Trending

During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology we're going to dive deep into a miraculous, modern story that highlights how God can take what seem to be the absolute ruins of a life and restore them into a spiritual leader. Sometimes we forget that Abraham was a lunar worshipper before God tapped him to be the father of a theocracy; that Moses was guilty of homicide before God tapped him to lead His people out of captivity; that Elijah had a massive meltdown under a broom tree after witnessing God's powerful presence on Mt. Carmel; or that John the Baptist - the forerunner of our Messiah - literally doubted the divinity of Jesus when he was languishing in prison. Biblical narrative is riddled with stories about saints who lost their way, only to run headlong into divine mercy in the middle of literal and proverbial deserts. Playwright Oscar Wilde - whose reputation was much more playboy than choirboy - sure spoke the truth when he wrote,"Every Saint Has a Past and Every Sinner Has a Future." The testimony you're about to hear is a poignant antidote for shame and loneliness...it will expose ugly, insidious lies like, "I'm too dirty or too damaged to deserve true love" to the light of the Gospel where they'll shrivel up and die. Frankly, some of the most radiant believers I've ever met - certainly the most authentic and grateful Christ-followers - are the ones with the most brokenness in their backstory. In light of John's proclamation in Revelation 12 - that the enemy is defeated by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony - I believe the next forty minutes has enough tangible hope to help more than a few begin to break free from heavy emotional bondage. However, some of the subject matter we're going to cover isn't suited for little ears so if you normally listen in the car with your kiddos in the backseat, please wait until those precious punkins' aren't within earshot to pull your chair up to the porch. And when you do so, please bring a large cup of coffee, a few of your favorite snacks, and your Bible - then feel free to exhale and prop your feet up because this is a safe place to relax and lean further into the unconditional love of Jesus, no matter what your backstory is.

Our theme for today's episode is faithfulness, and to help us understand the concept of faithfulness we're looking at the life of Joseph. Joseph's story reminds us that when we trust God and respond with faith, He can bring triumph from tragedy.

In this episode, Christine Caine unpacks the powerful truth that God is the Alpha and Omega-the beginning and the end. She reminds us that everything originates with God, and He is the One who sustains all things. When life feels unstable and chaotic, we can remain hopeful knowing that Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith. No circumstance, opinion, or world event has the final say-only Jesus does. If you're struggling to release control, this message will encourage you to open your hands, surrender your situation to God, and trust that He is making all things new.

Get your free Episode Reflection Guide here.

+ + + + + 

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.

This week is Valentine's Day, so it feels appropriate to bring you an episode about love. February 14th may prompt us to show extra affection to those dearest to us, but what do we do when people are hard to love? May these words from the apostle John serve as an encouraging reminder: "Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another."

Today Bob and Kim talk shop with their friend and author, Ann Voskamp, to explore the art of writing and storytelling. They discuss the importance of connecting with readers through personal experiences, the role of humor in writing, and the journey of overcoming shyness to share one's voice. The conversation emphasizes the significance of writing as an act of love and service, encouraging listeners to embrace their stories and share them with the world.

Connect with Ann: instagram.com/annvoskamp
Check out Ann's Latest Release: annvoskamp.com/lovedtolife/

Connect with Bob: instagram.com/bobgoff

Connect with Kim: instagram.com/kimberly.stuart.writes

---

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.

We can hardly believe we've come to the end of this series called the Theology of Worship! I hope it's encouraged you as much as it's encouraged us. Sometimes I found myself white-knuckling it in order to hang onto love, joy, peace and hope during all the public discord and rancor of 2024, so it's been really lovely to start out 2025 with this deep dive into worship. It's been like an oasis, where much like the woman at the well I've encountered Living Water and have experienced renewal that I wasn't even aware my heart was yearning for until it found me. Modern theologian John Ortberg wisely said, "I need to worship because without it I lose a sense of wonder and gratitude and plod through life with blinders on." We're wrapping up this series with a super special bow because Jeremy and Adie Camp let Alli and me twist their arms and they've come back to help us seal that sense of wonder and gratitude that comes with being a fully devoted worshipper of Jesus Christ. So please grab a cup of coffee, your Bible, a journal and make sure you're wearing your comfy pants because today's going to be like a spiritual spa day for your heart. Thanks so much for pulling a chair up to the porch with us, we're glad you're here.

