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In this episode of Back Porch Theology, Allison Allen and Lisa Harper kick off the first episode of 2026 and an exciting new series, No Wasted Words, as we begin walking through the whole Bible together this year. Along the way, we address common misconceptions about Scripture and share our passion for exploring its overarching themes with curiosity, joy, and reverence. Pull up a chair and join us as we step into a new year and a yearlong journey through God's Word, opening Scripture together with honesty, curiosity, and hopeful expectation.
Hi, friend. Happy New Year!
If you're resolving to pray more this year - and shouldn't we all? - this episode is for you.
There is a remarkable story in Joshua chapter 10. While in battle, the Hebrews needed more daylight. Joshua asks God to stop the sun from setting, and God does. Verse 14 says, "God took orders from a human voice." How's that for a reminder that God listens to our prayers?
On today's episode of the Back Porch, Lisa and Allison share New Year's Eve memories, talk about gratitude, and reflect on the hope that comes from remembering God's faithfulness. They explore the crossing of the Jordan in Joshua and the practice of creating "Ebenezer" stones to mark God's work. Join us on the porch as we look back with gratitude and forward with hope, we're so glad you're here!
Every day we choose who and what to listen to. There are hundreds of channels on our televisions, millions of people sharing their opinions online. But only one voice will guide you to the Promised Land. Choose to trust the voice of God.
Jonathan Pokluda sits down with Levi and Jennie for a conversation that's equal parts laugh-out-loud and deeply grounding. JP unpacks his 16-day hospital saga-how it started with a leg not working right, turned into a diagnosis of transverse myelitis, and somehow included an unforgettable "marriage moment" that belongs in the Hall of Fame.
From spiritual warfare to being aware without being afraid, and what JP learned while researching Your Story Has a Villain-including the country club moment in Aspen that made everything feel painfully real. Plus: Halloween, discernment, and even the surprisingly practical question of how to use AI as a tool without letting it use you-followed by a closing story about a cold plunge that... never actually happened.
Connect with us on social!
JP: @jpokluda
Levi: @levilusko
Jennie: @jennielusko
Fresh Life Church: @freshlife
[Links]
Your Story Has a Villain: https://bit.ly/4ai2rsH
Becoming Something Podcast: https://bit.ly/4rZROB6
Get the 5 Gallon Bucket: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHY
Get the Lusketeer Sticker: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHY
Subscribe for more exclusive content: https://levilusko.com/hitl-subscribe
Time Stamps
0:01:43 - Six-toed cats and the weird grace of being "different"
0:03:24 - JP's 16-day hospital scare and the symptoms that changed everything
0:16:54 - Real marriage: praying fire for a bowel movement
0:23:20 - Why JP wrote Your Story Has a Villain
0:28:49 - The Aspen Country Club story that made spiritual warfare unmistakable
0:44:06 - Loving God "on purpose," AI guardrails, and using tools wisely
In this special episode from the Back Porch Theology Christmas Tour, Lisa, Allison, and Dr. Howard come together for a warm, hope-filled conversation about faith, waiting, and the meaning of Christmas. Through laughter, Scripture, and personal stories, they explore biblical waiting, from Zechariah and Elizabeth to Simeon and Anna, reminding us that waiting is never wasted and is always part of God's story. Wrap up in a blanket, grab a warm drink, and pull up a chair ~ it's Christmas on the porch.
As 2025 comes to an end, Ruth takes time to answer listener questions in this special Q&A episode.
Scripture referenced:
Genesis 3
Resources mentioned:
Lamplighter Rare Collector's Series
Foundations by Ruth and Troy Simons
"I've always just wanted to be accepted". I think many of us can relate to that sentiment. Max Lucado certainly could. Much of his life was spent feeling "on the outside" and wanting to be accepted, which led to a series of unhealthy behaviors just to try and find acceptance. Today, he vulnerably unpacks where this belief system started in his childhood, how it led him down a very unhealthy path, and how it still creeps into his life, even though he's been walking with Jesus for so many years. This is one of my favorite on-air sessions, with one of my favorite people. I know it will challenge and change you.
The Debra Fileta Counselors Network:
Book a counseling session at the Debra Fileta Counselors Network and get started on your healing journey from the inside out TODAY!
DEBRA FILETA is a Licensed Professional Counselor, national speaker, and founder of the Debra Fileta Counselors Network. She is the bestselling author of eight books including Choosing Marriage, Are You Really OK?, RESET, and Soul Care. Debra is the host of the popular podcast and nationally syndicated radio show Talk To Me where she facilitates on-air authentic counseling-style sessions with notable pastors and leaders. You may also recognize her voice from her appearances on national television and radio, including Better Together, The Kirk Cameron Show, Focus on the Family, The 700 Club, and many others. She reaches millions of people each year with the message of mental, emotional, and relational health. Connect with her on Instagram or at DebraFileta.com.
Merry Christmas, friend! I pray this season brings you joy and peace and the hope that Christ, who came as a baby, is coming again.
