
Things Above
A Community of Learning Centered on Discipleship
Latest episodes

Jun 19, 2024 • 43min
Conversation with Ken Shigematsu
James Bryan Smith has a Things Above conversation with author Ken Shigematsu about his book, “Now I Become Myself.” Drawing on a rich variety of personal experience, Scripture, spiritual formation classics, psychology, and relational neuroscience; award-winning author and pastor Ken Shigematsu shows how a deep, experiential encounter with the love of God can heal us […]
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Jun 12, 2024 • 18min
Glorious Morning and Evening Part Two
Explore the transformative power of the spiritual practice of examen, designed to identify meaningful moments in daily life. Discover heartwarming stories that illustrate finding peace through simple comforts during anxious times. Learn about a nightly reflection routine that enhances gratitude and recognizes God's grace. Finally, hear a personal journey of reigniting a passion for tennis, overcoming fears, and fostering joy through the support of teammates.

Jun 5, 2024 • 12min
Glorious Morning and Evening Part One
Discover the art of starting and ending your day with glory. Explore the transformative 'two-minute morning' practice that promotes mindfulness and gratitude. Hear a personal story illustrating how letting go can ease inner turmoil. Learn to trust the universe through reflective exercises that encourage releasing burdens, symbolized by a balloon. This enlightening conversation merges spiritual freedom and practical tips for fostering a positive mindset.

31 snips
Apr 24, 2024 • 52min
Conversation with John Mark Comer Part Two
Author John Mark Comer discusses the importance of spiritual formation and developing a Rule of Life to follow the Way of Jesus. The conversation explores the transformational power of ancient practices, rearranging our days to be with Jesus, become like him, and do as he did.

11 snips
Apr 10, 2024 • 19min
The End In Mind
Exploring the impact of mentors John Wesley and Dallas Willard, understanding Christian spiritual formation as a path to virtue and happiness, a transformative airport experience reflecting growth, and reflections on adopting the mind of Christ for spiritual growth.

Mar 28, 2024 • 26min
Open Hand
Author and speaker, James Bryan Smith, discusses the meaning behind prayers and applying them in daily life. He explores 'The Serenity Prayer' and emphasizes living with an open hand, accepting hardships, and trusting in God's will. The podcast also touches on the power of surrender, finding peace through acceptance, and embracing courage in faith.

Mar 20, 2024 • 45min
Conversation with AJ Swoboda Part Three
James Bryan Smith has a Things Above Conversation with author A.J. Swoboda about his book, The Gift of Thorns. Today’s follower of Jesus exists at a moment in history when our desires, longings, and wants are being weaponized against us by cultural, spiritual, and relational forces. “Follow your heart” and “You do you” has become […]
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Feb 28, 2024 • 14min
Our Greatest Opportunity
James Bryan Smith asks, what is the greatest opportunity you have ever been given? In this episode, James explores this question and explains that our greatest opportunity is to follow Jesus. Smith explains that we have been invited to a relationship with Jesus and how it is the greatest opportunity we have been offered. Interested […]
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Feb 21, 2024 • 47min
Conversation with Brian Zahnd Part Three
James Bryan Smith has a Things Above conversation with author Brian Zahnd about his book, “The Wood Between the Worlds.” Everything about the gospel message leads to the cross, and proceeds from the cross. In fact, within the narrative of Scripture, the crucifixion of Jesus is literally the crux of the story—the axis upon which […]
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4 snips
Feb 14, 2024 • 21min
Two Minute Morning
James Bryan Smith, a spiritual practitioner, shares the Two Minute Morning practice for spiritual growth in 2024. He explains the benefits of this quick routine, focusing on gratitude, mindfulness, and setting positive intentions for the day ahead. The practice aims to shift focus from worries to blessings for daily clarity and alignment.