Halfway There: Recent Episodes
Eric Nevins
Each episode of Halfway There features an ordinary Christian sharing their story of spiritual formation on the journey of life with God. Go beyond the classic Christian testimony into the ups and downs, the joys and the difficulties of being a Christian in the 21st century. Our guests offer insights and hope from their own stories. If you ever wondered if God is active and alive, this show is for you.
Sara Billups is a Seattle-based writer and cultural commentator whose work has appeared in the New York Times, Christianity Today, Ekstasis, and others. Sara writes Bitter Scroll, a monthly Substack letter. She is completing her Doctor of Ministry in the Sacred Art of Writing at the Peterson Center for the Christian Imagination at Western Theological Seminary. Today, Sara shares about her 90’s youth group kid upbringing, moving to Seattle and finding a devastated church, and the dark season when she compartmentalized her faith. Sara’s story reminds us that while the spiritual desert is isolating, community is the best way through.
Listen to Sara’s story in your favorite podcast app now!
Stories Sara shared:
- Growing up in a house where her father converted to Christianity from Judaism
- Her parent’s relationship and her father’s conversion
- Celebrating Jewish holidays and how that shaped her
- How growing up in 80s Christianity influenced her
- Exploring a Christian counterculture and finding her people
- Reading creative people in high school
- Moving to Seattle to start an intentional community
- The cultural impact of the Mars Hill implosion
- The season of disillusionment she faced
- Realizing that her husband was carrying her
- Writing for believers who feel like they are orphaned by the Church
- Her church experience as she processed
- Practices that help when you feel alienated
Great quotes from Sara
If I actually believed the Christian story, I needed to make a change.
There are seasons when the people who love us carry us.
It doesn’t do any good to burn things down but I do think we need to talk about this stuff.
Being faithful to a congregation through many waves, throughout decades is a really interesting place to sit and I’m grateful that I can.
Resources we mentioned:
- Sara’s website
- Orphaned Believers: How a Generation of Christian Exiles Can Find the Way Home by Sara Billups
- This Cultural Moment
- The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill
- The Case Against Sermon Centric Sundays by Skye Jethani
Related episodes:
- Brian Zahnd and the Beauty of Christ
- Brandon Andress and the Controversy of Love
- Becky Castle Miller and Trusting Your Emotions The post Sara Billups and Moving Toward Community appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Mike Bolton is a husband, father, grandfather, and loyal friend. While he defines himself more by relationships today, he also is an author, podcaster, former pastor, and businessman. Today, Mike shares the story of how he found faith in Christ, the scholarship he lost and how that changed his life, and the ways crisis has […] The post Mike Bolton and the Power of Yes appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Lisa Lamb is a professor of preaching, a writer, and a pastor working to equip leaders in South East Asia. Her passion is to develop leaders who preach radically good news, deeply rooted in Scripture. The Lord took her and her husband on a surprising pandemic journey to seven countries, where they experienced his amazing […] The post Lisa Lamb and the Spiritual Formation of Preaching appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Chris Grainger is the founder of The Lion Within Us and has a passion for serving others. He is building a community that provides Christian men encouragement to become the leaders God intends them to be. Chris connects with others by sharing personal stories of professional success, hurdles encountered and how every circumstance is an […] The post Christopher Grainger and Growing Through Trials appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Melony Brown Author, speaker, and host of the Challenges Won’t Stop Me podcast. Today, Melony shares about the neurological condition she’s had since she was two years old, how living with her condition changed her relationship to the Lord, and the peace she felt leading up to brain surgery. We also talk about the mindset […] The post Melony Brown and Empowered to Meet the Challenge appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Alex Sezer is helping other do business better by transforming their culture. Always a high achiever, Alex led the Texas A&M football team as captain and scaled multiple business in his 20s. Today, Alex shares how he learned the value of hard work, his calling to preach, and the season of doubting his faith that […] The post Alex Sezer and Creating Culture appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Julia Gentry is the Founder of The Dream Factory and Co & author of a best-selling book in Christian Leadership, Dream-I Dare You. Today, Julia shares about how her mom’s faith influenced her, the dream that moved her to action, and the beliefs she had to let go in order to embrace the life God […] The post Julia Gentry the Freedom of Dreaming appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Bob Wheatley is a bestselling author, podcaster, and former professional athlete. He serves as a co-host of That Singles' Show--a singles ministry sponsored by KCBI Radio in Dallas--and his work has been featured on nationally syndicated radio outlets like WAY-FM and THE FISH. After graduating from the University of Southern California, Bob played four years […] The post Bob Wheatley and The Moment of Conviction appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Lisa Woolery is a mom, author, and widow. Today, Lisa shares how her life changed when her husband died and the spiritual journey she took as a widow. She tells us the story of finding faith as a teenager, meeting her husband in high school, putting her faith on hiatus and living the “good life,” and how adopting children changed all that. Then, Lisa relays how the Lord was with her through the valley of the shadow of death even when she was mad at him. It took small steps of faith and courage to find herself and her faith again. Lisa’s story reminds us that the Lord cares about the widow and so should we.
Listen to Lisa’s story in your favorite podcast app now!
Stories Lisa shared:
- Growing up in a Christian family in Southern California
- The moment in 4th grade when she gave her life to Christ
- The mentor who helped her learn to read the Bible and pray
- Meeting her husband at youth group for the first time
- Becoming a teacher at a Lutheran school and struggling
- Leaving church and going into public relations
- How her faith went on hiatus for a season
- Waiting for children and praying for them
- Adopting children and the weird things people say
- How the Lord feels about us as his kids
- How marriage changed and got harder after adopting children
- Deciding to grow together and do things that enhanced their faith
- Moving to get stress out of their lives
- How her husband passed away and how it changed her life
- Taking care of her kids and the experience of grief
- A season of being mad at God
- Realizing that she could walk through the valley of the shadow of death
- Learning how to be her own person
- What she’s learned about herself through this process
Great quotes from Lisa:
I’ve never had a problem trusting God.
I decided not to do the why and to do the acceptance instead.
I realized that my acceptance was actually submission.
Resources we mentioned:
- Lisa’s website
- Lisa’s Instagram
Related episodes:
- Harriet Miller and A Fierce Faith
- Tricia Lott Williford and How God Works in the Waiting
- Lisa Appelo and The Lord’s Mercy The post Lisa Woolery and The Widow and the Orphan appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Thom S. Rainer is the founder and CEO of Church Answers. With nearly forty years of ministry experience, Thom has spent a lifetime committed to the growth and health of the local church and its leaders. He has been a pastor of four churches and interim pastor of ten churches He is the author of numerous books, including I Am a Christian and I Believe. Today, Thom shares how he ended up in ministry instead of banking, the difficulty of losing his father, and his thoughts on the changing nature of the American church. He reveals what he’s seeing as churches struggle to come back from the pandemic and the problems pastors are asking to be solved. Thom has been steeped in American Evangelical churches for decades and has a finger on the pulse of the local church. His story reminds us that the local church is still a vital institution for growing in Christ.
Listen to Thom’s story in your favorite podcast app now!
Stories Thom shared:
- Hearing the Gospel from his high school football coach
- Why it took a couple of days for him to become a Christian
- Dropping out of church almost immediately
- Deciding to get closer to Christ when he started dating his wife
- Going into banking when they got married and getting immersed in church
- Watching a five year old die and how that led him to a sense of calling
- Losing his father and how that became a dark night of the soul
- Becoming the CEO of Lifeway and how that affected him
- The issue of glass houses for people in the pastorate
- Why he started Church Answers
- How churches can get healthier
- Whether the digital church counts as “being in church”
- The problem with “consumer Christianity”
- The issue of expectation in churches
Great quotes from Thom:
I was probably my pastor’s both best and worst church members.
One of the surprises since Covid is that digital attendance has fallen off the cliff.
With expectation should come equipping and empowering.
Resources we mentioned:
- Thom’s website for Church Answers
- I Believe: A Concise Guide to the Essentials of the Christian Faith by Thomas S. Rainer
- I Am A Church Member by Thomas S. Rainer
- Church Equip
Related episodes:
- Jonathan Carone and Unlearning and Relearning
- Michelle Ferrigno Warren and Life on the Jericho Road
- Loren Hicks and the Practice of Discipleship The post Thom S. Rainer and The Changing American Church appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Becky Castle Miller is a PhD student in New Testament at Wheaton College with Esau McCaulley, researching emotions in the Gospel of Luke. She did her master’s thesis on emotions and discipleship under Scot McKnight. She writes and speaks on emotional, mental, and spiritual health in the church. She and her husband and their five kids and cat returned to the US in 2020 after living in the Netherlands for eight years, where she served as a discipleship director at an international church. Today, Becky shares about growing up homeschooled, the moment God loved her and the belief she had to let go of, and some practices to try when church gets difficult. Plus, she encourages you to learn and understand your emotions because Jesus cares about them, too.
Listen to Becky’s story in your favorite podcast app now!
Stories Becky shared:
- Moving back to the US during the pandemic
- Studying emotions in the Gospel of Luke
- Tracing the history of teaching on emotions in the American church
- Growing up as a military kid all over
- Being homeschooled using Abeka curriculum
- Forcing herself into the box of American fundamentalist Christianity
- Realizing that she believed God loved her less because she was a woman
- Experiencing an emotional breakdown and what she learned about herself
- Practices for interacting with the Bible
- Talking out her ideas in real time
- Discovering church icons and why they are valuable
Great quotes from Becky:
If we’re suffering under legalism, that’s not an easy yoke.
I had to face the fact that I had believed that God loved me less because I was female.
When Scriptures are used against you, it is hard to read the Bible.
Retraumatizing yourself is really unhealthy.
Resources we mentioned:
- Becky’s Substack
- Becky’s Instagram
- The Blue Parakeet, 2nd Edition: Rethinking How You Read the Bible by Scot McKnight
- A Year of Biblical Womanhood: How a Liberated Woman Found Herself Sitting on Her Roof, Covering Her Head, and Calling Her Husband ‘Master’ by Rachel Held Evans
- Jesus Feminist: An Invitation to Revisit the Bible’s View of Women by Sarah Bessey
- The Wisdom of Your Heart by Marc Alan Schelske
- Truce Podcast by Chris Staron
- Creating Space for God by Jodi Niznik
Related episodes:
- Noble Gibbens and Emotional Healing for Growth
- Marc Alan Schelske and The Wisdom of Your Heart
- Tim Morris and Why Your Heart Matters The post Becky Castle Miller and Trusting Your Emotions appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Kent Sanders is a ghostwriter who helps leaders grow their impact and influence through books and other content. He is the host of the Daily Writer podcast and the founder of the Daily Writer Club, a membership community that helps writers build a business with their skills. Today, Kent shares how his faith was shaped by spending time in Ukraine, the season of doubt and searching he had while pastoring others, and how learning about the history of worship shaped him. Then, Kent tells us how he ended up as a creative and writer including the work he does today to support writers. Kent’s story reminds us that while the Lord provides at every step, some of where they lead will surprise you.
Listen to Kent’s story in your favorite podcast app now!
Stories Kent shared:
- Growing up in Missouri in the woods
- Going to church with his mom as a kid
- Participating in Bible Bowl
- Giving his life to Christ as a middle schooler
- Travelling with a music team in college
- Spending the summer in Ukraine
- Coming back to the United States and realizing the complacency of the culture
- Feeling a strong pull to vocational ministry
- Struggling with his faith in his late 20s
- What he learned about himself on the other side of his questions
- Teaching the history of worship and how it shaped him
- Experiencing different Christian traditions
- Discovering blogging and podcasting
- Beginning to write and get clients
- Leaving his professor job and starting his own business
- Why you should write a book
Great quotes from Kent:
As a kid, you don’t appreciate the sacrifices adults make for you.
The more challenges you have the more opportunities you have to grow.
I was starving for beauty but didn’t know it until I experienced it.
Resources we mentioned:
- Kent’s website
- The Daily Writer website
- The Case for a Creator: A Journalist Investigates Scientific Evidence That Points Toward God by Lee Strobel
- The Faith of Elvis by Billy Stanley, Kent Sanders
Related episodes:
- Sarah Geringer and Transforming Your Thought Life
- Gregory Gillam and The Road of Healing
- Jon Fugler and Ditching Performance Christianity
- Andrew Klavan and The Truth and Beauty The post Kent Sanders and The Beauty of the Written Word appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Christy Boulware suffered a nervous breakdown caused by severe panic and anxiety disorder in 2011. Today, Christy shares the story of her first panic attack sitting on a beach when everything should have been fine. Then, the anxiety got worse and changed her life. Christy tells us bout her holistic approach to healing, the passages of Scripture that helped her, and the moment she understood God’s love for her for the first time. Plus, we discuss what you can do to redefine success and pay attention to your body and heart when you need to. Christy’s story reminds us that while we may have anxiety, fear does not equal a lack of faith and God is still with us.
Listen to Christy’s story in your favorite podcast app now!
Stories Christy shared:
- Growing up in Missouri in a Catholic family
- Getting into life as an achiever
- Having an anxiety attack on the beach
- Getting checked out for serious health issues and being diagnosed with anxiety
- The science behind stress and anxiety
- Experiencing back to back panic attacks for three weeks
- Contemplating suicide because of the darkness she was experiencing
- Praying with her husband for the first time
- Her holistic approach to get back to normal
- The passage of Scripture that helped her
- Understanding God’s love for the first time
- Learning that her identity was shaped by her understanding of God’s character
- Redefining success as faithfulness to the Lord
- Practices that help you navigate anxiety
- Paying attention to your body to avoid anxiety
- Why fear does not equal a lack of faith
Great quotes from Christy:
Surrender is a daily choice.
When fear is operating, love can’t freely flow.
Fear is an indicator not a dictator.
Anxiety will isolate you more if you are not vulnerable about it.
Resources we mentioned:
- Christy’s website
- Nervous Breakthrough: Finding Freedom from Fear and Anxiety in a World the Feeds It by Christy Boulware
Related episodes:
- Alicia Michelle and the Renewing of Your Mind
- Ryan George and Living with Courage
- Sarah Geringer and Transforming Your Thought Life
- Marc Schelske and The Wisdom of Your Heart The post Christy Boulware and Love That Casts Out Fear appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Collin Hansen serves as vice president for content and editor in chief of The Gospel Coalition, as well as executive director of The Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics. His new book is a biography of Tim Keller titled, Timothy Keller: His Spiritual and Intellectual Formation. Today, Collin shares how studying theology shaped him, his grief at sin and struggle to grow, and the consolation of knowing Jesus as a friend. We also talk about his friend and mentor Tim Keller including his influences from a variety of traditions and writers. Learning from across Christianity’s traditions helps us grow to be more well-rounded, empathetic, and joyful. Collin’s story shows us that follow the steps of the greats of the faith leads to our growth, too.
Stories Collin shared:
- Growing up in South Dakota in a Methodist family
- The revival that changed his life
- Being thrust into leadership in youth group
- Going to college at Northwestern University and the Trinity Evangelical Divinity School
- The theological development of seeing Christ in the Old Testament
- Pursuing rhythms and patterns of behavior for transformation
- How his perspective changed after conversion
- Experiencing grief at his own sin and trying to understand why nothing changes
- Going to therapy and how that helped him
- Jesus as a friend and the disciples
- Writing as part of his life as long as he can remember
- Getting to know Tim Keller through the Gospel Coalition
- Why he decided to write a book about Tim Keller’s spiritual formation
- Why it’s important to learn from diverse sources
- A Kingdom of God view of suffering in this life
Great quotes from Collin:
Unless I’ve tasted His goodness for myself, then clearly something has not happened.
None of us has a friend like Jesus.
If it’s not a faith that I’m willing to lose my life over, it can’t be the faith that’s in the Bible.
We’re more likely to see blind spots today if we’re learning from a hundred people than if we’re learning from two people from a specific era.
Resources we mentioned:
- Collin’s profile
- Timothy Keller: His Spiritual and Intellectual Formation by Collin Hansen
- A God-Sized Vision: Revival Stories that Stretch and Stir by Collin Hansen and John Woodbridge
Related episodes:
- Marc Schelske and the Wisdom of Your Heart
- Phileena Heuertz and Christian Contemplation
- Tim Morris and How Your Heart’s Desire Unlocks Your Purpose The post Collin Hansen and A Library of Influences appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Dr. Amy Sherman directs the Center on Faith in Communities at the Sagamore Institute. She’s the author of seven books, most recently, Agents of Flourishing: Pursuing Shalom in Every Corner of Society. Today, Amy shares how her diverse denominational background shaped her worldview, what she learned from health challenges that have affected her productiving, and what we need to know about shalom and human flourishing. The Kingdom of God that Jesus taught and brought has room for every human being to thrive with the Lord and we get to participate in it’s unfolding. Amy’s story reminds us how that works and encourages us to show up and pursue a life of flourishing.
Listen to Amy’s story now!
Stories Amy shared:
- Working as a minister to ministries at the Sagamore Institute
- Why she wrote Agents of Flourishing
- Growing up near Buffalo, NY in a liberal Methodist church
- Learning about the social Gospel in her church growing up
- Finding Christ and being discipled by a young family in a charismatic church
- Going to Messiah College and discovering Christians like C.S. Lewis and Francis Schaeffer
- Working at a think tank with George Waggle
- Deciding to get her PhD at University of Virginia
- Working at her church as director of ministries
- Experiencing chronic pain since a bad accident
- Health challenges that have limited her productivity
- Reading a devotional during a season struggling with lyme disease
- Reframing productivity as fruitfulness
- How flourishing and shalom are beyond circumstances
- Believing that God desires your flourishing
Great quotes from Amy:
Flourishing involves resting.
The biblical concept of flourishing is not contingent on circumstances.
Shalom is the world as God wants it to be.
God desires your flourishing.
Resources we mentioned:
- Amy’s website at Sagamore Institute
- Agents of Flourishing: Pursuing Shalom in Every Corner of Society by Dr. Amy Sherman
- Kingdom Calling: Vocational Stewardship for the Common Good by Dr. Amy Sherman
- The God Who Is There by Francis Schaeffer
- When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor…and Yourself by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert
Related episodes:
- Amber Cullum and the Journey to Grace
- Peter Englert and Digital Ministry and Discipleship
- Lori Ann Wood and Questions in the Silence The post Dr. Amy Sherman and The God of Shalom appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Thorsten Moritz is a theology and hermeneutics professor who started Warehouse Theology. Today, Thorsten shares his story of growing up as “a good Lutheran” in Germany, going to the United States in high school, and studying theology at a fundamentalist school. As he began to question the institution, he knew he needed more perspectives and pursued theology until he got a PhD. He shares his philosophy and practice of interpreting the Bible and why it’s so vital that each believer learn how to move beyond proof texts to interpretation. Now, Thorsten shares about what he’s doing with Warehouse Theology and why he’s working to decentralize theological education. Thorsten’s story reminds us that how we read is a critical skill for all of us.
Listen to Thorsten’s story in your favorite podcast player now!
Stories Thorsten shared:
- Growing up in Germany in a picturesque town in the Black Forest
- His family who were survivors of WWII and good Lutherans
- Leading a church youth group and starting to studying
- Coming to the United States as an exchange student
- Going to theological school in Germany and realizing the philosophical commitments
- Choosing to get his master’s in England
- The opposite of good hermeneutics
- Why how we interpret matters
- How he thinks of the dark night of the soul
- Interpreting for Grant Osborne in Germany
- Why interpretation is so vital for the Christian
Great quotes from Thorsten:
Christians apparently have decided by majority that they want to go for a managed humanity and that’s the opposite of what I saw in the New Testament.
Interpretation requires imagining of oneself into the other including the implied author.
No matter how intellectual my approach might be, I know my limits.
We need to start reading each book as one thing.
Resources we mentioned:
- Thorsten’s website
- Hermeneutical Spiral: A Comprehensive Introduction to Biblical Interpretation by Grant Osborne
Related episodes:
- Noble Gibbens and Emotional Healing for Growth
- Jen Rosner and Finding Messiah
- Andrew Klavan and the Truth and Beauty The post Thorsten Moritz and Created to Interpret appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Rose Ann Forte, Best Selling Author and Founder of The Plans He Has For Me Coaching Program which focuses on how to put alcohol to the side for 12 consecutive weeks. Today, Rose Ann shares how she began going to church during her difficult marriage, realized her drinking was out of control, and found a twelve week program that worked for her. We also discuss the reasons people become addicted to substances and why there is hope if you want to stop. Rose Ann’s story reminds us that Jesus is with us even when we do things that we’re not proud of and invites us to trust him.
