Discovering Joy and Healing Through Vulnerability with Will Chung

Ministry burnout is real—for pastors, leaders, parents, and volunteers. But beneath our exhaustion, God is inviting us to slow down and experience soul-level renewal by simply being honest in his presence.

In this episode of The Digital Examen, host Jay Y. Kim sits down with pastor Will Chung, whose own journey through severe burnout, breakdown, and renewal led to the founding of Beloved Church in Southern California. Together, they trace Chung’s reckoning with the pressures of ministry, the pain of spiritual weariness, and the temptation to embrace opportunities that outrun the soul. Chung shares about the pivotal moments that shattered his illusions, brought him to tears, and opened his heart to God’s true invitation: to not just serve him, but to stay close to him. Together with Kim, he explores why honest vulnerability is essential for lifelong faithfulness, how solitude and hiddenness restore our souls, and why God cares more about our hearts and character than any of the work we might do for him.

Tune in to learn how God doesn’t just desire our repentance, but our healing and wholeness.

This episode highlights the following themes:

• What true spiritual healing looks like
• Why vulnerability and authentic friendships matter for leaders
• Small shifts that help us choose a life with God, not just for God

Links from this episode: 

• Learn more about Will Chung
• Learn more about Beloved Church
• Read Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero
• Read the transcript here

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Slowing down in a culture of speed isn’t easy. Noticing in an age of distraction might be even harder. But walking intentionally with God happens at the pace of peace, leading us to that which often feels elusive: joy and delight. In this season of The Digital Examen podcast, host Jay Y. Kim joins an array of writers, educators, artists, and theologians to explore the many gifts God offers just beneath the surface of our frenzied lives, often hidden in plain view. Together, we’ll discover that a life marked by joy and delight is available to any and all who would slow down and notice. 

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Credits:

✅ Consulting Producer: Helen Lee

✅ Producers: Christine Pelliccio Melo and Travis Albritton

✅ Assistant Producer: Jack Reece

✅ Sound Engineering: Honest Podcasts

✅ Social Media Manager: Makayla Payne

✅ Podcast Art: Kate Lillard and Elsbette San Blas

✅ Theme Song: "For They Will Inherit the Earth" by Stephen Keech

Disclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.

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