During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology, the second in a series on God's severe mercy - which is kind of like saying His divine discipline ALWAYS takes place under a canopy of grace - we're swimming in the deep end of a colorful, albeit very concise book in the Old Testament called Zephaniah.
His overarching theme regarding how our crooked hearts will consistently lead us off cliffs without God's compassionate intervention reminds me of something one of my favorite authors, Brennan Manning, wrote: "If we gloss over our selfishness and rationalize the evil within us, we can only pretend we are sinners and therefore only pretend we have been forgiven."
Come hang out on the porch with Alli, Dr. Howard, and me.
Hello, friend. Thanks for joining me.
Today's episode finds us in the pit with Joseph. Sold into slavery by his own brothers and sent to Egypt with nothing. Nothing except a dream given to him by God. No matter how dire his circumstances, nothing could take away the call of God on his life. And nothing can take away the call of God on yours, my friend.
In this episode, Christine Caine challenges us to examine how we walk with God daily-not just on Sundays. Drawing from Scripture, Christine explains that walking with God means keeping cadence with Him, following His lead, and staying in step with His truth and love. True humility is not low self-esteem-it's having a right view of yourself in light of who God is. We can't fulfill our purpose in our own strength; we need to stay humble, stay curious, and trust God's leadership. If you're feeling the pressure to have it all figured out, this episode will remind you that God is in charge-and walking with Him is the key to peace and purpose.
Get your free Episode Reflection Guide at ChristineCaine.com/Podcast.
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Christine Caine is a speaker, activist, and best-selling author. She and her husband, Nick, founded the anti-human trafficking organization The A21 Campaign. They also founded Propel Women, an initiative that is dedicated to coming alongside women all over the globe to activate their God-given purpose. Each week she brings you a Gospel-centered message filled with Biblical truths that will equip and empower you to step into the life God has for you.
Writing doesn't need to be fancy, it just needs to be honest. In this episode, we talk about what happens when you pour out your story - not to impress, but to connect. Bob, Kim, and Lisa remind us that God isn't looking for polished voices, just willing ones. Whether you're in the middle of motherhood or the middle of a manuscript, there's something here for you.
Connect with Lisa: instagram.com/lisadharper/
A Jesus Shaped Life: https://www.lisaharper.org/a-jesus-shaped-life
Connect with Bob: instagram.com/bobgoff
Connect with Kim: instagram.com/kimberly.stuart.writes
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Learn more about Writing Coaching with Bob and Kim: bobgoff.com/writing-coaching
Come join Bob and Kim at the Oaks for a Writer's Workshop. Wherever you are in the writing process they are ready to help you figure out your next steps! Visit bobgoff.com/events to learn more.
During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology - the first in a series of three - we're going to delve into some pretty spicy subject matter in the colorful Old Testament book of Zephaniah regarding the overt rebellion of God's people.
We're going to examine how our spiritual ancestors effectively thumbed their noses at God's holiness, turned their backs on His kindness, and went out and did whatever nasty, selfish stuff their crooked little hearts desired.
Plus, they did so despite His gracious warning that there would be serious consequences for their wicked behavior. My guess is things are about to get a little hot up in here so you might want to bring an iced latte to the porch today!
Have you ever longed for a different relationship with the Bible? Wondered if you actually need to read the whole Bible? Felt stuck in Leviticus or a long list of names? This episode is for you!
Join Ruth and her pastor husband, Troy, for a conversation about how to read your Bible, where to start, and how the Old Testament and New Testament are connected. Don't miss this episode and Ruth & Troy's encouragement!
Resources Mentioned
M'Cheyne Reading Plan on ESV Bible app
The Bible Recap
The Bible Project
In this episode, host Christine Caine welcomes author, speaker, theologian and frequent friend of the Life & Leadership podcast Lisa Harper for a rich and deeply personal conversation on why theology matters. They unpack Lisa's new book, A Jesus-Shaped Life, and discuss how sound doctrine is meant to lead us not to pride-but to kindness, humility, and deeper intimacy with Jesus. This episode is both intellectually rich and incredibly down-to-earth, showing that everyone is a theologian, and theology is best lived, not just learned.