Listen to Rose Ann’s story in your favorite podcast player now!
Stories Rose Ann shared:
- Writing a book called The Plans He Has for Me
- Growing up in New Hampshire going to a Catholic school
- Being in a difficult marriage and going to church
- Choosing to drink to deal with her problems
- Using alcohol over time and how it developed
- Her gratefulness for never hurting anyone
- Suffering in silence hoping to solve the problem for herself
- Why she didn’t want to go to Alcoholic Anonymous
- Why a 12 week program is better for recovery
- The shame she felt while stuck in her relationship and drinking
- The joy she feels now every morning
Great quotes from Rose Ann:
I already had a higher power. His name is Jesus.
Shame comes from the inability to forgive yourself.
My story is the collision of God’s Word, personal suffering, and the science of the brain.
Resources we mentioned:
- Rose Ann’s website
- The Plans He Has For Me: A 12-Week Daily Devotional for Freedom from Alcohol by Rose Ann Forte
- The Biology of Belief: Unleashing the Power of Consciousness, Matter, and Miracles by Bruce H. Lipton PhD
Related episodes:
- Christina Dent and Compassion for Others
- Rob Lohman and Breaking Addiction
- Alicia Michelle and the Renewing of Your Mind The post Rose Ann Forte and Letting Go of Shame appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Keith Ferrin is an author and speaker who has been speaking at conference, churches, universities, and banquets for 25+ years. His passion is helping people not just read and study the Bible, but deeply enjoy it! He uses live events, books, and online courses to equip individuals and families to not just read and study the Bible, but deeply enjoy it! He is also the founder of the BibleLife Community, an online community where people read, study, and discuss the Bible together. Today, Keith shares how he discovered this relational practices, the events that led him to start a membership, and why psycology is important in Bible study. Keith’s story reminds us that God wants to live with us and that’s a beautiful thing.
Listen to Keith’s story wherever you get your podcasts!
Stories Keith shared:
- Growing up all over the United States before settling in Washington State
- Never knowing a time without faith
- Going to youth group as a kid and having an active faith
- Realizing that he had never talked to anyone about Jesus while playing soccer
- Heading to college to study psychology
- Using psychology to learn the Bible
- His father’s call to tell him that he was leaving his mother
- Solidifying his relationship with God through college
- Serving as a youth pastor when his personal journey with the Bible was rocked
- April 18, 1993 when he saw a presentation of Luke being recited
- Deciding to read Philippians every day for the summer
- Presenting the Gospel of John as an entry point for studying the Bible
- Seasons that were difficult with the Lord
- Starting BibleLife Community during the pandemic
Great quotes from Keith:
The living word of God went from being a phrase to a reality.
God is good even when I’m confused.
The more relational our approach, the more information we will learn.
Resources we mentioned:
- Keith’s website
- Try BibleLife Community for only $4
Related episodes:
- Skye Jethani and Living Life with God
- Jodie Niznik and Creating Space for God
- Marjorie Gunnoe and Integrating Faith and Science The post Keith Ferrin and Relational Bible Study appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Michelle Ferrigno Warren is an author and president of Virago Strategies, which provides strategic direction and project management community support. Today, Michelle shares her journey from a fundamentalist church to leading as a social activist. She shares what it was like to realize her success in ministry was limited by her gender, how she and her husband were led to found an important ministry in Denver, and how she learned about the systems that silently oppress in our society. Plus, she shares about her latest b0ok, Join the Resistance: Step Into the Good Work of Kingdom Justice. Michelle’s story reminds us that proximity always develops our empathy.
Listen to Michelle’s story in your favorite podcast player now.
Stories Michelle shared:
- Working in community development and advocacy
- Growing up in an Italian family with Roman Catholic roots
- Landing in a fundamentalist Bible church as a child
- Learning to love and study Scripture
- How her neighborhood made her aware of diversity
- Realizing that she had a ceiling because she was a woman
- Moving out to Colorado in high school and noticing cultural differences
- Getting married and moving to Dallas while living in a diverse community
- Teaching in middle school and what she learned there
- Meditating on the prophets one summer
- Working at Open Door Ministries
- Having a son who was very sick resulting in a step back from ministry
- Going back for her masters degree
- Realizing that there are systems that oppress some in our society
Great quotes from Michelle:
I was taught to love God, love my neighbors, and be a good Pharisee.
Most of my early adult life was alarmed discovery.
When you’re living in community, love is reciprocal.
Injustice does not just happen and does not just repair itself.
Resources we mentioned:
- Michelle’s website
- Join the Resistance, Step Into the Good Work of Kingdom Justice by Michelle Ferrigno Warren
- The Power of Proximity: Moving Beyond Awareness to Action by Michelle Ferrigno Warren
- Open Door Ministries
- Christian Community Development Association
Related episodes:
- Karen Gonzales and Beyond Welcome
- Craig Greenfield and Good News for the Poor
- April Diaz and Power and Justice in the Kingdom
- Christina Dent and Compassion for Others The post Michelle Ferrigno Warren and Life on the Jericho Road appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jesse Eubanks is a certified Enneagram coach and host of The EnneaCast, a podcast exploring personality and relationships through the lens of the Enneagram. Jesse is also the founder and executive director of Love Thy Neighborhood,a discipleship and missions agency mobilizing people to follow Jesus and serve the poor in modern culture. Today, Jesse shares how he discovered his love for social action, his difficult path to relational health, and the contentious moment that led him to spiritual formation. Plus, we discuss why rightly knowing yourself is a deeply Christian thing to do and how the Enneagram helps on that journey. His new book How We Relate: Understanding God, Yourself, and Others through the Enneagram is out now. Jesse’s story reminds us that Jesus loves and calls us to be our true selves in Him.
Listen to Jesse’s story in your favorite podcast player now!
Stories Jesse shared:
- Writing a book to help people understand how they relate to others
- How our personality changes our relationship with God
- Growing up in a broken home in a divorced family
- Going to a conference in DC that changed his concern for the poor
- Studying about other perspectives in the world and how it hurt his faith
- Why social action, relational health, and spiritual formation became really important for him
- What happens to people in positions of power without spiritual formation
- Why self-awareness is important for growth
- Working at a shelter for nine years and what he learned
- Learning the truest and deepest thing about us is love
- Entering spiritual direction and how it helped him grow
- Reading about the Enneagram for the first time
- Launching Love Thy Neighborhood when he was funded
- Writing How We Relate and what people will get from it
- Why empathy is critical for relationships
Great quotes from Jesse:
The antidote for fear is God’s presence.
You can have all the right theology, your Gospel will be seen as bankrupt unless you are relationally healthy.
It is impossible to have spiritual maturity without self-awareness.
While I was surprised by some of my shortcomings, Jesus was not.
Empathy plus authority equals trust.
Resources we mentioned:
- Jesse’s website
- How We Relate: Understanding God, Yourself, and Others Through the Enneagram by Jesse Eubanks
- The Jesus I Never Knew by Philip Yancey
- The Relational Soul by Richard Plass and James Cofield
- StoryBrand by Donald Miller
- Me on the Enneacast
Related episodes:
- Suzanne Stabile Shares How the Enneagram Helps Relationships
- Jim Gum and Healing Through Enneagram
- Drew Moser and Enneagram Type is Just the Beginning The post Jesse Eubanks and Relationships in the Enneagram appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Lori Ann Wood is a Christian author and heart failure survivor. Today, Lori Ann shares her beginnings in a Christian family doing all the right things, how her life was rocked by a heart failure diagnosis, and what she learned about God when he seemed silent. Her faith took a turn from doing to relating with the Lord in intimate ways. Plus, she shares the three main questions that she asked and the practices that helped her thought them. Lori Ann’s story reminds us that even when our lives don’t look how we’d like, God is still there, working, and loving us.
Listen to Lori Ann’s story in your favorite podcast player now!
Stories Lori Ann shared:
- Growing up in Kansas on a wheat farm
- Realizing the blessing of her childhood in a secure family
- The note her dad gave her while walking her down the aisle
- Feeling peace for the first time in her faith
- Running her faith and life through lists
- Focusing her life on her kids and doing the right things
- Receiving a medical diagnosis of heart disease
- Having heart failure and landing in the hospital three weeks later
- Not praying or experiencing God during 16 months
- Learning that it’s okay to borrow words to pray
- Getting better at entertaining questions with her kids as a result
- Discovering the three questions she was asking in different ways
Great quotes from Lori Ann:
I heard the voice of God first from the lips of my mother.
God was silent and I gave him the silent treatment right back.
I equated the goodness of God with how well my life was matching this plan I made.
Resources we mentioned:
- Lori Ann’s website
- Divine Detour: The Path You’d Never Choose Can Lead to the Faith You’ve Always Wanted by Lori Ann Wood
Related episodes:
- Chuck Malott is a Hippie Turned Saint
- Traci Rhoades and a Firm Foundation
- Phileena Heuertz and Christian Contemplation The post Lori Ann Wood and Questions in the Silence appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jonathan Carone is the host of two podcasts and an entrepreneur of a marketing and website design company helping churches, nonprofits, and ministries. Today, Jonathan shares how he resisted going to church, gave in to the Lord’s leading after a difficult season, and ultimately landed on a church staff. Just when he thought he was thriving, his time in ministry ended. He also shares how the Lord used that season of doubt in himself to teach him trust and changed his faith significantly. Jonathan’s story reminds us that we often have to unlearn what we’ve learned in order to move ahead.
Listen to Jonathan’s story in your favorite podcast app now!
Stories Jonathan shared:
- Creating his own marking company
- Growing up in North Carolina in his grandpa’s church
- Leaving church after 15
- Moving to Myrtle Beach and realizing he didn’t ask God if he should go
- Hearing from God to get training
- Discovering a church that spoke his language
- Hitting rock bottom after a break up and other challenges
- Praying in surrender to go to seminary
- Growing his first youth group in Tennessee
- Working on the church staff in a creative role
- Leaving church staff after being hired over
- The identity crisis that his being “coached out” led to
- Wondering what it would look like to serve the global church not just the local church
- How working with Christians around the world changed him
- Learning to stick with principles over methods
- What he’s learned from his podcasts
Great quotes from Jonathan:
While the situations are all different, the feelings are the same across the board.
Because we’ve been so dogmatic on some issues, we’ve run people away from following Jesus.
I’m okay with knowing that sometimes faith takes actual faith.
Resources we mentioned:
- Jonathan’s website
- Unlearning Youth Group
- Unlearning Church Staff
- Carone Designs
Related episodes:
- Shá Sparks and Finding Purpose
- Peter Englert and Digital Ministry & Mentorship
- James Bryan Smith and Loved Beyond Imagination The post Jonathan Carone and Unlearning and Relearning appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Kate Berkey is a writer, speaker, and missionary living on the north side of Chicago where she works with refugees and immigrants with Devon Oasis Ministry. Today, Kate shares about doubting her faith in high school, the unique way God called her to Thailand, and finding a ministry that fits her heart for the marginalized. She also shares how learning from other cultures can help bring much needed humility especially when the family with a foreign culture lives right next door. Kate’s story reminds us that when we honor the imago dei in our fellow humans, we become the Father’s ambassadors of friendship.
Listen to Kate’s story in your favorite podcast app now!
Stories Kate shared:
- Growing up in a Christian family in rural Indiana
- Deciding to figure out why she believed in Jesus as a high schooler
- Wrestling with doubts about whether to trust the Bible
- Her mentor Kristy Mikel who helped her through wrestling with faith
- Going to Taylor University and looking to the future
- Experiencing the kindness of God
- Quitting her job and becoming a missionary to Thailand
- The moment God directed her to Braverly
- Raising money to become a missionary
- Creating resources for women in Thailand
- Deciding to publish their book in the United States as well
- Experiencing the micro-culture shocks that happen in new cultures
- Learning about herself through interaction with another culture
- Humility and honor in other cultures
Great quotes from Kate:
You can’t underestimate the value of dignity and the image of God in people.
The number one need of refugees is friendship.
Your courage matters to the Lord.
Resources we mentioned:
- Kate’s website
- A Place Called Braverly: Daring to Live Courageously, Dream Boldly and Influence Bravery by Kate Berkey and Kristy Mikel
- Devon Oasis Ministry
Related episodes:
- Ty Wyss and the Kindness of God
- Amy Fritz and the Community of the Broken
- Karen Gonzales and Beyond Welcome The post Kate Berkey and the Humility of Honor appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Dan Luigs is the founder of The Journey of a Christian Dad Podcast and FB Community. Today, Dan shares how he found faith, the moment he decided to stop keeping his appointment with God on Sunday, and the gentle way he led his family back to church. Dan is passionate about showing up for the people in your life and encourages men do the little things well and faithfully. Dan’s story reminds us that a life of faithful service is a life worth living.
Listen to Dan’s story wherever you get your podcasts!
Stories Dan shared:
- Growing up in a Christian family in St. Louis, MO
- Feeling like his dad was working a lot
- Deciding that he didn’t have to go to church anymore as a young man
- Choosing to go to church ten years after he was married
- Conversations with God as a child and the vision he had in church
- Hearing about leadership in his family
- Realizing that he needed to love his wife better
- Finding people who he could model his life after
- Learning how to serve other people
- Listening to the Lord before every service
- How to love your wife better
Great quotes from Dan:
When you want to build a habit, find people whose normal behavior is your desired behavior.
You need to put your wife as a priority in your day.
Resources we mentioned:
- Dan’s Facebook group
Related episodes:
- Lori Morrison and God’s Compassion for the Hurting
- Jon Fugler and Ditching Performance Christianity
- Courtney Lowman and Building a Culture of Discipleship The post Dan Luigs and Faithfulness is Enough appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Licensed private investigator, podcast host, author, and speaker Lori Morrison. Today, Lori shares about being around church and slowly drawn to the Lord, working in the justice system to learn compassion, and how she became a private investigator. She also gives us tips about personal safety and some deep thoughts about God’s love for all people, including those who commit crimes. Her book is called How to Kick Fear to the Curb where she explains the biblical case for being strong and not afraid. Lori’s story reminds us that the Lord loves justice even when it doesn’t look how we want it to.
Listen to Lori’s story in your favorite podcast app now!
Stories Lori shared:
- Working as a private investigator and what that means
- Growing up in Indiana but not going to church
- Slowly being drawn to Jesus as a young woman
- Beginning to read and do Bible studies
- How getting involved with helping others helped her
- Learning compassion for others by working with inmates at the jail
- Being a stay at home mom while her children were little
- Working in the domestic violence court and how that opened her eyes
- Becoming a private investigator
- Learning to depend on the Lord as she helps families
- Understanding God’s heart for justice
- Realizing that God love perpetrators as well
- Connecting with the Lord when she’s working a case
- How to have situational awareness
Great quotes from Lori:
There’s a lot of different ways you can get justice.
As Christians, we can be too trusting. We trust in titles and positions as opposed to trusting in character.
God wants to be in every part of our lives.
In God we trust. Everyone else gets a background check.
Resources we mentioned:
- Lori’s website
- How to Kick Fear to the Curb: Private Investigator Approved Personal Safety Tips with Biblical Evidence to “Fear Not” by Lori Morrison
- The Unlovely Truth Podcast
Related episodes:
- Christina Dent and Compassion for Others
- April Diaz and Power and Justice in the Kingdom
- Craig Greenfield and Good News for the Poor The post Lori Morrison and God’s Compassion for the Hurting appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jon Fugler is the Chief Content Officer with Trans World Radio and has been writing for Christian audiences for 40 years. Today, Jon shares how he found Christ through sports and then applied his performance based mindset to his faith. He was good at it but, as with all performances, it crumbled eventually. That’s when a friend shared a powerful book that redefined his life with Christ and set Jon on a path of enjoying the company of Jesus wherever he goes. Jon shares the strategies he uses to find peace, accept himself, and experience the Lord. Jon’s story reminds us that you can’t work your way into relationship with God even if you’re doing good things. It’s all about the joy of knowing Christ.
Listen to Jon’s story in your favorite podcast app now!
Stories Jon shared:
- His ministry and radio experience
- Growing up in Rochester, NY
- Hearing a college football coach speak and hearing the Gospel
- Applying his performance practices to his faith
- Getting hurt and realizing that a baseball career wouldn’t happen
- Deciding to go into radio and Christian ministry
- Being plagued by anger and not knowing why
- Reading With by Skye Jethani and learning about living with Christ
- Learning to reset with a half day retreat of silence
- Learning rhythms and appropriate pacing in his life
- Developing the desire to know Christ
Great quotes from Jon:
The longer we perform for God and the more we do, the closer we think we are.
I was believing the lie that if I was serving Jesus well, I also had a good relationship with him.
We need rhythm in our lives.
Resources we mentioned:
- Jon’s website
- With: Reimagining the Way You Relate to God by Skye Jethani
Related episodes:
- Skye Jethani and Living Life with God
- Nicole Jacobsmeyer and Joy After Suffering
- Jill Baughn and the Adventure of Joy
- Laura Padgett and Ambassadors of Joy The post Jon Fugler and the Ditching Performance Christianity appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Suzie Eller is an author and podcaster with a new book called Prayer Starters: Talking with God about Hard Times and also the Prayer Starters podcast. Today, Suzie shares about the ordinary people who shaped her in simple ways, why she determined to write about things that mattered after cancer, and how she learned to pray. Suzie brings much wisdom to our prayer life that she’s learned from her own. Suzie’s story reminds us that the Lord is never far away if we only turn an ear toward him to listen.
Listen to Suzie’s story in your favorite podcast app today!
Stories Suzie shared:
- Working at Proverbs 31 and developing her own ministry
- Growing up in a fractured family not knowing about God
- Finding Christ in her late teens when friends knocked on her door with an invitation
- Challenging God because of her family life
- The ordinary people who shaped her
- Going to college and getting married at 20
- Studying the Bible as much as she could
- Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis at 31
- Starting a writing career after her survival
- Deciding to just start somewhere with writing
- Diving into content creation
- Learning how to pray through journaling
- Making video curriculum while grieving and the community she found
- How she joined Proverbs 31
- What she learned by working there
- How Prayer Starters helps you
Great quotes from Suzie:
Unless we wrestle out those hard questions, our faith is someone else’s faith.
Wrestling with God is part of my faith because it always has been.
Is there a chance, God, that you want to talk to me?
Just show up is a really powerful path to connection with God.
Resources we mentioned:
- Suzie’s website
- Prayer Starters: Talking with God about Hard Times by Suzie Eller
- Suzie’s books on Amazon
Related episodes:
- Sue Donaldson and The Welcoming Heart of God
- Dan Rudman and Ripples of the Gospel
- Heather Oncken and How to Be a Friend
- Sarah Geringer and Transforming Your Thought Life The post Suzie Eller and Getting Started with Prayer appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Noble Gibbens is a coach, speaker, and podcaster known as the EQ Gangster because of his big beard and tattoos. Today, Noble shares how he developed a very unhealthy relationship with God full of self-loathing, what happened when he gave up on performing for people, and the moment he learned about emotions. He also gives us a little strategy for how to properly process emotions when we have them. Noble’s story reminds us that God loves the whole of our human persons including our emotions.
Listen to Noble’s story in your favorite podcast app now!
Stories Noble shared:
- Being an executive coach to large companies
- Learning how to stuff and avoid emotions as a child
- Developing a performance based relationship with the Lord
- Pursuing God throughout his early adulthood
- Getting financially independent at age 30
- Experiencing depression when he stopped performing
- Performing at West Point
- Realizing that he hated himself during a dark night
- The tattoos that remind him of the lessons of this season
- Spending time in Scripture during depression
- Discovering his feelings and emotions
- Reading the Bible for emotions in a new way
- How to understand and process emotions
Great quotes from Noble:
I didn’t feel safe talking about emotions for four decades.
I thought I was extra holy because I hated myself more than you hate yourself.
