Hope Cast: Recent Episodes
Living Hope Ministries
Hope Cast is a production of Living Hope Ministries. Living Hope Ministries is a non-profit, non-denominational, 501(c)3 organization whose mission is to proclaim God’s truth as we journey with those who are seeking sexual and relational wholeness through a more intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. We provide free in-person support groups, one-on-one pastoral counseling and mentoring, online support forums, and education and training for the church and community. LHM proclaims a Christ-centered, Biblical world-view of sexual expression rooted in one man and one woman in a committed, monogamous, heterosexual marriage for life. Anything less than this ideal, falls short of God’s best for humanity.
In this episode, Bonnie and Ricky dive into the topic of coping! They talk about healthy ways to cope, and how important it is to rely on God even when we are trying to cope through tough and painful things.
In this episode, Ricky and Bonnie discuss the lie that is often believed that people that "feel different" will never fit in in a community. They encourage listeners to continue to do the work it takes to find commonalities in a community of believers and to not believe that their different expression of their God-given gender means that they are not meant to belong to that gender.
Ricky and Bonnie invite Bruno to tell you a little bit about the Institute of Biblical Sexuality and the organization's first conference coming in October 2024. Listen to hear more about the speakers and more all happening during this incredible 3-day event.
You can learn more and register for the conference by going to https://biblicalsexuality.net/ibsconference
Ricky and Bonnie share their perspectives on PRIDE month by bringing attention to some interesting research, and giving some good food for thought in this timely episode.
Ricky and Bonnie discuss how sexual abuse and the trauma that comes with it shapes you as a person and how it shapes your story.
Exploring what your sexual narrative is, being aware of it, how it's shaped you, and how you can walk in God's design for sex.
What are some of the obstacles that prevent healthy discussions with our kids in regards to sex? How can we overcome the roadblocks? Ricky and Bonnie help navigate the conversation as we strive for victory in this topic.
How can we see the greater picture of relational and sexual wholeness? Ricky and Bonnie share the broader view of what this means and how seeing the scope of what this looks like will have a greater impact in growing in wholeness in Christ.
Ricky, Bruno, and Bonnie stress the important of talking with your kids about sex and a biblical and God-honoring approach. It's important for parents to teaching their children about God's design for sex and how to see it within the context of marriage.
Ricky and Bonnie shares some things you may not know about LHM. Hear some interesting things about LHM and learn about us a little better.
Loneliness can be tough especially in the holiday season. Ricky and Bonnie talk about the difficulties of loneliness in the holiday season and how being with others and having community can provide encouragement and joy in a joyful season.
How do we navigate the holiday season with our loved ones who are LGTB+? Ricky, Bonnie, and Marsha help to share insight into a very significant part of the year and help those experience a sense of love and belonging.
What are the lies told about Christianity in our day and age regarding the faith and sexuality? How can we push back against those lies and speak truth where light shines through darkness? Ricky and Bonnie talk about the lies that are commonly heard in our age and how we can speak out against them.
What are the lies told about Christianity in our day and age regarding the faith and sexuality? How can we push back against those lies and speak truth where light shines through darkness? Ricky and Bonnie talk about the lies that are commonly heard in our age and how we can speak out against them.
What happens when well-known pastors affirm LGBT+? How should we as Christians respond to their positions even when they're considered examples before flocks? Ricky and Bonnie discuss the complexity of this issue and how we should approaching this kind of affirmation from pastors.
What happens when well-known pastors affirm LGBT+? How should we as Christians respond to their positions even when they're considered examples before flocks? Ricky and Bonnie discuss the complexity of this issue and how we should approaching this kind of affirmation from pastors.
Ricky and Bonnie discuss the complexity of friendships, the questions we should ask regarding them, and how we can have a greater understanding and practice of being more faithful within friendships.
Ricky and Bonnie discuss why friendships are important, necessary, and the valuable they bring.
Godly masculinity is good and God's design for masculinity. Ricky and Bonnie dive deeper into the goodness of masculinity as illustrated in Scripture and how it brings glory to God.
Masculinity has a bigger impact on our culture than we may realize. How men are. expected to be and permitted to be affects our culture, the family, and marriages. Ricky and Bonnie talk about how these changes affect culture and how those changes permeate the shaping of our society.
Where did the idea of masculinity come from and how should it be expressed? Ricky and Bonnie talk about its origins and why it's important.
Despite all the objections to masculinity, it's important to be reminded that masculinity is God's design. And even though masculinity is impaired by fallenness, it's still points to the glory of God and the beauty of His design.
How do we learn more about the origins and overall complexity of sexual orientation? How do we navigate all the nuances to the expression of it in our modern-day time? Ricky and Bonnie provide insight that helps us have a greater grasp of sexual orientation.
Ricky and Bonnie tie together 1 Tim 1. and 1 Cor. 6 as they focus on the subject of sexuality.
Ricky and Bonnie look walk through 1 Cor. 6 discuss Paul's writing against sexual immorality.
