Halfway There

Ellen Rosenberger is a mom, missionary, and author who has a passion for helping churches serve their missionaries well. Her experience as a missionary kid was positive and she headed back to the mission field after college where she met her husband. But the expectations of others and some “relationship drama” led to depression. Ellen shares how experiencing depression for the first time gave her a deeper understanding of Christ’s love for her as she is. Ellen’s books draw on her extensive mission experience to help missionaries be authentic and transition well. Please listen and share with a friend! Stories Ellen shared: The adventure of growing up as a missionary kid in Bolivia Learning TESOL in college and the people who invested in her Wrestling with depression under the weight of expectations when she went to Nicaragua on her own Meeting and marrying her husband, Luke What churches should know about the experience of being a missionary What it is really like being a missionary How to care for the missionaries at your church Ellen’s heart for missionaries and her books (see links below) Great quotes from Ellen: I need to know God loves me. What is our self worth based on? Is it what other people think? To the degree that we left well, on good terms with people, said our goodbyes well, we felt our reentry here went well. Resources Ellen mentioned (Amazon affiliate links which pays a small commission to me if you use it): Missionaries Are Real People: Surviving transitions, navigating relationships, overcoming burnout and depression, and finding joy in God. by Ellen Ending Well: Advice for successful re-entry after living abroad by Ellen Ending Well Facebook Page Missionaries Are Real People Facebook Page Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Ellen Rosenberger and What Being a Missionary is Really Like appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Jeremy Myers is a blogger, author, and podcaster at RedeemingGod.com. Jeremy shares how he moved from megachurch pastor wannabe through abandonment and depression to find life in Jesus anew. That period of spiritual darkness stripped away many beliefs, friends, and practices that Jeremy was putting trust in until he was free. Finally, Jeremy found that while Jesus seemed to be far away, he wasn’t really (listen to the heart rock story for that). Jeremy’s story is one that proves God is there in our darkest hours and that even when we think we are abandoning him, we might be moving away from religion and closer to personal relationship. Please listen and share with a friend! Stories Jeremy shared: Growing up in a Christian home as a pastor’s kid When his friend died in a hiking accident and how that changed his life’s direction His education at Moody, Denver Seminary, and Dallas Theological Seminary Getting fired from a job because of changing theological beliefs The depression that came after “the rug was pulled out from under” him Why he and his wife left church and stopped doing devotions How they began to find Jesus everywhere (including heart rocks) His books and online discipleship program (see links below) Great quotes from Jeremy: Why are these non-Christian neighbors who I’ve only known for two years more like Christ to me? The safest thing for us is to stop praying and then maybe good things will come our way. When we stopped depending on that Sunday morning experience…Jesus became more real to us than ever before. Resources Jeremy mentioned: The Heretic in Me blog post by Jeremy Jeremy’s online discipleship program Jeremy’s books including Nothing But the Blood of Jesus and The Atonement of God The Day the Revolution Began: Reconsidering the Meaning of Jesus’s Crucifixion by N.T. Wright (Amazon affiliate link which sends a small commission my way if you use it) Fathered by God: Learning What Your Dad Could Never Teach You by John Eldredge (Amazon affiliate link which sends a small commission my way if you use it) Douglas Groothuis and Walking Through Twilight Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Jeremy Myers and How God’s Faithfulness Shattered His Religion appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Mark Waltz is a coach, speaker, and pastor who helps “broken people be connected to God’s unconditional love, his hope, and his healing.” Today, he shares the story of how he got there. Mark shares the stories of dealing with shame through trying to be perfect, the moment he vented his anger at God, and the love he found in others. Mark’s vulnerability is a calling only one who grasps his own belovedness by the Father can have. And I hope it spurs you to share more deeply in your relationships, too. Please listen and share with a friend! Stories Mark shared: Growing up in a fundamentalist environment headed to church three times a week (or when the doors were open) Noticing joy in Christians from other churches Dealing with sexual abuse at the hands of his father by trying to be perfect The moment when shame almost overwhelmed him and he spent 11 days in a psychological ward The phone call from student’s parent that showed him what it’s like to love without agenda How he thought about God before, during, and after his depression The moment he vented his anger at God and how he felt God’s love after The love his wife showed him Why we have to start looking at ourselves differently His passion for helping churches become more accepting and caring Great quotes from Mark: It was years into adulthood before I realized I was a recovering Pharisee. We can’t experience radical acceptance or grace outside of relationship. Sometimes we discount the power, beauty, and relationship through which we encounter God’s grace. My life is all about helping broken people be connected to God’s unconditional love, his hope, and his healing. Resources Mark mentioned: Because People Matter – Mark’s life plan coaching and speaking business How to Wow Your Church Guests by Mark Waltz First Impressions: Creating Wow Experiences in Your Church by Mark Waltz Lasting Impressions: From Visiting to Belonging by Mark Waltz Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Mark Waltz and Radical Acceptance in Relationship appeared first on Eric Nevins.

J. Parker is a Christian sex author and blogger at Hot, Holy, & Humorous and today she shares the story that led her there. J. grew up a pastor’s kid who went her own way as a young adult, including with sexuality. The baggage she took into marriage caused some difficult years and J. talks openly about their struggle. A practice of clinging to Scripture refined her until one day she realized her marriage was a lot better. When God began nudging J. to start sharing her story, Hot, Holy & Humorous was born. J. is a example and teacher of the biblical worldview of the body and sexuality. Please listen and share with a friend! Stories J. shared with us: Growing up as a drag racing preacher’s kid Finding Christ after college and returning to her childhood faith Meeting her husband after deciding she was no longer interested men Dealing with the baggage of her previous life after she was married How God led her to Christlikeness toward her spouse Making a spiritual discipline of 1 Corinthians 13 and why you have to stick with it for awhile The verse that helped her work through shame about sex Reluctantly starting a blog as a respone to God’s nudging What is a biblical worldview of sexuality for single people? Why you can let go of your insecurities and give yourself to your spouse Humorous: don’t take sex so seriously How to handle expectations in marriage Great quotes from J.: We use our bodies in marriage to express even the love of Christ to our spouse. I found myself captivated by the real Jesus who was not exactly the guy that I had grown up with on the flannel board in Sunday School. I’m a big believer in finding verses that speak to you in your particular situation and making those a part of your self talk. If something is true about how God wants us to be and how he wants us to treat others, then all those things are true in the marriage bed as well. The biggest thing we can do [to address expectations] is to check in with our spouse and believe what they say. Resources J. mentioned (Amazon affiliate links which means I receive a small commission if you buy): Hot, Holy, and Humorous: Sex in Marriage by God’s Design by J. Parker Intimacy Revealed: 52 Devotions to Enhance Sex in Marriage by J. Parker Behind Closed Doors: Five Marriage Stories by J. Parker Sex Chat for Christian Wives a podcast with J. Parker Love Thy Body: Answering Hard Questions about Life and Sexuality by Nancy Pearcy Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post J. Parker and How the Gospel Applies to Sex appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Hi Friends, This week, if you were looking for a great story this week, let me recommend to you episode #37 with Mark Casson. Mark shared that today is the anniversary of his release from prison. He shares the story of how he came to Christ and pleaded guilty, grew while in prison, and stepped into ministry. It’s a great story! I also invite you to join Halfway There’s brand new Facebook group. It’s called the Halfway There Conversation Group and we will see three things happen: Share your story – this will be a place for you to share the story of your walk with the Lord. We will often have conversations that invite you to tell us how God has been faithful to you. Connect with other believers – The amazing power of groups