I became the Christian that I used to hate.
If you don’t heal your emotional issues, your friends, family, and coworker will be forced to.
Emotionally healthy people help heal people emotionally.
Resources we mentioned:
- Noble’s website
- Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Pete Scazzero
- Feelings Wheel
Related episodes:
- Marc Schelske and the Wisdom of Your Heart
- Meg Glesener and the Smile of God
- Os Guinness and Carpe Diem Redeemed The post Noble Gibbens and Emotional Healing for Growth appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Courtney Lowman is a speaker, teacher, and the podcaster behind The Journey of Ruth podcast. Today, Courtney share how she found amazing mentors early on, the moment when heartbreak brought clarity, and the ministry that the Lord has given her since. Courtney is passionate about discipleship because she knows that one “meal” on Sunday isn’t enough to feed you for the entire week. She now provides resources for disciplers around the world including with her newest resource, the Bible Journal for Busy Women. Courtney’s story reminds us that God often has plans for us beyond our limited imaginations.
Listen to Courtney’s story in your favorite podcast app now!
Stories Courtney shared:
- Hosting the Journey of Ruth Podcast
- Growing up in Arizona as a pastor’s kid
- Experiencing the difficulty of ministry as a child
- The women who let them sit with them on Sunday and were her first mentors
- The vision the Lord used to draw her deeper
- Evaluating her friendships for depth
- Clubbing for Jesus in France
- Wrestling with going to international missions
- Learning that missions is discipleship
- Seeing that her podcast is having an international impact
- Her mom getting brain cancer and other struggles
Great quotes from Courtney:
Sunday morning is not enough to feed you fully for the entire week.
No one else is going to feed you.
Go out and use the gifts God has given you to serve your community.
Resources we mentioned:
- Courtney’s website
- Building Bold Disciples
- Bible Journal for Busy Women
Related episodes:
- Loren Hicks and the Practice of Discipleship
- Cheyenne Olson and the Foundation of Scripture
- Caesar Kalinowski and Discipleship as Mission The post Courtney Lowman and Building a Culture of Discipleship appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Peter Englert is a pastor, podcaster, and writer who has a unique ministry using podcasting as a discipleship tool. You know I love to share great examples of new media making a difference. Today, Peter shares how he ended up in ministry, the mentors who showed him incredible kindness, and how his ministry has evolved to include the digital world. Plus, Peter reminds us that digital and physical don’t always have to be in conflict. Often, they actually augment one another.
Listen to Peter’s story in your favorite podcast app today!
Stories Peter shared:
- His ministry in Rochester and online
- Growing up in NY and being told he was destined to be a talk show host
- Connecting with people from the Northeast
- Being in church three times a week as a kid
- Feeling called to ministry at 13
- Putting his career in ministry on hold but seeing how God worked it out anyway
- The mentors who have shaped him by inclusion
- Getting let go from a job
- A season of transition when the Lord asked him to be faithful
- How his job has evolved to change ministry
- His dream for how in person and digital ministries coexist
Great quotes from Peter:
We’re scared to tell our stories but that’s what God wants us to do.
Sometimes we miss out because we are not patient.
If I’m going to be talking 70% of the time, I may as well put it online.
Resources we mentioned:
- Peter’s website
- Why God Why Podcast
- Browncroft Community Church
Related episodes:
- Laura Flanders and the Mentored Life
- Jeff Tacklind and the Winding Path of Transformation
- Jay Kim and Analog Church The post Peter Englert and Digital Ministry & Mentorship appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jodie Niznik served in vocational ministry for over twelve years. Her calling and passion is to equip people to create space for God in their lives and take another step in their journey with Jesus. She does this through writing, teaching, and her Scripture meditation podcast. Today, Jodie shares about how finding Christ at church […] The post Jodie Niznik and Creating Space for God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Randy Mortensen is a guide for talented management professionals whose drive has led them down a path of compulsive and destructive behaviors, the host of the Courageous Recovery podcast, and a published author. Today, Randy shares how he came to Christ after years of being a church attender, how he finally quit drinking, and the […] The post Randy Mortensen and Removing the Stigma of Addiction appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Amy Fritz is the host of the Untangled Faith podcast, a mom, and wife, with a heart for those hurt by leaders they trust. Today, Amy shares how her somewhat charmed upbringing was shattered when her mom died suddenly, how she ran away to Middle Tennessee, and discovering that all was not as it seemed […] The post Amy Fritz the Community of the Broken appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Don Larson is the CEO and Founder of Sunshine Nut Company cashews where he helps bring work and wealth to Mozambique. Today, Don shares how he found Christ after years of going to church, becoming massively successful, and deciding to walk away from a huge paycheck. Don tells us the story of surrendering to the […] The post Don Larson and Doing Good with Business appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Nicole Jacobsmeyer is a mom of four, wife, and author. Today, Nicole shares how she nearly lost her faith after suffering, the wise woman who encouraged her to serve even while it was messy, and how she learned to trust God in the middle of it all. Through her authenticity and the sharing of her […] The post Nicole Jacobsmeyer and Joy After Suffering appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Kevin Wilson is the host of the podcast A Christian Podcast with Kevin Wilson. I had the pleasure of being on a panel with Kevin at Podcast Movement in August, 2022. His approach to evangelism in his podcast fascinated so I had to hear more of his story. Today, Kevin shares about how moving around as […] The post Kevin Wilson and Planting Seeds appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Traci Rhoades is an author, Bible teacher, writer, listener, and follower of Jesus who cares deeply about church unity, church history, everyone reading God’s word, and engaging with others on Twitter. She was last with us on episode #262 and has a new book out called Shaky Ground: What to Do After the Bottom Drops […] The post Traci Rhoades and a Firm Foundation appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Andrew McWilliams is the founder of The McWilliams Group Real Estate and Andrew McWilliams Coaching. Achieving top 1% status among all RE/MAX agents internationally, Andrew has guided many new and seasoned agents to success, sharing philosophy, lessons, and principles from his personal journey. Today, Andrew shares his struggle to find his place in ministry, how […] The post Andrew McWilliams and Learning Abundance appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Karen González is a speaker, writer, storyteller, and immigrant advocate, who herself immigrated from Guatemala as a child. Karen is a previous guest who shared her story on episode #166. Today, Karen and I talk about normalizing movement of population, why being a stranger in a strange land should give Christians empathy, and what to […] The post Karen González and Beyond Welcome appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jay Kim is a pastor and author in Silicon Valley and a previous guest on episode #206. I invited Jay back to discuss his latest book Analog Christian: Cultivating Contentment, Resilience, and Wisdom in the Digital Age. In this conversation, Jay shares the situation we find ourselves in with technology, what’s at stake if we […] The post Jay Kim and The Spiritual Formation of Technology appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jodi Rosser is an author, speaker, and podcaster. She is the host of the Depth Podcast, a podcast to help others grow deeper in their faith and stronger in their relationships. Today, Jodi shares about what she learned through her life’s biggest heartbreak, divorce. She talks us through the struggle and dark days but also […] The post Jodi Rosser and Growing Deep appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Corey Nathan is a businessman, theater nerd, fellow podcaster, husband, and father. He’s passionate about creating space in the public sphere for to talk about politics and religion from the “screamers” who’ve come to dominate these conversations. Today, Corey explains how a Jewish kid from New Jersey found Christ, what his conversion meant for his […] The post Corey Nathan and Remembering the Humanity appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Lauren Roskilly is a coach, author, and speaker. Today, Lauren shares about growing up in rural Sussex, England, leaving paganism, and finding dramatic physical healing. Lauren also describes significant mental health issues she suffered, including a suicide attempt, and how the Lord began to change her after a prayer of desperation. Lauren’s story reminds us […] The post Lauren Roskilly and Trusting God For Healing appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Benjamin Hunter is a Christian Colorado Filmmaker who loves to tell stories of all sizes. Today, Ben shares with us what he learned from having a brother with cerebral palsy, how he discovered he was an artist, and the moment the Lord inspired him to start his own film production company. He also gives us […] The post Benjamin Hunter and Telling a Great Story appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jill Baughan is an author, speaker, podcaster and joy-seeker who, through adventure and play, helps people find joy, no matter what else is happening-good, bad or ugly-in life. Long ago, as a kid on the Tilt-A-Whirl,she learned a valuable life lesson, and that was this: It is entirely possible for a human being to laugh […] The post Jill Baughan and The Adventure of Joy appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Ryan James Miller is a performance coach, founder of the Foundations to Freedom Coaching Academy, husband of 20+ years, and father to two daughters. Today, Ryan shares how he came to Christ when nothing else satisfied, how he found a community and surrender ed to the Lord, and the mentors that shaped his walk. Then, […] The post Ryan James Miller and Rediscovering Identity appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Sam Feeney is an author, strategist, coach, husband, and father of five. Today, Sam shares with us the paths he meandered as a young man, how everything changed when he met his wife, and what it meant to learn about God as Father. Also, he tells us why his family took a huge leap of […] The post Sam Feeney and Experiencing God as Father appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Lisa Appelo is a speaker and author including her latest book Life Can Be Good Again: Putting Your World Back Together After It All Falls Apart. Today, Lisa shares how she found faith while growing up in Florida, learning to trust through a financial crisis, and how she called on that trust when her husband […] The post Lisa Appelo and The Lord’s Mercy appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Andrew Klavan is an award-winning writer, screenwriter, and media commentator. An internationally bestselling novelist and two-time Edgar Award-winner, Klavan is also a contributing editor to City Journal, the magazine of the Manhattan Institute, and the host of a popular podcast on DailyWire.com, The Andrew Klavan Show. Today, Andrew shares the story of how the Gospels […] The post Andrew Klavan and The Truth and Beauty appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Ryan George has traveled to all seven continents and both polar circles. An adrenaline junkie, Ryan is a certified wingwalker a bungee jumping enthusiast, and a via ferrata connoisseur. Today, Ryan shares why he was baptized in three denominations, how he discovered “adrenaline” activities, and what he’s learned about the Lord while pursuing them. Ryan’s […] The post Ryan George and Living With Courage appeared first on Eric Nevins.
James Bryan Smith is a professor at Friends University in Wichita, Kansa and author, including his new book, The Good and Beautiful You. Today, James tells us how he found Christ, his amazing set of mentors, and the season when he forgot his first love. He also shares how God thinks about us and why it’s […] The post James Bryan Smith and Loved Beyond Imagination appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Les Hughes and Jon Sanders are pastors who help pastors and others with a ministry background create a life of financial freedom as entrepreneurs. Today, Les and Jon share their individual spiritual experiences including resisting ministry and surrendering to the Lord. Plus, they share how being pastors led them to start coaching other pastors to […] The post Les Hughes and Jon Sanders and The Rise of EntrePastors appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Ryan Ragozine, host of the Thinker Sensitive podcast. Today, Ryan shares his incredible journey growing up in a Christian family in Detroit. When he was 12 he lost his faith in God and turned to philosophy to find answers. He also shares the moment when his faith was revived, what he learned from his season […] The post Ryan Ragozine and Finding Faith Again appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Ernest Randolph spent 35 years working with youth in formal and informal roles. A graduate of Denver Seminary, he’s led Bible studies and house church for the past six years. Today, Ernest shares his calling to ministry, what happened when he chose between career and ministry, and how writing helped him clarify his faith. Ernest’s […] The post Ernest Randolph and the Way of the Cross appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jennifer Rosner is affiliate assistant professor of systematic theology at Fuller Theological Seminary and the author of Finding Messiah: A Journey Into the Jewishness of the Gospel, which releases on May 24, 2022. Today, Jen shares how a Jewish girl found Christ in college, how her faith actually grew at Yale seminary, and the dark […] The post Jen Rosner and Finding Messiah appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Angus Nelson is a high-performance coach for men, one of America's top performance strategists and founder of Evolve Men Coaching. Today, Angus shares with us how he found Christ and the zeal with which he pursued ministry. Then, his business and life hit the proverbial fan and he had to reconsider his attitudes toward success, […] The post Angus Nelson and the Power of Being in Christ appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Amy Debrucque is a wife, mom of four, cancer survivor, and co-author of Embolden. She is the founder of the Life On Purpose Movement and host of the Life On Purpose Podcast where she encourages women to live on purpose instead of fear. Today, Amy shares how she found a personal relationship with Jesus, how […] The post Amy Debrucque and Conquering Fear appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Allen Taylor is an author, editor, and publisher. His most recent release is I Am Not the King, a personal testimony of his faith in Jesus Christ. Today, Allen shares with us the pentecostal church he was raised in, how study helped him escape legalism, and how he became a writer. Allen shares that grace […] The post Allen Taylor and Giving Up Control appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Heather Oncken is an entrepreneur, a nurse, and a fellow podcaster. Her show Connecting in the Chaos is about how to develop and maintain friendship as an adult. Today, Heather shares how her family came to Christ, why she walked away from Christ as a young woman, and how the Lord redeemed all the pain it […] The post Heather Oncken and How to Be a Friend appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Chris Martin is an editor at Moody Publishers and a social media, marketing, and communications consultant. He writes regularly in his Substack newsletter, Terms of Service, and is publishing a book by the same name in February. Today, Chris shares how he was led into ministry, got a job working in publishing, and why he […] The post Chris Martin and How Social Media Shapes Us appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Marjorie Gunnoe is a psychology professor at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, MI. Her book The Person in Psychology and Christianity, is soon to be released. Today, Marjorie shares the story of how her fundamentalist background shaped her, the moment that allowed her to ask more questions, and why she was so interested in psychology. We […] The post Marjorie Gunnoe and Integrating Faith and Science appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Alec Kassan is a podcaster, author, and consultant for online ministries. Today, Alec shares how he experienced the leading of God, found his purpose while exploring many options, and began serving online ministries. Alec also shares that busyness does not always equal accomplishment. He learned to rest in what God wanted even if it meant […] The post Alec Kassan and Planting Your Purpose appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Michelle Lazurek is a multi-genre, award winning author, and literary agent. Today, Michelle shares the story of the high cost she paid to follow Jesus in a tradition other than the one she grew up in. She also shares the moments when had to surrender to the Lord and the path that led her to […] The post Michelle Lazurek and Learning to Let Go appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Robin T. Jennings is an ordained Episcopal minister and author of 3 books on spiritual growth through vision and renewal. Today, Robin shares his unexpected journey to seminary and the priesthood, discovering spiritual renewal and formation, and learning to surrender to the Lord. Robin’s heart is to serve the next generation as they face new […] The post Robin T. Jennings and the Light of the World appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Kari Bartkus is a podcaster and spiritual director who walks with women during times of grief or heartache. Today, Kari shares her ability to see the hurting people, how she discovered spiritual formation, and why she walks with those going through grief. She also shares practices that you can use to serve the grieving--and aren’t […] The post Kari Bartkus and the Friendship of Jesus appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Loren Hicks is a pastor and the podcaster behind the 5 Minute Discipleship podcast. Today, Loren shares the lessons he’s learned in over two decades of ministry, how the Lord redirected through heartbreak, and how he pivoted to serve his congregation during Covid. Loren is passionate about helping people take the next step in the faith. His […] The post Loren Hicks and the Practice of Discipleship appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Nancy Kay Grace is a pastor’s wife, cancer survivor, and author. She understands dealing with unexpected challenges. Today, Nancy shares about how the Lord provided in ministry, her struggle with cancer, and learning rest in the Lord when those challenges arise. She reminds us to remember that we are his children and that he loves […] The post Nancy Kay Grace and Trusting the Peace appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Brandon is the author of What Can't Be Hidden (2021) and bestselling Beauty in the Wreckage: Finding Peace in the Age of Outrage. Today, Brandon shares how he learned not to be afraid of new ideas, the spiritual grief he suffered, and what he learned about being a good shepherd through it. We also discuss […] The post Brandon Andress and The Controversy of Love appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Becky Antkowiak is a writer, leader of the 540 Community for writers, and my new best friend. Today, Becky shares with us her story of following a calling that seemed to not work out only to discover how God uses everything. Becky also opens up about a season of grief and lets us in on […] The post Becky Antkowiak and Faithfulness Through Grief appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Rodney Olsen is a husband, father, cyclist, blogger and podcaster. Today, Rodney shares the moment he knew he wanted to be in radio, the somewhat meandering path he took to get there, and the providential meeting that sealed the deal. Rodney is passionate about helping believers anchor their faith in Christ with a Kingdom view […] The post Rodney Olsen and Kicking at the Darkness appeared first on Eric Nevins.
LaTrae Wilson is an author and podcaster. Today, Trea shares what it was like growing up as a pastor’s kid, why she walked away after high school, and how the Lord brought her back. Her journey to healing the wounds took a commitment to valuing herself and accepting the grace and love of God. Trea’s […] The post LaTrae Wilson and the Great Exchange appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Brian Zahnd is a pastor, author, and America mystic. Today, Brian shares his first experience with Jesus, the season when he began to “renovate his theological house,” and how to think about deconstruction. Through his writing, Brian has become one of the pastors shining light on the path for those ready to leave American Evangelicalism […] The post Brian Zahnd and the Beauty of Christ appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Conell & Rhonda Hollins our podcasters and are first time authors of their forthcoming book marriage material which is a training manual base on their experience teaching for the last 13 years. Today, Conell and Rhonda share how their relationship sharpened their faith, how they became marriage teachers, and tips for staying connected. Conell and […] The post Conell & Rhonda Hollins and Marriage Matters appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Christopher Smith is the Senior Editor of The Englewood Review of Books, and author of several books, including most recently: How The Body of Christ Talks: Recovering the Practice of Conversation in the Church. Today, Christopher shares the place of reading in his spiritual journey, how he learned to untangle depression from doubt, and why […] The post C. Christopher Smith and Empowering Conversations appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jerry Dugan is the producer and host of Beyond the Rut podcast, a show that discusses pursuing and achieving your dreams without compromising your faith, family, or health. Today, Jerry shares about growing up through divorce, his dad's attempted suicide, and combat experiences that gave him resilience and perspective on life. He also shares how […] The post Jerry Dugan and Becoming a New Man appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Felicia Song is a professor of sociology who studies social and cultural impact of digital technologies. Restless Devices: Recovering Personhood, Presence and Place in the Digital Age. Today, Felicia share her experience growing up in a fundamentalist, Chinese church, discovering the Holy Spirit in college, and what she’s learned about God by studying sociology. We also […] The post Felicia Song and Digital Discipleship appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Brian Sexton is the host of The Intentional Encourager Podcast and author of People Buy From People: 10 Powerful People Lessons From the Ultimate People Person, My Dad. Today, Brian shares how prayer influenced his life early, his dad’s profound influence, and how he stopped running from a call to preach. He also shares an […] The post Brian Sexton and Being Prepared to Serve appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Hope Johnson is a writer and podcaster based in Upstate New York. She is the host of Hope Unyielding, a podcast where people share stories of God's faithfulness in the dark and difficult times of their lives. Today, Hope shares the story of how she learned Russian, struggled during a year teaching English, and how […] The post Hope Johnson and Waiting for God to Answer Prayer appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Dorsey Ross is a public speaker and podcaster. He was born with Apert’s Syndrome. Today, Dorsey shares his parent’s choice to nurture and support him, going to college when many didn’t think he could, and becoming a speaker and podcaster. Dorsey’s story is full of challenges that he’s overcome with God’s help. His spirit will […] The post Dorsey Ross and the Story We All Tell appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Christa Hutchins equips busy communicators and leaders with project management and problem solving skills so they can turn their big ideas into a successful ministry or business. Today, Christa shares how she experienced her faith as just one part of her life, how a public failure taught her humility, and how that led her to […] The post Christa Hutchins and How Failure Refines appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Travis Johnson is an active duty officer in the United States navy and the host of the Nonprofit Architect Podcast. Today, Travis shares about moving dozens of times as a child because of his mom’s mental illness. He also shares how he felt the Lord’s presence, got out of the abusive situation, and found stability […] The post Travis Johnson and World Changing Community appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Tiffany Jo Baker is a caffeinated mom of two teen girls, surrogate mom who has delivered five babies for three families dealing with infertility. Today, Tiffany shares how she went her own, self-destructive way as a teenager, and the dramatic steps her parents took to get her back. She also shares how she became a […] The post Tiffany Jo Baker and Giving Life to Dreams appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Scott Distler is an author and the lead pastor of an Evangelical Free church in Northern Michigan. Today, Scott shares about the mentors who shaped him, how a betrayal sent him into a dark time, and the steps he took to get out of it. Scott learned to slow down and make space for his […] The post Scott Distler and Creating Space to Listen appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Alicia Michelle is an author, Bible teacher, podcaster and certified NeuroCoach. Known as the Mindset Makeover Coach, she equips Christian women with practical brain-and-biblically-based tools so they know HOW to renew their minds in order to overcome negative thinking and cultivate godly confidence. Today, Alicia shares how campus ministry changed her life, the health crisis […] The post Alicia Michelle and the Renewing of Your Mind appeared first on Eric Nevins.