Bonnie interviews Living Hope Ministries board member, Sue Bohlin, and discusses the mysterious nature of how God works.
Romans 1 is a passage that talks about homosexual practice in that reveals the sinfulness of man. Ricky and Bonnie navigate through this passage in way that gives greater context and understanding to why this practice arises and the answer to overcoming the transgression.
In the book of Leviticus, the practice of homosexuality is one of the earlier passages in Scripture where God clearly condemns the sin. And Though this passage can be difficult to read, Ricky and Bonnie discuss how we should navigate verses like this in Scripture and use it as a part of the greater defense of God's heart behind why it is sinful, along with the consequences it brings forth.
Ricky and Bonnie give us new information regarding a new study on the presence of same-sex attraction amongst Christian women.
Social media plays a major role in our understanding of how we view ourselves, others, and certain values that are promoted as ideals. Ricky and Bonnie share insight on the prevalence of comparisons which can produce self-hate and dissatisfaction.
Ricky and Bonnie share helpful answers and responses to the ideologies of pro-gay theology.
Theology comes in various frameworks and it's best to understand that true and proper theology must be grounded in God's Word. Ricky and Bonnie inform us on what pro-gay theology is and how it must be combated with God's Word and truth.
God's Word provides the ultimate way to life through the message of the Gospel. Jesus said "Man cannot live on bread alone, but on every word that proceeds from the mouth of God." Ricky and Bonnie share how God's Word lead to life and how His Word help us to navigate life in a fallen world.
Ricky and Bonnie discuss the importance and necessity of the discipline of self-control in regards to sexuality as a way to glorify God and properly steward the gift of sexuality that God has given us.
Ricky and Bonnie share wisdom about the broken sexuality that we see within God's design for sexuality, how that brokenness permeates throughout all of humanity, and how Christ redeems brokenness for His glory.
Ricky and Bonnie share wise knowledge on how we surrender our lives to God's good design so that His glory may be seen in our obedience.
God's command of being fruitful and multiplying is part of how we properly steward our sexuality within the covenant of marriage. Ricky and Bonnie share how we should view this mandate and how it's within God's design.
Ricky and Bonnie discuss the current affairs that are related to sexuality and the dynamic that we see in present-day culture.
In this episode of the Hopecast, Ricky and Bonnie discuss God's design for male and female and the two genders complement each other as part of God's design.
Ricky and Bonnie share the greater purpose of sexuality from God's perspective.
https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/what-gods-design-and-purpose-for-human-sexuality.html
https://www.verywellmind.com/what-happens-in-your-brain-during-orgasm-5272518
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/11/07/us/pew-research-marriage-cohabitation.html
https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2019/11/06/marriage-and-cohabitation-in-the-u-s/
Ricky and Bonnie share how sex and sexuality is God's idea and how we can approach the two idea in ways that glorify Him.
Ricky and Bonnie give wisdom and insight on the importance of God's design for sexuality and why our understanding of sexuality should be shaped by Scripture.
As the new year kicks off, Ricky and Bonnie discuss God's design for sexuality and answer pro-gay theology.
The struggle of SSA can come with loneliness and feeling isolated from others. Ricky and Bonnie help encourage those that experience the loneliness that comes with the struggle of SSA with wisdom and understanding.
How do you respond to set backs and falls? How do you align yourself back into obedience to Christ? Ricky and Bonnie share helpful insight for those who fall and how they can growing stronger through it.
What does it mean to be truly...you? How do we search for who we were made to be? Ricky and Bonnie share insight into how we should view ourselves and who we actually are based on how God has designed us.
What's the difference between intimacy and intensity in regards to relationships and attraction? Intimacy points to vulnerability and long-lasting meaning, where intensity is normally short-lived and exhilarating. Ricky and Bonnie flesh out these to ideas within relationships and provide greater practical understanding for listeners.
Ricky and Bonnie share commentary on a article about a woman transitioning and then de-transitioning. In this episode, they explore the understanding of femininity and masculinity in our day in age and why some would want to escape the worldly connotations of these ideas, yet point them to why they should embrace their gender roles with a biblical perspective.
There can be a lot of misunderstanding that goes into learning about same-sex attraction and where we should go to have better clarity on the matter? Ricky and Bonnie help clear up some misconceptions and mistaken narratives in regards to same-sex attraction.
It can sometimes be confusing to know what's truly Christian and what's seemingly Christian. Ricky and Bonnie offer wisdom that can help those use discernment in distinguishing the two in our present-day culture.
The struggle of same-sex attraction can be foreign to many, but it's necessary to be empathetic towards those who haven't overcome this type of temptation. Ricky and Bonnie share how one can relate to those with same-sex attraction and look to Christ for deliverance.
