This week, we delve into the critical need for a robust theology of suffering in our postmodern culture of self-help and self-directed spirituality. Joining us is Tyler Staton, lead pastor of Bridgetown Church in Portland. Tyler, having personally navigated the profound experience of losing control amidst his battle with cancer, offers invaluable insights. We'll explore how God works through our pain, inviting us into a deeper understanding of His redemptive purpose. Furthermore, Tyler will address the concerning trend of how we've often misconstrued the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to become a tool for self-aggrandizement rather than a source of genuine transformation. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Are you stuck in frustration, wondering why growth feels so hard? This week, Fr. Ronald Rolheiser joins us to uncover the hard truth about maturity: it often leads us into the wilderness. But here’s the good news—those wilderness seasons can purify your faith, dismantle harmful self-sufficiency, and transform your emotional and spiritual health. In this episode, we’ll discuss: Why maturity requires us to let go of control. How mystery becomes our greatest ally in navigating life’s challenges. The role of disillusionment in spiritual growth. What bitterness does to our emotional and spiritual health—and how to break free. Fr. Rolheiser’s reflections on life, faith, and wisdom from nearly 80 years of experience. This conversation will inspire and equip you with the tools to embrace your wilderness season and experience breakthrough in your faith journey. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This discussion delves into the emotional barriers like bitterness and cynicism that obstruct healing and growth. By referencing biblical stories, it emphasizes the heart's condition in recognizing God's work. Listeners are encouraged to confront unresolved pain, using the transformative story of Bartimaeus as inspiration. The conversation also highlights the need for spiritual awareness as the new year approaches, urging a pursuit of hope and personal transformation. Ultimately, it sets the stage for deeper dialogues about maturity and faith.

Hey friends, happy new year! I'm excited to share that coming to the podcast this week and running for the next several weeks is Formed, our annual series on spiritual formation. This week, I'm kicking off the series with a teaching on "How a Hardened Heart Blocks Healing and Maturity." Next week, Father Ronald Rolheiser joins us to discuss "Why Maturity Leads Us Into the Wilderness and Dismantles Self-Sufficiency." In two weeks, Tyler Staton teaches us how to lose the illusion of control. On January 22, one of my heroes, Pastor Loren Covarrubias joins us to talk about how to develop spiritual perception and why few believers pursue maturity. And on January 29, Jenn Johnson from Bethel Music joins us to talk about the value of worship in our formation journeys. No doubt, this will be a powerful series. See you on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.

This week, we delve into the hidden forces shaping our world. Veteran journalist Rod Dreher, author of "Live Not by Lies," joins us to discuss the dangers of soft totalitarianism disguised as niceness and comfort. We'll explore censorship, the silencing of dissent, emotional fragility, and the impact of secularism and therapy on our spiritual lives. This conversation is a deep dive into the complex issues affecting our mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, we delve into a profound exploration of the power of words and the resilience of the human spirit. Joining us is Stephanie Duncan Smith, a gifted writer and editor who has a unique perspective on the complexities of faith and human experience. We’ll discuss the often-overlooked power of language to shape our souls and the importance of embracing uncertainty. Stephanie will share insights on finding peace amidst life's storms, and how to navigate the challenging terrain of grief and loss, particularly during the holiday season. Whether you're seeking solace, inspiration, or simply a deeper understanding of the human condition, this episode is for you. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

Bob Goff, an inspiring author and speaker, shares his insights on living a fulfilling and authentic life amidst a cynical world. He emphasizes the importance of embracing virtue and maintaining hope in the face of negativity. Goff discusses how self-protection can hinder personal growth, revealing strategies for healthier interactions. He reflects on creating a meaningful legacy and reconnecting with passions, encouraging listeners to live in the present while appreciating the power of words and connections.

This week, Strahan Coleman, part of the teaching team at Practicing the Way joins us. In this episode, we'll explore the insidious ways we've commodified God, the impact of Western liberalism on our spiritual lives, and the profound longing for an authentic connection with God. Strahan will guide us on a journey to unhinge our souls from the lie of abandonment and rediscover our deepest desire for God. Whether you're a seasoned believer or just beginning your journey, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical tools to deepen your spiritual formation and maturity. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, we're diving deep with the renowned NY Times Bestselling author, Mark Batterson. We'll explore the intricate relationship between faith and culture, delving into the dangers of cultural relativism and the importance of grounding our beliefs in timeless truth. Mark will challenge us to rethink our understanding of self-creation and instead embrace a theology of dignity. We'll discuss how a diminished view of God can negatively impact our mental health and how a robust faith can offer profound healing and restoration. Join us as we navigate these complex issues with Mark Batterson, a thought leader who blends theological insight with practical wisdom. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

This week, we're joined by Rich Villodas, the Brooklyn-born lead pastor of New Life Fellowship and a key speaker for Emotionally Healthy Discipleship. Rich will be discussing how depersonalization, deception, and division are shaping our souls in a culture of contempt, how to honor people we don't respect, how to know if our souls are in danger, and the false images of God we often construct. Rich is a passionate advocate for emotional health and spiritual growth. He has a unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life and to challenge them to live authentic, fulfilling lives. I'm excited to have him here for the conversation to share his insights and wisdom with us. It's a great conversation. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my NEW BOOK "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.