is to connect you to people you otherwise never would have know. My heart’s desire is that you would meet some people in this group that challenge and deepen your faith. You are not alone. Hear stories that boost your faith – Just like we do on the podcast, as we discuss the spiritual journey you will find yourself trusting the Lord more deeply. Join the Halfway There Conversation Group now. Keep the faith! Eric The post Join the Halfway There Conversation appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Tim Morris is a professional coach called to empower visionary leaders to turn their ideas into a movement. He has developed a program called Design Discovery that is “a framework to know the superpowers, tools they uniquely use, environment they come alive, the specific people they are called to serve, and the fruit they are designed to produce.” Tim shares his experience learning listening prayer, why your heart can be trusted, and how to discover your design. Tim is also my coach and has been instrumental in helping me overcome the obstacles in my way to achieving my goals. Design Discovery helped me find my sweet spot and now Tim is helping me grow in it. If learning to live in your design is intriguing to you, listen to this episode and then reach out to Tim for more information. Stories Tim shared: Why he loves apostles, prophets, and evangelists and his calling to empower them The youth pastor who led him to give his life to Christ The church service that left him depressed for several years The moment when God spoke to him about the trustworthiness of Scripture How to master listening prayer (Silence, Imagination, Flow, Test) Why the heart is a trustworthy guide to who you are His journey into Design Discovery and how Tim uses it to unleash the heart Discerning God’s will for your life through desire How he came to understand spiritual warfare Great quotes from Tim: If the enemy can take an apostle down, he can take them all down. God is more normal than you can imagine, and more supernatural than you can imagine. Desire is the leading part of the heart. Emotions, mind, and will follow behind. One of the other legit sources of God’s communication to us is via our heart’s desires. Christians should be the most desirous people on Earth. Resources mentioned by Tim (Amazon Affiliate links): Design Discovery free coaching session and Five-Fold Assessment The Shaping of Things to Come: Innovation and Mission for the 21st-Century Church by Alan Hirsch and Michael Frost 4 Keys to Hearing God’s Voice by Mark Verkler The Gospel of the New Heart on Tim’s blog Jeremiah Outwitting the Devil: The Secret to Freedom and Success by Napoleon Hill Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Tim Morris and How Your Heart’s Desire Unlocks Your Purpose appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Rob Decker is a personal trainer who has been radically changed by God. Today, Rob shares the moment when he jumped out a window and the tender words the Lord spoke to him in the hospital that built his faith again. His story is one of radical transformation from a hard drinking, drug abusing young man to a clear-eyed man with a full heart who speaks personally of the love of God. Listen to Rob’s story and be sure to share with a friend! Stories Rob shared: Learning that his step-father was not his dad Rob was always aware that God was his father The unique physical experience he had during his conversion What drew him to unhealthy relationships The moment he jumped out a window to commit suicide and survived What his extreme response reveals about who he is The peaceful moment when God spoke to him about how his situation will be resolved The joy he feels today about his relationship with the Lord Great quotes from Rob: It [a suicide attempt] was a very hard experience but it was the beginning of a great walk with God. He will give you your youth back. I’m one of his bratty kids. Resources Rob mentioned: Isaiah 53 The Passion Of The Christ (Amazon affiliate link that pays me a commission if you buy it, or anything else) Rob’s appearance on CBN Find Rob at his website Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Rob Decker Discovers God’s Tenderness for Himself appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Teresa Blaes is the host of the Unresolved Life podcast and explores life’s most difficult questions. Today, Teresa shares the serious events that shaped her to be a deeper questioner of God and everything she encounters. She details her journey through skepticism, painful moments, and the gentle leading of the Lord. When you hear some of the events of her life you will be amazed that she emerged with faith at all and her willingness to ask deep questions will make sense. Please go to Apple Podcasts and subscribe to Unresolved Life for more. Please listen and share with a friend. Stories Teresa shared: Podcasting as a way of answering life’s most difficult questions Growing up in a non-Christian home and traumatic events Attending a school for the blind and the spiritual encounter that scared her Giving her life to Christ after a radio invitation The first time God spoke to her Ministering to a crack addict name Jake All the difficult questions that books like Job raise Learning within days that her mom died and that she was permanently blind and how that affected her relationship with God Wrestling with God over what he wants her to do “Seek me and you will find me.” Great quotes from Teresa: If you’re not honest with him, he can’t work. You can come to him and question him even with your baggage. He is not afraid of the questions. Resources mentioned by Teresa (Amazon affiliate links): Unresolved Life Podcast with Teresa Blaes Speechless by Steven Curtis Chapman Walking with God: How to Hear His Voice by John Eldredge All Things New: Heaven, Earth, and the Restoration of Everything You Love by John Eldredge Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Teresa Blaes Asks About All the Anomalies appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Tonya Jewell Blessing shared her story with Halfway There on episode #36 last year. Not long ago she reached out to me to say that she wanted to share an amazing encounter she had with a snake just before coming back to the United States for a visit. Today, she shares that story and her new new book, Soothing Rain: Living Water to Refresh Your Soul (Amazon affiliate link). Please listen to this incredible story of God’s faithfulness and share with a friend! The post Tonya Jewel Blessing Shares the Snake Bite Story appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Phil Gauthier is the host of the God Watch Podcast and has become a good friend. Today he shares his story of coming to Christ after doing drugs all night on a lakeshore, learning the character of God, and starting his own podcast. Phil is a true entrepreneur who has his own plumbing business in Des Moines, Iowa. You will hear his heart for sharing the Good News of God’s love for people. Phil’s show encourages you to embrace where God has you and to come out on the other side of struggle stronger. Please listen to this show with Phil and share with a friend. And go to iTunes to subscribe to God Watch. Stories Phil shared: We chat about making Christian podcasting The moment at the lake when he gave his life to Christ A near death experience that convinced him it was time to give up drugs Finding the character of God as his means for growth How he shares the Gospel with people he meets every day and why openness is crucial Why millennials represent an opportunity for the church What makes God feel distant sometimes Why he decided to start the God Watch Podcast What he’s learned from listening to stories for his podcast Great quotes from Phil: I needed to pursue God but it turned out he was pursuing me the whole time. If you don’t understand his character, you can’t understand his love, his compassion, and the greatness that is him. Nearly every day I’m talking about Jesus with a stranger. If you stick with it, you come out on the other side stronger. The stories we share happen every day in churches, every day among friends. Resources Phil mentioned: God Watch Podcast Subscribe to Phil’s show, The God Watch Podcast, in iTunes Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Phil Gauthier Dives into the Story God is Creating appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Ken L. Roberts is a former pastor and church planter turned author and life coach. Today he shares the story of how God led him to the sweet spot of his life. The story winds through the most challenging moments in his life including hitting a spiritual wall while serving as a pastor and the unexpected death of his wife. Ken shares that being on a deeper journey with God helped him through those difficult moments and led to his current period of ministry helping believers break through the wall and leaders “live well while they lead well.” Please listen and share with a friend! Stories Ken shared: Growing up as a pastor’s kid and giving his life to Christ at age 7 Feeling called to ministry at age 17 The gap between what he believed and what they were doing Stumbling into new spiritual disciplines that refreshed his spirit The tragic death of his wife and choosing to embrace God in it Bringing together all the pieces to find his sweet spot The three nails he wants to pound for the rest of his life Great quotes from Ken: An animal won’t come out unless you’re quiet. Your soul