faith, family, and profession is one that deals with such topics as stress, hardship, and discouragement, but more importantly, it’s a story of how she has experienced what she calls “incredible hope amidst suffering.”

What we talked about Where does your story begin? Why she joined the Coast Guard, how she met Nabeel.

"Trials have a way of giving you opportunities to grow."

Regarding that first assignment aboard the law enforcement cutter in 2008. What was that assignment like?

What was life like aboard the cutter?

You mentioned during a conversation offline that expressing emotions, or showing need, and even demonstrating morality were considered signs of weakness and ignorance. Talk more about that.

"There was a twisted delight in seeing innocence corrupted."

How did you see those around you coping with the stressful environment? What about you?

"God, I will serve you anywhere—anywhere but here."

The difficult assignment that we’re talking about happened during the first 2 years of your marriage. What sort of support or advice were you getting from home, or was this even a topic you discussed with Nabeel?

Shifting the focus now to the challenges you faced at home—and of course I’m mostly talking about Nabeel’s cancer diagnosis—talk more about that time in your life.

"We were just a rag-tag group of people that loved God."

What did dealing with stress look like in the situation with Nabeel? Michelle shares her three P's.

"God is present. God gives us power. And there is purpose in the trials and suffering."

Michelle offers some books and resources—including a potential book that she might be writing soon.

• Elisabeth Elliott author page on Amazon
• Joni Eareckson Tada author page on Amazon
• Lysa TerKeurst author page on Amazon
• Levi Lusko: Through The Eyes of a Lion

About Michelle

• Follow Michelle: NQMinistries
• Support: Patreon
• Books: Nabeel’s books

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November 23, 2014.

Does that date ring any bells for you? Unless it happens to be your birthday, or a loved one’s birthday, or an anniversary, or some other impressionable event, then for most of you, November 23, 2014, likely was just another fall day only a few days before Thanksgiving.

For my guest this episode— Col Rich Tatem, USAF (Ret.)—that date will forever be etched into his memory as the day his son, Brennan, committed suicide. It’s a date with an emotional connection that he likens to how a person might recall an event like 9/11—a day that, for most of us, is so vivid even nearly 18 years later that if someone were to ask, “Where were you on 9/11?” you’d immediately remember certain details of that day. Details that, on any other day, are nearly forgotten as quickly as they happen because they’re so mundane or so routine.

Today, Col Tatem will share Brennan’s tragic story with you, and he’ll also challenge you to do several things—and these things apply whether you’re a junior officer, a flag officer, or somewhere else in the ranks—develop social resilience for yourself and for those you lead, prepare for what he calls the crucible moments of life, and probably most importantly, remember that you are your brother’s keeper. If you see someone in trouble, help them.

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When it comes to applications, hardware, computers, and other such devices, plug and play technology is awesome. It allows the discovery of a hardware component in a system without the need for physical device configuration. For example, when you plug in that USB headset, or new mouse, keyboard, or similar device, chances are your computer's PNP technology almost instantly recognizes that new device.

Let’s apply the PNP process from a biblical perspective: Does wisdom work the same way? When you read through Proverbs, can you just take a single proverb and plug it into a situation and then expect immediate results?

That's part of what we're talk about in this episode. And that phrase "plug and play" is one that you'll hear my guest use several times when talking about the application of wisdom. We'll also talk about using Proverbs chapters 1-9 as the interpretive lens for the rest of the book.

My guest today is Pastor Keith Peck. He has over 40 years of pastoral ministry experience, and recently retired as pastor emeritus of Broadneck Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Annapolis, Maryland, where he served for 27 years.

Keith is also the guest speaker during session 4 of Summer R&R at White Sulphur Springs, which is currently underway, and he's speaking at Spring Canyon during Summer Celebration Week 7, which starts July 20th.

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT

Military connection. Keith has ministered to and with the Navigators, Cru and OCF staff at the US Naval Academy, and he shares more about how God put the military on his heart as an area of ministry and outreach.

His presentation at both conference centers includes an introduction study and 6 topics on wisdom, and is titled “Reading Proverbs through the lens of its interpretive guide.” Keith talks more about what that means.

From his introduction study: What is wisdom and why is it important?

Keith delves into the other 6 topics and talks about the purpose of each one.

Keith talks about which of the topics seems to be hardest to grasp or causes the most discussion, and why.

Resources that Keith recommends for someone wanting to do a more in-depth study on wisdom.

• How to Read Proverbs, Tremper Longman III
• Proverbs: Kidner Classic Commentaries

Keith’s story. Who are you?

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In this episode, Crosspoint host Josh Jackson chats with pastor and author Chris Plekenpol, who recounts an incident with a suicide bomber in Iraq and also talks about God's word, God's spirit, God's people... finding God's will.