SHOW NOTES:
Why Lisa Went Back to Seminary in Her 50s
Lisa shares how her desire to model lifelong learning for her daughter-and to deepen her relationship with God-led her to pursue a doctorate in theology.
The True Heart of Theology
They explore how theology isn't meant to be exclusive or intimidating, but rather relational and transformational-leading us closer to the kindness and love of God.
A Jesus-Shaped Life: More Than a Book Title
Christine and Lisa dive into what it really means to be shaped by Jesus-how doctrine, when rightly understood, leads to greater kindness, humility, and worship.
The Hypostatic Union (Made Simple)
Lisa breaks down complex theological concepts like the hypostatic union in simple, accessible ways-and explains why it matters for our everyday lives.
Theology for Every Believer
The conversation ends with a powerful encouragement: theology is for every believer-not just the "academics"-because knowing and loving God is our highest calling.
Follow Lisa Harper, @LisaDHarper
Follow Christine @ChristineCaine
Get your FREE reflection guide for journaling prompts or use it as a discussion guide with your community at PropelWomen.org/Podcast.
Subscribe now so you don't miss an episode, and don't forget to leave a review! See you next week on the Propel Women Life & Leadership Podcast.
You can connect with us further at PropelWomen.org or on Instagram, Facebook, X, and Threads @PropelWomen. We can't wait to hang out with you in your car, during your workout, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
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Propel Women is an initiative of Equip & Empower Ministries founded by Christine Caine.
We EMPOWER women with biblical wisdom and encouragement, EQUIP women with practical training and education, and MOBILIZE women by providing hands-on leadership opportunities.
No matter where a woman has influence - in an office, in her community, at home with her family, or in ministry - Propel is driven by a calling to equip and mobilize women to become effective co-laborers with Christ and make a difference within their unique spheres of influence.
In this episode, Christine Caine unpacks the powerful truth that wisdom is not something we arrive at-it's a lifelong pursuit. Drawing from the story of Jesus in the temple (Luke 2), Christine reveals how even Jesus had to grow in wisdom and stature. Christine challenges us to resist complacency, stay curious, and continually seek God's wisdom in every area of life. If you've ever felt stagnant in your faith, this episode will inspire you to keep growing and trust that God is not finished with you yet.
Get your free Episode Reflection Guide at ChristineCaine.com/Podcast.
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Christine Caine is a speaker, activist, and best-selling author. She and her husband, Nick, founded the anti-human trafficking organization The A21 Campaign. They also founded Propel Women, an initiative that is dedicated to coming alongside women all over the globe to activate their God-given purpose. Each week she brings you a Gospel-centered message filled with Biblical truths that will equip and empower you to step into the life God has for you.
What does it mean to pursue the dreams that God places on your heart?
In this week's episode of The High Note, Tauren is talking with his friend, worship pastor and author, Wade Joye! In this conversation they share tools to help you discover what God has placed on your heart, and how to accomplish those dreams in HIS strength. Get ready to examine the posture of your life and how it relates to seeing what only He can do in your life.
In this episode they cover:
2:06 - What is Tauren dreaming about right now and how is he putting action to it in this current season?
6:24 - Tauren talks about his experience planting a local church and processes the imperfections and offenses that come with being involved in church
12:09 - What's stopped Tauren from leaving the church after all he's walked through?
18:19 - What Tauren has learned through other people's critiques of him
23:03 - How to determine if your striving is coming from your own strength or Godly ambition
28:47 - The importance of determining what success means to you
31:33 - What Tauren's waiting season was like before he was able to step into the dreams God called him to
37:51 - Wade's fulfilling journey in building trust with God
44:04 - There's a you that you haven't met yet. What does that mean?
Follow Tauren Wells on Instagram @TaurenWells
Be sure to subscribe now on AccessMore or wherever you listen to podcasts so you don't miss an episode!