is the same way. I’m more settled with mysteries than I used to be. Resources Ken mentioned: Unexpected: Navigating Life’s Unforeseen Turns (Faith) Staying Power Life Focus Course The Making of a Leader: Recognizing the Lessons and Stages of Leadership Development by Dr. J. Robert Clinton Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth by Richard Foster The Critical Journey, Stages in the Life of Faith, Second Edition by Janet O. Hagberg and Robert A. Guelich Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Ken L. Roberts and How Hard Times Shape You for the Better appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Nephtali Matta is the ministry coordinator of Koinania house, a ministry that helps men after they get out of prison. I first met him in a seminary class at Denver Seminary. Nephtali was the guy who seemed to have it all together with a bright future in ministry. Today he shares the story of discovering the dangers of people pleasing and trying to look like you have it all together. He let people in but never “gave them all the cards,” as he says, which meant no one knew his situation. When he went to jail on a domestic violence charge and spent 16 months there, his life was irrevocably changed. Please listen to Nephtali’s story and share with a friend! Stories Nephtali shared: Growing up with a difference between (Expectations) The domestic violence incident that changed his life Moving back to Colorado while trying to get his marriage back together Going to jail while waiting for his legal issues to be worked out Jailhouse chapel service where he experienced grace His ministry in jail that confirmed God’s calling in his life Discovering how hard it is to enter life outside jail. Finding his position at Koinonia House The grace he is able to offer to others Great quotes: The people of God are a lot more willing to accept you for your flaws and your sins, if you let them, than you’re probably giving them credit for. I’m really bad at changing people and if I do then I’m probably messing them up. I wasn’t lying about anything but I was hiding a lot. Tell anybody. Tell everybody. I’m tired of hiding. Resources mentioned: RadicalTimeout.info khnm.net Nephtali’s Twitter (see him with a halo) Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Nephtali Matta God Brings Redemption and Restoration appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Ronda Nelson is an advocate for the power of the grace of God. Her story is the perfect example of the reason for Christmas. While most of us will never experience the dramatic fall that Ronda shares today, we all need to know that God sent his son for us because he loves us. In Ronda’s life love and acceptance came through community. She wants everyone to know “that we don’t have to waste time away from God in shame” because his grace is enough for us no matter what you’ve done. Please listen and share, my friend. And Merry Christmas! Stories Ronda shared: How she got into music and abandoned opera for rock The moment she held her daughter and realized how much God loves her Finding her joy in serving the church while her husband was a worship pastor The phone call from an old boyfriend that changed her life How community helped nudge her in a direction she did not expect The shame that engulfed her when the affair became public Living with her boyfriend, the horrible and the horrible feeling of guilt she felt The grace offered when she came back to the church (Thank you, Ryan Paulson!) Rediscovering the joy of signing to the Lord The pain of losing her daughter, Mollie Great quotes from Ronda: I knew that I was coming back. I felt like I was turning around. I knew God wanted me back. It’s really satisfying to know that God does not waste experiences. Resources Ronda mentioned: South Fellowship sermon podcast feed Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Ronda Nelson and the Gift of Grace appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Mike Elder is an old friend from back in the day and a gifted conversationalist. Today, he shares the story of the legacy of faith he inherited, the unexpected way he learned about grace firsthand, and what he hopes to pass on to his family. You will hear his struggle with a calling and how events led him is a direction he never wanted to go. His passion for sharing truth through words extends from a gracious social media presence to the dream of writing a book one day and when you hear him share it, you’ll know why. Please listen and enjoy! Stories Mike shared: Growing up in a Christian family with a solid church foundation Finding out why fireworks were prohibited on a youth trip The house caught on fire that taught him God can be trusted His desire to be a youth pastor that led him to TIU How God taught him about being his adopted child The disillusionment he felt after college when he realized he wouldn’t be a youth pastor The can of worms that is calling How conversation with others connects him to the Lord Why writing means so much to him Great quotes from Mike: It taught me I could be disciplined and not rejected. That’s how God uses those terrible things, they either remain terrible or the become neat as you look back and see how God uses them. Even in the darkest times…it can actually be his mercy saving you from something worse and at the same time directing you to something so much better. It was really mercy because he didn’t leave me there. We’re the Elder family and we love Jesus. Resources mentioned: What’s So Amazing About Grace? by Philip Yancy In the Grip of Grace: Your Father Always Caught You. He Still Does by Max Lucado Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Mike Elder and the Legacy of Faith appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Henry describes himself as a business guy and a recent author of One: Unfolding God’s Eternal Purpose from House to House (Amazon affiliate link). He even invented a folding bicycle. His passion today is the oneness of the body of Christ and he raises good questions about why many churches operate as they do. We spend time unpacking what Henry sees in Jesus’ prayer in John 17 and the unity found in Romans 16, one of the more neglected chapters in Scripture. Please listen and enjoy! Stories Henry shared: Emigrating to the United States as an 8 year old Being filled with the Spirit at a spontaneous worship gathering Having to trust God when he left his comfort zone to move to San Francisco Developing a speaking and preaching ministry Discovering home churches and open fellowship Why he wrote his book One: Unfolding God’s Eternal Purpose from House to House (Amazon affiliate link) The tremendous impact John 17 has on him and what we can learn from it The experience that contributed to his reconsider the oneness of the body The gifts Jesus offers his Church in John 17 Romans 16 and why it matters for today’s church How to find his book for free Great quotes from Henry: A lot of the joy is in helping someone else. It’s a powerful oneness that would convince the world to believe in Jesus Christ. If you don’t get Jesus Christ, God, and the Spirit from the Bible, you’ve got good teaching…but it’s not the Truth. Resources mentioned by Henry: One: Unfolding God’s Eternal Purpose from House to House (Amazon affiliate link) Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Henry Hon and the Oneness Body of Christ appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Dr. Douglas Groothuis is a professor of philosophy at Denver Seminary and author of 13 books including his latest Walking Through Twilight: A Wife’s Illness–A Philosopher’s Lament(Amazon affiliate link). Today, he shares why he wrote the book and why Christians need to recover an understanding of lament. Dr. Groothuis shares about how to deal with anger toward God, the passages of Scripture that have given him comfort, and things people do and say that are helpful. He has an active Facebook presence and if you haven’t followed or friended him yet, I highly recommend doing so. More than that, get Walking Through Twilight, read it, and pass it on to a friend. Stories Doug shared: His early interest in spirituality through music and how he found Christ Developing as a philosopher and campus minister Why he thinks God did not give him a rush of spiritual experiences early in his walk Hospitalizing his wife Rebecca Merrill Groothuis and the change in their lifestyle after diagnosis The overwhelming response to his article in Christianity Today about lament Why the book of Ecclesiastes is helpful for dealing with life’s disappointments Finding honesty in music like Metallica Why dogs are a valuable gift from God, especially his dog Sunny What he hopes Walking Through Twilight will add to the church Things you can do to help others in crisis Great quotes from Doug: The pain of living with someone with dementia is deep and searing and God seems absent sometimes. I know too much to go back. Sometimes poetry is the best way to express these difficult, hard to describe feelings. Resources Doug mentioned (Amazon affiliate links): Walking Through Twilight: A Wife’s Illness–A Philosopher’s Lament by Douglas Groothuis Unmasking the New Age by Douglas Groothuis The God Who Is There by Francis Schaeffer A Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis Lament for a Son by Nicolas Wolterstorff Pacing The Cage by Bruce Cockburn Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Douglas Groothuis and Walking Through Twilight appeared first on Eric Nevins.

