Paying Ridiculous Attention to Jesus

We know that rash decisions made in our own strength lead to trouble. But the alternative--timid prayers that tiptoe around each and every step--is not much better. So how do we make decisions about what's right and wrong? How do we walk the line between our own common sense and Jesus' divine guidance? Join Rick and dear friend of the show Becky (aka the Beckynator) as they dive into a discussion about right and wrong. Turning to the Bible, they slow down and pay ridiculous attention to Luke 12, a passage where Jesus challenges weak decision-making and presents a compelling alternative. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related: - The Unreasonable Jesus by Thomas Christianson- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-unreasonable-jesus/ - {Pre-order} Spiritual Grit- https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Grit-Endurance-Character-Confidence/dp/1470750899/ - {Available Now} NEW Jesus-Centered Practical Guides- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-practical-guides/ - Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/ - The Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/ Similar Podcast Episodes- - What does it mean to hear Jesus’ Voice- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-episode-006-mean-hear-jesus-voice/ - What is God’s Will- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-what-is-gods-will/ - The Unreasonable Jesus- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-the-unreasonable-jesus/

Just about everyone likes Jesus. Christians adore him. Muslims respect him. Even Jews think he has interesting things to say. If only Jesus didn’t have a habit of being completely unreasonable. Join Rick and special guest Thomas Christianson (author of the new book The Unreasonable Jesus) as they focus on “mud puddle moments:” passages in the Bible where Jesus says or does something that seems shockingly unreasonable. Continuing a focus on developing grit and core spiritual strengths, Rick and Thomas will also discuss practical ideas to live out these unreasonable requests instead of just passing them over. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related- The Unreasonable Jesus by Thomas Christianson- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-unreasonable-jesus/ (Pre-Order) Spiritual Grit- https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Grit-Endurance-Character-Confidence/dp/1470750899/ (Available Now) Jesus-Centered Practical Guides- https://www.mylifetree.com/?s=practical+guides&post_type=product&tags=1&limit=20&ixwps=1 The Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/ The Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/ Similar Podcast Episodes: Is Too Much Bible Bad?- https://www.mylifetree.com/can-too-much-bible-be-bad/ Discovering Your New Normal in God’s Kingdom- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-discovering-your-new-normal-in-gods-kingdom/ The Surprising Things The Impressed Jesus- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-surprising-things-impress-jesus/

It’s often said that too much of a good thing can be bad. It’s true of ice cream and sunshine, but does it also apply to reading the Bible? Join Rick as he welcomes author Mikal Keefer to discuss common misconceptions about reading the Bible, including a surprising revelation about yearlong Bible reading plans. This episode continues our series on core spiritual strengths by examining the practice of reading the Bible from an obvious yet often unconsidered perspective. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related: - {Pre-order} Spiritual Grit- https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Grit-Endurance-Character-Confidence/dp/1470750899/ - {Available Now} NEW Jesus-Centered Practical Guides- https://www.mylifetree.com/?s=practical+guides&post_type=product&tags=1&limit=20&ixwps=1 - Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/ - The Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/ Similar Podcast Episodes: - Myths, Lies, and Propaganda About Prayer- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-myths-lies-and-propaganda-about-prayer/ - What the Bible Has to Do with Community- https://soundcloud.com/paying-ridiculous-attention-to-jesus/what-the-bible-has-to-do-with-community - Are we Heading Toward a “Bibleless” Christianity?- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-heading-toward-bibleless-christianity/

Imagine you’re facing hardship and you call out to Jesus. There’s an answer, but maybe it’s not quite what you envisioned or desired. Now what? Join Rick and special guest (and dear friend of the show) Becky Hodges as they examine what it looks like to have a genuine belief in the goodness of Jesus’ heart, particularly when facing dark circumstances. Diving into the Bible, they'll slow down and pay ridiculous attention to Mark 5:1-20 when a miracle performed by Jesus for a demon-possessed man meets an unexpected response. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related: {Pre-order} Spiritual Grit- https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Grit-Endurance-Character-Confidence/dp/1470750899/ {Available Now} NEW Jesus-Centered Practical Guides- https://www.mylifetree.com/?s=practical+guides&post_type=product&tags=1&limit=20&ixwps=1 The Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/ The Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/ Similar Podcast Episodes: Finding Life After Lament- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-finding-life-after-lament/ Waiting On A Promise- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-waiting-on-a-promise/ Sam Worthington on How God Comforts Us- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-sam-worthington-on-how-god-comforts-us/

