

A Problem and a Purpose | John Ortberg
16 snips Aug 12, 2025
Explore the intriguing link between problems and purpose through a biblical lens. Discover how confronting challenges, as highlighted in Genesis, can lead to personal fulfillment. Hear about Dr. Bill Thomas's innovative approach to nursing home life by introducing animals, creating a lively and meaningful atmosphere. Enjoy the humorous chaos of introducing 100 parakeets, making communal living more vibrant. Reflect on how tackling personal struggles can enhance your sense of purpose and well-being.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Two Essentials For Finding God
- John Ortberg says you need a problem and a purpose to discover God's presence today.
- Embrace this day as God's gift and let go of yesterday.
Made In God's Image To Steward Creation
- John Ortberg highlights the shift to "let us make" as God's more personal engagement with humanity and a giving of responsibility.
- We are made to serve, love, and exercise responsible stewardship over creation and other image-bearers.
Problems Sustain Living Creatures
- John Ortberg observes that creatures need stress or challenges to stay alive, citing an amoeba experiment.
- Problems create the conditions for life and purpose rather than merely sources of misery.