J.D. Payne is the pastor of church multiplication with the Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham, Alabama. He is a missiologist and today we talk about his unique perspective on missions. JD also has his own podcast, Strike the Match, and blog. He has written or edited twelve books on missions including the one we talk about today, Roland Allen’s The Ministry Of Expansion: The Priesthood of the Laity (Amazon affiliate link). Today, J.D. shares the incredible story of an unpublished manuscript by prominent early 20th century missionary Roland Allen and how it came to him for publication 80 years after it was written. Stories JD shared: The ministries to unreached people groups within the US Finding Christ through a televised revival Resisting and eventually giving into the sense of God’s call on his life What waiting on God feels like for him and the comfort he finds in the Psalms The focus of his podcast called Strike the Match with J.D. Payne The course he took on a whim that changed the direction of his life Why he is fascinated by Roland Allen The story of how he was honored to edit and publish an unpublished manuscript How Roland Allen pioneered and influenced many missionary practices today Great quotes from JD: If I continued to say no, in all likelihood someday I was going to wake up in the belly of a fish. The Lord is often gracious with his sheep. What should be the response of the church when our cultural preferences are unable to keep up with the Spirit? Resources mentioned by JD (Amazon affiliate links): Roland Allen’s The Ministry Of Expansion: The Priesthood of the Laity edited by J.D. Payne Indigenous Church Planting, a Practical Journey by Charles Brock The Spontaneous Expansion of the Church: And the Causes That Hinder It Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post J.D. Payne Shares the Uncommon Influence of Roland Allen appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Gunnar is the co-host of the Unchurching Podcast with former guest Richard Jacobson. Today, he shares the story of grace in his life through the church. In fact, every story Gunnar shares with us is about the people who have made an impact on his life by listening to God, praying for him, and living with him. That might be why his ideas about living in community are a bit different than most of us have but it only serves to make his life more interesting to learn from. I hope you enjoy hearing from Gunnar! Stories Gunnar shared: Growing up in a unique, large Christian family and community The disappointment when he was not welcomed in church as a young man The grace his manager offered him that changed his life His conversion as the Holy Spirit led others to show him grace The freedom he’s found through confession of sin How God led him away from conventional church Coming full circle and living life with others again Great quotes from Gunnar: Even when I walked away from God I never stopped believing in him because I had seen too much. You know what we can do? We can obey Jesus right now. If we can trust and obey God, not just live in our own little world but be open to whatever the Lord may prompt us to do…we have no idea how powerful that can be in someone’s life. I’ve never heard anyone who shared their testimony without everybody doesn’t all of a sudden view them as heroic. Resources mentioned by Gunnar (Amazon affiliate links): Unchurching Podcast The Way Church Ought to Be, Vol. 1: Ninety-Five Propositions for a Return to Radical Christianity by Robert A. Lund Pagan Christianity?: Exploring the Roots of Our Church Practices by Frank Viola The Normal Christian Life by Watchman Nee Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Gunnar Falk and Grace Extended in Community appeared first on Eric Nevins.

John Swanger is a wonderful storyteller whose experience with God has to be heard to be believed. He describes his life before Christ as bank robber, prisoner, lead singer in a band, and eventually drug dealer and bouncer at a strip club. His life was wild but one couple who shared the Gospel with him changed everything. God not only turned John’s life around but gave him a mission to let his light shine. John says that his goal is to be spent in service to others sharing Christ with those most of us forget about. He wrote his story in a book called Shackled and has a sequel in the works. John’s life is proof anyone can be changed by the love of Christ. Stories John shared: The ministries he has had to homeless and prisoners His life as the most prolific bank robber Dealing drugs, being a bouncer, running strip clubs and the fight that changed his life The dinner conversation that answered his objections before he could even ask Becoming a Christian while doing cocaine and reading the New Testament How God introduced him to his wife The ministry that God uses John’s unique personality and history to accomplish His books sharing his story including the 1000 copies he has given away to prisoners Great quotes from John: he can keep people from… If prison doesn’t count, I’m not sure I’ve ever had a home cooked meal. I’ll be 63 years old soon and I’m not spent yet. I haven’t had time to think about what I want to thank God for giving me. I’m still busy thanking Him for what he took away. Resources John mentioned: Shackled: Confessions of a Teenage Bank Robber John’s GoFundMe to raise money to publish his second book Unshackled Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post John Swanger Shares Light in Dark Places appeared first on Eric Nevins.

This episode of Halfway There is being published on the 500th anniversary of the start of the Protestant Reformation, an event that profoundly shaped history and the experience many of us with God today. Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses to the door of the church in Wittenburg and changed the course of history. This anniversary got me thinking that we all have influences subtle and more obvious. In today’s episode, I share who has has the most profound influence on my journey (hint, it’s an author) and how that came about. And I ask you to answer the question, too. Please go to Halfway There’s Facebook page and join the conversation. Who influenced your spiritual journey the most? Tell us that story. Resources mentioned: Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth by Richard Foster The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives by Dallas Willard Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life by Donald Whitney Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Who Influenced Your Spiritual Journey Most? appeared first on Eric Nevins.

When Phil asked me if I wanted to record a podcast with him I jumped at the chance because we have so much in common. We are both fascinated by the experience of God’s people as they interact with him and set out in our own ways to share it. Phil has become a friend through podcasting and Facebook but after a trip to my hometown of Des Moines, Iowa where we had lunch and shared a late night conversation about God, I can honestly say we are brothers in service of the same mission. Get our complete conversation in iTunes, on God Watch’s website or wherever you get your podcasts. Find Phil on Facebook, too. Hope you enjoy this episode. The post When Podcasts Collide – Phil Gauthier and Eric Nevins appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Matt Rhodes holds a master of divinity from Fuller Seminary and is a certified spiritual director. He loves to find ways to integrate his two biggest passions: creativity and spiritual formation. Matt recently partnered with author Jan Johnson to create an online course called Meeting God in Scripture: A Hands-On Guide to Scripture Meditation. Reading, traveling, creating, collaborating, teaching, and having deep conversations are the things that fill Matt’s soul. He also enjoys hiking and skiing in one of the best parts of God's creation (the Colorado Rockies) with some of God's best people (his wife, Misty, and their two kids, Madison and Tanner). Stories Matt shared: How he found Jesus through Young Life Finding Spiritual formation and how that shaped him Hearing God’s call on a beach (John 21) Seminary and the head vs. heart issue Rediscovering his creative heart through graphic design Lectio divina as a spiritual formation tool and how to practice it Hitting the wall when his father was diagnosed with terminal cancer and his church fell apart at the same time How a spiritual director helped him unlock his creativity Great quotes form Matt: Realizing that God created me in that way, and is excited when I utilize that creative side was just a real gift to me. Lectio davina helps us be with God. Resources Matt mentioned (affiliate links): Matt’s FREE email course for Halfway There listeners! Sign up now. The Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering Our Hidden Life In God The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth by Richard Foster Meeting God in Scripture: A Hands-On Guide to Lectio Divina School of Spiritual Direction Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Matt Rhodes Blends Spiritual Formation and Creativity appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Rob Burns is a pastor in Detroit at Detroit Chinese Alliance Church and has also served as a missionary in the Balkans. Today, Rob shares his story of his calling into cross-cultural ministry both overseas and in the United States. Rob and I go way back to his seminary days. At the time, I was in college and we worked together. He remembers my wife bringing us brownies. I remember him as an astute critic and observer of events and one of the best conversationalists in the world. To have a conversation with Rob means you’ll walk away smarter and with much to think about. Hope you enjoy his story and the conversation! Stories Rob shared: The missions trip God used to awaken a cross-cultural calling The clever way a neighbor shared Christ with Rob and his family What his experience of God’s speaking to him is like Examples of how the Spirit has led him in ministry The cross-cultural ministries that captivated he and his wife How Christ speaks into every culture The ways he tends to relate to God Why he thought of himself as Batman on the mission field Why Rob wishes he was doing more to pass