If prayer is just conversation with Jesus...why do we talk so funny when we do it? For instance, why do we speak in a softer voice than normal, and close our eyes? Why do we adopt strange prayer-ish sayings we don’t use anywhere else? Does Jesus hear us better this way...or have we just picked up weird customs along the way? Join Rick as he continues a month-long look at core spiritual strengths by focusing on prayer. During the podcast, Rick welcomes author Mikal Keefer and discusses what a deep, playful, and intimate prayer life looks like. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Resources {Pre-order} NEW Jesus-Centered Practical Guides- https://www.mylifetree.com/?s=practical+guides&post_type=product&tags=1&limit=20&ixwps=1 {Pre-order} Spiritual Grit- https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Grit-Endurance-Character-Confidence/dp/1470750899/ Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/ The Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/ Similar Podcast Episodes: Finding Life After Lament- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-finding-life-after-lament/ How Do You Pray?- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-how-do-you-pray/ Playing on the Playground- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-episode-011-playing-playground/

Lament, which stems from pain, mourning, and loss, is often viewed in a negative light. But what if we told you that lamenting is actually a core spiritual strength? Join us as we kick-off a month-long series on core spiritual practices by focusing on lament and paying ridiculous attention to how Jesus forms grit in people through lamenting. Personalizing this practice, Rick and Becky tell their own stories of past and on-going times of lament, sharing examples of how (and how not) to grieve well. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related (Pre-order) Jesus-Centered Practical Guides- https://www.mylifetree.com/?s=practical+guides&post_type=product&tags=1&limit=20&ixwps=1 (Pre-order) Spiritual Grit by Rick Lawrence- https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Grit-Endurance-Character-Confidence/dp/1470750899/ Classifying the Psalms- http://www.crivoice.org/psalmtypes.html Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/ The Chronicles of Narnia- https://www.amazon.com/Chronicles-Narnia-Box-Set-Lewis/dp/0061992887/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1517865593&sr=8-1&keywords=the+chronicles+of+narnia+box+set Similar Podcast Episodes Why Hard Things Are Hard- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-why-hard-things-are-hard/ Every Growing Thing Changes- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-every-growing-thing-changes/ Does Everything Happen for a Reason?- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-does-everything-happen-for-a-reason/

Empathy is usually seen as a positive thing...so why didn't Jesus use it to set people free? Join Rick and Becky as they wrap up a month-long focus on resetting your life by examining the difference between empathy and compassion and why they shouldn’t be used interchangeably. Turning to the Bible, they’ll explore Lazarus' death and resurrection (John 11) through a new lens, paying ridiculous attention to how Jesus displays compassion to Martha and Mary, but shies away from empathy. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related: {Pre-order} Spiritual Grit- https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Grit-Endurance-Character-Confidence/dp/1470750899/ Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/ Brené Brown on Empathy- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Evwgu369Jw Brené Brown TED Talk on vulnerability- https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability A Failure of Nerve by Edwin H. Friedman- https://www.amazon.com/Failure-Nerve-Revised-Leadership-Quick/dp/1596272791/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1517247294&sr=8-1&keywords=a+failure+of+nerve+by+edwin+friedman Lars and The Real Girl- https://www.amazon.com/Lars-Real-Girl-Ryan-Gosling/dp/B001954D80/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1517247319&sr=8-1&keywords=lars+and+the+real+girl 2018 Jesus-Centered Digital Planner Download- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/jesus-centered-planner-2018-digital-download/ {Pre-order} NEW Jesus-Centered Practical Guides- https://www.mylifetree.com/?s=practical+guides&post_type=product&tags=1&limit=20&ixwps=1 Similar Podcast Episodes: What Your Infertile Friend Wishes You Knew- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-what-your-infertile-friend-wishes-you-knew/ Pursuing a Life of Being You- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-pursing-a-life-of-being-you/ Why Hard Things Are Hard- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-why-hard-things-are-hard/