This week Bob connects with his old friend Mark Clark, who shares his journey from pastoring in Canada to his current role in Sacramento. They discuss Mark's transition into writing, the themes of his books, and the importance of finding joy and purpose in a disenchanted world. Mark emphasizes the significance of legacy, the need to reignite passion in life, and practical tips for cultivating joy amidst everyday challenges. The conversation is filled with insights on faith, identity, and the pursuit of a meaningful life.

Connect with Mark: instagram.com/Mark_Clark
"The Problem of Life" Releases Feb. 18: a.co/d/87iJGHy

Connect with Bob: instagram.com/bobgoff

---

Come join Bob and some of his friends for a workshop this fall! Visit bobgoff.com/events to learn more.

In this episode, Christine Caine speaks with Trudi Sayers, National Director of 24-7 Prayer Australia, pastor at Red Church, and mother of three, about her journey into ministry and leadership. Trudi shares how her non-linear path-including roles as an occupational therapist and teacher-prepared her for ministry. She discusses the transformative power of prayer in her leadership, her faith through a challenging cancer diagnosis, and her vision for igniting a culture of prayer in Australia. This episode will inspire you to embrace the ancient paths of prayer, find God's presence in all seasons, and step boldly into your unique calling.

SHOW NOTES:
A Non-Linear Path
Trudi shares her journey from occupational therapy to ministry leadership. She remarks how each career change, life experience, and personal trial prepares us for the future God has for us.

Faith Through Adversity
Diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in 2023, Trudi reflects on God's faithfulness through treatment. She shares how prayer provided peace and strength, even in moments of uncertainty and physical weakness.

The Vision for 24-7 Prayer
Trudi describes the heart behind 24-7 Prayer-to see people encounter Jesus, transform church cultures, and raise a generation grounded in prayer. She shares the growing hunger for prayer across Australia.

Empowering the Next Generation:
Trudy emphasizes the importance of teaching young people to pray in hidden places and persevere through challenges. She expresses hope for a generation equipped with intimacy with Jesus and spiritual resilience.

Follow Trudi, @trudisayers

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! 

-

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 explores the boldness of Peter and John in Acts 4, showing how their faith and courage impacted thousands, even in the face of persecution. Christine highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers and the unstoppable nature of the Church. Discover how your testimony can inspire hope, and learn why God's opinion always matters more than man's. Let this episode challenge and encourage you to speak boldly about what you've seen and heard in Jesus, and to trust that God's work in your life can transform the world around you.

Get your free Episode Reflection Guide here.

+ + + + + 

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. 

Thank you for joining me this week on The Encouraging Word podcast. The last few episodes we've been talking about the fruits of the spirit, and our topic today is kindness. In this episode I share a story from the Bible about two figures you likely know and one you may not. I can think of no better story to illustrate the lasting impact of the kindness of a friend.

During today's conversation on Back Porch Theology, the whole gang - Alli, Dr. Howard, Belle, and me - have gathered together to celebrate Christmas! We're talking all things Yule with y'all - okay, I know that was so cheesy but eggnog and fruitcake tend to activate my dorky sentimental side! And while we are going to take a stroll down memory lane today, we're also going to talk about how the miracle of the Incarnation should inform and permeate the other 364 days of our calendar. J.I. Packer explained the magnitude of Christmas like this: It is here, in the thing that happened at the first Christmas, that the profoundest and most unfathomable depths of the Christian revelation lie. 'The Word became flesh.' God became a man; the divine Son became a Jew; the Almighty appeared on earth as a helpless human baby, unable to do more than lie and stare and wriggle and make noises, needing to be fed and changed and taught to talk like any other child. And there was no illusion or deception in this: the babyhood of the Son of God was a reality. The more you think about it, the more staggering it gets. Nothing in fiction is so fantastic as this truth of the Incarnation. I've thought about Dr. Packer's observation often these past few weeks of Advent - about how our holy, transcendent Creator Redeemer condescended to earth in a suit of skin to be born in a Bethlehem barn. Australian theologian John Nolland actually refers to the Incarnation as the divine condescension. I can't quite wrap my mind around a love so vast that it compelled the King of all kings to lay down His ruling scepter in glory and lower Himself not only to human form but ultimately to be nailed to a cross. King Jesus became like us on order to rescue and redeem us. Goodness gracious, Christmas is SO MUCH BIGGER than December 25th y'all! So please grab a spiced apple cider, a peppermint mocha, a tumbler of eggnog, or some other Yuletide beverage concoction and your Bible - unless you've got both hands on an electric knife and are making a mess out of what was a beautiful holiday ham mere moments ago, of course - and come hang out on the porch with us!

