When We Walk

Forgiveness is central to our faith, yet it's often misunderstood or misused.We tend to move on from the concept without fully internalizing it, making it harder to extend to others. True forgiveness requires naming the wrong, recognizing our own need for grace, releasing the debt, and aiming for reconciliation—even when it feels impossible.In this episode, Pastors Micah and Shireen explore what it really means to forgive as God forgave us. How do we move beyond cultural narratives and embrace forgiveness as a way of life? What happens when we stop seeing sin in levels and start seeing people through the lens of grace? They unpack the depth of forgiveness and its power to transform our hearts.As you listen to this episode, reflect on the following questions:How can you practice seeing others—especially those who’ve hurt you—through the lens of grace? Is there someone in your life you need to forgive? What’s holding you back?

Marriage isn’t just about being together—it’s about becoming one.But over time, independence can quietly turn into secrecy, creating distance that’s hard to see until it’s too late. The biggest challenge many couples face isn’t big, obvious conflict, but the slow drift toward living separate lives.In this episode, Micah and Shireen talk about what it means to pursue oneness in every area—emotionally, spiritually, and physically. True intimacy requires both sacrifice and balance. Too much independence can create division, but constant surrender can lead to resentment. So how do we serve each other selflessly, not out of obligation, but out of love? Marriage has a way of confronting every part of who we are. Join them as they unpack how to cultivate a relationship built on trust, honesty, and the daily choice to give ourselves away for the good of the other.As you listen to this episode, reflect on the following questions:Are you serving your spouse out of love, or has it become something you do out of obligation? Are there any small secrets in your marriage that you’ve justified keeping? How might they be affecting your relationship?

Is Conflict Defining Your Identity?In this episode, we dive into the narratives we naturally create around conflict, often casting ourselves as victims, villains, or heroes. But what if these roles are holding us back from true healing? We discuss how Jesus offers a new path—one that pulls us above the chaos and invites us into redemption, healing, and peacemaking. Instead of reacting based on our flesh or the world’s influence, we explore how to respond with love, mercy, and discernment. Join us as we discover how a new identity in Christ transforms the way we handle conflict and brings peace to our relationships.As you listen to this episode, ask yourself the following:How have past experiences shaped the way you react to conflict? What does your knee-jerk reaction to conflict reveal about your heart?

The discussion dives into the recent Super Bowl halftime performance, revealing its deep cultural significance. The hosts explore the allure of celebrity drama, rivalries like Kendrick Lamar vs. Drake, and how societal obsessions with conflict shape our perceptions. They also debate the resurgence of flare jeans and reflect on personal struggles with literature and leadership anxiety, while emphasizing the importance of discernment and grace in our interactions.

In this episode of the When We Walk Podcast, Pastors Micah and Shireen finish season 3 by answering questions about the holiday season, reflecting on the past year, and sharing their hopes and insights for the new year ahead.Here’s what they were asked:- Do you have any New Year's resolutions?- What was your favorite topic/moment from this season?- Are there books or devotionals that you're planning on reading in the new year?- How do you find joy in a season when you don't feel joy?- How do we slow down and incorporate Jesus in a busy season?- How has Christmas changed in your house as kids grow up?- How do you feel about consumerism during the holidays?

How do we hold on to hope for miracles without losing faith in God’s goodness?In this episode, Pastors Micah and Shireen talk about the longing for Jesus and the challenge of believing in miracles while facing disappointment. Looking at the book of Acts, they explore how the early church grew through suffering, prayer, and the supernatural—and what that means for us today. They unpack why it’s so hard to keep asking for miracles when answers don’t come, the hope we find in hearing about God’s power, and how those moments of desperation can deepen our relationship with Him.As you listen to this podcast, reflect on these questions:How do you handle disappointment when God doesn’t respond the way you expect? What areas of your life are you holding onto instead of surrendering to Him? How can you cultivate a deeper trust in God while waiting for a miracle?

Are you pushing your child toward their dreams—or pushing them toward burnout?In this episode, Pastors Micah and Shireen get real about the challenges parents face in balancing the creation of opportunities with letting kids grow at their own pace. Parenting with purpose is a journey of balance and intention. They discuss the importance of supporting kids' potential while helping them build resilience, set boundaries, and make meaningful choices. Through honest conversation, Pastors Micah and Shireen share insights on raising kids who thrive—not just in what they achieve, but in who they become.As you listen to this podcast, reflect on these questions:What does "purposeful parenting" look like in your life, and how do you make it a priority? How can you support your child’s potential without overwhelming them with expectations? What values do you want to instill in your kids beyond just achieving success?

When dreams are hard-fought or delayed, is that a sign of God’s plan, or a chance to trust Him differently?In this episode, Pastors Micah and Shireen tackle tough late-night questions kids often ask. How do our desires and plans fit into God’s will? Is struggle a sign of His purpose, or are we called to simply trust? They talk about dealing with disappointment, comparison, and the feeling that life hasn’t gone as expected. Rather than comparing our journey to others, we’re invited to trust God’s timing, learn from disappointment, and rely on His character. In every season, He’s working for our good, even when we can’t see it.As you listen to this podcast, reflect on these questions:How do you usually handle disappointment when things don’t go as expected? What might God be teaching you in your current season of waiting or uncertainty? Where do your dreams, desires, hopes, and plans fit into God's will?

How do we ensure our passions enrich our lives without consuming us?In this episode, Pastors Micah and Shireen discuss the emotional and mental weight that comes with election week. Regardless of how involved you’ve been, the buildup has left many of us seeking ways to cope or escape. Together, they examine the role of hobbies and routines—how these can be healthy outlets but may also distract us if they take the place of our relationship with God. In this emotionally intense season, the discussion focuses on embracing life-giving practices that promote peace and grounding, highlighting God as the ultimate source of stability and joy.As you listen to this podcast, reflect on these questions:How do you differentiate between healthy solitude and isolation? What impact does social media have on your emotional state during intense periods like election week? How do you anchor yourself in God during emotionally turbulent times?

Ministry looks different in each context, yet the message of God’s kingdom remains consistent.In this episode, Pastors Micah and Shireen share their experiences from a recent trip to the UK and Scotland, where they explored different cultures and witnessed the unique ways God’s kingdom operates among people. They reflect on the contrast between American and UK churches: while the UK leans into its post-Christian culture, revitalizing dying churches and bringing new life to communities, the US often builds walls that separate the church from those it seeks to reach. This conversation delves into how we can partner with the Holy Spirit to transform our surroundings, build bridges with our neighbors, and reflect Jesus more fully in the world. Micah and Shireen challenge the American church mindset, urging us to lead with vulnerability and weakness, ultimately shifting the focus to God.As you listen to this podcast, reflect on these questions:How do you express your faith creatively in your daily life? What small actions can you take this week to reflect Jesus more fully in your community? What personal beliefs or fears might be preventing you from connecting with others who have different viewpoints?