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson Join Rick and Becky as they discuss what it looks like to pursue a life of self-differentiation, which is staying true to yourself particularly when surrounded by forces trying to make you a different person than who Jesus says you are. Turning to the Bible, they’ll slow down and pay ridiculous attention to examples where Jesus displayed self-differentiation, including an encounter with Pharisees found in Matthew 15. Join Here- http://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related: • {Pre-order} Spiritual Grit- https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Grit-Endurance-Character-Confidence/dp/1470750899/ • Bible Reading Plans- https://www.mylifetree.com/six-free-bible-reading-plans-to-try/ • Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/ • 2018 Jesus-Centered Digital Planner Download- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/jesus-centered-planner-2018-digital-download/ • {Pre-order} NEW Jesus-Centered Practical Guides- https://www.mylifetree.com/?s=practical+guides&post_type=product&tags=1&limit=20&ixwps=1 Similar Podcasts Episodes: • Why Hard Things Are Hard- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-why-hard-things-are-hard/ • What Defines You- https://www.mylifetree.com/what-defines-you/ • When Jesus Names You- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-jesus-names/

Wouldn’t it be nice if the difficult things we faced in life really turned out to be easy? Unfortunately, living a Jesus-centered life isn't a free pass from difficulty. In fact, following Jesus often leads us into challenge and sacrifice. Join Rick and Becky as they dive into the story of the rich young ruler (Matthew 19), focusing on how Jesus asks him to do something seemingly impossible. Continuing a month-long theme on developing grit, Rick and Becky share examples from their own lives about what it looks like to lean into…and sometimes away from, the hard things Jesus asks of us. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Now- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources {Pre-order} Spiritual Grit- https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Grit-Endurance-Character-Confidence/dp/1470750899/ Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/ 2018 Jesus-Centered Digital Planner Download- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/jesus-centered-planner-2018-digital-download/ {Pre-order} NEW Jesus-Centered Practical Guides- https://www.mylifetree.com/?s=practical+guides&post_type=product&tags=1&limit=20&ixwps=1 Similar Podcast Episodes Having the Grit to Reset- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-having-grit-to-reset/ What does it mean to hear Jesus’ voice? - https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-episode-006-mean-hear-jesus-voice/ How to Say Hard Things- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-how-to-say-hard-things/ Me, Jesus and the person I married- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-jesus-person-married/

It's January and if you're like many, you woke up the day after Christmas and vowed to change your life this year. You bought a new planner, dusted off the bucket list, set a career goal, and possibly spent $500 at the local health store to start a new diet. There's something enticing about taking control of our lives...but it takes an enormous amount of discipline to reset life. To make it happen we're going to need grit. Join us for the first episode of the new year focusing on grit—aka the courage, strength, and discipline to do tough things. We'll challenge what culture says about resetting your life, pay ridiculous attention to stories where Jesus reset people, and share from Rick's new book, Spiritual Grit (releasing April 24, 2018). Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Now- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources (Pre Order) Spiritual Grit- https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Grit-Endurance-Character-Confidence/dp/1470750899/ Bible Reading Plans- https://www.mylifetree.com/six-free-bible-reading-plans-to-try/ Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/ 2018 Jesus-Centered Digital Planner Download- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/jesus-centered-planner-2018-digital-download/ (Pre-Order) Jesus-Centered Practical Guides- https://www.mylifetree.com/?s=practical+guides&post_type=product&tags=1&limit=20&ixwps=1 Similar Podcast Episodes Finding Your Unique Balance Between Busy and Rest- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-finding-your-unique-balance-between-busy-and-rest/ Jesus Was The Worst Self-Help Guru Ever- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-jesus-was-the-worst-self-help-guru-ever/ What Jesus Says About Your Body- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-what-jesus-says-about-your-body/ On Detoxing Our Hearts, Minds and Bodies- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-detoxing-hearts-minds-bodies-souls/ [Part 1] Hygge--what the Danish art of cozy has to do with your heart, your to-dos, and your relationships- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-part-1-hygge-the-danish-art-of-cozy/