What is the transgenderism movement really about? Is it about social justice? Redefining masculinity and femininity? Or simply identity? Ricky and Bonnie help provide clarity with such ambiguity surrounding the current condition of transgenderism in the present culture.
https://thefederalist.com/2022/08/01/parents-if-you-dont-get-a-grip-on-your-kids-social-media-trans-activists-will/?inf_contact_key=4dfd8f5ce14af041fd6b5e73cf7d45357e470d92b8b75168d98a0b8cac0e9c09
What is the world saying about sexuality? How should Christians think about the sexual nature of humanity? What does the Word of God say about it? Ricky and Bonnie discuss what sex is and what it's all about.
Health Care for the affirmation of gender-identifying individuals? Ricky and Bonnie discuss the matter surrounding the subject and how to approach it with a biblical perspective.
https://openstates.org/ca/bills/20212022/SB107/
How do parents reconcile their differences concerning an LGBTQIA child, yet be peaceful and loving? Ricky and Bonnie share valuable insight surrounding the topic.
Here is some wisdom and insight that will aid you in breaking free strongholds or stagnant influences so that you can grow in closeness to Christ.
Ricky and Bonnie discuss the ever-evolving dynamic amongst gender identity, especially in regards to pronouns and how individuals should be called or referred to. Hear this week's episode of the Hopecast as they give helpful advice about responding to pronouns and neopronouns.
Ricky and Bonnie share the new views Rosario Butterfield, one of the leading voices in Christianity in regards to biblical sexuality, has taken on reparative therapy ministries.
Ricky and Bonnie share reassuring insights from a recent study providing strong evidence that ministries established to help same-sex attraction are not harmful.
Sexual Orientation Change Efforts Reduce Suicide: Correcting a False Research Narrative
https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3729353
Even Failed Therapy for Undesired Same-Sex Sexuality Results in No Harm, Finds New Study
https://cmda.org/even-failed-therapy-for-undesired-same-sex-sexuality-results-in-no-harm-finds-new-study/
Friendships are one of the many blessings of life, but they can also be complicated. Ricky and Bonnie offer encouragement for the navigation of friendships, especially in moments when reciprocation is expected.
In this episode of the Hopecast, Ricky and Bonnie discuss the 10 teachings points of God's plan for our sex and gender. Learn which points they find to be helpful and encouraging for a biblical understanding of sexuality.
What other people say about you or think about you can rule your thoughts, emotions and well-being. No matter what people say or think about you (or even what you think about yourself), what Jesus says about you is the most true. Hear Ricky and Bonnie discuss encouragement and insightful wisdom that will help you overcome the opinions of others.
Ricky and Bonnie shine light on the growing question in American culture and discuss Matt Walsh's documentary regarding the confusion along with gender identity and objective truth in today's world.
Boy and Girl; Male and Female; Men and Women - Are We Really Debating this Reality?
https://www.livehope.org/article/boy-and-girl-men-and-women/
What am I?
https://www.livehope.org/article/what-am-i/
Ricky and Bonnie offer helpful tips to encourage listeners when facing temptation, surmounting sinful patterns, and guarding ourselves against the flesh.
How should we continue to respect and honor our parents as adults? Ricky and Bonnie share the dynamics of honoring parents as adults and how we should distinguish what it means to dishonor and disagree, yet still be respectful.
Pride Month is an opportunity for the gospel to be shared so much more. How can we engage and talk with people about God's design for sexuality and how Jesus can be known. Ricky and Bonnie discuss creating or even being part of opportunities for gospel conversations.
When considering the popularity of Pride Month in our culture, how should Christians navigate such acceptance and celebration in our society. Ricky and Bonnie provide wisdom for how Christians should respond to Pride Month and if it's right for Christians to celebrate it.
Can People Really Change? Can those struggling with same-sex attraction truly overcome this? Ricky and Bonnie discuss the challenges with changing, but also point to Christ as the only one who has the power to free those from those struggles.
Ricky and Bonnie shine light on a news story in India, where a surgeon attempts to perform a uterus transplant on a man.
How do we respond to the idea of condemnation? Ricky and Bonnie offer wisdom and encouragement to those who are struggling with condemnation and how identity in Christ frees those from the reality of it.
Ricky and Bonnie shine light on sex positivity in alignment with Scripture and take down some of the negative connotations concerning the subject of sex in the context of church, while preserving the purity and blessing of God's design of sex within marriage.
How should such a growing and concerning issue be addressed? In this episode, Ricky and Bonnie provide practical and biblical wisdom for church communities to address the growing issues and influence from the LGBTQIA+ community and how concerns can be answered with grace and truth.
Ricky and Bonnie are joined by Marsha Inman, the Friends and Family Director at Living Hope Ministries, to talk about the over 300 supposed genders on Fandom and how this affects people and especially a younger generation.
Ricky, Bonnie, and Bruno share some of their suggested books and authors that have been formative influences in their Christian journey and in their understanding of sexuality and culture; from books on gender to Christian disciplines to emotional healthiness, there's helpful suggestions for those who are seeking to expand their education and knowledge.
In this episode, Ricky, Bonnie, and Bruno discuss the different views of same-sex attraction in the views of ethics, beginning with the traditional views of Side A and B, then shining light on the newer views of Side X and Y. These approaches will help individuals understand the assumed solutions to those with same-sex attraction.