Will anything truly happen to you when you die? Or will it just be "lights out" for you? On this journey, Dr. G talks directly with Dr. Bruce Greyson, the world's leading scientific expert on near-death experiences (NDEs), about his fascinating new book that summarizes his decades of research on the subject. Email Dr. G directly by clicking HERE.
For more information on NDEs, Dr. G recommends visiting the website of the International Association for Near-Death Studies: https://www.iands.org/
He also recommends "After: A Doctor Explores What Near-Death Experiences Reveal about Life and Beyond," Dr. Greyson's brand new, much-anticipated book: https://www.amazon.com/After-Doctor-Explores-Near-Death-Experiences/dp/1250263034
Pastors John and Wayne answer questions about various subjects within the theme of change and transition. Questions like: how have you learned to grieve painful transitions more effectively? How do you navigate resistance to the change you're trying to implement? How do you rebuild after a season of a lot of change? They answer these questions and more.
Follow us on Instagram for more great leadership content: Pastor John (@johnsiebeling), Pastor Wayne (@waynefrancis), Podcast (@leadershipinblackandwhite). Leave a rating and review to give us your feedback and help the show continue to grow!
Leadership in Black and White is powered by World Vision. Learn how World Vision partners with the local church at worldvision.org/blackandwhite
Disagreements are inevitable, even if you're someone who tries getting along with everyone. On this journey, Dr. G explores what science and the Bible say about disagreements ... and about today's devastating cancel culture. As you will discover, both science and the Bible see eye to eye about how you ought to behave when you and others don't see eye to eye.
Dr. G wants to hear from you! So join the conversation with him and your fellow travelers now on his FACEBOOK PAGE. Or email Dr. G directly by clicking HERE.
PRE-ORDER DR. G's NEWEST BOOK! Believing is Seeing.
* Tyndale
* Amazon
Our good friend, Bryan Norman, hops on the Writing Room today. If you enjoy any of Bob's books, Bryan's fingerprints have been on them. Bryan is a sought after literary agent who plays numerous roles in the world of writing. Today he shares great insights on crafting a compelling book, capturing the attention of editors, building your author platform and achieving your spot on bookstore shelves.
Follow Bob: @bobgoff
Follow Kim: @kimberly.stuart.writes
John and Wayne open the new year discussing ways you can make 2023 your best year yet. They both dive into personal things they're doing this year as well as some practical strategies you can implement in your own life.
For more information about the Make Room Whiteboard Sessions discussed in this episode, visit makeroomleaders.com.
Follow us on Instagram for more great leadership content: Pastor John (@johnsiebeling), Pastor Wayne (@waynefrancis), Podcast (@leadershipinblackandwhite). Order your copy of John and Wayne's book, God and Race, at godandrace.com.
My good pal Henry joins me on today's special episode! His new book, "Trust", launched about a week ago and I wanted to shout it from the rooftops.
Dr. Henry Cloud is an acclaimed leadership expert, psychologist, and best-selling author. He draws on his extensive experience in clinical psychology and leadership development, to impart practical and effective advice.
Follow Bob: @bobgoff
Follow Henry: @drhenrycloudoffical
Purchase his newest book "Trust" at trustbydrhenrycloud.com
Does anything truly happen to us on the other side of the grave? Many people claim they've been there and back -- have seen what death is really like. On this journey, Dr. G explains and analyzes the latest scientific research on the subject, complete with firsthand reports from people whose lives were radically changed because of what they believe they saw when they allegedly died and came back to life.
Email Dr. G directly by clicking HERE.
For more information on the subject, Dr. G recommends visiting the website of the International Association for Near-Death Studies: https://www.iands.org/
He also recommends "After: A Doctor Explores What Near-Death Experiences Reveal about Life and Beyond," the brand new, much-anticipated book by Dr. Bruce Greyson: https://www.amazon.com/After-Doctor-Explores-Near-Death-Experiences/dp/1250263034
Facing opposition is inevitable so when it comes what is your response? In today's episode, Natalie & Charlotte dive into the power of our actions when facing opposition and the truth behind our response. If you enjoyed this podcast, make sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode!
Adrienne Camp's new book "As For Me" is available now at LifeWay.com/asforme.