John Ramstead is a keynote speaker and trainer, former combat Navy fighter pilot, leadership coach, international podcast host and bestselling author of On Purpose with Purpose–Discovering How to Live Your Best Life. Today, John shares about losing his dream of being a Top Gun pilot, the accident that nearly killed him, and the process of healing […] The post John Ramstead from Accident to Purpose appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Dr. Heather Thompson Day is a speaker, writer, author of 7 books including her latest It's Not Your Turn. Today, Heather shares how her faith changed when she broke off an engagement and decided to wait on the Lord. She tells how she learned to listen to her feelings but not let them drive her […] The post Dr. Heather Thompson Day and the Sustaining Hand of God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Traci Rhoades is an author, blogger, and Bible teacher. Today, Traci shares her early curiosity with hands on faith, why a humanities class opened her up to more Christian traditions, and how reading more widely led her deeper. She also shares why she wrote her book Not All Who Wander (Spiritually) Are Lost. Traci’s story […] The post Traci Rhoades and the Case of Holy Envy appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Joe Pomeroy is a businessman, speaker, and author. Today, Joe shares how he came to the end of himself when his marriage was breaking down, what he did to get help, and how he learned to accept grace. Now, Joe helps men apply what they know from business to their family in order to become […] The post Joe Pomeroy and How Grace Cancels Shame appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Dr. Michelle Bengtson is a board certified clinical neuropsychologist, author, and fellow podcaster. Today, Michelle shares about struggling with depression and anxiety, how she worked so hard she made herself sick, and the practice that helped her trust the Lord with everything. She also shares how to train your brain to think positively and let […] The post Dr. Michelle Bengtson and Overcoming Anxiety appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Cliff Haddox is a pastor and TikToker (@RevnGeek). Today, we talk about his TikTok, why he started it, and how the platform has influenced his ministry. Cliff also shares the dangerous prayer he prayed, why community is so great in seminary, and the struggle of being unwanted at his church. We also talk about ways […] The post Cliff Haddox and The Story that Grows With You appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Janell Wood is the podcaster behind Finding Something Real. Today, Janell shares about the youth pastor who served as a great example of God’s love, when she wrestled with a sinful relationship, and how the Lord met her through a series of miscarriages. Janell learned to trust the Lord with each experience and finally accepted […] The post Janell Wood and the Shaping of Identity appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jeff Brown is an award winning radio producer and personality, who launched his podcast in 2013. He is the host of Read to Lead and just published his first book of the same title. Today, Jeff shares how the Lord provided a job and moved him into Christian radio, how dark moments motivate him to […] The post Jeff Brown the Exponential Value of Reading appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Erica Wiggenhorn a speaker and author of three Bible studies including her most recent, Letting God Be Enough: Why Striving Keeps You Stuck & How Surrender Sets You Free. Today, Erica shares how she learned to enjoy studying the Bible, how she learned the difference between faith and trust, and the moment she realized that […] The post Erica Wiggenhorn and Learning to be Brave appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Mark Brownson is a pastor and author. Mark’s recently published book is Honesty, A Believer’s Struggle with Prayer and Faith. Today, Mark shares his struggle to teach himself to read, achieving his dream to go to seminary, and his experience pastoring churches. Through it all, Mark has wrestled with God in prayer with an honesty […] The post Mark Brownson and Honesty with God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Shā Sparks is the CEO (Chief Excitement Officer) of Sparks of Fire International, a Certified Fearless Living Coach and Trainer, host of The Power of Investing in People Podcast, and Co-Founder of #FIRESTARTERS Book Project. Today, Shā shares how she spent much of her life without love and waiting to die, how she broke up […] The post Shā Sparks and Finding Purpose appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Chuck DeGroat is professor of pastoral care and Christian Spirituality at Western Theological Seminary and author of When Narcissism Comes to Church. Today, Chuck shares about dealing with anxiety his entire life, pursuing a life of influence, and how stepping back from that helped him find wholeness. Chuck also discusses the brokenness that so many pastors experience […] The post Chuck DeGroat and Invitation to Obscurity appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Cherlyn Decker is a best-selling author, speaker, and coach. Today, Cherlyn shares how she spent her life trying to achieve, how it all came crashing down when she lost her job, and the steps took through the spiritual desert. Cherlyn also tells us how she ended up with a spiritual director and how that helped […] The post Cherlyn Decker and Learning to Roar appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Janna Thompson is the creator behind Project Shine. Today, Janna shares some surprising moments when the Lord has spoken and worked in her life. Janna shares how the Lord met her when contemplating suicide, protected her during a horrific car crash, and provided for her needs. She also lets us into her prayer closet where […] The post Janna Thompson and Spiritual Sassy Pants appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Dr. Drew Moser is the Founder & CEO of TypeTrail, and enneagram-based coaching firm. He’s the author of The Enneagram of Discernment: The Way of Vocation, Wisdom, & Practice and is co-host of Fathoms: An Enneagram Podcast. Today, Drew shares about sensing a call to ministry, beginning marriage in a season of grief, and how […] The post Drew Moser and Enneagram Type is Just the Beginning appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Sue Donaldson is an author, speaker, and podcaster. Today, Sue shares about doubting her faith in college, struggling with her singleness, and learning to lean on the Lord more than her husband. Sue is a master at creating great conversations and she tells us how that became part of her ministry. Plus, she reminds us […] The post Sue Donaldson and The Welcoming Heart of God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jay Bakker is an author and speaker at Revolution Church. If his name looks familiar, it’s because he is the son of famed televangelists Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker. Today, Jay shares about growing up as his parents rose to fame and fell, how he ignored God for a season, and discovering the radical nature […] The post Jay Bakker and Discovering Unbelievable Grace appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Amy Watson is a businesswoman and podcaster. Today, Amy shares her story of unbelievable trauma and the community the Lord used to help her heal. Amy tells us about being abused by a serial killer, finally sharing what was happening and getting help, and the moment she felt safe enough to fall apart. Amy has […] The post Amy Watson on Trauma, Healing, and Community appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Chaplain Colonel Charles Causey is an author, pastor, and chaplain. Today, Charles shares with us his story of resisting the call to ministry, how the Lord’s providence has cared for his family through the years, and why he decided to become a writer. We also discuss his latest book Candor which is all about navigating difficult […] The post Charles Causey and Chasing Candor appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Billie Jauss is an author, speaker, podcaster, and baseball wife. today, Billie shares how she sensed a connection to God as a young woman, when an atheist counselor advised her to go back to church, and how she as discovered the value of sharing herself with others. Billie writes and podcasts devotional material and hosts […] The post Billie Jauss and Home is Where We Are appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jonathan Puddle is the author of You Are Enough: Learning to Love Yourself the Way God Loves You, and is a pastor and podcast host himself. Today, Jonathan shares the first time he was moved by the Holy Spirit, deconstructing his faith for a season, and falling in love with Jesus all over again. Jonathan’s […] The post Jonathan Puddle and the Nearness of God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Charmaine Cooper is an author, speaker, and host of the the Char Candid Podcast. Today, Charmaine shares her experience at the Toronto Blessing, her struggle to forgive her father, and why she chose to go to seminary. Charmaine is a dynamic storyteller who saved one of the best stories for last involving hearing God on […] The post Charmaine Cooper and the Everywhere God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Manny Randhawa is MLB.com reporter, Statcast researcher, and author of The Blake Street Bombers. Today, Manny shares how his dad’s political desire led him to faith, the surprising sermon that let him to pray for salvation, and how he ended up being a sports writer. He also shares how he led his mom to Christ. […] The post Manny Randhawa the Conduit of Grace appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Sheila Wray Gregoire is a popular speaker, marriage blogger, and the author of nine books, including The Good Girl's Guide to Great Sex and her latest book, The Great Sex Rescue, which she coauthored with her daughter Rebecca Lindenbach and Joanna Sawatsky. Today, Sheila shares how she became a Christian sex blogger, when she first […] The post Sheila Wray Gregoire and the Great Sex Rescue appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Shea Watson is the cohosts The Pantry Podcast with his wife Michelle. Today, Shea shares his journey of sexual abuse at 8 years old, joining the army to avoid jail for drug dealing, and realizing he was losing it in the special forces. He constantly strived to keep up appearances by succeeding in high school […] The post Shea Watson and Conquering Shame appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Merritt Onsa is a trail guide for the passionate and creative Christian woman who wants to get over her fear of failure, comparison, and imposter syndrome so she can get moving on her God-shaped dream without wasting more time second-guessing herself, procrastinating, or trying to be perfect. Today, Merritt shares how her ex-boyfriend led her […] The post Merritt Onsa the Patient Love of God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Phil Mershon is the founder and host of the Man in the Pew Show. By day, he is director of events for Social Media Examiner. He’s a jazz saxophonist, songwriter, former pastor, and author of two forthcoming books. Today, Phil shares the journey of discovering he is a creative. He shares how he studied economics, […] The post Phil Mershon and the Creative’s Journey appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Kristin Du Mez is Professor of History at Calvin University and author of Jesus and John Wayne. If you haven’t heard about this book yet, you will soon because it is lighting Evangelicalism on fire. Kristin shares about growing up a bit sheltered in Northwest Iowa Dutch country, how moving and travel began to expand her […] The post Kristin Du Mez and Knowing Christian History appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Rob Lohman currently helps people suffering from substance abuse to find freedom from addiction and incarceration. Today, Rob shares his journey of avoiding consequences for destructive actions, the moment God spoke to him in a bar, and the action that sent him to prison. Today, Rob helps others break the chains of addiction as an […] The post Rob Lohman and Breaking Addiction appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Christina Dent, Founder and President of End It For Good, a conservative nonprofit advocating a health-centered approach to drugs rather than a criminal justice approach. Christina lives in Mississippi and changed her own mind about how to best handle drugs after she became a foster parent. She started End It For Good several years ago […] The post Christina Dent and Compassion for Others appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Paul Edwards is an executive ghostwriter, CEO, bestselling author and host of "Influencer Networking Secrets" podcast. Today, Paul shares the story of finding Christ at a lonely time, struggling with pride in his work life, and the communities that changed the course of his life. Paul knows the value of a great connection and today, […] The post Paul Edwards and Serving God’s Other Children appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Cherrilynn Bisbano is an award winning author and speaker. Today, Cherrilynn shares about finding Christ at her lowest point, sensing God’s presence, and learning to study the Bible as a spiritual practice. Cherrilyn also shares how the Lord revealed her identity as his and used her gives to completely change her career. Cherrilynn’s story reminds […] The post Cherrilynn Bisbano and the Struggle for Identity in Christ appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Kevin White is a pastor and author of Audacious Generosity. Today, Kevin shares the story of finding Christ as a young man, feeling called to ministry, and almost burning out while trying to achieve. When the church he planted voted him out, he had to reconsider what God was asking of him. Through the struggle, he founded […] The post Kevin White and Audacious Generosity appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Sarah Symons is the Founder and Executive Director of Her Future Coalition, an international charity fighting human trafficking and other severe gender violence with shelter, education and employment. Over the past 15 years, Her Future Coalition has walked alongside over 5000 women and children in India, Nepal, Cambodia, and Thailand on their journey to freedom […] The post Sarah Symons and Setting the Captives Free appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Blake Brewer is on a mission to help 1 MILLION Dads write at least one well written, meaningful, lasting Legacy Letter to their children. Blake has three children under 5. He absolutely loves being a father. As he leads his family and his children, he draws from many mentors, but none more important than his […] The post Blake Brewer and a Father’s Legacy appeared first on Eric Nevins.
September McCarthy has been married to her husband Dan for 30 years. Together they have ten children and four grandchildren. They have been homeschooling their children for 24 years, and have launched six, with four more still at home. Today, September shares how she met Jesus at family camp, how losing multiple children shaped her, […] The post September McCarthy and Suffering as Sanctification appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Laura Barringer and Scot McKnight are the authors of the new book A Church Called Tov and it is an important one. Today, Laura and Scot share their sorrow at the news that Bill Hybels had been sexually inappropriate with women over his career. The response from Willow Creek bothered both of them deeply because Laura […] The post Laura Barringer & Scot McKnight and Becoming an Agent of Tov appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Chris Taylor is a writer and speaker about sexual intimacy in Christian marriage. She blogs and hosts multiple podcasts about the subject. Today, Chris shares the story of how she became a Christian sex blogger. She tells us about the moment she first experienced Christian community, how sex changed from fun to burdensome, and how […] The post Chris Taylor and Sex and Spiritual Growth appeared first on Eric Nevins.
James Early is a podcaster and prison minister. Today, James shares about asking questions about faith as a high school student, learning how to apply Scripture practically, and what he learned from being a stay-at-home dad before that was a thing. James loves the Lord and wanted to be a minister early in life. Now […] The post James Early and the Value of Christian Unity appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Kent Dickerson is a preacher, writer, and seminar presenter, currently from South Korea. Today, Kent shares the story of how he gave his life to Christ, the moment when lust got ahold of him, and how he overcame the struggle of pornography in his life. Kent had a radical encounter with God’s love in the […] The post Kent Dickerson and Yearning for God’s Beauty appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Karen Swallow Prior is Research Professor of English and Christianity and Culture at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Today, Karen shares how she resisted the Lord early in life, becoming a pro-life protester and getting arrested five times, and how getting hit by a bus was a mystical experience. Karen also shares how reading classic literature […] The post Karen Swallow Prior and the Spiritual Practice of Reading Fiction appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jamie Rowe is a recording artist best known as the lead singer of Guardian. His latest recording is This is Home available wherever you get great music. Today, Jamie shares how the Lord spoke to him as a teenager, discovering he could sing, and how he joined Guardian. The men in the group became mentors and […] The post Jamie Rowe and Finding His True Home appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Amber Cullum is a mom and the host of the Grace Enough podcast. Today, Amber shares how she approached singleness, the trip to India that almost broke her faith, and how she learned to listen more. Amber is a woman who loves the Lord deeply and encourages many to follow faithfully. Her podcast is […] The post Amber Cullum and the Journey to Grace appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Matt Tommey is an artist, author and mentor to thousands of Christian artists around the world. His passion is to help artists overcome the roadblocks that have held them back for years and start thriving spiritually, artistically and in business. Matt is the author of 6 books, founder of the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring […] The post Matt Tommey and Partnership in the Gospel appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Michelle Rayburn is a freelance writer and podcaster who appreciates how life's difficulties can turn out to be opportunities learn and grow. Today, Michelle shares her sometimes Pharisaical approach to her faith as a young woman, learning to engage people who are not like her, and discovering herself through writing. In every story Michelle shares, […] The post Michelle Rayburn and Growing in Christ appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Tim Winders is a performance coach to Executive Teams and Entrepreneurial Leaders. He is an author and the host of the SeekGoCreate podcast. He and his wife, Glori, have been married for over 30 years. They now consider themselves nomads as they currently travel, live, and work in their 39-foot RV named Theo. Today, Tim […] The post Tim Winders and Redefining Success appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Rachel Welcher is an editor at Fathom Magazine, a poet, and an author whose book Talking Back to Purity Culture: Rediscovering Faithful Christian Sexuality is about to be released. Today, Rachel shares how she followed all the purity culture rules before marriage, how she felt when her marriage ended in divorce, and developing a more holistic […] The post Rachel Joy Welcher and the Spirituality of Unmet Longings appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Os Guinness is an English author and social critic and a previous guest on Halfway There. His work is largely responsible for this podcast and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to speak with him. Today, Os shares what it was like being at L’Abri with the Schaeffers, why we need to understand the cultural […] The post Os Guinness and Understanding Our Moment appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Kaitlyn Schiess is an author and minister. Her new book is The Liturgy of Politics: Spiritual Formation for the Sake of Our Neighbor. Today, Kaitlyn shares what she learned growing up in a Christian family, choosing to go into ministry instead of law, and how churches can engage the spiritual formation of politics. Kaitlyn shares […] The post Kaitlyn Schiess and Why Everything is Spiritual (Even Politics) appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Skye Jethani is an author, speaker, consultant, and ordained minister. He also serves as the co-host of the popular Holy Post Podcast, a weekly show that blends astute cultural and theological insights with comical conversation. Today, Skye shares how growing up in a religiously mixed home shaped him, deciding to follow Christ against his father’s […] The post Skye Jethani and Living Life with God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Erin Davis is a speaker, author, and blogger. Her latest book is 7 Feasts: Finding Christ in the Sacred Celebrations of the Old Testament. Today, Erin shares how Scripture began to make sense after her conversion, how her husband encouraged her to teach, and the season of grief that refined her. We also talk about […] The post Erin Davis and the Twin Anchors of Life in God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Stephanie Rousselle is a wife, mom, podcaster, public speaker, writer, and former women's ministry director. Today, Stephanie shares what it was like growing up in France as an atheist, what happened when she let God in for a week, and learning to love Scripture. Stephanie has traveled and lived around the world which gives her […] The post Stephanie Rousselle and Tasting All the Spices appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Neil Matthews is a husband, father, and the producer of the podcast Other People’s Shoes where he creates space to hear one another’s perspectives. Today, Neil shares how he got swept into youth ministry, lost it all after a startling confession, and found a new ministry in podcasting. Neil relates his struggle with pride as […] The post Neil Matthews and Accepting God’s Acceptance appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Aimee Byrd is an author and podcaster. Her latest book is Recovering from Biblical Manhood and Womanhood and it has caused quite the controversy. Today, Aimee shares how she longed for discipleship in college, met people of various theological stripes when she opened her own coffee shop, and learned to write in order to answer the […] The post Aimee Byrd and Recovering from Biblical Manhood and Womanhood appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Bobby Jackson is a man of many hats: pastor, licensed therapist, and leader in the field of student care. Today, Bobby how he found stability in church as a kid, how deployment as an Army medic changed his life, and the car crash that led him to surrender to the Lord once and for all. […] The post Bobby Jackson and Community that Heals appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Kara-Kae James is an author, blogger, and podcaster. Her newest book is called TOGETHER, A Journal for Mom & Me. Today, Kara-Kae shares her journey as a kid keeping up appearances, how she struggled to trust even though she knew all the right answers, and growing comfortable with her questions. Kara-Kae also shares her journaling practices […] The post Kara-Kae James and Creating Space appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Craig & Janice Hammersmith are an ordinary couple follow God’s extraordinary vision for their lives. Today, Craig & Janice share their journey from suburban family to working with students in Luxembourg. Craig shares the restlessness he felt working a tech job, how he received Luxembourg citizenship, and the amazing connections that confirmed God’s call on […] The post Craig & Janice Hammersmith and Small Signs & Big Promises appeared first on Eric Nevins.