Florida recently passed a bill that protects the rights of parents who are deciding when their kids are allowed to learn about gender identity, indoctrination, and education. Listen to Ricky and Bonnie as they discuss the effects of this bill on children and parents, and the reality of the education system as a result of this legislation.
How should we build and view friendships and community? In a society where we're drifting further away from each other and moving into more isolated lives, how can we pursue healthy relationships, consider singles as part of our community, and center our friendships and community on Christ. Listen to Ricky and Bonnie as they discuss how we should perceive and approach friendships with healthy practice.
Wrestling with sexuality can be very challenging and discouraging, especially in a culture where all kinds of sexuality are accepted and embraced. For younger people, they need guidance, direction, and encouragement that will help equip them to know how to steward their sexuality in a biblical way. Listen to Ricky, Bruno, and Bonnie as they provide helpful insight and encouragement for young people struggling with their sexuality.
Often grandparents feel stunted on responding or loving when faced with their grandchild who is questioning or experiencing sexual feelings other than heterosexuality. How can they respond? Listen to Ricky and Bonnie as they discuss some of the dynamics that could be at play and how to best love and respond to your grandchild.
Non-Binary in more recent times has gained popularity, specially among youth. What does it mean to identify as Non-binary and how should we navigate those relationships and conversations?
Your kid is entering pre-school. They are exposed to other kids lives and their unique lifestyles. One day your child asks, why their friend has two moms or two dads. How do you respond? How would you respond? In this episode as Ricky, Bruno and Bonnie talk about ways you can navigate these difficult conversations about sexuality and relationships with your children.
Listen as we get an Insight from the writers of "Treading Boldly through a Pornographic World." Daniel Weiss and Josh Glaser offer practical and spiritual guidance for Christian parents seeking to help their teens navigate this pornographic world.
You can learn more by visiting their website: treadingboldly.com
Often there is a lot of confusion around sexuality that many parents neglect to navigate with their kids. Listen as Ricky, Bonnie and Bruno share tips on how to walk with your children in navigating biblical sexuality.
Listen to todays conversation with Ricky, Bonnie and Bruno as Bruno shares his new discoveries from his time of intensive studies on God's design for our bodies.
Listen to todays conversation with Ricky, Bonnie and Bruno as Bruno shares his new discoveries from his time of intensive studies on God's design for our bodies.
You are in for a treat this week as our very own LHM Men's participant Richard shares his story. As a Pastor secretly battling with unwanted sexual attractions that lead him to loosing everything. We get to relive the powerful work of redemption as Richard shares the valuable insight that he's gained through the process and how God has radically transformed his life.
Join us as we discuss political movement within the LGBT+ United Kingdom and how that may affect the USA.
For many men that come to our ministry, have some areas where women have really wounded them. Relationship with them seem unsafe or unreliable. Ricky and Bonnie discuss some of their own experiences and what are some good ways to seek healing.
Since we are in the season of thankfulness, there is a lot to be thankful. Join Ricky and Bonnie as they share the amazing work that God is doing through Living Hope Ministries.
It's not uncommon that fathers come to us asking how can they encourage their boys in their masculinity. Join today's podcast as Ricky and Bonnie discuss some common trends and tips on raising gender healthy boys.
For many women that come to our ministry, have some areas where men have really wounded them. Relationship with them seem unsafe or unreliable. Ricky and Bonnie discuss some of their own experiences and what are some good ways to seek healing.
Today we answer the question; "How can a same sex marriage be harmful?" Join Ricky and Bonnie's as they share their experiences and the hope and truth we find in scripture.
Listen to today's conversation as we dive into tips and things to look out for in mother and daughter relationships.
For many who identify as LGBT+, coming to church can be a very intimidating. For some members it could be intimidating also. Join Ricky and Bonnie as they invite us to explore our hearts at how we view LGBT+ individuals and how we can show redemptive love.
In western culture a common trend of more and more girls and young women are having questions about their identity and sexuality. How do we approach this conversation with love, encouragement, and hope in Christ? Join today's episode as Ricky and Bonnie discuss some possibilities as of why this is happening and how we should move forward as Christ followers.
Relationships are part of how God wired us and we all need them but sometimes it can move in directions that are not healthy. Listen in to Ricky and Bonnie's discussion the importance and role for boundaries. As we listen we will learn about some common unhealthy trends and how to place healthy boundaries to avoid them in relationships.
Responding redemptively with compassion can be difficult to navigate when someone shares about their sexuality. Listen to Ricky and Bonnie's discussion as they talk about some important things to keep in mind and how to respond.
Today you are in for treat as we get to hear from Tara who attends the women's support group. She an insight into her experience joining LHM and what she has gained through the process.
From creating online profiles to peer conversations It seems that sexual orientation is brought up more often than any other time in western society. It begs the question, where does it come from what defines it? In a culture that seeks inner-self for truth where do we draw lines and define truth? Join for today's conversation as we discuss these very questions.