on his thoughts to the world His best advice for people doing cross-cultural ministry Why losing our confidence in Christianity is dangerous Great quotes from Rob: “God’s too big to be held in a book.” quoting Bruce Cockburn Christ speaks to every culture and belongs to every culture. When I’m in those [hard] moments, I respond to duty. Don’t be bashful about following Him. Resources mentioned by Rob: Eric Ortlund’s blog Surprised by the Power of the Spirit by Jack Deere (Amazon affiliate link) Surprised by the Voice of God by Jack Deere (Amazon affiliate link) Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Rob Burns and Crossing Cultures appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Sarah Koontz is a passionate storyteller who enjoys using illustrations to communicate deep spiritual truths. Sarah writes to inspire women of all ages to explore the beauty of God's design at SarahKoontz.com. Sarah lives on 13-acres in South Dakota with her husband, two daughters and a rowdy flock of 30 chickens. She revels in their simple, uncluttered life. Sarah impressed me with her go-getter attitude about everything she does. As she describes that passion and how it relates to her ministry, you will be impressed and ready to hear more, too. Stories Sarah shared: How she stumbled on blogging and discovered her calling Her traditional Christian family upbringing and Christian school The mentor that changed how she thought of God’s calling in her life Waking up to the spiritual battle through a Bible study The water heater that nearly killed her What she learned from having to step away from her commitments How her husband serves her to enable her ministry Why helping Christian understand the Bible means so much to her and how that led to creation of her first free Bible study Her new study in Ephesians and why you should sign up right now Great quotes from Sarah: God sometimes sneaks up on me. Most of the things that scare us that we don’t want people to know about us are pretty common. There’s only one you. You are not her. You are not him. The world may not appreciate your gifts. I don’t need to change the world. I need to change my world. Don’t forget to sign up for Sarah’s daily Bible study in Ephesians, Worthy of the Calling which begins October 16, 2017. And, if you sign up in the month of October 2017, Sarah has many giveaway for you! Finally, a way to dig deeper into God's Word in those precious few moments before the kids wake up and start making demands while you are stuck in the drive-through line at school at the end of the day when you've just got enough energy to lay in bed and scroll through your phone. And with all the free goodies packed into this study, you'll be excited to open your inbox and click on the daily e-mails. The beautiful truths of Ephesians will teach you How to Root your life in God's Word How to Access your Spiritual Wealth How God's Work Empowers your Walk What it means to be Alive in Christ How to Love because you are Loved How to Pray with Perseverance How to Foster your Spiritual Gifts As Sarah dug into Paul's letter to the Ephesians, she discovered so many powerful truths meant to equip all Christians to walk Worthy of the Calling. I invite you to join for this 31-day journey through the book of Ephesians. Come as you are, but expect to be transformed by the radical love of your gracious Heavenly Father. I just signed up for the study myself so I hope to see you there. Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Sarah Koontz is Changing the World One Person at a Time appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Rodney Pennington is Vice President for Mobilization with OMF International. He has served as a pastor in Kansas, church planter in Toronto and Thailand, and mobilizer in U.S. for the unreached peoples of East Asia. He is a husband and father of four kids. Today we talk about his journey from a kid who gave up on God to missionary who could not help but go overseas to share the Gospel. Stories Rodney shared: The difficulty of his family life and why he gave up on God His literal mountain top experience when he started praying to a God he didn’t even believe in The snake that helped heal his relationship with his father Sharing the Gospel with his father and his conversion His daughter’s diagnosis with Turner Syndrome God’s provision for his daughter The trip to Cambodia that changed his heart for unreached people groups Great quotes from Rodney: I knew my life was changed. If this was true why wouldn’t I pour everything into it? I can honest say there are moments when I’ve been angry with God and I didn’t understand why or what was going on or the purpose behind it all but He’s come through everytime. What we have before is such a blessing, if we just use it the right way, we can reach the ends of the earth. Resources Rodney mentioned: Hudson Taylor’s Spiritual Secret (Moody Classics) Counter Culture: Following Christ in an Anti-Christian Age – “What is it going to take for even the concept of an unreached people group to be intolerable to the church?” Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Rodney Pennington Shares His Mountain Tops, Rebellion, and Mission appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Jimmy Jones is a youth worker to underserved children in Denver and Sheridan, CO. Today, Jimmy shares his heart and calling to serve those children. He traces his story from being one of those kids in the Five Points neighborhood of Denver, being drawn to the Gospel, giving his life to Christ at camp, and embracing his call to minister to his neighborhood. Jimmy’s life proves the value of giving a little time to share the Gospel or to disciple a new believer is time well spent. Hope you are encouraged to offer what you’ve received through Jimmy’s story. Stories Jimmy shared: Growing up in the Five Points neighborhood in Denver The big rock he sat on at Camp Frontier where he gave his life to Christ Meeting his wife Andrea at Camp Elam Bill Glover, the man who discipled him Deciding to be the person who Moving to Texas and discovering a mission The vision that drove him to share the Gospel with kids in Dallas The part of the process that breaks Jimmy’s heart The success that said it was time to move back to Denver Why cookies are better than hours Great quotes from Jones: I wish I had a testimony to share how my life has changed. I believe in giving back that which you have received, it doesn’t matter what that is. Our job is to sow the seed. The goal was to let these kids know that they are valued. You don’t have to be what everyone says you’re going to be. Resources mentioned by Jimmy: Sex in Marriage: God’s Blueprint for the Christian Family Essential Truths of the Christian Faith Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Jimmy Jones and the Value of Giving a Little Time (and Cookies) appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Shane Blackshear is the host of two podcasts, Seminary Dropout and On Ramp. He is a former church planter and pastor who moved into secular work when he realized the job was done, and eventually started a blog and a podcast. He explains how he came up with the name Seminary Dropout, the amazing people he has been able to interview, and why he started a second show last year. Plus, we cover his journey as we go. Hope you enjoy! Stories Shane shared: Why he started a podcast about race with his friend Kerri Fisher How he came up with the name Seminary Dropout for his interview podcast The youth pastor whose teaching made the difference in his life The worst reason to start a church and why Shane did it anyway The audience he was able to reach and why he’s proud of that How he learned that poverty is more complicated that it looks The two points in his life when he had serious doubt Why he left the pastorate Why he started Seminary Dropout Great quotes from Shane: We see our own problems as being complex and having a lot of layers to them but other people’s problems are simplistic. I don’t know if I can trust people who haven’t had a significant time of doubt in their life. If it’s that easy for you I kinda doubt your intellect or sincerity. Is it better to trust God when you’ve never doubted? Or is it better to trust God through your doubt. To me, it’s more significant to say, yeah, I do doubt but I’m going to trust God anyway. Resources mentioned by Shane: Benefit of the Doubt: Breaking the Idol of Certainty by Greg Boyd You can find Seminary Dropout and On Ramp in iTunes or in your favorite podcatcher. Connect with Shane on Twitter or Facebook today! Check it out now! Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Shane Blackshear of Seminary Dropout Talks Faith, Naivete, and Doubt appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Richard Jacobson of Unchurching shared the story about how unchurching became a theme in his life way back in episode 15. Now he’s creating an Unchurching comic book “to let Christians know they don’t have to go to church to be the church.” You can be part of it by joining the Kickstarter campaign to fund the book. Hurry because the campaign ends Monday, September 11, 2017 at noon CT. The post Support Richard Jacobson’s Unchurching Comic Book on Kickstarter appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Today, we revisit an episode with Doug Hazen who powerfully shared his experiences with God back in episodes #26 and 27. Doug shares how God revealed his goodness to him once again, the emotional work it took to understand evil from God's perspective, and how God led him to his current position in ministry. Please enjoy and share with a friend! Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Replay: Doug Hazen on God’s Extravagant Love appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Halfway There is on summer hiatus but not without great content! This week is a replay of episode #34 with Quentin Banks who shared his story of serving jail time, finding and experiencing the love of Jesus in a miraculous way, a suicide attempt, and how he began to trust God even while he had more questions than answer. Please listen, share, and review us on iTunes! Thanks! Keep the faith! Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Replay: Quentin Banks on Trusting God without All the Answers appeared first on Eric Nevins.