James Prescott is an author, podcaster, and Twitter boss (he’s always thought-provoking which I admire a great deal). Today, James shares the story of the trauma and grief he suffered by his mother’s sudden hospitalization as a child. When she returned to the family, her faith strengthened his but when she died years later, James […] The post James Prescott and Processing Grief Well appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Meg Glesener is a mom of eight raising her family in Seattle, a podcaster, and moderator of Christian Podcasters Association. Today, Meg shares growing up in an unsafe environment, how a Christian girl willing to be her friend changed her life, and her passion for the outcast. Meg also shares with us the bittersweet emotions […] The post Meg Glesener and the Smile of God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jay Kim, a pastor in the Silicon Valley and the author of Analog Church: Why We Need Real People, Places, and Things in the Digital Age. Today, Jay shares how being alone as a child shaped him, wandering into agnosticism as a college student, and how Brennan Manning was just what he needed. We talk […] The post Jay Kim and Why We Need Real People appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Gari Meacham is an author, speaker, and founder and CEO of The Vine Uganda, a nonprofit. Today, Gari shares the story of how her family was broken by alcohol, the picture of Jesus that kept her from suicide, and her thirty-eight year marriage to former New York Yankee Bobby Meacham. We talk about the process […] The post Gari Meacham and Hitting Life’s Curveballs appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Tom Schwab is the Chief Evangelist Officer of Interview Valet. Today, Tom shares about growing up in a Roman Catholic family, finding Christ at a men’s retreat, and how he experiences the Lord. Throughout our conversation, Tom comes back to the idea of relationships: with God, with his family, and in business. Tom has a […] The post Tom Schwab and the Richness of Relationship appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Cheyenne Olson is spiritual mentor, writer, and podcaster who spends her time with high school and college students. Today, Cheyenne shares the story of how studying theology awakened her love for the Lord, discovering repressed memories of abuse, and the first time the Lord spoke to her about the healing process. Cheyenne has a passion […] The post Cheyenne Olson and the Foundation of Scripture appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Erik Fisher is a productivity podcaster who hosts the Beyond The To Do List, a show I used to listen to all the time in corporate America. He has also spent years as a social media expert and currently serves as the Director of Social Media Education at Agorapulse. Today, Erik shares his relationship with […] The post Erik Fisher and the Productive Life appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Tina Smith is the founder of Raising Kids on Your Knees a ministry dedicated to equipping parents to pray and parent life into the lives of their children. It’s a journey she knows from experience having successfully done so with her four children. Today, Tina shares the disparity between her early faith and actions, how […] The post Tina Smith the Praying for Your Kids appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Randall Garcia is a pastor, online businessman, and podcaster. Randall shares the story of growing up an overachieving pastor’s kid, secretly wandering away from his faith, and the funeral that convinced him to change his ways. Around that time, he confessed his lifestyle to his dad and received love instead of rejection, an experience that […] The post Randall Sean Garcia and the Father’s Love for Us appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Lauren Gaskill, author, speaker, podcaster, and founder of She Found Joy. Today, Lauren shares the story of growing up in a family of new Christians, dealing with severe health issues, and the healing the Lord has brought her. Lauren describes her journey from accepting illness to asking the Lord for healing and receiving it. The […] The post Lauren Gaskill and the Joy of Healing appeared first on Eric Nevins.
John Matarazzo is a television producer and podcast host. Today, he shares the story of how he joined YWAM, the burnout he experienced after years of leading, and following his passion for broadcasting. John also tells us about amazing steps of faith he took as he followed the Lord’s direction. For instance, he started volunteering […] The post John Matarazzo and Learning Along the Way appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Julie Hamilton is a faith based podcaster, speaker, radio and TV co-host and encourager. She has been married for 21 years, is a mom of two girls & loves living in Napa Valley. Today, she shares how in the last 8 months, she went from homeschooling mom of 14 years to Media Director for a […] The post Julie Hamilton and Trusting Over Pleasing appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Kyle Strobel is the associate professor of spiritual theology at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University. Today, Kyle shares the story of how he discovered spiritual formation, feeling abandoned by God and surrendering to him, and studying the works of Jonathan Edwards. Kyle brings a unique historical perspective to the spiritual formation conversation. We also […] The post Kyle Strobel and Integrating Spirituality and Theology appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Katie Hornor is a best-selling author, business coach and international speaker. After leaving all for a ministry opportunity overseas only to have it pulled out from under them, Tap & Katie built a business and a movement in their second language among in the fastest growing market demographic in the world, changing the future of […] The post Katie Hornor and Rain as a Blessing appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jeff Munroe is Executive Vice President of Western Theological Seminary and author of the book Reading Buechner. Today, Jeff shares the story of the bad advice he received about emotions, how Frederick Buechner helped him fix it, and looks back at the providence of God in leading him to Western Theological Seminary. Along the way, […] The post Jeff Munroe and Stewarding Your Pain appeared first on Eric Nevins.
D. L. Mayfield is a writer and podcaster who is just trying to be a good neighbor. Her podcast is the Prophetic Imagination Station Podcast and her new book is The Myth of the American Dream. Today, D.L. shares her journey wanting to be a missionary as a child, experiencing the Holy Spirit in college, and […] The post D. L. Mayfield and the Gift of Paying Attention appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Betty Lou Long is affectionately known as “Grandma Great” in our house. I have so many fond memories of family gatherings and food at her house. Today, she shares about growing up in small town Iowa, how she met her husband in a hardware store, and the profound sense of gratitude she felt witnessing a […] The post Betty Lou Long and Raising Family in Faith appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Harriett Miller is a strong woman who just so happens to be my grandmother. She was a little hesitant to come on the show and share her story but I’m so glad she did! Today, Grandma shares about growing up in Des Moines, Iowa, becoming a widow with five small boys, how that event led […] The post Harriett Miller and a Fierce Faith appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jason Elam is the host of the Messy Spirituality podcast. Today, Jason shares the moments he was completely overwhelmed by the love of God. Jason shares his experience of God when he died on the operating table, how professional ministry damaged him, and how the love of God became his mission. Jason’s journey takes us […] The post Jason Elam and the Devastating Love of God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Tom Hale is the author of Authentic Lives, a 2nd year PhD student in intercultural studies at Fuller School of Intercultural Studies. Today, he shares about growing up in Nepal, working for nearly two decades in the former Soviet Union, and why he is passionate about living authentically. Tom’s story helps us think more deeply […] The post Tom Hale and Living an Authentic Life appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Gregory Gillam is an author, speaker, and former fundraiser. Today, Gregory shares the life he was satisfied with, the cancer diagnosis that rocked his world, and how his life turned from raising money to ministry. Gregory was healed from pancreatic cancer but still struggled with anxiety and depression at a time when his son was […] The post Gregory Gillam and The Road of Healing appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Mark Scandrette is an author and globally recognized expert on practical spiritual formation. Today, Mark shares the story of his traditional Evangelical upbringing by sincere parents, his multifaceted and many conversions, and pursuing the way of Jesus. Mark has a very grounded approach to following Jesus that speaks loudly. He opens up about wrestling his […] The post Mark A. Scandrette and Unconventional Christianity appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Curtis Sergeant is a disciple making movement catalyst and author of The Only One. Today, Curtis shares the story when he experienced a call to unreached people groups, how his work there led millions to Christ, and how suffering multiplied his effectiveness. Curtis has trained people in every country in the world to bring the […] The post Curtis Sergeant and the Catalyst of Movements appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jay Holland is a pastor, author, and podcaster. His podcast is called Let’s Parent on Purpose. As a youth pastor, he realized that more spiritual formation happens in the home than during time at church gatherings. So he started his podcast to empower families to make better disciples. Today, Jay shares the story of stepping […] The post Jay Holland and the Goodness of God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
April Diaz is the founder and lead warrior of Ezer + Co. She is also a wife, mom, advocate, and disruptor all of which we get a small glimpse of in this conversation. Today, April shares her story of starting full time ministry early in life, learning to take care of herself so she can […] The post April Diaz and Power and Justice in the Kingdom appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Terry Wardle is a pastor, speaker, and author or Some Kind of Crazy:An Unforgettable Story of Profound Brokenness and Breathtaking Grace. Today, Terry shares his story of growing up in a rough family, surrendering to Christ after a wild night, and eventually breaking down under the weight of expectations. Terry eventually found healing in a psychiatric […] The post Terry Wardle and the Healing Journey appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jennifer Eikenhorst is an aspiring author and podcaster who started a ministry called Accidental Hope, whose mission is to educate, research, and offer relief from serious accidents involving fatality. Today, Jennifer shares her stories of being drawn to the Lord as a child, getting out of an abusive relationship, and the car accident that changed […] The post Jennifer Eikenhorst and An Accidental Hope appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Matt Till is a lecturer of Christian Ministry and Communications at Trinity International University in Deerfield, IL, lead pastor of Restoration Church in the Chicago suburbs, and a regular contributor to Ephesiology, an online community and podcast dedicated to the study of the early Christian movement. Today, Matt shares with us the story of finding […] The post Matt Till and Living on Mission appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Cyd and Geoff Holsclaw are Vineyard pastors in Grand Rapids, MI. Cyd is also a spiritual director and life coach, and Geoff is affiliate professor of theology at Northern Seminary. Married almost twenty years, they have two teenage boys love going on road trips together. Cyd and Geoff recently published Does God Really Like Me? Discovering […] The post Cyd & Geoff Holsclaw and the God Who Likes You appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Troy Greenwood is the Co-Founder of GraceFull Cafe & Foundation. Today, he shares the story of feeling like something was missing in his life when he seemed to have it all, moving to Uganda for 10 months, and discovering a whole new way of living with God. He and his wife, Heather, run the Gracefull […] The post Troy Greenwood and His Mid-Life Awakening appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Gisela Kreglinger is a theologian, writer, and speaker who leads people on wine pilgrimages and is the author of The Soul of Wine: Savoring the Goodness of God. Today, Gisela shares her story of growing up on winery, how that taught her about dependance on God, and learning how wine brings people together. Gisela also shares how […] The post Gisela Kreglinger and Savoring the Goodness of God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Ty Wyss is the Founder and Executive Director of Walls Down Ministry. Today, Ty shares how he discovered early that he was same-sex attracted, a place to belong in the gay community, and finding Jesus after a night of clubbing. When he finally felt God’s kindness toward him, Ty began to trust God with his […] The post Ty Wyss and the Kindness of God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Meg Calvin is a fellow podcaster, speaker, and author of I Am My Own Sanctuary. Today, Meg shares how she was called to ministry at a young age, how it took over her life, and how she learned to have a life outside of her work. Meg says she helps “spiritually attuned go-getters” like herself to […] The post Meg Calvin and Permission for Ambition appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Markus Watson is a pastor and host of Spiritual Life and Leadership podcast. Today, Markus shares the story of how he found a new life with Christ after nearly losing his career. Markus tells us the story of how he gave up his Hollywood dreams, became a pastor, and suffered through false accusations of child […] The post Markus Watson and How Suffering Transforms appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Caroline Harries is an author, podcaster, and blogger at In Due Time. She also founded the ministry Moms in the Making for women waiting through a season of infertility. Today, Caroline shares the moment when she and her husband learned they would not be able to have children naturally, the works-based faith she had to […] The post Caroline Harries and The Invitation of Hope appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Engel Jones is a podcaster and the best networker you’ve ever seen. He has to be because his podcast is all about 12 minute conversations and he’s done 2460 of them. Last year, he and his wife traveled the continental United States and Canada throughout the summer. I was privileged to sit down with Engel […] The post Engel Jones and the Power of Connection appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Laura Flanders is the Associate Lecturer and Chair of Training and Mentoring Curriculum and one of my personal mentors. Today, we talk about mentoring, what mentoring is, and how to go about it as both a mentor and a mentee. We take questions from my friends on Facebook about mentoring, and Laura reaches to her […] The post Laura Flanders and the Mentored Life appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Dave Ebert is a comedian and founder of Well Versed Comedy, and a fellow podcaster. Today, Dave shares the story of how he learned improv in professional wrestling, faced depression and suicidal thoughts, and found a new start in comedy. Dave is transparent about going through the dark seasons and we spend a few minutes […] The post Dave Ebert and A Funny Way to Overcome Depression appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Kelly Albright is a friend from long ago. We used to be coworkers and at the time, she did not know Jesus. A few months ago, she got in touch on LinkedIn and mentioned that she was now following him. Well, I couldn’t possibly miss the opportunity to learn how that happened so I invited […] The post Kelly Albright was Saved in Sin City appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Subscribe to Podcast Magazine where I’m the Category Director for Religion & Spirituality Cody Dakota Wooten is a coach, teacher, and speaker with a passion for leadership. Today, Cody shares how growing up without his father affected him, the night a coyote led him to Jesus, and why he loves helping people find their true […] The post Cody Dakota Wooten and Listening & Leading appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Sarah Geringer is a blogger, speaker and author of Transforming Your Thought Life: Christian Meditation in Focus. Today, Sarah shares how the Lord helped her overcome depression, why being a child of divorce stinks, and how she invested in her dream to become a writer. Sarah’s practice of Christian meditation using Scripture is a wonderful tool […] The post Sarah Geringer and Transforming Your Thought Life appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jeffrey Tacklind is a pastor, spiritual director, and author. Today, Jeff shares his journey from trying to be his dad to serving a congregation as Jesus intended him to. Jeff shares how he chose a small church to serve, discovered spiritual masters, and why he wrote a book on the process of transformation. We also […] The post Jeff Tacklind and The Winding Path of Transformation appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Karen Gonzalez is a native of Guatemala and is a speaker, writer and immigrant advocate. Karen works for World Relief and attended Fuller Theological Seminary, where she studied theology and missiology. Her first book is The God Who Sees: Immigrants, the Bible, and the Journey to Belong. Today, Karen shares what it is like moving […] The post Karen Gonzalez and the God Who Sees appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Steve Bremner is an author, sometime podcaster, and Supreme Galactic Emperor? We had a good laugh about that one! Today, Steve shares his journey from a conservative denomination to a charismatic one. You’ll hear his heart to see God and be inspired by his following the next right step even as it led him around […] The post Steve Bremner and God Outside the Box appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Gill Bentham is an author and journaler and a nurse for over 30 years. Today, Gill shares the story of how she found life in Christ as a young woman, how the Lord was faithful through a difficult divorce, and the redemptive role of writing in her life. Gill shares with us why she wrote […] The post Gill Bentham and Living in the Locks with the Lord appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Karl Forehand is an author, former pastor, and podcaster. Today, Karl shares the story of his deconstruction, an idea that has been bantered around a bit lately. But what is it? Deconstruction is simply the process of letting go of false beliefs about God, the world, and yourself and discovering the reality of all three. […] The post Karl Forehand and the Experience of Deconstruction appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Julie Court is an author, speaker and motivational coach. Today, Julie shares how she gave up on God after it seemed like he never came through, the friend who loved an angry girl, and how she learned to forgive. Julie has a very intimate relationship with Jesus and often talks with him and listens to […] The post Julie Court and the Power of Forgiveness appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Os Guinness is an author, speaker, and prominent social critic whose work has profoundly affected many including me. Today, Os shares the story of his rich spiritual heritage. He came to faith as a young man while reading C.S. Lewis, learned from Francis Schaeffer, and has written many books. We also discuss what a Christian […] The post Os Guinness and Carpe Diem Redeemed appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Dr. Corinne Weaver is a chiropractor helping patients get healthy through holistic methods. Today, Corinne shares the story of the bicycle accident that damaged her health seemingly permanently, how the Lord directed her to chiropractic care, and why it’s important to take care of our bodies. She also teaches us her technique for how to […] The post Dr. Corinne Weaver and Learning to Breathe appeared first on Eric Nevins.
In this bonus episode, we catch up with Steve Simms, an author, pastor, and previous guest on Halfway There. Steve’s heart for relationship with Jesus will inspire you to walk a little more closely to him, too. Steve writes books and in this conversation, we talk about his last two books, one about a Christian […] The post Steve Simms and the Joy of Early Christianity appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Joseph Agliata is an IT guy and podcaster. Today, Joe shares his story of mental illness, being close to suicide, and potentially hurting others. But his story doesn’t end there. Joe was seeking the peace of Jesus and you can see the Lord’s faithfulness to bring it to him even in a mental ward where […] The post Joseph Agliata and Finding the Peace of God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Laura Padgett is an author, dancer, and public speaker, and sometimes an elf. Today, Laura shares how she found the Lord after resisting him for years, the woman who invested deeply in her, and why she started to write stories. Laura is a passionate believer who reminds us of the power of solid mentor relationships […] The post Laura Padgett and Ambassadors of Joy appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Ryan is a Pastor at Tenth Church in Vancouver BC. He is the author of Being is Greater than Doing, and an Enneagram Coach. Today, Ryan shares how the Enneagram helped him discover and accept himself including the unique ways he contributes to the Kingdom of God. We also talk about how the spiritual practices […] The post Ryan Lui and Embracing Your Uniqueness appeared first on Eric Nevins.
If the MeToo movement has shown us anything, it’s that the problem of sexual abuse is not just something for others to handle. It’s easy to pretend that the problem belongs to Hollywood or the Roman Catholic Church. But now, Evangelicals also admit to covering up and shuffling around predators in the name of forgiveness. […] The post Mary DeMuth and The Safest Place for Sexual Abuse Survivors appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Caroline Abbott is an author, domestic violence advocate, and counselor. Today, she shares the story of how she found the Lord, walked away, and found him again. Along the way, Caroline found herself in an abusive marriage but found little help from the people who she turned to including her church. She recounts some […] The post Caroline Abbott and Coming Home to the Lord appeared first on Eric Nevins.
It’s time, my friends, to let go of some bad beliefs. This episode is a special bonus edition with Cliff Ravenscraft that will challenge you to reconsider the idea of beliefs. Cliff often says “All beliefs have consequences” but what is a belief exactly? And how do bad beliefs affect us? And, what if some of […] The post Cliff Ravenscraft and the Trash Heap of Bad Beliefs appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Hey friends! This month’s bonus episode is with Chris Copeland. Chris and his wife Joi appeared on Halfway There episode #98 back in July 2018. They had been raising support to go to Ireland as missionaries for four years at the time. Yesterday, they shared a special update that they finally reached 100 % of […] The post Bonus Episode with Chris Copeland appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jim Bowman is a missionary to people who learn orally which makes sharing the Gospel a different process than most of us in the West are used to using. Today, Jim shares the story of learning to trust God as his father because his own father was less than trustworthy (hint: he stole a diamond […] The post Jim Bowman and the Heart of the Father appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Amy Jackson is founder and director of The Perch, which provides space and skills for soul care. She is a former publisher at Christianity Today and has served in pastoral ministry. Today, Amy shares how she went from kid who didn’t think God was worth it to all in on him. Her story teaches us […] The post Amy Jackson and Trusting God with the Questions appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Wesley Ross Harris is an author and personal trainer. Today, he shares his story struggling with mental illness. Wes began to give up his identity as he joined the football team in high school. In time, the Lord began to reorient him toward others which slowly changed his perspective. Things really began to change when […] The post Wesley Ross Harris and Growing Faith and Mental Illness appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Kristen Leigh Kludt is co-creator of Field Guides for the Way and author of A Good Way Through: My Journey with God from Disappointment into Hope. Today, Kristen shares how art brought her closer to the Lord in a time that she didn’t understand what he was doing. Through her struggles with infertility she grew […] The post Kristen Kludt and the Art of Life with God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
This month’s special episode is with my friend and fellow podcaster Chris Staron. Chis is the creator and host of Truce Podcast, a show that uses journalistic tools to look inside the Christian church. Chris has made two Christian movies and talks about the filmmaking process. In this conversation, Chris explains the difficulty of making […] The post Chris Staron and Working Out the Knots appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Leonard Olivares is a podcaster, father and Christian man living for Jesus. After getting involved in gangs and drugs from a young age, Leonard saw no hope for his future but when he called out to God he realised that while he may have given up on himself, God never gave up on him. God […] The post Leonard Olivares and the Large Community of Faith appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Lisa Kohut is a faith-based counselor/psychologist. Today Lisa shares her story of learning to surrender herself to God in order to truly experience all that he is. After a dream that changed her life she decided to take both her degree and her connection to the Holy Spirit into the world to bring others closer […] The post Lisa Kohut and Clarity Through Surrender appeared first on Eric Nevins.