Navigating relationships with LGBTQIA+ friends can be difficult. The desire to love them well while at the same time wanting to be a godly witness is honorable but how do we exactly do that? Listen to Ricky and Bonnies discussion if we should accept ones LGBT+ identity.
Commonly we can feel condemnation from what it appears our feelings. If so, why do I feel condemned if God created them. Listen to this weeks podcast to hear more from Ricky and Bonnie.
Porn use can be a difficult behavior to break. Learn from Bruno and Bonnie some of the types of porn and some useful tips on overcoming them.
Being friends with someone who has socially transitioned genders can cause some misunderstanding or difficulty in interacting. Listen to Bonnie and Ricky's conversation as they share some insightful tips and demystify some questions regarding faith and relationships.
The month of June can bring many challenges for many who experience SSA or know someone who does. Listen in for ways we can find hope during and after pride month.
additional resources:
Desist, Detrans, & Detox: Getting Your Child Out of the Gender Cult by Maria Keffler This book is not written from a Christian perspective, but it is also not hostile to Christian faith. The author encourages those who have a faith tradition in their family to pray for their children and to utilize any resources that their faith provides. The book is very much a hands-on description of how to interact with your minor child who is struggling with Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria.
God and the Transgender Debate by Andrew T. Walker This warm, faithful and careful book helps Christians understand what the Bible says about gender identity. It will help us to engage lovingly, thoughtfully and faithfully with one of the most explosive cultural discussions of our day.
Today we have our very own Marsha Inman who stands as our Friends & Family Director. Today she shares her knowledge on the hot button topic of transgenderism.
There are many stigmas and lies regarding pornography use by women. Many lies that are told to woman through pornography. How do we navigate the deceit and unrealism that is communicated? Listen in to this weeks podcast as we break apart the false claims that pornography proclaims.
I raised my child with a biblical foundation, how could he/she believe different? What did I do or not do? Listen to Ricky and Bonnie's discussion around the truths behind some of these common scenarios and some tips on navigating that relationship.
As our culture begins to celebrate the LGBT+ lifestyle how should we as christians respond? Join Ricky and Bonnie as they discuss some of the common pressures and challenges that occur during Pride Month and how we should move forward.
For this week's podcast we have the honor of talking with a Friends & Family participant Leah to share a bit about her story and how she found Living Hope Ministries.
Should I share my story? Who should I share my story too? Listen to today's conversation as we discuss the power of our stories and God's kingdom.
Navigating a dating relationship while experiencing SSA can be interesting to say the least. Join in on this conversation to hear some key points to better find wholeness in dating relationships.
As God begins to transform the hearts of those who experience same-sex attraction. How should the define their identity and sexuality? Join Ricky and Bonnie as they discuss the true identity we have in Christ.
As the LGBTQ become more celebrated and praised in our society, we are seeing a drastic growth in youth identify as LGBTQ. Why is this happening? Join Ricky and Bonnie as we navigate this topic and where does the gospel play into this.
From movies to advertising, in all platforms sex is talked about. So what about the church? Why is it common for the culture in the church to avoid the topic? Join us as we look into this trend and why we must change the narrative.
Often times after breaking up from a same-sex relationship it can be difficult to build healthy relationships with the same-sex. Today Ricky and Bonnie discuss how to act when faced with these challenges.
Many who struggle with their "Manhood" or "Womanhood" often root their insecurity from early childhood needs that weren't met. How do you meet those needs that affirm your God given identity as an adult? What are some of the challenges and how do you surpass them? Join Ricky and Bonnie for todays conversation about meeting unmet needs.
Let's Celebrate HopeCast's 100th episode! Share your experience with us and enter in a give away bonnie@livehope.org
Conversion therapy bans are becoming more and more common in countries throughout the world. Is LHM a conversion therapy and will the United States ban us? Listen in for today's podcast as we seek to find God's hope amidst many challenges.
What is going on? I gave up my sin and life is hard. Is following God always going to be hard? Listen into todays conversation to hear about the future hope that we have in Christ Jesus.
Are you feeling feeling shame or guilt from participation in sin? Join in as Ricky and Bonnie combine scripture and years of experience to answers questions like; What is different from shame and guilt? Am I a bad person because I did wrong? How to find a healthy balance of remorse?
Often when experiencing same-sex attraction it's common to feel like you're different or that you are more broken than others around you. It's to fall into a us and them mentality. Listen to this weeks podcast to hear what God says about this and how to approach it with God's redeeming power.
Is living unrestrained or without limits really good? Is God's truth; self denial and discipline our greatest good in accordance with God's design or is it contrary to his word. Listen to this week's HopeCast as we dive into God's heart and what he says in scripture.
I am choosing to align my life with scripture, what do I do? A question that we get often from those who are just starting their journey. Listen in this weeks episode as Ricky and Bonnie discuss some important practical and spiritual disciplines for aligning your life to Christ.
