Wild at Heart

In a world overflowing with instability, the hosts challenge believers to boldly pursue God, even if it seems unconventional. They discuss the chaos of modern life and the toll it takes on mental health, especially amidst the pandemic. The conversation highlights the tension between technology and genuine spirituality, urging a deeper connection with God over material distractions. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to prioritize faith over worldly systems, advocating for a life enriched by spiritual practice and community.

Mark Sayers, a pastor, author, and cultural commentator from Melbourne, discusses impactful shifts in our world today. He highlights the uptick in church attendance among younger generations and the emerging trend of spiritual renewal amid chaos. Sayers addresses the pitfalls of a platform mentality versus the biblical call to live as pillars of faith. He emphasizes the importance of prayer and community resilience, and encourages listeners to embrace a global spiritual awakening, actively participating in the revival.

Mark Sayers, a Melbourne-based pastor and cultural analyst, discusses the unsettling yet transformative times we live in. He explores the concept of the 'gray zone' between eras, emphasizing how historical shifts mirror today’s instability. Sayers contrasts faith narratives from Australia and the U.S., revealing paths toward optimism amidst chaos. He dives into the transition from idealism to pragmatism in politics, and how global power dynamics shape our beliefs. Ultimately, he highlights the potential for spiritual renewal to thrive in uncertainty.

This discussion dives into the importance of commitment in spiritual practices amid life's chaos. The hosts explore the balance of pain and joy, emphasizing love's triumph over hardship. They tackle a listener's marital challenges regarding spiritual discipline, highlighting the fine line between encouragement and personal agency. Insights into navigating OCD with compassion and the significance of daily routines for resilience are also shared. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes transformative spirituality and the role of community in fostering deeper connections with the divine.

In this engaging discussion, the speakers tackle intriguing questions about hearing the divine, even when life takes unexpected turns. They ponder the complexities of love and absence in heaven, and why pursuing closeness with God can be challenging. Additionally, the chat humorously pivots to quirky job anecdotes, allowing listeners to connect through shared experiences. They also explore how to balance technology use with spiritual growth for young people while emphasizing the importance of embracing challenges as part of the faith journey.

In this engaging discussion, Dan Allender, an acclaimed author and speaker, shares profound insights on nurturing and repairing marriages. He and Becky delve into the importance of prioritizing intimacy amid life's chaos. They discuss advocating for each other’s healing and highlight how honest communication can strengthen bonds. Personal stories shed light on overcoming challenges, including the emotional upheavals that accompany major life transitions. Dan emphasizes that love and connection require intentional effort, showing that a truly life-giving marriage is possible.

Dan Allender, an author and counselor renowned for his insight into trauma and relationships, joins his wife Becky Allender, a speaker and co-contributor to their book, to explore the complexities of marriage. They discuss the feeling of being unseen in relationships and how to cultivate intimacy and healing. Their conversation touches on the importance of communication, humor in navigating marriage, and the transformative power of vulnerability and compassion in deepening connections. They also reflect on their personal journeys during morning prayer walks.

Allen, a team member at Wild at Heart and an empty nester, shares insights on navigating summer vacations with adult children. He discusses the importance of seeking divine guidance in family plans and rethinking traditions. Humorous camping mishaps highlight the unpredictability of outdoor adventures. Allen emphasizes the need for soul care, joy, and rest amid busy family life as they explore the emotional complexities of adult relationships, focusing on creating meaningful connections and embracing the summer's potential.

Elaine Supple, a contemplative therapist from Dublin, discusses her transformative experiences with the Pause app's new modules. She reveals how the app fosters mindfulness and profound spiritual connections during the pandemic. Topics include the significance of daily spiritual practices, personal encounters with Jesus, and the healing power of prayer. Elaine emphasizes the importance of reflection in navigating chaos and deepening one's relationship with God, offering insights tied to her own journey of faith and renewal.

We often endure our deepest hurts and pains in isolation, choosing to just suck it up and pretend all is well rather than risk transparency and asking for help. In this week's podcast, Allen brings to light an issue he's been struggling with in private, how God orchestrated a path to bring others into his suffering, and the process of pursuing healing in both the physical and spiritual realms.Show Notes: The prayers John referenced—the "Life" Prayer and the Prayer for Breaking Curses—are on the Wild at Heart website and app. Moving Mountains by John Eldredge is available wherever you buy books._______________________________________________There is more.Got a question you want answered on the podcast? Ask us at Questions@WildatHeart.orgSupport the mission or find more on our website: WildAtHeart.org  or on our app.Apple: Wild At Heart AppAndroid: Wild At Heart AppWatch on YouTubeThe stock music used in the Wild at Heart podcast is titled “When Laid to Rest” by Patrick Rundblad and available here.More pauses available in the One Minute Pause app for Apple iOS and Android.Apple: One Minute Pause AppAndroid: One Minute Pause App