David Jacob serves as the missionary in residence and chair of the intercultural studies department at Trinity Bible College and Graduate School in Ellendale, ND. He is also the author of It’s Your Call: To a Missional or Missionary Life. Today, David shares his calling to the mission field, wrestling with God’s silence, and the […] The post David Jacob and Seeking After God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Deanna Won is the Founder of Keynotes to Life, international bestselling author, speaker, leadership consultant, and holistic health coach who inspires people to reach their highest potential through integrating faith and leadership principles with purposeful and healthy living. Deanna shares the story of how she overcame adversity in the Air Force Academy, cancer through holistic […] The post Deanna Won and the Confidence of Providence appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Patrick Meyers is a spiritual director, counselor, and coach. Today, Patrick shares the story of God’s kind pursuit of his life. He shares how he initially rejected the Lord’s work in his life, how God finally got a hold of him, and the process the Lord used to make Patrick dependant on him. Patrick works […] The post Patrick Meyers and the Kind Initiator appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Keith Giles is an author and previous guest on Halfway There. Today, Keith stops by to discuss his latest book, Jesus Unbound. We talk about some of the problems with an overemphasis on the Bible and how it may be keeping you from the kind of relationship with God he desires for you. Keith will […] The post June 2019 Bonus Conversation with Keith Giles appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Misty Phillip is a speaker, blogger, author, and podcaster. Today, Misty shares her story of falling in love with Jesus over and over again throughout her life. Sounds charming, right? Would be except the way God often leads us to himself is through suffering and Misty is no different. She describes the seasons of her […] The post Misty Phillip and the Counterintuitive Ways of God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Caesar Kalinowski is an author, speaker and coach. Today, Caesar shares how he discovered the gospel that really is good news for the weary. He shares the story of how he got into full time ministry, how he served an elderly neighbor, and overcoming doubt in his daily life. Caesar’s story reminds us how […] The post Caesar Kalinowski and Discipleship as Mission appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Phileena Heuertz is a founding partner of Gravity, a Center for Contemplative Activism and the author of Mindful Silence: The Heart of Christian Contemplation. Today, Phileena shares her journey from Bible belt roots to learning from some of the last century’s greatest contemplatives. The journey made her confront great suffering, the masks she was wearing, […] The post Phileena Heuertz and Christian Contemplation appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Alex Lombard is an entrepreneur and Instagram expert. Today, Alex shares the story of the people who invested in him, how he was almost pulled away from Christ, and why he dove head first into entrepreneurship. Alex shares how personal development can be dangerous and almost took him in a direction he did not want […] The post Alex Lombard and Sticking to the Truth appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Cari Jenkins is an author, spiritual director, and Executive Director of Urban Skye. Today, Cari shares how hard it was to find a mentor who listened to Jesus, her five years of undoing, and learning to sing the song of identity in Jesus. She found Jesus to be completely faithful, even accounting for her unwillingness […] The post Cari Jenkins and Who You Really Are appeared first on Eric Nevins.
In this bonus conversation, Marc Schelske talks with Eric about his journey of discovering what is really in his heart and why emotions matter. We also talk about the body and how learning to listen to our bodies is an essential skill for flourishing but somewhat neglected among Evangelicals. If you enjoyed this brief clip […] The post Bonus Conversation with Marc Schelske appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Marc Alan Schelske is a husband, dad of two, writer, speaker, hobbyist theologian, recovering fundamentalist who drinks tea & rides a motorcycle. He grew up in Ohio, but he's lived in the Northwest long enough to feel like a native. After almost 15 years in ministry, Marc's life took an unexpected turn as he came […] The post Marc Schelske and the Wisdom of Your Heart appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Michelle Shaeffer is an award-winning blogger, podcast host, international speaker, author, marketing consultant and human psychology junkie. She grew up a missionary kid in rural Alaska, became a pastor’s wife, and then the picture-perfect life fell apart…and along the way discovered that even when we walk away from God, He never gives up on us. […] The post Michelle Shaeffer and One Answered Prayer appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Cliff Ravenscraft is a motivational speaker, coach, and podcaster who taught podcasting to thousands of people. If you know Cliff, you’ve probably heard his business journey but I was curious about his spiritual journey. Today, Cliff shares how he was exposed to many streams of Christian faith as a young man, how his characteristic zeal […] The post Cliff Ravenscraft and Finding Yourself in Christ appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Idella Kercher works with women spreading the gospel overseas. Today she shares her story of God’s great provisions after the death of her child and divorce. Throughout her life God has given her everything that she needed in miraculous ways, helping her to grow and trust in him. He taught her about generosity and brought […] The post Idella Kercher and God’s Abundant Provision appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Seth is the host and conversation curator of the Can I Say This at Church Podcast. He started the podcast as a way to work out his own doubts and questions and quickly found that he was not alone in them. Today, Seth shares how his faith began to unravel after his kids were born, […] The post Seth Price and a Bigger God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Brandy Goebel is host of the Road Home to You podcast. Today she shares her story of healing and loss, humility and redemption and God’s plan through all of it. After trauma and trials, she trusted God to hold her above the waves, even if she didn’t quite know how. Those experiences put Brandy into […] The post Brandy Goebel and Running Back to You appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Millie Cline is a spiritual director for groups and individuals as well as an Enneagram trainer and consultor. Today, she shares her journey of finding her place in the world and discovering God’s steadfast love. As she advanced in her career she found herself never feeling like she was where she was meant to be. […] The post Millie Cline and Being God’s Beloved appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Mike Savage is a fellow podcaster, author, and former criminal mastermind. After being caught and sentenced to 15 years in prison he dealt with the constant certainty that his wife would leave him. Today he shares how he came to Christ and made a shocking discovery that helped him understand just how much God loves […] The post Mike Savage and God’s Great Self-Sacrificial Love appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Tricia Lott Williford is an author, speaker, and teacher. From a young age her life was set in God, but when the sudden death of her husband flipped her world upside down she had to re learn how to talk to God and put her life back together again. Today, she talks about raising two […] The post Tricia Lott Williford and How God Works in the Waiting appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Joseph Warren is the host of two podcasts, and a spiritual coach. Today, he shares how he started out a successful businessman but soon found his life spiraling until he hit rock bottom. Joseph climbed out of the pit – with the help of important people in his life – and reclaimed his faith. His honest […] The post Joseph Warren and Faith as a Team Sport appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Sharon Swing is the co-author of Listen to My Life; Maps for Recognizing and Responding to God in my Story. Today she shares how listening and life maps aided her in her own journey and how she adapted it to help others in their journeys as well. Through multiple experiences she found where she was […] The post Sharon Swing and How to Listen to Your Life appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Tom Nardone is a mailman turned house flipper, author, speaker and coach. Today he shares how he found his true calling from what he saw everyday and how economic downturn led him closer to Christ. He grew his business from a side hustle to a career by taking advantage of what God had already put […] The post Tom Nardone and Opportunity in the Ordinary appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jim Gum is the Executive Pastor at Jacob’s Well church in Kansas City and founder of Story Enneagram whose message is “You are NOT your Enneagram type.” Story Enneagram – where learning your type is just the beginning of a whole new story. Today, he shares his story of coming to Christ through Young Life, […] The post Jim Gum and Healing through Enneagram appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jeremy Myers is a podcaster and author back for his second episode here with me on Halfway There Podcast. Today we go back over what we discussed in our previous episode together and caught up on what has happened in our lives since then. From the ways non Christians sometimes show more kindness than fellow […] The post Jeremy Myers and the Experience of Faith appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Esmie Lawrence is a former Olympian, podcaster, and life coach dedicated to help women live the life they’re meant to live. Today, she shares how she came to Christ, drifted away during her training, and ultimately grew closer to him than ever before. She struggled with depression but was able to overcome it to live […] The post Esmie Lawrence and Running Her Race appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jerry Schemmel is a broadcaster for the Colorado Rockies. As a baseball fan in Denver, if it’s summer, Jerry is on my radio. Today, he shares the story of how the crash of United 232 changed his life forever. Jerry shares his thoughts as the flight lost control, redirected to Sioux City, and ultimately hit […] The post Jerry Schemmel and Christ in the Wreckage appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Michael Malcom is a pastor and executive director at Alabama Interfaith Power and Light. Today, Michael shares his calling and work in social justice issues. We have a frank conversation about race, how we are all conditioned to see things differently through our experiences, and how we can learn to listen. Michael’s stories will encourage […] The post Michael Malcom and How Knowing God Challenges Your Beliefs appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Chris Staron is a film-maker and podcaster who has one of the best shows out there that you’ve never heard. It’s called Truce and his mission is to call a truce to the culture wars. Today, Chris shares his journey of fighting for his faith in college and being financially challenged while making his movies. […] The post Chris Staron Calls a Truce on the Culture War appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Kristi Kennedy, Co-Founder/CEO of Bee Friendly Network -- she is a PhD Candidate in Medical Research, a widow by circumstance and mother to five, all are survivors of bullying and abuse. Today, she shares about fully accepting her faith and founding her company to help fix the problems she saw in the world. As she […] The post Kristi Kennedy and Love for All People appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Pheyland and Natalie Barthen are musicians, worship leaders, and evangelists. Today they share how they learned to trust God in even the most uncertain circumstances. Pheyland and Natalie reached rock bottom financially when God picked them back up and provided for them in unexpected ways. Their story will inspire you to place your trust […] The post Pheyland and Natalie Barthen Trusting God Through Uncertainty appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Daniel Gomez is a coach, author, and speaker. Today, he shares his story of coming to know God, drifting away from him during his career, then being brought back through his wife’s illness. His struggle between balancing his career with his life with his family and relationship with God is relatable to all of us […] The post Daniel Gomez and the Ride Home appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Art Costello is the creator of Expectations Therapy. Today he shares about how God led him throughout his life both through loneliness, the war in Vietnam and the loss of his wife. His unique experiences of talking with God became a vital part of his prosperity and success in his life. You will find Art’s […] The post Art Costello and Managing Expectations appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Penni Zelinkoff is a speaker, podcast host, and coach helping people overcome not feeling good enough. Today, Penni discusses discovering how she connects to God and recognizing that she was loved just as she was and is. Drifting away from the lord led her closer to him and aided her in accepting that God doesn’t […] The post Penni Zelinkoff and Releasing Not Good Enough appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Tracy Higley is a writer, serial entrepreneur, and mom with a passion for helping women become unstuck in life. Today Tracy shares stories about owning her faith, losing a child and facing the fact that she was addicted to getting things done. In a world focused on constant productivity her story resonates with us all […] The post Tracy Higley and Overcoming Overwhelm appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Aaron Walker is a life and business coach, author, and mastermind facilitator. Aaron has been successful all his life with business all over Nashville. From the outside, it appeared he had everything together. He did all the right things like going to church, reading his Bible, and praying every day. His life took a dramatic […] The post Aaron Walker from the Valley to the Mountaintop appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Tim Morris is a coach who helps people discover their unique design and live into it. Tim lives in Cleveland, OH with his wife and two daughters. He discovered that much of our theology of the human person is based on the Enlightenment rather than the Bible and is bringing back a Hebrew understanding of […] The post Bonus: Tim Morris and Why Your Heart Matters appeared first on Eric Nevins.
John Morgan is an inspirational speaker and George W. Bush impersonator. John overcame decades long fear to step into a calling as a performer. Today, John shares the devastating grip fear had on him, the wilderness fear led him to, and how the Lord led him to freedom. We also talk about listening to “nudges […] The post John Morgan and How to Overcome Fear appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jason Feffer is an evangelist for the spiritual disciplines. For over twenty years he has been helping people follow Jesus in their everyday lives with his teaching and writing. Currently, he pastors The Practice, a practice-based contemplative ministry at Willowcreek Church. Today, Jason shares how he discovered spiritual disciplines, the way disciplines have shaped him, […] The post Jason Feffer and Spiritual Disciplines for Your Journey appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Sean Douglas is an Air Force Veteran, TEDx Speaker, Master Resilience Implementer, International Radio Show Host, Business Strategist, and author. Yes, he’s really busy! Today, Sean shares how he overcame abuse and alcoholism, found Christ, and began to discovered how the Lord want to use him. Sean grew up in an guilt-laden, religious home thinking […] The post Sean Douglas from Abused to Ambitious appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Thomas Umstattd is the author of Courtship in Crisis and the host of the Creative Funding Show. He works with authors to help them sell more books. Thomas is one of the most articulate people I know and the thoughtful way he engages his faith will make you to think differently, too. Today, Thomas shares […] The post Thomas Umstattd Jr. and Untwisting the Gospel appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Evan Money is a coach and author who marries his wife all over again every year. Today, Evan shares why he marries his wife every year, the spiritual benefits of constant wedding planning, and how it inspires others. Evan is a high energy guy living his life to the fullest potential. He shares why he […] The post Evan Money Loves Getting Married and Other Joys appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Vicki Proffit is the executive director of Sarah’s Home which serves girls rescued from sex trafficking. Today, Vicki lets us into her sweet relationship with the Lord through periods of waiting, finding direction, and miraculous provision. Vicki shares her concern to finish her life well in serving the Lord and the experiences that bring her […] The post Vicki Proffit and The Encouragement of God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Michael Woodward is the founder of jumbleTHINK and B-Side, husband and father. Today, Michael shares how the Lord led him into pastoral ministry, how seeing the best and worst of the church changed his perspective, and why he started a podcast. His trust in God has grown through business struggles and seeing the dark […] The post Michael Woodward and Living a Significant Story appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Anna Scheller is a wife of 36 years, mom of 7, black belt and business owner. Today, Anna shares her story of learning to trust God through anxiety, losing money in business, and dealing with abuse of her children. Anna stands out as an example of how the Lord uses such difficult times to refine […] The post Anna Scheller and Yielding to Grace on the Way appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Alex Vasquez is an inspiring Christian who encourages others to be entrepreneurs. He owns a media company, ALEXVMEDIA, helping people get more online traffic for their business. Alex shares the choices that changed the course of his life including giving his life to Christ, repenting and turning his heart back to his wife, and deciding […] The post Alex Vasquez and Learning to Live in Abundance appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Mary DeMuth is the author of thirty-six books. But it’s the story behind why she started writing and how the Lord used the process to heal her that will fascinate you. Mary shares her story of sexual abuse as a child, her chaotic home, and knowing nothing of God beyond swear words. When she found […] The post Mary DeMuth and Her Avenue of Healing appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Grace Ji-Sun Kim is Associate Professor of Theology at Earlham School of Religion and author of 15 books and an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA). Her family found community in church after emigrating to Canada where she began to have some of her deep questions answered. Grace’s questions eventually led her to study […] The post Grace Ji-Sun Kim and Healing Our Broken Humanity appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Suzanne Stabile is an internationally recognized Enneagram master, teacher, and author. Today, Suzanne shares her story of finding the Enneagram, how she studied it for years without teaching, and answers your questions. Suzanne grew up being exposed to many spiritual practices and that shows in her openness to them. Suzanne explains exactly what the Enneagram […] The post Suzanne Stabile Shares How the Enneagram Helps Relationships appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Tony Weedor is a regional director with Advancing Native Mission sending people back to their home countries with the Gospel. Today, Tony shares how he found Christ, what it cost him, and how God is using him now. Tony grew up in a Muslim family in Liberia and describes for us the division and turmoil […] The post Tony Weedor and the Cost of the Gospel appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Marie White is an author, Tedx speaker, and YouTuber. Today she shares the story of how the most difficult time in her life became the catalyst for her work as an author. Marie takes us into the moment when she discovered her child was missing, how she cried out to God, and the intimacy she […] The post Marie White and How God Turns Tragedy into Trust appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Craig Greenfield is the founder and director of Alongsiders International and author including The Urban Halo and Subversive Jesus: An Adventure in Justice, Mercy, and Faithfulness in a Broken World (Amazon affiliate link). Craig grew up in a home of generous hospitality which shaped his view of what it means to follow Jesus. Instead […] The post Craig Greenfield and Good News for the Poor appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Tracy Winchell is the host of the Reboots podcast focusing on turnarounds and rebounds in life. Tracy knows all about rebounding and today she shares how God went from the fringes of her life to the center. The journey took her through a career in television, a tremendous amount of grief, and finding a mission […] The post Tracy Winchell and the Value of Starting Over appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Aaron Niequist is a worship leader and author of The Eternal Current: How a Practice-Based Faith Can Save Us from Drowning (Amazon affiliate link). Today, Aaron shares how he stumbled into an historic and liturgical faith. When he realized he no longer believed some of the songs he was using to lead worship, he knew […] The post Aaron Niequist and Swimming in The Eternal Current appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Michael Kingsbury is a comedic storyteller in Vermont who recently became a Christian. The journey he took to faith is fascinating and will entertain you. Michael always knew he wanted to be a comedian as a young man and eventually attended a branch of the acclaimed Second City in Cleveland, Ohio. He was an atheist […] The post Michael Kingsbury and The Story that Never Ends appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Chris & Joi Copeland are called to be missionaries to Ireland. Today Chris and Joi share why Ireland needs to hear the Gospel again and how you can help them go and share it. The call to go came at an unexpected time in an unexpected way. Joi valued stability but wondered aloud if they […] The post Chris & Joi Copeland Say When God Calls You Go appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Coleen Sharp is the host of the Theology Gals Podcast. Today, Coleen shares her story of how suffering revealed her firm foundation. She grew up in the church and never remembers a time without faith. But she did have questions and they led her deeper into the Bible and theology. Coleen shares the ways being […] The post Coleen Sharp and Building a Firm Foundation appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Dan & Lindsay McKenzie like to say they are “full-time adventurers” and today they share their adventure. Both Dan and Lindsay grew up in Colorado Springs, Colorado in the church, explored a bit during college but ultimately returned to their faith. Their stories play off one another to weave one beautiful story. But as with […] The post Dan & Lindsay McKenzie are Living a Big Adventure Together appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Edith Leland is the only 97 year old I know with a YouTube channel. She may also have the most intimate friendship with God you have ever heard. Today, Edith shares the story of many miracles she has experienced in her life. Edith insists that she is merely an ordinary woman who loves the Lord […] The post Edith Leland and Intimate Friendship with God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
John Schlitt is a soloist and lead singer of Petra and one of my heroes. Today, John shares his story from rock star to cocaine addict to Christian rock icon. As he tells his story it’s clear that he is made for music. He joined a band the day after graduating college and lived the […] The post John Schlitt is a Rock Star Redeemed appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Bryan Wolfmueller is a Lutheran pastor of Hope Lutheran in Aurora, Colorado. Bryan has a remarkable love for theology that is infectious and will make you want to study. Today, Bryan shares the stories of the theological misunderstanding that led him to rebel against God for a time, his denominational world tour in search of […] The post Bryan Wolfmueller and the Joy of Theology appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Kaeley Triller is the co-founder of Hands Across the Aisle Women’s Coalition. Today, she shares her difficult moments that revealed God’s kindness toward her and why she joined forces with women from different backgrounds. The unlikely partnership was formed when she took an unpopular stand against a new policy in Washington State regarding restrooms. We […] The post Kaeley Triller is Reaching Across the Aisle for Truth and Love appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Billy Berglund is the Middle School Director at my church and has been a tremendous influence on my own children. Today, Billy shares the people, events, and heartbreaks that shaped him. The people who spoke into Billy’s life stand out as he shares the stories of youth pastors, Christian rappers, and doctors willing to tweak […] The post Billy Berglund and Trusting God in Uncertain Times appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Mischelle Saunders-Gottsch is the founder and host of Altered Stories Ministry, a new Christian Women’s Internet Radio talk show to be launched in Overland Park, Kansas. Wherever she goes, Mischelle is a leader. Today, she shares how she learned to embrace her leadership skills and how God used it to give her a vision. Her […] The post Mischelle Saunders-Gottsch Shares God Altered Stories appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Amos Smith is a progressive pastor and contemplative author. Today, he shares the stories from his life that reveal how he became a mystic, the practices, and the resources that he uses to draw near to God. Amos is passionate about the practice of centering prayer which is an ancient tradition that trains your mind […] The post Amos Smith Shares Ancient Practices for Present Day Christians appeared first on Eric Nevins.