We can hardly believe we've come to the end of this series called the Theology of Worship! I hope it's encouraged you as much as it's encouraged us. Sometimes I found myself white-knuckling it in order to hang onto love, joy, peace and hope during all the public discord and rancor of 2024, so it's been really lovely to start out 2025 with this deep dive into worship. It's been like an oasis, where much like the woman at the well I've encountered Living Water and have experienced renewal that I wasn't even aware my heart was yearning for until it found me. Modern theologian John Ortberg wisely said, "I need to worship because without it I lose a sense of wonder and gratitude and plod through life with blinders on." We're wrapping up this series with a super special bow because Jeremy and Adie Camp let Alli and me twist their arms and they've come back to help us seal that sense of wonder and gratitude that comes with being a fully devoted worshipper of Jesus Christ. So please grab a cup of coffee, your Bible, a journal and make sure you're wearing your comfy pants because today's going to be like a spiritual spa day for your heart. Thanks so much for pulling a chair up to the porch with us, we're glad you're here.

In this episode, Christine Caine speaks with Trudi Sayers, National Director of 24-7 Prayer Australia, pastor at Red Church, and mother of three, about her journey into ministry and leadership. Trudi shares how her non-linear path-including roles as an occupational therapist and teacher-prepared her for ministry. She discusses the transformative power of prayer in her leadership, her faith through a challenging cancer diagnosis, and her vision for igniting a culture of prayer in Australia. This episode will inspire you to embrace the ancient paths of prayer, find God's presence in all seasons, and step boldly into your unique calling.

SHOW NOTES:
A Non-Linear Path
Trudi shares her journey from occupational therapy to ministry leadership. She remarks how each career change, life experience, and personal trial prepares us for the future God has for us.

Faith Through Adversity
Diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in 2023, Trudi reflects on God's faithfulness through treatment. She shares how prayer provided peace and strength, even in moments of uncertainty and physical weakness.

The Vision for 24-7 Prayer
Trudi describes the heart behind 24-7 Prayer-to see people encounter Jesus, transform church cultures, and raise a generation grounded in prayer. She shares the growing hunger for prayer across Australia.

Empowering the Next Generation:
Trudy emphasizes the importance of teaching young people to pray in hidden places and persevere through challenges. She expresses hope for a generation equipped with intimacy with Jesus and spiritual resilience.

Follow Trudi, @trudisayers

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! 

-

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.

How well do we understand our universe? Is it possible that it's not alone - that there is more than one universe out there? On this journey, Dr. G explores the scientific idea that we live in just one of an infinite number of universes. Is the idea supported by science? By the Bible? Or is it just a science-fiction fantasy? The journey starts now! 

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.

ORDER DR. G's NEWEST BOOK! Believing is Seeing. 

* Tyndale 

* Books-A-Million 

* ChristianBook

* Amazon

* Barnes & Noble 

We have lost so many influential Christian leaders in the past few years. Very recently, Tim Keller went to be with the Lord, and he impacted so many people throughout his ministry. It is powerful and important to look at the lives of godly, faithful people and glean what we can from them. 

Collin Hansen is the editor of The Gospel Coalition and author of a new biography on pastor Timothy Keller. Collin had the chance to be around Tim many times, and he shares some of the spiritual traits that made him so effective for spreading the good news of Jesus. 

Pick up Collin's book "Timothy Keller: His Spiritual and Intellectual Formation"

Pick up Matt's book "Truth Plus Love"

For more from Matt Brown, and to receive our free gift "5 Keys to Find Fulfillment in God" go to: Thinke.org

Every Easter, billions of Christians around the world celebrate the resurrection of Jesus the Christ. On this journey, Dr. G talks with Bob Cornuke, the Real Indiana Jones, about the latest archaeological research on the actual location of where Jesus was crucified and buried. It might not be where the tourists in Jerusalem flock to every year. For more information about Bob Cornuke, see: https://baseinstitute.org/

Email Dr. G directly by clicking HERE.