Chris graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1999 and served in the Army for seven years. Upon God’s call in his life to ministry, he attended Dallas Theological Seminary and received his Masters in Theology (ThM.) Chris traveled as an evangelist and missional group trainer with iamsecond.com for two years before becoming the Lead Pastor of Wells Branch Community Church.

Chris is the guest speaker during week 7 of Summer RNR at White Sulphur Springs. If you haven't made summer plans, or if your plans suddenly change, check out the White Sulphur Springs and Spring Canyon websites for availability this summer, or start planning ahead for the fall and winter programs we offer at both conference centers.

OUTLINE //

Here are some of the topics Chris and Josh talk about:

Chris shares his story, including a moment in his career in which his trajectory shifted from Army Special Forces to a calling to serve full time in Christian ministry.

While deployed, Chris recounts a moment in Iraq when an encounter with a suicide bomber left a deep spiritual impact in his life.

Chris gives insight into what he'll be talking about this summer at White Sulphur Springs Conference Center—a topic he calls “God Speaks.”

How can someone know God’s will? Chris offers advice to listeners who might be asking that question about God right now.

When it comes to relationships, Chris talks about different relationship stories from the Bible and what tell us about our faith—why does God bring certain relationships into our lives?

Why do we tend to treat the ones we love the most the worst and what we can do to fix that?

Chris is asked: If you could only take one of your books with you to a deserted island, which would you take and why?

Answer: Faith in the Fog of War, vol.2 (daily devotions that Chris wrote while in combat)

Other books:

• Faith in the Fog of War, first edition
• Stumbling Souls: Is Love Enough?
• Is Love Wrong?: An Evangelical Christian encounters a Gay Activist
• Dating Basic Training

Other resources Chris recommends:

NET Bible

The Bible Project

"God's Word should be a primary diet in your life."

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In this episode, pastor and author Dr. Gary Phillips discusses a topic he has titled “Basic Training for the Family: Biblical Principles for Navigating Cultural Minefields.”

Gary is senior pastor of Signal Mountain Bible Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where he and his wife, Betsy, have served since 1985. Gary earned degrees from Vanderbilt University, Dallas Theological Seminary, and Grace Theological Seminary.

He’s also the guest speaker at White Sulphur Springs Conference Center during Week 5 of Summer R & R, which runs from July 5-12. If you haven’t made plans for that week, or for the rest of the summer, be sure to check out the White Sulphur Springs website for details about how you can get signed up for Week 5 when Gary is speaking, or get more information on all of our summer sessions.

What we talked about

Gary talks about how he has seen the military family change during the roughly 36 years he’s been involved at OCF and as a speaker at WSS. What’s different? What’s still the same?

The topic of basic training for the family has been divided into two parts: first, goals for marriage, and second, goals for parenting.

Goals for Marriage

What should be some goals for marriage?

“The very best gift that might wife ever gave to me was to begin a journey into a very deep devotional life on her own—not dependent upon me. And that produced amazing fruit for our marriage.”

What type of “basic training” is needed to help us reach those goals, or at least put us in a good position to reach them?

What cultural landmines do families face when it comes to reaching these goals for marriage?

How can a couple navigate the minefield, and either avoid those landmines or recover from a direct hit?

Goals for Parenting

What are some goals to have as parents?

What’s the “basic training” needed for parenting?

What are some landmines that families face when it comes to parenting and reaching those goals as parents?

How do families navigate the minefield together?

Recommended Resources

“The Meaning of Marriage,” by Tim Keller

“The Marriage Builder,” Larry Crabb

“The 5 Love Languages,” by Gary Chapman

"In His Image," by Jen Wilkin

“Thriving, Not Just Surviving,” by OCF (Or contact the Home Office for info about how you can purchase a copy: 800-424-1984)

Gary offers one final takeaway for listeners.

Gary shares more about himself, his involvement with OCF, and how God put it on his heart to minister to our military men, women, and families.

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Remember, if you have an idea for a guest, topic, or story you’d like us to consider on a future episode, send an email to me at podcast@ocfusa.org. Thanks for taking time out of your day to spend it with us, and we hope you’ll join us for the next episode of OCF Crosspoint.

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In this special Memorial Day bonus episode of OCF Crosspoint, we deviate from our typical episode format of sharing stories of military life, and instead, bring you a devotional from "Leader, Draw Near," a weekly devotional written by Col Larry Simpson, USAF (Ret.), and his wife, Bobbie. The Simpsons are also the OCF field staff reps in the Puget Sound area.

The book is available on Amazon in ebook format only. If you'd like a soft cover print copy, contact the OCF Home Office at 800-424-1984.

To quote from Bailey Suzio on the website, herviewfromhome.com...

"Memorial Day is not just about the freedom we’ve been given but about the high, high price it has been bought at. It is a day to stop, survey the beauty, and recognize the cost.

