Become New with John Ortberg

The world feels like it’s falling apart and it’s tempting to think condemnation is the only honest response.But what if God sees the world very differently?In this episode, we step back and look at the big picture: not just what’s broken, but what God is actively doing to heal it. Drawing on insights echoed by Dallas Willard, Robert Putnam, and a striking story from positive psychology, we explore why humans become trained to see what’s wrong—and why God refuses to give up on the world.Jesus didn’t come to label the cosmos “condemned.”He came to save, heal, restore, and redeem it.If you’re worried about the state of the world—or the people you love most—this episode invites you to release the burden of condemnation and rediscover a deeper, steadier hope: Jesus is very good at saving the world.Today's Resources:Shaylyn Romney Garrett, The UpswingShawn Achor, The Happiness Advantage🙌 New episodes every weekday.📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time.Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time.TEXT US at 855-888-0444EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.comGET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribeGET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/Music Credits:Believe Me by Glass Echoes - MB01UU8HNMQ8GT0Frost on My Window by Coldbrew - MB01IZWASF1DYPO

What do you do when life crushes you? When failure is public, shame feels loud, and condemnation (external or internal) won’t let up?In this episode, we explore an unexpected truth: God often does His deepest work through difficulty, humiliation, and exposure. Drawing on the craft of a master violin maker, the wisdom of the Psalms, and reflections echoed by Dallas Willard, we consider how the “rough conditions” of life can produce the most beautiful sound.Through stories of biblical figures who were humbled—and transformed—we discover why those who experience humiliation often become the least condemning people of all. And why Jesus, the most condemned person in the Gospels, became the most compassionate.If you’ve ever wondered whether your failures disqualify you, this episode offers a bracing and hopeful answer: no condemnation doesn’t mean no pain—but it does mean pain isn’t the end.Today's Resources:Martin Schleske, author of The Sound of Life’s Unspeakable Beauty Thomas Keating, Divine Therapy & Addiction 🙌 New episodes every weekday.📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time.Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time.TEXT US at 855-888-0444EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.comGET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribeGET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/Music Credits:Believe Me by Glass Echoes - MB01UU8HNMQ8GT0Frost on My Window by Coldbrew - MB01IZWASF1DYPO

A look at how sizing ourselves up against others quietly becomes condemnation. Insights from social psychology, René Girard, and Bible stories trace how comparative desire sparks rivalry and envy. Modern pressures like social media and prestige competition are explored. A contrast is offered: adopting a different kind of desire centered on love and mercy.

A frank look at how a condemning mind forms and why ‘us versus them’ thinking feels spiritual. The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector is used to expose hidden contempt. Reflections on why keeping distance feels righteous and how Jesus refuses to exclude anyone. A practical call to notice who you silently look down on and to choose humility instead.

Judging others is often a natural instinct, but it usually misses the mark. A memorable parable contrasts the prideful Pharisee and the humble tax collector, revealing surprising truths about self-righteousness. Exploring the concept of 'non-condemning math,' the discussion highlights how we tend to overlook our own faults while fixating on the few we see in others. With a quirky plumbing metaphor for grace, listeners are encouraged to embrace self-examination and mercy instead of judgment, making way for spiritual growth.

Explore the powerful impact of self-condemnation and the stories we tell ourselves. Discover how shame shapes our thoughts and how Jesus offers a transformative perspective. John Ortberg discusses the distinction between discernment and harmful judgment in communities. Uncover the hidden wounds we all carry and how they influence our reactions. Learn about inviting Jesus into everyday interactions for greater freedom and clarity, emphasizing that in Christ, there is no condemnation.

Condemnation seems to permeate every aspect of our lives. John Ortberg delves into how quick judgments cloud our perceptions and emphasizes the importance of curiosity over assumptions. He shares a compelling story from Stephen Covey that illustrates how changing our viewpoint can lead to compassion. Every person carries hidden struggles, making us unqualified to judge their actions. The key takeaway? Ask, 'What's their story?' to foster understanding and grace.

In a world steeped in condemnation and cancel culture, one message shines through: there is no condemnation in Christ. The discussion dives into how cultural judgment affects our lives and how friendship with Jesus liberates us from self-condemnation. A touching story of six-year-old Ruby Bridges highlights love and prayer over hate, as she faces hostility yet chooses to bless rather than curse. Listeners are encouraged to shift from judgment to blessing, embracing a life of grace and hope.

Everyone carries unseen burdens, yet healing often comes from recognizing the stories of others. John Ortberg explores how our connections reveal deeper meanings in life. Drawing on the Book of Job, he highlights how personal suffering intertwines with divine compassion. The idea of forgiveness reshaping futures illustrates the power of mercy. Ultimately, stepping into someone else’s life with empathy invites us into a larger narrative, where God’s love prevails.

Discover the revolutionary concept of giving in secret as taught by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. Engage with ideas that challenge societal norms of reciprocity and self-promotion. Learn how practicing hidden generosity can retrain hearts and foster true selflessness. Explore insights from historical figures like Dietrich Bonhoeffer, highlighting that authentic goodness flourishes away from the spotlight. Embrace the joy and freedom that comes from unannounced acts of kindness, transforming generosity into a natural part of life.