The Austin Stone Podcast

Dive into the paradox of joy and sorrow as the discussion explores how Jesus redefines our emotional experiences. Discover the significance of celebration as a reflection of our creation in God's image and the deep meanings behind communal gatherings. The conversation also addresses the lasting emotional wounds from sin, emphasizing the importance of embracing both grief and joy. Personal stories and biblical insights reveal the necessity of community support during life's ups and downs, encouraging listeners to engage fully with their emotions.

God cares deeply about your pain and sorrow. He invites us to process with Him honestly and often. The Psalms show us that lament is an act of worship that can deepen our trust in Him.“Practicing Lament” is a 30-minute audio guide that walks you through five movements of biblical lament. We pray this resource helps you draw near to God in suffering, grief, or loss.

Exploring the theme of silence and solitude, the discussion emphasizes their importance for spiritual reflection amid a busy life. The speakers illustrate how these practices are essential for nurturing a deeper relationship with God. By examining biblical figures like Elijah and Moses, they reveal the transformative power of stillness. Listeners are encouraged to confront their weaknesses through solitude, contrasting modern distractions with the need for divine insight. The emphasis on intentional retreat culminates in a shared moment of quiet reflection.

Explore the significance of genuine biblical fellowship and how it shapes our faith journeys. Discover the delicate balance between individual devotion and the necessity of community. The discussion highlights the challenges of faith within imperfect relationships and the transformative power of intentional connections. You'll hear insights into how fellowship thrives through vulnerability and support, especially during tough times. Plus, get inspired to cultivate deeper relationships in your faith community.

Halim Suh shares how our fasting today differs from how Israel fasted in the Old Testament.

Discover the transformative power of serving others as a spiritual practice that prioritizes the needs of the community. Reflect on Jesus' teachings that upend societal views of greatness, emphasizing humility over honor. Explore how genuine servanthood challenges cultural norms and leads to true fulfillment. Learn to navigate common obstacles like pride and burnout while embracing a life of service. Personal stories and biblical insights inspire a deeper commitment to living out this radical call in everyday life.

Exploring the transformative power of Sabbath, the discussion reveals its deep historical and spiritual significance. Listeners learn about the importance of taking a break from life's chaos for renewal and connection with the divine. Community engagement is highlighted as essential for sharing God’s rest, alongside practical tips for embracing intentional relaxation. The conversation also addresses the mental health impacts of social media, concluding with a joyful reflection on finding peace in God's presence through Psalm 92.

Halim Suh examines the purpose of memorizing Scripture and demonstrates its impact.

Ross Lester explores the importance of Scripture study and walks through one of the practical methods of it.

Jimmy McNeal explores what Jesus teaches about prayer and how we can engage with this spiritual discipline.