On episode #60 of Halfway There we are trying something new: a podswap! This episode originally appeared on The Godwatch Podcast as episode #20 but the host of that show, Phil Gauthier, was gracious enough to propose a swap of interviews and the winner is you because this conversation Phil has with Jason Kane is one of the more amazing conversion stories I’ve heard. God sometimes uses the things you wouldn’t expect to get our attention but if you listen carefully, you’ll see his handiwork all over Jason’s life. Hope you enjoy this one! Follow The Godwatch Podcast on Facebook, subscribe in iTunes, and check out Phil’s website. Let him know you heard him on Halfway There! Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post From Death to Life with God Watch Podcast’s Phil Gauthier and Jason Kane appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Tammy Helfrich is a coach, speaker, writer, and podcaster who shares her growing trust in God. Her podcast called Right Where You Are is an encouraging listen that should be added to your podcast rotation. Just jump over there and subscribe right now. Tammy shares stories that all seem to have one theme: trusting God with it all including her career, her family, and her current ministry. If you enjoyed Tammy’s story, you can connect to her on Twitter or Facebook, or her website. Stories Tammy shared: The feeling of God’s love she had from a very young age The disconnect she felt between her legalistic church and her understanding of God’s heart for her including the casket incident The people who shaped her: Group of women How Nicole Nordeman’s music filled her with hope by showing her other people who get God the way she did Meeting Nicole and sharing how God used her music to share Tammy and the amazing way that story reciprocated the ministry Her baptism and the moment that God nudged Tammy to stop fighting him The relational aspects of her surrender and the moment God told to Tammy to let him do the work in her husband How she became a coach and why so many of us get stuck How God led her to quit her corporate job and begin working at her church Trusting God with the vision of reaching her community Great quotes from Tammy: I think that God would want me to be happy and dance. Everybody experiences God in different ways. I had been coaching my entire life but just never called it that. We don’t ask ourselves, “What do I want?” Embrace your unique story with God. Books mentioned by Tammy: Quitter: Closing the Gap Between Your Day Job & Your Dream Job Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Tammy Helfrich is Trust Falling with God appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Billy Hallowell is a journalist who has appeared in places like the Washington Post, the Huffington Post, Fox News, and worked at TheBlaze.com for several years. Now, he is the senior editor at Faithwire.com. His most recent book Fault Line is about the cultural forces that shape our thinking and how to respond to them. Today he shares how Christians can build bridges to culture using a little kindness and some good stories. Stories Billy shared: What he has learned about navigating differences with people who disagree with you His latest book Fault Line: How a Seismic Shift in Culture Is Threatening Free Speech and Shaping the Next Generation (affiliate links) Why the Church needs to embrace even the unpretty stories Choosing Christ in New York City in his senior year of college What it’s like as a Christian conservative to work with liberal outlets How stories help him deal with the his questions for God Why he wrote Fault Line and how he hopes it challenges the Church to not abandon cultural engagement Great quotes from Billy: We talk about our faith and needing to evangelize and spread our faith, well, we are not present in any of the three areas that have the most ability to do that. Not every story is going to be pretty…but there is a place for those stories. What matters is faith and culture and everything else streams from that. There’s nothing else I’ve seen change somebody instantly, like the way Jesus does. That evidence is overwhelming and we see it in people’s stories. Books mentioned by Billy (affiliate links): Fault Line: How a Seismic Shift in Culture Is Threatening Free Speech and Shaping the Next Generation The Benedict Option: A Strategy for Christians in a Post-Christian Nation Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Billy Hallowell is Building Cultural Bridges appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Today’s guest is Michael T. Cooper, president and CEO of International Needs, an organization whose vision is to “transform lives and change communities by helping Christians serve both God and neighbor within their own countries.” He shares the story of how he came to Christ at a student event, the ministry that God led him into ministry planting churches in Eastern Europe, and people who invested in him. Stories Michael shared: Growing up in a nominally Christian family. Girls, Beer, and Fighting How he came to Christ at a student venture event from Campus Crusade and going to the old hangout to share with his friends Leading within Campus Crusade to Poland with his future wife The guy who invested in Michael: Bud Hinkson – The Apostle Paul of the 20th Century Why he flushed money down the toilet The legacy of Bud The questions he asks of God Why haven’t we reached the world yet? 1 Corinthians 2:9 Great quotes from Michael: Jesus is for everybody. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review in iTunes and tell a friend! Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Michael T. Cooper and The International Call appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Rebecca Lemke is a 21 year-old housewife, mom, and author about her experiences in what’s known as “Purity Culture.” We talk about how the strict legalism of some people around her almost overshadowed the grace preached at her own church, how God brought the right people into her life to give her a better understanding, and why she wrote a book about the experience. You can get her book The Scarlet Virgins: When Sex Replaces Salvation at Amazon (affiliate link). Stories Rebecca shared: How Purity Culture came about The Lutheran church she great up in and how it shaped her faith including her confirmation How isolation and spiritual darkness almost led her to suicide Her pastor’s surprising response to the deep questions she was asking The first time she like a boy, a love note, and her first exposure to purity culture Appropriate use of the Bible in forming theological opinions How her husband shared some good exegesis that began to change her mind The pastor who invested in her and change her worldview Great Quotes from Rebecca: Isolation is really intense. It’s a driving force for a lot of mental instability and spiritual pain. If men and women are to have successful relationship, the foundation is laid in youth. Get Rebecca’s book The Scarlet Virgins: When Sex Replaces Salvation. Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Rebecca Lemke Talks Purity, Legalism, and Finding Grace appeared first on Eric Nevins.