In this weeks episode of HopeCast we tackle many questions like, When is it wise to date or What attributes to look for in a man from the perspective of a women experiencing same-sex attraction.
As we are approaching this Christmas season it can be challenging for many. For this weeks episode we put together the highlights of previous Christmas episodes to bring you as much insight and hope for your Christmas season.
Identity is a big thing for our world and culture. Trying to figure out how someone identifies sexually can feel like a big deal, especially to a christian struggling with same-sex attraction. In this conversation we identify biblical truths as we tackle this seemingly difficult challenge.
These COVID days have caused many to experience uncertainty of their future, the instability of things once believed stable, and the pandemic's isolation and fear create tensions for which they are ill-prepared to cope. The truth is, we all are experiencing difficulties, questions, and tensions beyond our ability to cope.
However, we are not without hope. God not only knew we would be in this “unprecedented moment” but He knows what life will be like on the other side of it. Join us as we identify five needs and how to lean on Christ through them.
Learn more: https://www.livehope.org/2020/11/30/5-needs-in-difficult-times/
Ricky and Bonnie talk about why and how should we die to the dream of being with another person of the same sex.
Many parents of those who struggle with SSA often don't know how to respond or feel as if maybe they didn't respond correctly. How do we move forward? How do i talk to my Child. Listen in as the HopeCast discuss this very topic.
Is fantasy wrong? How could this be different than experiencing temptation? Listen in as Ricky & Bonnie present the truths of the gospel and see how that applies to fantasy.
Part of the process of healing is becoming outwardly focused. Listen to our discussion and learn how serving others has a part of your journey of healing.
In this episode you're in for a treat as the ladies of Living Hope Ministries talk about grief, opening communication, adapting, and much more!
Have you ever thought of serving but feel as if you're not ready? Join the discussion of when and or if you are ready to serve in the body.
When women come to LHM, they often ask if they have to be girly girl to be feminine. They feel less than as women because they are not girly. They feel like they have to learn to wear make up, get their nails done, wear dresses and often dislike these things. NONE of these things make them a woman, but it is important to ask why they avoid these things. Join in on Jen & Bonnie's conversation on biblical femininity and understanding why do women embrace a lesbian persona.
In this episode; Ricky, Bonnie and Chris discuss current trends in pornography and the unique dangers that follow. It's important as mentors and ministers to understand how people are struggling for means of effectively ministering with compassion and understanding.
Often those who have same-sex attraction can become attracted to their mentor. What should I do if that happens to me? Listen in as the HopeCast discuss the importance in mentorship and the steps that you can take if you find yourself attracted to your mentor or Friend.
Join in as the HopeCast talk about what it means to be delighted in, and how we can receive it.
As it becomes more common to be invited to a wedding celebrating two persons of the same gender, it can be difficult navigating on what you should do while still standing for what you believe. You want to show that you love these people but you disagree with their choices. What should you do? Join in as the HopeCast talk about what is the appropriate form of action.
Do one of your students struggle with their sexuality? How should you speak to them? How can you help them without pushing them away? Listen in as the HopeCast discuss the great privilege that Youth Pastors have to walk and journey with a student struggling with their sexuality and how to respond to some difficult questions.
Often pornography is associated to a man's struggle. As culture changes and pornography becomes easier to access, the numbers are staggering as more women every year visit pornographic websites. What are the unique challenges that women face that men don't? Join in as HopeCast speak truth over this topic.
What is man's faithfulness compared to God's faithfulness? Looking for others being faithful on the journey (especially those struggling with SSA) can be encouraging, but what happens if I lose heart when these people fail. Listen in as HopeCast answers this question.
Why is it that my Struggle with "SSA" can be more difficult at times than others or even come back here and there after long periods of time. What could be going on? Join in as Ricky & Bonnie talk about the importance of understanding your triggers.
You possibly are here because you struggle with sin and the reality is that we all struggle with sin, even those of us who know God and who have walked with him for a long time. We are redeemed in Christ, but we are walking this out throughout our lives. Those struggling with their sexuality often can feel like they are less than because their struggle continues over time, but the truth is that all believers struggle with sin if they are honest before the Lord and others. Join in as Ricky and Bonnie break down why and how to struggle well.
How can a single person experience intimacy in a way that glorifies God? Join us as the HopeCast dives in covering topics like meaningful relationships, sex, intimacy and intensity.
Breakups are tough no matter how they happen or with whom they take place. We explore how to respond to those in same sex relationships who have recently ended the relationship in an effort to pursue Christ.
Endurance is not something that comes naturally. It is forged on the crucible of life's difficulties. In this episode, we explore practical ways we can endure in the midst of difficulty with great hope.
Hope is often presented as wishful thinking. But hope is so much more. Guest, Sue Bohlin, joins Ricky and Bonnie in continued spirited discussion of biblical hope.
Hope is often presented as wishful thinking. But hope is so much more. Guest, Sue Bohlin, joins Ricky and Bonnie for a spirited discussion of biblical hope.