“It’s time,” I said into the phone with a confidence that surprised even me. “I know,” she whispered. Thirteen years ago I started a job that I only expected to hold for 2 or 3 or maybe 4 years at the longest. Everyday I went to work in those thirteen years I held two things […] The post Why I Quit My Job appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Mark Gregory Karris is an ordained pastor, licensed marriage and family therapist, speaker, musician, adjunct professor, and all around biophilic. He is the author of Season of Heartbreak: Healing for the Heart, Brain, and Soul and most recently Divine Echoes: Reconciling Prayer with the Uncontrolling Love of God which we talk about today. Mark shares […] The post Mark Karris says Stop Being Superstitious and Put Your Faith into Action appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Sean McCoy is the host of the Come to the Table Podcast and quickly becoming one of my favorite people. His show is about listening to people with different perspectives he does it well. Sean shares the story of how he grew from agnostic to finding wisdom in Ecclesiastes. We talk about why being […] The post Sean McCoy Invites You to Come to the Table appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jim Barnard is the campus pastor at LifeGate Church in Denver, Colorado. Jim shares the story of learning to deal with grief and loss, gathering community, and finding hope in the middle of suffering. Throughout his journey, the communities around Jim have shaped his heart by encouraging him to be hopeful and deal honestly with […] The post Jim Barnard Finds Hope in Suffering through Community appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Friends, new episodes of Halfway There are on the way. This week we dip into the archives and find a gem. Dan Rudman is an evangelist who works on campuses, prisons, and around the world to spread the Gospel. He shares how God called him to this life through circumstances that looked like failure. Please […] The post Replay Episode: Dan Rudman and Ripples of the Gospel appeared first on Eric Nevins.
I hope you had a wonderful Resurrection Day! No new episode this week but go back through the archives to find some great conversations: J. Parker of Hot, Holy, & Humorous Jeremy Myers of OneVerse Podcast Tim Morris of Design Discovery See you next week! The post Happy Resurrection Day! appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Alexander shares the story of how he ended up at Gordon College and the unique way the program is changing financial culture. The post Alexander Lowry’s Journey in Faith and Finance appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Ellen Rosenberger is a mom, missionary, and author who has a passion for helping churches serve their missionaries well. Her experience as a missionary kid was positive and she headed back to the mission field after college where she met her husband. But the expectations of others and some “relationship drama” led to depression. Ellen […] The post Ellen Rosenberger and What Being a Missionary is Really Like appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jeremy Myers is a blogger, author, and podcaster at RedeemingGod.com. Jeremy shares how he moved from megachurch pastor wannabe through abandonment and depression to find life in Jesus anew. That period of spiritual darkness stripped away many beliefs, friends, and practices that Jeremy was putting trust in until he was free. Finally, Jeremy found that […] The post Jeremy Myers and How God’s Faithfulness Shattered His Religion appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Mark Waltz is a coach, speaker, and pastor who helps “broken people be connected to God’s unconditional love, his hope, and his healing.” Today, he shares the story of how he got there. Mark shares the stories of dealing with shame through trying to be perfect, the moment he vented his anger at God, and […] The post Mark Waltz and Radical Acceptance in Relationship appeared first on Eric Nevins.
J. Parker is a Christian sex author and blogger at Hot, Holy, & Humorous and today she shares the story that led her there. J. grew up a pastor’s kid who went her own way as a young adult, including with sexuality. The baggage she took into marriage caused some difficult years and J. talks […] The post J. Parker and How the Gospel Applies to Sex appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Hi Friends, This week, if you were looking for a great story this week, let me recommend to you episode #37 with Mark Casson. Mark shared that today is the anniversary of his release from prison. He shares the story of how he came to Christ and pleaded guilty, grew while in prison, and stepped […] The post Join the Halfway There Conversation appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Tim Morris is a professional coach called to empower visionary leaders to turn their ideas into a movement. He has developed a program called Design Discovery that is “a framework to know the superpowers, tools they uniquely use, environment they come alive, the specific people they are called to serve, and the fruit they […] The post Tim Morris and How Your Heart’s Desire Unlocks Your Purpose appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Rob Decker is a personal trainer who has been radically changed by God. Today, Rob shares the moment when he jumped out a window and the tender words the Lord spoke to him in the hospital that built his faith again. His story is one of radical transformation from a hard drinking, drug abusing […] The post Rob Decker Discovers God’s Tenderness for Himself appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Teresa Blaes is the host of the Unresolved Life podcast and explores life’s most difficult questions. Today, Teresa shares the serious events that shaped her to be a deeper questioner of God and everything she encounters. She details her journey through skepticism, painful moments, and the gentle leading of the Lord. When you hear some […] The post Teresa Blaes Asks About All the Anomalies appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Tonya Jewell Blessing shared her story with Halfway There on episode #36 last year. Not long ago she reached out to me to say that she wanted to share an amazing encounter she had with a snake just before coming back to the United States for a visit. Today, she shares that story and her […] The post Tonya Jewel Blessing Shares the Snake Bite Story appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Phil Gauthier is the host of the God Watch Podcast and has become a good friend. Today he shares his story of coming to Christ after doing drugs all night on a lakeshore, learning the character of God, and starting his own podcast. Phil is a true entrepreneur who has his own plumbing business in […] The post Phil Gauthier Dives into the Story God is Creating appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Ken L. Roberts is a former pastor and church planter turned author and life coach. Today he shares the story of how God led him to the sweet spot of his life. The story winds through the most challenging moments in his life including hitting a spiritual wall while serving as a pastor and the […] The post Ken L. Roberts and How Hard Times Shape You for the Better appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Nephtali Matta is the ministry coordinator of Koinania house, a ministry that helps men after they get out of prison. I first met him in a seminary class at Denver Seminary. Nephtali was the guy who seemed to have it all together with a bright future in ministry. Today he shares the story of discovering […] The post Nephtali Matta God Brings Redemption and Restoration appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Ronda Nelson is an advocate for the power of the grace of God. Her story is the perfect example of the reason for Christmas. While most of us will never experience the dramatic fall that Ronda shares today, we all need to know that God sent his son for us because he loves us. In […] The post Ronda Nelson and the Gift of Grace appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Mike Elder is an old friend from back in the day and a gifted conversationalist. Today, he shares the story of the legacy of faith he inherited, the unexpected way he learned about grace firsthand, and what he hopes to pass on to his family. You will hear his struggle with a calling and how […] The post Mike Elder and the Legacy of Faith appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Henry describes himself as a business guy and a recent author of One: Unfolding God’s Eternal Purpose from House to House (Amazon affiliate link). He even invented a folding bicycle. His passion today is the oneness of the body of Christ and he raises good questions about why many churches operate as they do. We spend […] The post Henry Hon and the Oneness Body of Christ appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Dr. Douglas Groothuis is a professor of philosophy at Denver Seminary and author of 13 books including his latest Walking Through Twilight: A Wife’s Illness–A Philosopher’s Lament (Amazon affiliate link). Today, he shares why he wrote the book and why Christians need to recover an understanding of lament. Dr. Groothuis shares about how to deal […] The post Douglas Groothuis and Walking Through Twilight appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Today, J.D. shares the incredible story of an unpublished manuscript by prominent early 20th century missionary Roland Allen and how it came to him for publication 80 years after it was written. The post J.D. Payne Shares the Uncommon Influence of Roland Allen appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Gunnar is the co-host of the Unchurching Podcast with former guest Richard Jacobson. Today, he shares the story of grace in his life through the church. In fact, every story Gunnar shares with us is about the people who have made an impact on his life by listening to God, praying for him, and living […] The post Gunnar Falk and Grace Extended in Community appeared first on Eric Nevins.
John Swanger is a wonderful storyteller whose experience with God has to be heard to be believed. He describes his life before Christ as bank robber, prisoner, lead singer in a band, and eventually drug dealer and bouncer at a strip club. His life was wild but one couple who shared the Gospel with him […] The post John Swanger Shares Light in Dark Places appeared first on Eric Nevins.
This episode of Halfway There is being published on the 500th anniversary of the start of the Protestant Reformation, an event that profoundly shaped history and the experience many of us with God today. Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses to the door of the church in Wittenburg and changed the course of history. This […] The post Who Influenced Your Spiritual Journey Most? appeared first on Eric Nevins.
When Phil asked me if I wanted to record a podcast with him I jumped at the chance because we have so much in common. We are both fascinated by the experience of God’s people as they interact with him and set out in our own ways to share it. Phil has become a friend […] The post When Podcasts Collide – Phil Gauthier and Eric Nevins appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Matt Rhodes holds a master of divinity from Fuller Seminary and is a certified spiritual director. He loves to find ways to integrate his two biggest passions: creativity and spiritual formation. Matt recently partnered with author Jan Johnson to create an online course called Meeting God in Scripture: A Hands-On Guide to Scripture Meditation. […] The post Matt Rhodes Blends Spiritual Formation and Creativity appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Rob Burns is a pastor in Detroit at Detroit Chinese Alliance Church and has also served as a missionary in the Balkans. Today, Rob shares his story of his calling into cross-cultural ministry both overseas and in the United States. Rob and I go way back to his seminary days. At the time, I was […] The post Rob Burns and Crossing Cultures appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Sarah Koontz is a passionate storyteller who enjoys using illustrations to communicate deep spiritual truths. Sarah writes to inspire women of all ages to explore the beauty of God's design at SarahKoontz.com. Sarah lives on 13-acres in South Dakota with her husband, two daughters and a rowdy flock of 30 chickens. She revels in their […] The post Sarah Koontz is Changing the World One Person at a Time appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Rodney Pennington is Vice President for Mobilization with OMF International. He has served as a pastor in Kansas, church planter in Toronto and Thailand, and mobilizer in U.S. for the unreached peoples of East Asia. He is a husband and father of four kids. Today we talk about his journey from a kid who gave […] The post Rodney Pennington Shares His Mountain Tops, Rebellion, and Mission appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jimmy Jones is a youth worker to underserved children in Denver and Sheridan, CO. Today, Jimmy shares his heart and calling to serve those children. He traces his story from being one of those kids in the Five Points neighborhood of Denver, being drawn to the Gospel, giving his life to Christ at camp, and […] The post Jimmy Jones and the Value of Giving a Little Time (and Cookies) appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Shane Blackshear is the host of two podcasts, Seminary Dropout and On Ramp. He is a former church planter and pastor who moved into secular work when he realized the job was done, and eventually started a blog and a podcast. He explains how he came up with the name Seminary Dropout, the amazing people […] The post Shane Blackshear of Seminary Dropout Talks Faith, Naivete, and Doubt appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Richard Jacobson of Unchurching shared the story about how unchurching became a theme in his life way back in episode 15. Now he’s creating an Unchurching comic book “to let Christians know they don’t have to go to church to be the church.” You can be part of it by joining the Kickstarter campaign to […] The post Support Richard Jacobson’s Unchurching Comic Book on Kickstarter appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Doug shares how God revealed his goodness to him once again, the emotional work it took to understand evil from God's perspective, and how God led him to his current position in ministry. The post Replay: Doug Hazen on God’s Extravagant Love appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Halfway There is on summer hiatus but not without great content! This week is a replay of episode #34 with Quentin Banks who shared his story of serving jail time, finding and experiencing the love of Jesus in a miraculous way, a suicide attempt, and how he began to trust God even while he had […] The post Replay: Quentin Banks on Trusting God without All the Answers appeared first on Eric Nevins.
On episode #60 of Halfway There we are trying something new: a podswap! This episode originally appeared on The Godwatch Podcast as episode #20 but the host of that show, Phil Gauthier, was gracious enough to propose a swap of interviews and the winner is you because this conversation Phil has with Jason Kane is […] The post From Death to Life with God Watch Podcast’s Phil Gauthier and Jason Kane appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Tammy Helfrich is a coach, speaker, writer, and podcaster who shares her growing trust in God. Her podcast called Right Where You Are is an encouraging listen that should be added to your podcast rotation. Just jump over there and subscribe right now. Tammy shares stories that all seem to have one theme: trusting God […] The post Tammy Helfrich is Trust Falling with God appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Billy Hallowell is a journalist who has appeared in places like the Washington Post, the Huffington Post, Fox News, and worked at TheBlaze.com for several years. Now, he is the senior editor at Faithwire.com. His most recent book Fault Line is about the cultural forces that shape our thinking and how to respond to them. […] The post Billy Hallowell is Building Cultural Bridges appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Today’s guest is Michael T. Cooper, president and CEO of International Needs, an organization whose vision is to “transform lives and change communities by helping Christians serve both God and neighbor within their own countries.” He shares the story of how he came to Christ at a student event, the ministry that God led him […] The post Michael T. Cooper and The International Call appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Rebecca Lemke is a 21 year-old housewife, mom, and author about her experiences in what’s known as “Purity Culture.” We talk about how the strict legalism of some people around her almost overshadowed the grace preached at her own church, how God brought the right people into her life to give her a better understanding, […] The post Rebecca Lemke Talks Purity, Legalism, and Finding Grace appeared first on Eric Nevins.
In today’s short episode, I share my review of a book that changed how I think about engaging the culture. The book was A Free People’s Suicide by Os Guinness. Have fun celebrating independence and freedom! And think about how you can promote each in the coming year. The post Happy Independence Day! appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Ever since I first read Richard Foster’s book called Prayer and learned that there were many different ways to pray and connect with God and not just the intercessory approach my evangelical church practiced, I’ve thought that it’s valuable to learn about those other methods. Today’s guest is Rich Lewis who blogs teaches about centering […] The post Rich Lewis Says Centering Prayer Changes You appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Mike Sares is a pastor and author at Denver’s Scum of the Earth church. Today, he shares how he became the founding pastor of Scum, the unique ways God has spoken to him, and why risk and art are so important to the church, even today. This is an episode you won’t want to miss. […] The post Mike Sares and Water, Spirit, and Scum appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Trevor Kapralos is a nurse in the Washington DC area. I met him through another Halfway There guest (and good friend) Rob Karch. That’s appropriate because if there’s a theme in Trevor’s life it’s the power of Christian community for living this life of faith together. Trevor the power of Christian community in the following […] The post Trevor Kapralos and the Power of Christian Community appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Paul Sohn is an author, public speaker, and coach who works with millennials to answer life’s biggest questions. He recently founded Qara, an organization dedicated to providing resources for those in the formative adult years, the 20s. His book, Quarter-Life Calling: Pursuing Your God-Given Purpose in Your Twenties, helps guide young people through confusion into […] The post Paul Sohn and Finding Your God-Given Purpose appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Happy Memorial Day, my friends! This is one of those holidays that I always think of fondly because (a) it’s the unofficial start of summer and I usually smoke some sort of meat, (b) my grandmother traces the widespread adoption of this holiday to our family (naturally!) so why not enjoy it, and finally, (c) […] The post Happy Memorial Day! appeared first on Eric Nevins.
In this betweenisode, we talk about the amazing transformation of King Nebuchadnezzar in the book of Daniel. You’ve heard the Sunday School stories but did you know he acknowledged God as the true sovereign of the universe? That story doesn’t get shared as often but it’s one we can learn from. Listen above or in […] The post The Testimony of a King (Daniel 4) appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Welcome to Halfway There’s 50th episode! When I started this show last year, I hoped but did not know if it would become something that people would listen to and enjoy. The stories were compelling and there was enough depth in the experience of these ordinary Christian to make at least the first set publishable. […] The post What I Learned from Interviewing 50 Ordinary Christians appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Mike is the gracious husband of Jan Costas who shared her story with us in two parts here and here. In today’s episode, we learn hear his story, why he went on the Camino, and how he learned to trust God in a whole new way on the trail. Stories Mike shared with us: How […] The post Step by Step on the Camino Part 3 with Mike Costas appeared first on Eric Nevins.
This episode is a continuation of our conversation with Jan Costas. Jan Costas is one of the sweetest and courageous people I know. She and her husband Mike took the trip of a lifetime last year that really changed them and their relationship when they did the Camino de Santiago, which is an ancient pilgrimage. […] The post Step by Step on the Camino with Jan Costas Part 2 appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jan Costas is one of the sweetest and courageous people I know. She and her husband Mike took the trip of a lifetime last year that really changed them and their relationship when they did the Camino de Santiago, which is an ancient pilgrimage. Jan learned a number of significant lessons on the trail and […] The post Step by Step on the Camino Part 1 with Jan Costas appeared first on Eric Nevins.
This week’s super short episode brings Resurrection Day greetings from me to you and a quick preview of the story that finishes out season 3 of Halfway There. The post Happy Resurrection Day appeared first on Eric Nevins.
VJ and his wife run a business club whose motto is “to shape the values of business” and has 900 members. He wants to bring the principles in the Bible to bear on business in his country where 0.01% are Christians. “The church does not reach the influential in the society,” he says, so VJ […] The post Don’t Despise Small Beginnings with VJ appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Steve Simms serves a Salvation Army church in Nashville, TN at Berry Street where they hold a different kind of service than any you’ve probably ever experienced. In today’s episode, Steve shares with us how he came to faith by becoming agnostic, the difference between a faith that is dead and one that is alive, […] The post Steve Simms and the Joy of Letting Jesus Lead appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Sarah is from Muscatine, Iowa, the nose of the midwest (just listen, it’ll make sense). Her family has a long tradition of faith which is a fascinating story which she shares with us including the story of how her grandfather found new life in Christ at a Billy Graham crusade. You can tell the Spirit […] The post Sarah Ehambe and Faith as an Action appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Moses Ehambe is a professional basketball player and a considers himself a missionary “doing God’s work with the talents” he’s received from him. Moses grew up in Arlington, TX, whose parents emigrated from Congo and serves as a pastor in the local church. His family was always at church and Moses was the worship band’s […] The post Moses Ehambe and Trusting God in Real Life appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Hugh Brandt works to “engage city leaders to help them live out their calling for the well-being of their city” with a part of CRU called Cities Project. Today he shares the journey that took him from missionary to missional. Hugh was probably always destined to be a missionary. His mother, who sacrificed her own […] The post Hugh Brandt and the Well-Being of the City appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Dan Rudman is an evangelist who works on campuses, prisons, and around the world to spread the Gospel. He shares how God called him to this life through circumstances that looked like failure. The post Dan Rudman and Ripples of the Gospel appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Dr. Joe O'Tool is a chiropractor in Des Moines, Iowa who is using his skills to help the most vulnerable in society. Today, he shares how God led him to a radical decision to surrender profits in service to a mission. The post Dr. Joe O’Tool is Creating a Culture of Care appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Tim Voss taught physical education for 22 years at Trinity International University. Today he shares the story of how God called him to teaching, led him to Trinity after developing a program at Moody Bible Institute, and saw him through the most difficult moments of his life. The post Tim Voss is on a Playful and Fantastic Adventure appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jill May shares how she went from struggling mom and pastor's wife to Season 1 winner of NBC's Strong, a reality show that paired ordinary women with trainers and set them in competition with one another. Winning a reality show is very cool. But the story of God's leading her there? Now that's awesome. The post Jill May and Wrestling Truth and Reality appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Mark Casson of Metanoia Prison Ministries shares how he found the Lord in prison while being tried for his crime. He shares the story of how how he pleaded guilty and the ways that God honored that brave choice, how he learned to fellowship with believers of all stripes, and how God used his experience […] The post Mark Casson and The Clay’s Perspective appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Today, Tonya Jewel Blessing shares how she learned to love the mess and serve with a joyful heart. It wasn’t always easy and we talk about the long process God used to prepare her for life in rural South Africa. But the process was full of moments that inspired her to trust just a little […] The post Tonya Jewel Blessing and the Servants Who See the Miracles appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Today’s episode features author of Jesus Untangled: Crucifying Our Politics to Pledge Allegiance to the Lamb, Keith Giles (Amazon affiliate link which means if you buy from this link Amazon sends a little my way). How integrated should the Kingdom of God and the leaders of a nation be? The question may seem strange to […] The post Jesus Untangled Author Keith Giles and Separating Church from State appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Quentin Banks met Jesus in the St. Louis County jail. That’s just the beginning of his story. He is one of my favorite people ever to share on Halfway There because of the powerful work God has done in his life. Quentin is the definition of a man seeking after God’s heart while still wrestling […] The post Quentin Banks is Free in Christ Forever appeared first on Eric Nevins.
What have I learned after asking over 25 people about their life with God? Trust in God is learned sometimes the hard way. Today we look at how this experience of learning to trust God over a long period of time is common, even in Scripture. I show through the Abraham’s story that he learned […] The post Trust in God is Learned (Sometimes the Hard Way) appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Celebrate the New Year with these fresh start stories about how God changed the lives of three past guests of Halfway There. Many were happy to see 2016 go and a new year begin. Admittedly, the year was a strange one in many ways between a vicious U.S. election cycle featuring unpopular candidates, Trump’s win […] The post New Beginnings: Three Conversion Stories from the Archives appeared first on Eric Nevins.
