Become New with John Ortberg

Tiffany Staman, the Executive Director of Calvin Crest Campground and an expert in spiritual formation, reflects on her journey of overcoming numerous challenges alongside her husband, Cam. They faced financial crises, a pandemic, and natural disasters while pursuing their dream of running a camp. Instead of seeking comfort, they found growth in discomfort, discovering that struggles can foster spiritual resilience. Tiffany emphasizes the importance of embracing challenges as a path to purpose, contrasting it with the escape offered by technology.

Discover why living a life devoid of risks can weaken our spirits. John Ortberg emphasizes that challenges, much like the stress wind for trees, are essential for personal growth. He discusses how embracing frustrations can build resilience, especially in children, contrasting fragile and anti-fragile responses to life’s hurdles. Through intriguing examples, the idea that facing life’s obstacles fosters a stronger faith and character shines through, revealing the transformative power of risk and challenge.

Discover the beauty of stepping back from digital chaos to reconnect with nature and spirituality, sparked by a charming mockingbird. Explore the transformative power of the Prayer of Jabez, focusing on hope and community blessings rather than self-centered desires. The discussion sheds light on the significant impact of prayer in fostering collective prosperity. Finally, delve into the realities of cyberbullying and the essential role of kindness and gentleness in a harsh world, emphasizing love and support among peers.

The discussion reveals the transformative power of gentleness in a harsh, hurried world. It highlights Jesus' gentle heart, contrasting it with worldly authority and inviting us to embrace humility. Listeners are urged to overcome their inner critics and practice gentleness in their interactions. Wisdom and empathy are celebrated as essential for spiritual growth, promoting love and positivity in everyday life. The message is clear: true strength lies in gentleness, offering a fresh perspective on communication and connection.

In a world filled with outrage and revenge, the discussion reveals how future grievances can trigger intense feelings of injustice. The podcast explores the addiction-like qualities of these responses and how Jesus’s example of gentleness offers an alternative path. It emphasizes dispensing grace rather than judgment, showcasing the power of compassion in our daily interactions. Ultimately, it advocates for a loving approach that breaks the cycle of rage and fosters a more understanding society.

Len Vanden Bos, a chaplain for the Buffalo Bills and ministering at Angola Prison, shares profound insights from one of America’s most notorious prisons. He discusses the transformative power of faith within the prison walls, highlighting programs like Malachi Dads that help inmates reconnect with their children. Listeners will be moved by stories of redemption, forgiveness, and the shift from isolation to community. Vanden Bos emphasizes the importance of compassion and spiritual growth, even in the hardest environments.

Discover the power of authenticity in relationships and faithfulness to God. An overlooked Bible verse draws attention to Tertius, a humble scribe, highlighting his significance in a society that often reduces people to mere numbers. This exploration contrasts the depersonalization of modern technology with the biblical belief in everyone's inherent worth. Join a conversation about recognizing the dignity of the unsung, urging listeners to appreciate and uplift those who are often marginalized and overlooked.

Dr. Rick Blackmon, a seasoned counselor, joins to unravel what it means to truly become a good person. He reveals that the desire to be good often surfaces during therapy, highlighting an inherent longing within us all. The discussion dives into how technology affects our relationships, contrasting communication styles between genders. Rick emphasizes the importance of spiritual growth and community in nurturing goodness. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their moral integrity and the complexities behind their actions.

In this engaging discussion, Glenn Packiam, Lead Pastor at Rock Harbor Church and a talented musician with a doctorate in theology, shares insights on building spiritual resilience. He emphasizes that true health is about swiftly returning to God after struggles rather than avoiding them. The conversation explores practical strategies to recover and recalibrate spiritually, including the importance of daily habits and reducing tech distractions. Packiam also highlights the need for abiding in Jesus and nurturing a deep love for God to enhance our spiritual well-being.

In this discussion, Pastor Steve Cuss, known for his unique practice of "tripping over God’s presence," shares how he integrates micro-habits into his spiritual life. He emphasizes savoring small moments, like enjoying a meal or appreciating a sunset, as pivotal in recognizing God's presence. The conversation dives into how these intentional acts can deepen spirituality and relieve anxiety, illustrating that everyday beauty can lead to a richer connection with the divine.