There is no doubt that we go through hard times in life. What do you do when dealing with stress or change? It's easy to run to unhealthy options like pornography to get away from the stress of life. What are some healthy options that we can do instead? This week's episode, the HopeCast discusses the choice that we all have when faced with stress.
In today's episode, the HopeCast talk about a great resource regarding to educating children about pornography and what we do if we see a bad picture (pornography). It is time that we rise up and become offensive in a sex saturated society. This is an issue facing our kids and our church. A 2018 study revealed:
- Nearly 27% of teens receive sexts.
- Around 15% are sending them.
- 57% of teens search out porn at least monthly.
- 51% of male students and 32% of female students first viewed porn before their teenage years.
- The first exposure to pornography among men is 12 years old, on average.
- 71% of teens hide online behavior from their parents.
- A 2016 study on Canadian adolescents showed that 45.3% admitted to problems in erectile dysfunction.
- 64% of Christian men and 15% of Christian women say they watch porn at least once a month.
Spiritual conversations and leading your family to worship can feel overwhelming and difficult during this time. We want to help you feel confident and know you can use this time to help build deeper connections within your family/ whoever you are with during this time and help all of you grow spiritually.
Social distancing, working from home, in-person gatherings suspended many of us are feeling ALONE and ISOLATED... How do we lean on the Lord? Listen in as the HopeCast discuss loneliness and seeking the Lord.
"Be still and Know" - Psalm 46 What does this REALLY mean?
We have been distracted and God could be bringing revival by removing distractions. Listen as the HopeCast discuss how we can use this opportunity to glorify Christ.
With current events drastically changing everyday you can't but wonder where is God in this. Is He changing how He works in the world today? Tune in as we tackle these concerns.
Notes: In today's discussion we approach the understanding that everyone must answer three questions that shape and form our lives. In order for healing and thriving in our lives we need to evaluate our hearts and ask the following questions:
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What is truth.
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What is the cost of living that truth?
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What do we want to become twenty years from now (or at the end not our lives)?
Notes: Most of Christendom often looks at the body as something bad, something to be conquered, or something to be repressed. Though there are aspects of all of these things which are true, we must remember that body is the way in which God chose to reveal His Son to each of us.
What are some of our false beliefs about the body?
What truths should we embrace about our bodies?
We live in a world where sex is considered THE definer of who we are and how we are. If we are not having it as we want it, we cannot possibly be happy. However, this belief runs counter to not only God's created intent, but the reality of how we live our lives. No one is getting everything they want or our world would be in chaos.
As Christ-followers, we are called to first submit our lives to the Lordship of Christ and find our identity, meaning and purpose in Him alone. Our sexuality, though an important aspect of our life, is but one expression of the image of God within us. It is restricted in expression to the union with another of the opposite sex and then, only within a marriage. But even then our body is not our own, it is the property of our spouse. We are therefore to be in a continual state of submission, first to the Lord and then to each other. This brings us to the concept of Sacred Sexuality - a process of entering into the divine nature that is our inheritance and allowing that divine nature to express itself in the completion of a male/female union in marriage. For those that are not married, the surrender of their sexual desires to the will of the Father is a sweet gift to God and an act of both their devotion and worship.
Don and Karen have been involved with an abuse recovery program for a number of year in their local church. In this episode they share the knowledge that they have gathered to encourage and strengthen our listeners. The path of healing is not a quick or easy journey but it is part of the redemption that Christ wants to do in your life. Join us as we learn more about healing and how that can play in our lives.
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Abuse builds anger in the survivor that is either explosive, implosive, or both. Implosive anger often masquerades as other issues. The anger can also be buried so deeply that it is not even recognized, let alone felt.
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Genuine healing is absolutely possible through
- Christ
- Forgiveness
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Truth
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The battlefield in all of this is in the mind. The battle is for truth, not for power. The truth comes from God’s Word alone.
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Abuse does not define the survivor. It is a part of his/her story and has been used by God to shape his/her for His purposes, but it is not the story.
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In God’s sovereignty, pain is never, ever without purpose.
Don and Karen have been involved with an abuse recovery program for a number of year in their local church. In this episode they share the knowledge that they have gathered to encourage and strengthen our listeners. The path of healing is not a quick or easy journey but it is part of the redemption that Christ wants to do in your life. Join us as we learn more about healing and how that can play in our lives.
What is abuse? - Abuse is all about power & control - Abuse can be anything where the victim doesn't have a say in what is happening - Physical abuse (Punching, Hitting, Slapping) - Physiological & Emotional Abuse (Words used to degrade a persons heart, soul, and mind - Spiritual Abuse (God's word is taken our of context for the purpose of control) - Sexual Abuse (Undesired touching or any form of sexual act)
Abuse is not the survivor's fault - It is the choice of the abuser and the abuser alone - It is not your fault
Abuse is a thief that steals, kills, and destroys - Loss of identity - Loss of the truth of who God is - Loss of personal worth and value
Abuse sets up roadblocks to healthy relationships and intimacy including, but not limited to: - Immorality/promiscuity - Emotional dependency (relational idolatry) - Same sex attraction
Resources: - Biblical Counseling - Wounded heart - Dan Lender - Jeremiah, Psalms, Job - Bible
Bonnie Scasta, Women's Director of Living Hope Ministries interviews Don and Karen who are the Men and Women group leaders for the Denton Satellite. Listen as they share their story of redemption and all that God has done in their lives.
