Life with God: A Renovaré Podcast

Amanda Held Opelt, a talented author and songwriter from Boone, North Carolina, delves into her profound journey through grief and its intersection with faith. She shares how her theological beliefs were tested during her darkest times. The conversation highlights the difference between wholeness and happiness, and the importance of embracing grief through art and ritual. Amanda discusses the healing power of love amidst sorrow and presents a holistic view of life's challenges, emphasizing personal growth and the significance of vulnerability in the healing process.

James Catford, a seasoned leader in Christian organizations and former CFO of the British Bible Society, dives into the thought-provoking insights of Jean-Pierre de Caussade's 'Abandonment to Divine Providence.' He discusses how faith can flourish amidst adversity and the importance of living in the present moment. Catford also explores the historical influence of 17th-century French spiritual writers, emphasizing the vital role of prayer and approachable translations in engaging with classic spiritual texts.

Reward Sibanda joins Nathan on the Life With God podcast to share his insights on fasting as a God-designed process of total surrender through which our bodies, minds, and spirits grow wide-awake to God.

Matthew Lewis joins Nathan to talk about his new book Human and the beautiful way God designed for our deepest longings — when we give them our attention — to lead us home to Jesus.Where to find MatthewThe Follower Podcast: https://wearefollower.com/podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattlewis516/Follower Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/we_are_follower/Website: https://mattlewis.co.zaMatthew's book — Human: How our deepest longings lead us home

Today’s podcast is a 13-minute meditation — an audio retreat — on a prayer by the French priest Pierre Teilhard de Chardin. Put on some headphones, find a comfortable spot, and let your soul be quieted.

Rich Villodas, the lead pastor of New Life Fellowship in Queens, dives into profound discussions on faith and community. He emphasizes the transformative teachings from the Sermon on the Mount and their relevance today. Villodas shares insights from his new book, highlighting the significance of compassion amid shared suffering and the power of genuine connections. He also reflects on mentorship's impact across generations and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in a digital world, advocating for a faith that embodies Christ's teachings.

Nate visited with Luci Shaw in her home and recorded this special episode about her life as a poet and the potential she sees in words to call us into conversation with the art form itself and with God.

Mindy Caliguire says that stepping into life with God is like underwater breathing — we have to learn how to do it and use the practical supports available to us. Join Nathan and Mindy for a great conversation about practices for spiritual thriving. 

Brandan Spencer, Renovaré’s Director of Church Engagement and a seasoned pastor and leadership coach, shares insights on church renewal and family life. He emphasizes the importance of being present with children and the enriching role of nature and community. Discussing the evolving nature of the church, he highlights the power of faith, relationships, and healing, urging listeners to trust in God's plan as they navigate modern challenges together.

Author and teacher Jan Johnson joins Nate to talk about Jesus' parables that help us understand God's reign. The kingdom parables are the topic of a new book—created from Dallas Willard's teaching archives—and a companion workbook that Jan Johnson created.Show NotesThe Scandal of the Kingdom WorkbookThe Scandal of the KingdomDownloadable resources:The Foreword and Chapter OneChapter One of the WorkbookSix-Part Sermon Series.The original audio series (for The Scandal of the Kingdom) is being released week-by-week on The Dallas Willard Podcast.Want to participate in a course on the book? You can join the interest list here.