In today’s short episode, I share my review of a book that changed how I think about engaging the culture. The book was A Free People’s Suicide by Os Guinness. Have fun celebrating independence and freedom! And think about how you can promote each in the coming year. The post Happy Independence Day! appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Ever since I first read Richard Foster’s book called Prayer and learned that there were many different ways to pray and connect with God and not just the intercessory approach my evangelical church practiced, I’ve thought that it’s valuable to learn about those other methods. Today’s guest is Rich Lewis who blogs teaches about centering prayer at Silence Teaches. He shares how he discovered the contemplative practice called centering prayer, how he goes about it every day and what the benefits are in his life. Some of the stories Rich shared with us: Growing up in Pennsylvania and the spiritual climate of his childhood How leading a small church and leading the youth group helped him grow The family issue that moved him to quit his job and led to a dark night of the soul The books about Christian mysticism that changed his life His daily prayer routine including using a prayer rope and a lectio divina A how to on centering prayer Sit comfortably Choose a word to focus on (i.e. love, peace, joy) Close your eyes. As each thought pops up, let it pass and go back to your word and then let it go, too Sit for a moment before you leave The benefits of centering prayer including feeling much calmer, being full of excitement for life, and finding productive and creative solutions to problems How he teaches centering prayer to his kids Books and resources mentioned by Rich: Healing the Divide: Recovering Christianity’s Mystic Roots The Big Book of Christian Mysticism: The Essential Guide to Contemplative Spirituality The Contemplative Outreach app Great quotes from Rich: God is thrilled to have me as his son. And God is really not angry with me. God loves me. God constantly loves me. I’m in the spaces between my thoughts. Sit with God. Walk with God. Sitting with God quietly changes you. It’s wonderful. Connect with Rich at his website Silence Teaches or Twitter. Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Rich Lewis Says Centering Prayer Changes You appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Mike Sares is a pastor and author at Denver’s Scum of the Earth church. Today, he shares how he became the founding pastor of Scum, the unique ways God has spoken to him, and why risk and art are so important to the church, even today. This is an episode you won’t want to miss. Get Mike’s book detailing his story, God’s work in his life, and the challenges of his unique ministry. Pure Scum: The Left-Out, the Right-Brained and the Grace of God Stories Mike shared: How he came to Christ after high school The unique way he heard from God to ask his wife to marry him The frustrating period of time when he tried to get into full time ministry How Scum of the Earth started including the Five Iron Frenzy crowd The risky decision to let a poet use the F-bomb during a Christmas Eve service Why we have to take risks for evangelism Why art is so important for society including the Church Great quotes from Mike: God does not give these supernatural experiences capriciously. Usually it’s because we’re going to need one. It appears unspiritual but really is. Good Christian art can save a nation. If you want to hear more about Mike’s story, get his book Pure Scum: The Left-Out, the Right-Brained and the Grace of God (affiliate link). Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Mike Sares and Water, Spirit, and Scum appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Trevor Kapralos is a nurse in the Washington DC area. I met him through another Halfway There guest (and good friend) Rob Karch. That’s appropriate because if there’s a theme in Trevor’s life it’s the power of Christian community for living this life of faith together. Trevor the power of Christian community in the following stories: The unusual assignment to cover a Belarussian church in Uttica, NY (10:45) The amazing background of the church and the powerful way God brought them to the United States (16:40) The story of Tatiana and her powerful faith (18:32) The Christian community in Seattle (27:15) Why he changed careers and enjoys nursing (34:58) The power of community in his life (50:36) Great Quotes: The newspaper gave multiple pages, it ran over multiple days and it was pretty well received but the impact was personal for me and for my wife. You are not the first person to go through this, nor the last. I don’t know where we would be without community. Mentioned links: Keith Giles Denver Area event. Details are found here. Please sign up so we can make this event happen! Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Trevor Kapralos and the Power of Christian Community appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Paul Sohn is an author, public speaker, and coach who works with millennials to answer life’s biggest questions. He recently founded Qara, an organization dedicated to providing resources for those in the formative adult years, the 20s. His book, Quarter-Life Calling: Pursuing Your God-Given Purpose in Your Twenties, helps guide young people through confusion into the purpose God has for them. But how did Paul get here? We talk about that and so much more: Paul’s shares how his family’s life was changed when Bill Graham came to Korea in 1972 and his father gave his life to Christ. Paul grew up in a Christian family and finally committed his own life to Christ at age 14 and his faith personal when he decided to study abroad in Vancouver at a Christian school. (5:49) How he overcame being a people pleaser. (12:45) The time he quit the job he should have been comfortable in and the amazing way God provided as a result. (19:05) His passion for helping others find their purpose. (26:40) The realization that pursuing a calling is harder than it looks but so much more worth it. (36:51) Great Quotes from Paul: No one is with me except God. When I surrender, God’s calling on my life is so much bigger. The more I discovered more of who Jesus is, the more I know myself. Your 20’s are your defining decade. But so many people in their 20’s feel lost, they feel stuck and don’t know where they are going. I’m realizing how broken I am. There is power in vulnerability. Pursuing your calling is hard. It’s difficult. If you enjoyed Paul’s story, connect with him on social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram). His posts will enrich your life. And get Quarter-Life Calling: Pursuing Your God-Given Purpose in Your Twenties at Amazon or Barnes and Noble. Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post Paul Sohn and Finding Your God-Given Purpose appeared first on Eric Nevins.

This is my dad at the Vietnam Memorial in Washington D.C.Happy Memorial Day, my friends! This is one of those holidays that I always think of fondly because (a) it’s the unofficial start of summer and I usually smoke some sort of meat, (b) my grandmother traces the widespread adoption of this holiday to our family (naturally!) so why not enjoy it, and finally, (c) it’s a perfect time to reflect on those who gave their lives for all that the United States represents. Today on Halfway There, I share some reflections on my father-in-law who also gave his life in a roundabout way for the cause of freedom. This is a blog post that I wrote about him on an old blog I used to write. Perhaps you’d like to share a story about someone you know who has sacrificed for their country, too. Feel free to do that here or on social media. The post Happy Memorial Day! appeared first on Eric Nevins.

In this betweenisode, we talk about the amazing transformation of King Nebuchadnezzar in the book of Daniel. You’ve heard the Sunday School stories but did you know he acknowledged God as the true sovereign of the universe? That story doesn’t get shared as often but it’s one we can learn from. Listen above or in iTunes, Google Play Music, or Stitcher Radio now! Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. The post The Testimony of a King (Daniel 4) appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Welcome to Halfway There’s 50th episode! When I started this show last year, I hoped but did not know if it would become something that people would listen to and enjoy. The stories were compelling and there was enough depth in the experience of these ordinary Christian to make at least the first set publishable. Here we are 50 episodes later and the show has been downloaded over 11,680 times, featured nearly 1,220 years of experience walking with the Lord, and it’s reaching new people every day. The future looks bright as preparations for the next season are underway getting ready to share even more great stories from ordinary Christians who otherwise might never share what God has done in their lives. These are stories you need to hear. But now, let’s celebrate the last 50 episodes with a look back at some of the things we’ve learned over this last year. Episode 50 features four things I learned from doing 50 interviews for this show which are: Seek and you shall find (4:45) God still speaks to people (10:31) You never know how God is going to use you (26:10) God is relentlessly in pursuit of you (46:07) Notice: JavaScript is required for this content. What one of the best things you’ve learned from another Christian in your journey? Share below. The post What I Learned from Interviewing 50 Ordinary Christians appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Mike is the gracious husband of Jan Costas who shared her story with us in two parts here and here. In today’s episode, we learn hear his story, why he went on the Camino, and how he learned to trust God in a whole new way on the trail. Stories Mike shared with us: How he and Jan met in Germany (6:00) Why he ended up in Germany during the time the wall went up (10:23) His experience overseas working in Arab communities (28:14) Why he went on the Camino (38:10) How Mike’s journey with the Lord started before they even left town (43:06) The amazing food they enjoyed (1:00:13) Great Quotes from Mike: The Army does not put it’s posts in wonderful places. They are the armpit of the world. * It took me three days to realize walking with her was a benefit…because in the end we really bonded like we’ve never done in 50 years so it was wonderful in that way. * My actual first step with the Lord on the Camino was at DIA (Denver International Airport) If you haven't subscribed in iTunes, or left a rating & review for Halfway There, please do that right now! It helps more people find us. The post Step by Step on the Camino Part 3 with Mike Costas appeared first on Eric Nevins.