In this episode the HopeCast dive into the topic of sexual brokenness from a parent's perspective and the importance to deal with it before it affects your children and your family.
Dealing with own sexual past and shame. 1. Be confessional with some you can trust (1 John 1:5-10 "walk in the light...") 2. Get support – counselor, community 3. Get educated—find out what resources are out there to help you
Questions to consider: What was your first sexual experience? What attitudes did you have about it? Do you have any sexual secrets? Were you sexually abused? Did anyone force or cohere you into any sexual acts? Do you view your body as a good thing? Do you view sexual feelings as God given and good in the right contexts? How do you view sexual arousal? What impacts these feelings?
In this episode the HopeCast discuss the human anatomy and sex and how and when should you define sexuality to your children and the importance to do so. Sexuality is a beautiful representation of God's design and creativity but in today's sex saturated world there are many twisted views. That is why It is so important that your children understand sexuality and how God designed it to be.
Notes:
- This is a conversation we have to have.
- Biblical Sexuality
- What does the bible say?
- Know what you Believe
- Deal with own sexual past
- Create an open environment where you kids can ask questions
- Share own mistakes
- Fears that may hold you back you
- Questions to consider:
Resources: - Mom, Dad, What’s sex? - Joel Fitzpatrick & Jessica Thompson - God likes sex - Dan Allender
In this episode the HopeCast talk about all that God has done through Living Hope and the many lives that have been impacted through it's mission to proclaim God's truth as we journey with those seeking sexual and relational wholeness through a more intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Tune in as they talk about the upcoming vision for the ministry.
In this weeks Episode the HopeCast discuss a recent published article titled "Transgender man gives birth to non-binary partner's baby with female sperm donor". In a everchanging world filled with so much confusion, it is important that we understand how to navigate topics about sexuality and gender from a biblical standpoint. Join in as Ricky and Bonnie attempt to tackle this controversial topic and speak biblical truths about sexuality and the constant confusion in this world.
Link to article: https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/transgender-man-gives-birth-non-21177808
Krista Macias from Nurturing the Heart of a Child interviews Ricky Chelette and discusses about what are the steps to walk with a child in a healthy gender identity.
Ricky and Bonnie talk with Hope Harris about her transformation story and experience at LHM
We apologize for the slight difference in audio quality on this episode, we ran into some technical difficulties. Please enjoy and grow from Hope's story!
Ricky, Bonnie, and Bruno share what Christmas looks like for them and the purpose of Christmas.
What would happen if your child came home for the holidays and told you that they are struggling with their sexuality or are now identifying as gay
How to get through the holidays when your gay-identifying friends/family decide not to be a part of the Holidays with you.
Join us as HopeCast discusses how we can find hope in the possible difficulties in the Holiday Season.
In this episode the HopeCast tackled the subject of Tomboy or the 'non-girly' girl and the steps to take in walking with that child in a healthy gender identity.
What is Emotional Dependency and why is it important to talk about? In many strugglers emotional dependency is battle that is fought often. In this episode we explain emotional dependency and what are the steps to navigate relationships in a way that is healthy and glorifying to Christ.
To many raising sensitive boys can be hard to navigate. In this episode we talk about raising emotionally healthy sensitive boys, and how they are different from rough and tumble boys.
More and more in a world where we have completely lost what is true, It is important that we talk about this now than ever because more teens are struggling with their sexuality. But to many people, boundaries can be foreign and completely a mystery. Boundaries are the things that help us to understand what is right or wrong and what is ethical and not. Join us as we navigate this very important topic.
How to help men and women who are struggling on their journey toward sexual and relational wholeness
What does it look like for men and women to succeed on this journey of sexual and relational wholeness?
What advice would you give men who struggle with same sex attraction when they are ready to start dating women?
This week we have a special episode of Hope Cast for you all! Richard and Marsha have been a part of Living Hope for years, and they are leaders in the DFW Friends and Family group. In this episode they speak on how to understand our friends and family who are struggling, as well as how to maintain healthy relationships with them and stay active and involved in their lives.
Many times we may want to share about our struggle but actually getting around to talk can be a difficult.
Why is it that I have prayed and prayed and prayed, and God hasn't taken this struggle away?
Hope Cast is a Production of Living Hope Ministries Find out more about Living hope at livehope.org
What it means for men to really be in community, and what it looks like to take your first steps into a community that you don't understand.
How do you have healthy same sex relationships without being attracted to the other person?
Do people who struggle with same-sex attraction, really continue to struggle with this for the remaining of their lives?
How to make our Youth Groups a safe place for people who are struggling with same-sex attraction