Do you believe people are basically good and humane? On this journey, Dr. G explores what makes us behave so wickedly, so often. Looking to both the Bible and science for guidance, he opens your eyes to what's really going on deep inside you ... to what's responsible for your bad behavior.

WARNING: Dr. G gives some examples of humanity's wicked behavior. At that point, before proceeding, Dr. G will pause to give you a chance to fast-forward by 2 minutes and 15 second, if you don't want to heart to hear them.

Order Mrs. G's heart-warming, first novel, A Bellwether Christmas on Amazon or from any book retailer. Get 15% discount by ordering it from FaithfulText. CLICK HERE.

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. 

ORDER DR. G's NEWEST BOOK! Believing is Seeing. 

* Tyndale

* Books-A-Million

* ChristianBook

* Amazon

* Barnes & Noble 

Science + God is sponsored in part by Dwell Bible App. Save 30% off Dwell for Life at DwellApp.io/DrG.

Is there something missing in modern worship leading? Sean Curran joins Levi to talk about what most worship leaders get wrong, the lessons he's learned from his journey, and how to lead worship with authenticity. He shares his transition from touring in a rock band to leading worship at Passion, writing some of today's most powerful worship songs, and what he's learning in this new season of life. Plus-surfing, tennis, and why he refuses to join the Passion Run Club!

Connect with us on social!
Sean: @seancurran
Levi: @levilusko
Jennie: @jennielusko
Fresh Life Church: @freshlife

[Links]
Listen to Sean on Spotify: https://bit.ly/411E39n
Basic Faith: https://bit.ly/3WKRqbC
Get the 5-gallon bucket: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHY
Get the Lusketeer Sticker: https://bit.ly/sdl4sHY

Win a VIP Trip for two to Nashville: https://www.blessedarethespiraling.com/pre-order-bundle

Subscribe for more exclusive content: https://levilusko.com/hitl-subscribe

Want to be on the next Q&A episode? Send us your questions! https://bit.ly/3RonhJI

Timestamps:
03:01 - From Bellarive to Passion
06:42 - The song that changed everything
12:29 - What most worship leaders get wrong about leading
20:04 - Trusting God in transitions
32:08 - Writing worship songs for real faith, doubt, and loss
37:57 - Losing his father & writing Let It Take the Time It Takes
40:42 - Moving back to Florida
42:51 - Surfing, tennis, and why Sean avoids running

Actor Paul Walter Hauser and his wife, Amy, join Levi and Jennie Lusko for an honest, powerful conversation about addiction, redemption, and the journey of hearing God's voice. They open up about Paul's sobriety, the unexpected ways God has moved in their lives, and how they're raising their boys with faith at the center. Plus, they dive into Hollywood, biohacking, and Paul's surprising side gig as a pro wrestler. This episode is packed with wisdom, laughter, and raw honesty-you don't want to miss it!

Connect with us on social!
Paul: @paulwhausergram
Amy: @amybolandhauser
Levi: @levilusko
Jennie: @jennielusko
Fresh Life Church: @freshlife

[Links]
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

If this episode encouraged you, leave a review, drop a comment, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube to stay connected.

Timestamps:
00:45 - Paul & Amy's unexpected Instagram connection with the Luskos
03:30 - The faith moment that changed everything for Paul
07:15 - Biohacking, cold plunges & the crazy wellness tool that worked
12:40 - Wrestling, Hollywood & Paul's surprising side career
18:20 - Parenting a child with autism & trusting God in the unknown
24:10 - Overcoming addiction & the power of surrendering to God

Candace is joined by Allie Schnacky (JWLKRS Worship) and Natasha Bure for "Girls Under Pressure" - candid conversations about body image, social media, dating, modesty, comparison and more.

Connect with Candace, Allie and Natasha:

• Candace on Instagram @candacecbure 
• Follow the Podcast on Instagram @candacecameronburepodcast 
• Follow the Podcast on TikTok @ccbpodcast