In our family Christmas lasts for a week so it’s okay to add one more reflection after the official day. Today is the last of our Advent series and the focus is on love. Don Owsley and I talk about love and Simeon. Then, we finished up our series on imaginative prayer in the Nativity […] The post Advent Reflections: The Good News of Love appeared first on Eric Nevins.
On today's episode Don Owsley and I reflect on the joy of Simeon at seeing Jesus for the first time. Of all the people who worshiped God because of the newborn Jesus, Simeon reaches furthest back to the founding promise God made to Abraham. Finally, everything Israel existed for had come to fruition. The post Advent Reflections: At Long Last Joy appeared first on Eric Nevins.
On today's episode we reflect on the peace of God and explore Mary's experience. The post Advent Reflections: Peace for the Waiting appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Advent is a season of waiting, expectation, and most of all hope. Today, we take a break from the usual format to explore those themes with Don Owsley and talk about the life of Simeon (Luke 2:22-35). We also spend some time in imaginative prayer to help us experience the hope from the perspective of […] The post advent reflections: hope for the waiting ones appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Today, Doug shares how God revealed his goodness to Doug once again, the emotional work it took to understand evil from God's perspective, and how God led him to his current position in ministry. The post Doug Hazen and Waiting Until He Speaks to Your Soul Part 2 appeared first on Eric Nevins.
It's easy - and right - to be thankful for the good things in our lives. And it's good to remember the hard things and that God was faithful to rescue us when we needed him. The post Bonus episode: Happy Thanksgiving! appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Doug Hazen serves as the National Director of Mobilization Prayer at World Venture. His job is to pray that God would bring people who want to share the Gospel around the world. Today, he shares the story of how God has led him to this position. The stories that Doug shares of the big events […] The post Doug Hazen and Waiting Until He Speaks to Your Soul Part 1 appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Zac Medeiros shares his story of growing up in a Christian family in Quebec, struggling through depression, and finding life in God’s Word again. In Quebec, evangelical Christians represent less than one percent of the population. Zac and I talked about how that’s different from the United States where there may multiple churches of varying […] The post Zac Medeiros and the Puzzle that Christianity Was appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Jesse Bean shares why an experience of God's grace is more powerful than all the knowledge in the world. When all his role models fell apart, Jesse gave up all but his faith that God existed and lived "without God at all." The post Jesse Bean and Grace Greater Than Effort appeared first on Eric Nevins.
What would you do if God asked you to do something strange for awhile? Not a small step out of your comfort zone but a huge leap from it? Today’s guest is a man of action who God has used to bring joy to many children through Joy International. Jeff Brodsky founded the organization in […] The post Jeff Brodsky is Barefoot Until the Last Child is Rescued appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Today’s conversation is with Amy E. Patton who shares how she learned to see God in her story. While she was a believer, it took a special community accepting her faults and all to help her understand the God could accept her too. Amy began to believe that God could use her, too, which led […] The post Amy Patton Say God is in Your Story appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Have you ever been pushed to your limit? What if you got there by helping others in a way you felt called by God to do? Was he far away and distant. Or, close as you learned he was taking care of you deeply? Today’s guest is Lynn Byk who shares the experience of going […] The post Lynn Byk and Working Together for Our Good appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Today my guest is Rob Karch. Rob has served, with his wife and family, as a global worker sharing Jesus with people in Quebec for twelve years. In today’s conversation, he shares the story of how he got there, why he fell in love with God through reading Scripture with emotion, and the most recent […] The post Rob Karch and Embracing God in the Unexpected appeared first on Eric Nevins.
In today's episode, Carol shares the story of her conversion at a Billy Graham crusade in Des Moines, Iowa, her call to the mission field, and stories from her ministries including what made her question whether she was in the right place. The post Carol Wilson and Following the Lord’s Leading appeared first on Eric Nevins.
How does a Michigan farm boy turn into a travelling minister who builds up the church around the globe? Today's story is proof that you just never know how God is going to use the events in your life, even the ones you don't think are for your good at the time. The post Dell McDonald Says God Can Use Even You appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Today my guest is Laura Flanders who serves as the director of the training and mentoring program at Denver Seminary. This was a special conversation to me because Laura served as my training center director during my time at DenSem. Her commitment to honesty in spiritual formation shaped me and planted the seeds of many […] The post Laura Flanders Shares Jesus and Her Bleeding Heart appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Matthew Rennels shares his story of overcoming bipolar and anxiety. He grew up in a Lutheran family but, like many, gave up any connection to God in college. But then while working as a newspaper reporter in the Bible Belt, Matthew worked with a Christian. At first, he was was wary but then one day […] The post Matthew Rennels and Overcoming Fear appeared first on Eric Nevins.
My guest today is Richard Jacobson who is a former pastor turned artist, animator, and now author. His book Unchurching: Christianity without Churchianity is written for the millions of Christians who are leaving organized churches. They aren’t alone and in Richard they may have found a leader. You may expect that someone writing against the […] The post Richard Jacobson and Unchurching appeared first on Eric Nevins.
This episode is a “betweenisode” to get us through to Season 2 of the show.
Season 1 was great as we heard from 13 different people sharing their stories about God in their life and what it’s really like to walk with Him. Over 1600 downloads later, we’re ready to move into the next season.
In this episode, I share about what to do when you are mad at God. It’s a moment that we all experience at some point. How we choose to respond is critical.
We have three choices:
- Run away and reject faith altogether
- Redouble our efforts to please and impress God hoping to get better results
- Remain in the tension and take our issue directly to Him
I share from the book of Habakkuk that deciding to press into the tension by wrestling with God, waiting for Him to respond, and worshiping is the best choice. Habakkuk’s example is a good one to follow.
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Suppose for just a moment that you came home from a long day at work. You're exhausted and just want to sit down. You collect the mail and look through it. Mostly junk but one piece sticks out. It is a notice that a package too valuable to be left when you're not here awaits you at the Post Office. All you have to do is pick it up and the package is yours.
That moment between knowledge and possession of the package is wild. The package is there for the taking but not yet fully yours. Waiting can be excruciating. Now imagine living most of your life in that moment.
It's my pleasure to introduce you to Ed Squire. Ed shares his testimony with me and described the long period of time when he was one foot in, one foot out with the Lord. He was a believer and knew that God loved him but he struggled constantly with living in His love. He knew the package was his but took his time picking it up.
You'll hear him struggle with God and share with an intensity that few can. We also have a pretty deep theological conversation about what the Gospel really means for our acceptance with God.
Don't miss this one.
Great quotes from Ed:
The Gospel and its preachers make an incredible promise.
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I have a love relationship with Jesus Christ and a love relationship with my Father.
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With our Heavenly Father, we are always in good standing with Him.
Did you enjoy hearing Ed's story? If so, be sure to stop by iTunes and subscribe. While you're there leave a review which helps our visibility in the rankings.
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Without a burning bush, how do you know God is directing you? Today, my guest and I discuss this question.
Andy McClure has held a number of interesting positions including working on air at a local radio station, public address announcer, pastor, and managing a ReStore for Habitat for Humanity. I invited him to be on the show after we met at a Habitat conference. His story will be a helpful one.
God doesn’t always speak in the burning bush. He’ll say something very quietly through someone else and you just nod and say that’s it.
God’s providence is all over Andy’s life. His childhood was difficult due to parents who were separated leaving him with no father figure. God provided one for him in a pastor who just happened to have kids the same age living down the street.
As he grew up, Andy made friends with another pastor who mentored him in the early years of his faith. When he felt called to move to Colorado, God provided housing, funding, and a church in miraculous ways. Listen to hear his full story.
Great quotes from our conversation:
It comes down to one simple issue: relationship.
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It’s amazing how God will take some of those pains, and those hurts, and those brokenness issues and now they become your greatest asset.
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In broadcast I was sharing headline news now all I’m doing is sharing the Good News. It’s a similar job and the only question is what story I’m going to tell.
Did you enjoy hearing Andy's story of the Lord’s providence in his life?
If so, be sure to stop by iTunes and subscribe. While you're there leave a review which helps our visibility in the rankings.
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I loved interviewing today’s guest. You will hear a story of one woman’s life with God that proves peace really does come through trusting God in the hardest times. Jane Grifasi relates her story of struggling with cancer, a wayward husband, and learning to love God with such a pure heart that I know you will be encouraged by hearing it.
In 2014, Jane was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer which had spread through her body. She knew something was wrong and saw 11 doctors before she had a diagnosis. Her relief at the diagnosis surprised her doctors.
“There was a lot of trouble before I came to Christ,” Jane says. She grew up in a Lutheran church but left and got married. Her marriage faltered and they divorced after seven years. During this time a friend invited Jane to her church. She and her ex-husband both came to the Lord, they remarried and had a family.
I’ve had a wonderful, amazing, adventure-filled life.
Our conversation became very personal as Jane described her last five years when marital issues cropped up again. Listen as she describes her husband’s decision to move to the Philippines without her and hear the way God worked through the process from anger to grieving to action. God’s miraculous intervention inspired her to keep going.
Jane stepped into eternity on May 1, 2016. Every faith she expressed in this interview is now sight.
Did Jane’s story bless you in some way?
If so, be sure to stop by iTunes and subscribe. While you're there leave a review which helps our visibility in the rankings.
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Doug grew up a military kid moving often as so many do. A Christian camp was where he found life and the “light of Christ.” At home he had plenty of love and acceptance but did not have a supportive Christian community and so found a constant dichotomy between his life at camp and the one at the college fraternity.
Eventually, he moved to Colorado from Michigan. Longing for something more, Doug kept returning to camp to get recharged but still did not have authentic community outside.
Doug grew up volunteering and once in Colorado he put this value to work with foster children. It was through this commitment that he became part of a real Christian community and also met his wife.
Shortly before he married Doug went to an event by Marked Men for Christ which changed how he deals with life’s issues and living in the world. Again, solid, Christ-centered friendships grew out of the experience.
He can take a wretch like me and move me from steeped in the world to be led by the Spirit.
Books mentioned by Doug (affiliate links)
- Vanishing Grace: What Ever Happened to the Good News? by Philip Yancey
- What’s So Amazing About Grace? by Philip Yancey
Right now God is showing Doug the following three words:
- Strength
- Courage
- Perseverance
Where I used to run to the world to rise to the occasion now I run to Him.
Did you connect with Doug’s story? If so, be sure to stop by iTunes and subscribe. While you're there leave a review which helps our visibility in the rankings.
The post Doug Eisenbrandt and Jesus Found in the Long Run appeared first on Eric Nevins.
Greg Boyd – Racism: Why Whites Have Trouble “Getting It”
Today’s guest is a classic suburban Christian kid with a passion for others. Jordan Vargo grew up with parents who loved the Lord. She was involved in a church youth group and wrestled with the disparity between her life there and at school.
Jordan knew early in life that she wanted to be involved in mission so as soon as she could Jordan began to explore opportunities in college. When her mission trip to India was derailed by a typhoon she visited Vietnam with family friends instead. There fell in love with the people and the tangible faith of those who have little else.
Her pastor saw that her ministry would benefit from more training so Jordan applied to Denver Seminary seeking a foundation in Scripture. The experience put words to her feelings for the marginalized and prepared her for a lifetime of service.
I asked Jordan about specific passages of Scripture that influenced her as she pursued her studies. She cited the Jubilee of Leviticus 25:8-13 and Paul’s heart for the Lord as examples of how she grew in understanding of the call to justice.
How can churches and sincere believers make a difference for justice in the world? Jordan explained her ideas how believers can work toward the Kingdom of God relationally, economically, professionally, and politically.
I need to listen to the Gospel first.
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My heartbeat for it might be super strong but I think every Christian should have a heartbeat for some sort of justice.
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Seek to live your life extraordinary. Don’t settle for an ordinary life. You have God on your side.
Books Jordan recommended (Amazon affiliate links):
- Generous Justice by Timothy Keller
- The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander
- Biblical Ethics and Social Change by Stephen Mott
- Justice in Love by Nicholas Wolterstorf
Did you enjoy hearing Jordan's story of learning to serve the Lord?
If so, be sure to stop by iTunes and subscribe. While you're there leave a review which helps our visibility in the rankings.
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Jonathan Monsour grew up in a Roman Catholic family and rejected the church when his parents divorced. He came to Christ in middle school when his older sister signed him up for summer camp without asking him. It turned out to be a huge moment in his life because there he first heard about a relationship with Jesus leading him to give his life to Christ. You’ll hear us talk at some length about how long this process took and why.
Jon describes his early relationship with the Lord as “one-sided” and derivative of his sister’s faith so that he had to learn to grasp the Lord on his own when she went to college.
But then, Jon’s life changed again when one of his best friends died suddenly causing him to question God’s goodness and shaped his soul in ways he never expected. The result was a new calling to full-time ministry.
Great quotes from our talk:
God is always going to work in our lives. It took me awhile to release that to Him.
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If I were in his position [and passed away] would my funeral be a couple of friends and family or would there people who I served?
You can reach Jon on Instagram or Facebook.
Did you enjoy hearing Jon's story of growing with the Lord?
If so, be sure to stop by iTunes and subscribe. While you're there leave a review which helps our visibility in the rankings.
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Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in his wonderful face and the things of Earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and grace.
Following Jesus is never a one time event. Today’s guest describes her journey as one of learning to surrender not just once but as a practice of her discipleship.
Sue Muckley is a mother, grandmother, and mentor to young people. She shared how the Lord showed her that He wants her heart through a move, a vision of how she approaches life with her husband, and the one role she plays.
Great quotes from the interview:
Run fast back to Jesus as soon as you know you’ve taken your eyes off of him.
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God is greater than anything we can face but it’s when we believe the lie that we don’t need God that our focus is not on the Lord.
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The holy of holies is in my heart.
Books mentioned by Sue (Amazon affiliate links):
- The Last Addiction by Sharon Hersh
- The Calvary Road by Roy Hession
- Isaiah 43:1-5
I totally biffed a quote from Tim Keller when Sue and I were talking. Here’s the actual more eloquent quote:
The gospel is this: We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dare d believe, yet at the very same time we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope. Tim Keller in The Meaning of Marriage
Did you enjoy hearing Sue’s story of learning to live with the Lord? If so, be sure to stop by iTunes and subscribe. While you’re there leave a review which helps our visibility in the rankings.
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Is it possible to hear directly from God? A few weeks ago I shared with you a conversation with Iain Bradbeer about how he learned to interact with God to powerful results. I met today’s guest at the same time and he was generous enough to share the story of how he learned to hear and trust God.
Todd Johnson is a pastor today but even getting to that role was a series of events of saying yes to leadership opportunities one at a time. He was the church kid who grew up loving the youth group at church and never remembers a time without the Lord.
As you listen to Todd describe diving into leadership roles you’ll hear the joy in his voice and the peace of allowing events to develop while he trusts God.
How does God direct him? That, Todd says, is the most dramatic part of his journey. And the stories he shares about the way God taught him to listen will inspire you, too.
Great quotes:
God is directing us all the time.
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The problem with not having a category for actual leading is I can come up with this great idea and I’ll think it’s the Lord when it’s really coming from this pain that I’m not being a good enough Christian.
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He must be leading me. Let’s find out what…
Book mentioned by Todd (Amazon affiliate link):
- Walking with God by John Eldredge
Did you enjoy Todd's story? If so, be sure to stop by iTunes and subscribe. While you're there leave a review which helps our visibility in the rankings.
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Shari Malott is a mother, teacher, and artist who is married to last week’s guest Chuck Malott. This marks the first time I’ve interviewed a husband and wife about their journey. This beautiful couple have been through the journey together but responded in very different ways.
Shari grew up with no connection to the church but she knew something was missing. As a girl she would go sit in a nearby Catholic church and enjoy the peace she found there. She did have a Bible at home and started reading it at the beginning like you would any other book.
During her junior year of high school she noticed that one of the popular girls was nicer than usual. On December 17, 1971 she asked that girl why she was being so nice and in study hall that day she met Jesus.
She joined a church in Denver where she met her husband Chuck.
The 80’s, Shari says, were a blur and her spirituality was lived out as a mother raising her children.
I Fight Everyday for Hope When asked about darker times in her journey, Shari freely admits that she sometimes feels like she’s drowning. Her son, Ryan, struggles with alcohol and drug addictions. Shari’s expectation was that God would bring him out of this struggle but she’s still waiting.
“When I’m drowning, God is my air,” she says and she returns to Lamentations 3 often.
We think we trust God for our children when they go out the door but we really don’t know what we’re saying. We think, oh, because they are going to come back well. We really trust God when they don’t come back well. That’s trusting God.
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If the circumstances don’t change, God is still the same and you still hang on to him.
Books recommended by Shari (Amazon affiliate links):
- Faith Unraveled by Rachel Held Evans
- Traveling Mercies by Anne Lamott
- Lamentations 3:1-24
Did you enjoy Shari’s story? If so, be sure to stop by iTunes and subscribe. While you’re there leave a review which helps our visibility in the rankings.
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Chuck grew up in a home so troubled that at his first opportunity he bought a one-way ticket to Hawaii where he lived under a makeshift shelter he fashioned from a washed up boat.
When he finally returned home he met Christ through a pastor who just wouldn’t give up. As he returned to his seat after giving his life to Christ a woman met him with tears streaming down her face. She saw him weeks ago at a 7-11 and though he was “the most distraught human being” she had ever seen. So she prayed for him. God had answered her prayers.
His life began to change as he realized going to church on Friday night and partying on Saturday night did not mix well. “It was through the Word and the Holy Spirit,” Chuck says that he came out of his wild lifestyle. His passion about the early years of walking with Christ can be heard in his voice as he describes praying with people, ministering on Colfax, and encouraging his friends.
As Chuck shares in this interview, he learned to trust the Lord through the hard times including financial and relational loss. He learned that God can handle even when our hearts rage against Him, “kicking and screaming,” as Chuck says.
Chuck finds comfort in the Psalms as he relates to David, a man who was after God’s own heart but was still flawed and sinful. Psalm 13:1-6 resonates with Chuck as he wrestles with God through life.
Great quote:
Are you trusting me because I’ll do something or because of who I am?
Chuck’s parting advice:
Test God to the utmost and be authentic. Be real. At the end of the day, find out who God is.
Books Chuck loves (Amazon affiliate links):
- Brennan Manning – Ragamuffin Gospel
- Brennan Manning – Ruthless Trust (seriously, you should see his copy…it’s well loved!)
Did you enjoy Chuck’s story? If so, be sure to stop by iTunes and subscribe. While you’re there leave a review which helps our visibility in the rankings.
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How do you know when it’s God speaking to you? And what if you misinterpret what you heard? These are critical questions of discernment as you experience life with God.
My friend Bill Brown spoke to me about learning to discern the Lord’s leading in his life. It’s one of those elusive concepts ingrained in church language but is not often taught as a matter of course in discipleship.
That’s why it’s so valuable to hear Bill’s story of praying, waiting, and responding to what God seems to be doing in his life. He generously shared about the time he probably waited too long and what he learned from the experience.
Bill is a godly man and I know his story will encourage you.
Quotes from our conversation:
“It’s in the training not the trying.” Dallas Willard
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“I think we’ll develop throughout eternity.”
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“The most valuable thing that came out of this was a greater sensitivity to that genuine peace.”
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“Who can hold you better than God?”
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“Inputs make a difference.”
That last quote is great because Bill and I have a running conversation about the influence of the media and how Christians can be savvy media consumers. He’s so serious about the topic that he created and taught a class for the middle school where he teaches.
Books Bill recommended (Amazon affiliate links):
- Richard Foster
- Brother Lawrence
- Oswald Chambers – My Utmost for His Highest
- Francis Schaeffer
- Francis Chan – Erasing Hell
- Dallas Williard – Divine Conspiracy
- Marva Dawn
Last Words of Wisdom from Bill:
He is intimate and personal. And grand and majestic. He hates sin more than we like to believe. But absolutely loves and forgives us more than we find it easy to believe. What more can you say? He is the meaning of life.
Did you enjoy Bill’s story? If so, be sure to stop by iTunes and subscribe. While you’re there leave a review which helps our visibility in the rankings.
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