This episode is a continuation of our conversation with Jan Costas. Jan Costas is one of the sweetest and courageous people I know. She and her husband Mike took the trip of a lifetime last year that really changed them and their relationship when they did the Camino de Santiago, which is an ancient pilgrimage. Jan learned a number of significant lessons on the trail and she shares them with us. Some of the stories Jan shares: What she told herself to keep herself going after the Camino did not start the way she expected. (3:00) The moment she are her husband Mike got on the same page about the journey (7:29) The guitarist that appeared from nowhere and no one else saw (18:48) How God showed her love on the journey and what the thin spaces meant to her (20:36) How she became the blister queen (27:09) The time she turned down God’s overture (31:47) What she learned about the journey with God by taking a long journey (46:09) Great Quotes: Poco a poco. Little by little. Step by step. * One thing common to all pilgrims is sore feet. * Pilgrims take care of each other. * A pilgrim does not backtrack. * We hadn’t even asked. We just talked. And God provided. If you haven't subscribed in iTunes, or left a rating & review for Halfway There, please do that right now! It helps more people find us. Thanks! The post Step by Step on the Camino with Jan Costas Part 2 appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Jan Costas is one of the sweetest and courageous people I know. She and her husband Mike took the trip of a lifetime last year that really changed them and their relationship when they did the Camino de Santiago, which is an ancient pilgrimage. Jan learned a number of significant lessons on the trail and she shares them with us. Some significant stories in the episode: How she came to Christ after attending church for much of her life (5:45) The story of their theater company that went under and the problems that caused for their family (16:35) What is the Camino is and why she wanted to do it (26:00) The Camino angel story (50:08) How she made friends, many friends, on the trail (whole thing!) Great Quotes: We don’t have any money but we have our family, we have our friends, we have our faith. And our health. We have what is important. * The Camino called me. * You don’t when you say something how it’s going to affect someone. * I’m going to cry all the way to Santiago. If you haven't subscribed in iTunes, or left a rating & review for Halfway There, please do that right now! It helps more people find us. Thanks! The post Step by Step on the Camino Part 1 with Jan Costas appeared first on Eric Nevins.

This week’s super short episode brings Resurrection Day greetings from me to you and a quick preview of the story that finishes out season 3 of Halfway There. The post Happy Resurrection Day appeared first on Eric Nevins.

VJ and his wife run a business club whose motto is “to shape the values of business” and has 900 members. He wants to bring the principles in the Bible to bear on business in his country where 0.01% are Christians. “The church does not reach the influential in the society,” he says, so VJ to created his business club to share a video that helps business people learn skills that are biblically based even though the people may not know it. VJ was born in Central Asia to a mother who was a communist party leader and a father who worked on communication for the train system. While they never talked about God, he was curious about the great questions of life which became central in his teenage years. In case you wanted to know that God can use anyone – yes, even you – VJ came to faith because an American pen pal sent him a Bible in his own language. That pen pal was an 11 year old girl in rural Kentucky and the Bible she sent him had answers in the back to all the questions he was asking about life. “If God can use an 11 year old girl, he can use you if you’re willing,” says VJ. Eventually, most of his family became Christians and he planted a church. He shares the story of how he almost died three times: (1) umbilical cord around neck in womb, (2) at three, had an infection and had to find medicine on the black market, (3) an airplane crash landing. This is not a coincidence, say VJ, but proves God wants him to share the Gospel around the world. VJ highlighted the book Operation World: The Definitive Prayer Guide to Every Nation (Operation World Set) which seems like a great resource for praying your way around the world. And you can always find Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don’t at Amazon, as well (affiliate links). Great quotes from VJ: Don’t despise small beginnings. If God can use an 11 year old girl, he can use you if you’re willing. * You don’t want to mess with prayer people. * We believe discipleship is best one on one. * If you’re beaten, thank God you’re not in jail. If you’re in jail, thank God you’re not killed. If you’re killed, thank God you’re in Heaven. If you haven't gone into iTunes to leave a rating & review for Halfway There, please do that right now! It helps more people find us. Thanks! The post Don’t Despise Small Beginnings with VJ appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Steve Simms serves a Salvation Army church in Nashville, TN at Berry Street where they hold a different kind of service than any you’ve probably ever experienced. In today’s episode, Steve shares with us how he came to faith by becoming agnostic, the difference between a faith that is dead and one that is alive, and how he lets the Lord lead his services. Steve first found Christ in college but that wasn’t the first time he was exposed to religious teaching. He calls it a two-step process. As a child, Steve talked about God often and joined a Presbyterian church at 12 years old. One day while listening to a boring sermon a though popped in his head. “If you were born a Hindu, what would you be today?” After thinking about it for awhile, he decided he would be a Hindu had he been born in that culture. Then the voice said, “What makes you a Christian?” He couldn’t answer the question so he became agnostic. Then, some years later during his freshman year in college, he finally accepted an invitation to a Christian gathering on campus. This group of believers was different and Steve could see their passion for the Lord which drew him in as well. God spoke to him and made him an agnostic so he could become a true believer. Listen to the episode to hear the rest of Steve’s story. Great quotes from Steve: When I first started talking, I started talking about God. Truth cannot be based on an accident of birth. I love to read dead Christians. God used a donkey so he can certainly use a preacher. If you’re a Christian, you’ve got the living, resurrected Christ in you. Listen to him. Connect with Steve: Steve’s blog is called Free Gas for Your Think Tank (clever!) Steve’s book is called Beyond Church: The Lost Word Of The Bible- Ekklesia Connect with Steve on Facebook or Twitter (he’s a great Twitter follow!) We also talked about Watchman Nee’s book The Spiritual Man If you haven't gone into iTunes to leave a rating & review for Halfway There, please do that right now! It helps more people find us. Thanks! The post Steve Simms and the Joy of Letting Jesus Lead appeared first on Eric Nevins.

Sarah is from Muscatine, Iowa, the nose of the midwest (just listen, it’ll make sense). Her family has a long tradition of faith which is a fascinating story which she shares with us including the story of how her grandfather found new life in Christ at a Billy Graham crusade. You can tell the Spirit of God runs deep in her family and the special way this has shaped Sarah which “naturally birthed in me a gift of faith,” she says. Sarah also grew up in an environment where the Bible was taught and when she speaks you can hear the fruit of that value. Scripture she recalls just flows from her as we talk through her story. We cover many topics including the law verses grace, obedience, whether Christians should celebrate Christmas and eat pork and, most importantly, all of this in the context of how Sarah came to certain conclusions on her journey. Resources Sarah mentioned: The Word and Power Church Who Can Pluck Us Great quotes from Sarah: “I’d rather by faith, then, follow the Ten Commandments…” * “Being set apart isn’t easy.” * “Faith is an action.” Listen above or in iTunes to hear Sarah’s journey! Also, in this episode, I ask for some feed back and announced the Halfway There Audience Survey! I’m looking for some feedback on why you like the show and how I can serve you better. It will only take two minutes. Thank you! The post Sarah Ehambe and Faith as an Action appeared first on Eric Nevins.