So please, this Memorial Day, stop and pass down the legacy of the fallen. I encourage you to come alongside those in grief. Find a way to support Gold Star Families.

Tell your children what and why Monday is a day off work. Savor the time you have as a family and do something together to serve. Lay wreaths on graves. Pray together for those grieving. Share about the fallen. Find a way to remember the day for what it is and to honor those who have paid the ultimate cost."

Today, we remember and honor those men and women who have gone before us and paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving America in uniform.

I hope you'll join me on the next episode when I chat with Dr. Gary Phillips about navigating cultural minefields as a couple and as parents. That's coming up in one week.

Thanks for taking a few minutes out of your schedule today to enjoy this bonus episode of OCF Crosspoint.

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According to the Barna Group, 51% of U.S. churchgoers have never heard the term Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:18-20. Furthermore, only 37% could pick it out from among a group of Bible verses.

So whether you’re in the group who has never heard of the Great Commission, or if you know the Great Commission backwards and forwards—while reading it in Greek—stick with us today as our guest, CH LTC Dan Holcomb, USA (Ret.), talks about how the Great Commission relates to what he calls “Disciplines of a Warrior.”

CH Holcomb is also a guest speaker at Spring Canyon Conference Center during Week 4 of Summer Celebration. He began his military career in 1975, retired in 2013, and is now a Professor of Practical Theology at Covenant Bible Seminary in Lakewood, Washington.

Summer registration links at both OCF conference centers:

Spring Canyon
White Sulphur Springs

What we talked about

Here are some questions that CH Holcomb answers this episode:

• Tell us your story.
• How did you recognize that it was God calling you to that next thing… that next chapter of your life?
• Talk about the relationship between the Great Commission and the topic of Disciplines of a Warrior.
• When we talk about living out the Great Commission, what does that look like for those in the military? Does it look different for those serving in uniform?
• Why do you think Jesus wants disciples instead of converts?
• In verse 20 of the Great Commission, we see the word “observe” in many Bible translations. What is the meaning of that word, and what does it look like for us as disciples to “observe”?

Resources recommended by CH Holcomb

“Celebration of Discipline,” by Richard Foster

“The Spirit of the Disciplines,” by Dallas Willard

CH Holcomb's Facebook Group, To Be Like Him

Contact CH Holcomb: thechaplaindude@gmail.com

Contact OCF Crosspoint

If you have an idea for a guest, topic, or story we should consider, send an email to podcast@ocfusa.org.

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Today, we’re talking about spiritual warfare, and our guest is MG Kurt Fuller, USA (Ret.). MG Fuller served 26 years as a paratrooper, 12 years in the Ranger Regiment, and 6 years in combat, including Grenada, Panama, Desert Storm, Haiti, Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan.

He’s also the guest speaker for week 2 of Summer Celebration, which runs from June 15 to June 22, at our Spring Canyon Conference Center. If you’re listening to this episode before June 15, you can get more information and register for Week 2 of Summer Celebration at the Spring Canyon website, or be sure to browse the other summer sessions.

Summer registration is also open at White Sulphur Springs Conference Center. Click here for details.

If you have never visited an OCF Conference Center, both locations offer discounts for first-time guests, but you’ll need to contact each location for more details.

What we talked about More about MG Fuller.

Is spiritual warfare real? What is it?

Where do we see spiritual warfare mentioned in Scripture?

Are all believers involved in spiritual warfare, or only the really “good Christians”?

Is it possible to be a pacifist when it comes to spiritual warfare? Can we just ignore spiritual warfare and refuse to participate in it?

What are some other common misconceptions about spiritual warfare?

When it comes to being a soldier in this spiritual war that we face, how do we fight a spiritual battle as beings in physical bodies?

A question from Cadet Joshua Fonseca at West Point: How can we prepare ourselves to be fighting both a kinetic battle and spiritual warfare?

One more question from Cadet Fonseca: What are the ways that you see spiritual warfare occurring or manifesting day to day when leading soldiers, both inside and outside of a combat environment?

Books that MG Fuller recommends that offer a good, foundational study of spiritual warfare (no affiliate links).

• “The Christian in Complete Armour,” by William Gurnall (3-volume set)
• “The Three Battlegrounds,” by Francis Frangipane
• “Spiritual Warfare,” by Derek Prince
• “Prayer Shield: How To Intercede For Pastors And Christian Leaders,” by C. Peter Wagner
• “Territorial Spirits: Practical Strategies for How to Crush the Enemy Through Spiritual Warfare,” by C. Peter Wagner

Final thoughts about spiritual warfare—one big thing that MG Fuller says he has learned in his years of study:

“When Satan (or one of his subordinates) realizes that his attack has not pulled you away from God, but instead pushed you toward him, he will withdraw. God tolerates Satan (right now) for only one main reason—the warfare thrusts us into being more like Christ.”

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