Join us for the first episode of the new year! We'll share our plans for this podcast in 2018, our hopes and dreams for you, and also a special message about how attaching ourselves to Jesus has everything to do with finding freedom this new year. We're also re-releasing our favorite new year's message where we take a dive into Acts chapter nine, exploring how Jesus likes to come into our lives and show us who we really are. P.S. Rick and I (Becky) want to wish you and your family a Happy New Year! It's our greatest joy to do this podcast with all of you and we're so grateful that you listen! Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources: Free download bundle for starting your new year with Jesus- http://www.mylifetree.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/new-years-kickstart-bundle-2018.zip Jesus-Centered Planner- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Planner-2018-Devotional-Leatherette/dp/1470748487/ Jesus-Centered Bible- http://mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page Jesus-Centered Life- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/

As we say goodbye to 2017, we want to look back on two of our most popular episodes this past year. The second episode in the "Best of 2017" series asks a provocative question that struck a chord with you when it was originally aired in early summer of 2017. The question was "Does everything happen for a reason?" and it was one of our most listened to and shared episodes all year. Join us as we revisit a conversation about life's unexpected twists with special guest, musician Brad Corrigan of Dispatch. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources: Free download bundle for starting your new year with Jesus- http://www.mylifetree.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/new-years-kickstart-bundle-2018.zip Jesus-Centered Planner- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Planner-2018-Devotional-Leatherette/dp/1470748487/ Jesus-Centered Bible- http://mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page Jesus-Centered Life- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/

As we say goodbye to 2017, we want to look back on two of our most popular episodes this past year. Unsurprisingly, both episodes touch on the most universal question on Earth: "What am I here for?" The first popular episode is "What is God's will?" which we aired in Spring of 2017. In the episode we tackled the tension between God's will and our free will, and zoomed in on the story of the Roman soldier who asks Jesus to perform a miracle. This episode was one of the most listened to all year, and we hope you'll enjoy revisiting these profound questions as much as we have as we all prepare for a new year of following Jesus. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources: Free download bundle for starting you new year with Jesus- https://2df6ifl6qf726uflde5e28ya-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/new-years-kickstart-bundle-2018.zip Jesus-Centered Planner- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Planner-2018-Devotional-Leatherette/dp/1470748487/ Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/ Jesus-Centered Life- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/

What is Advent? Is it in the Bible? How do church traditions during Advent season relate to the calendar full of treats we open every day leading to Christmas? Join Rick and Becky this week as they look at the traditions of Advent and relate them back to the incarnation of Jesus Christ. We'll ZOOM in on the principles of Advent and help you pay ridiculous attention to Jesus this Christmas season. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources: Instagram Advent Challenge- https://www.mylifetree.com/instagram-advent-challenge/ Spiritual Grit- http://www.mylifetree.com/shop/spiritual-grit/ Jesus-Centered Planner 2018- https://www.mylifetree.com/2018-jesus-centered-planner/ The Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/

As a member of today's culture, you’ve inherited practices, beliefs, values, and purposes that shape what your everyday life looks like. Over time, this bundle of influences creates what's normal and comfortable for you. But how does your normal compare to what's normal in the Kingdom of God? Join Rick and Becky as they dive into this question, exploring the contrasts between our culture and the culture of the Kingdom of God. Specifically, they slow down and pay ridiculous attention to what Jesus says in the Parable of the ninety-nine and the one found in Matthew 18. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- http://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources The Lost Boys of Sudan- https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Boys-Sudan-American-Experience/dp/0820328839 SoulFeed College Care Package Final’s Box- https://www.mylifetree.com/soulfeed/finalscarepackagechurchspecial/ The Jesus-Centered Planner- https://www.mylifetree.com/2018-jesus-centered-planner/ The Jesus-Centered Bible- http://jesuscenteredbible.com/ The Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/

Safety and security. Together, they’re quickly becoming an obsession in our culture, especially considering recent events. Who we can trust and where we can feel safe? Join Rick and special guest Craig Cable, an active member of an armed church security team and tactical trainer as they zoom in on our growing concern about security and how it contrasts with a kingdom Jesus never described as “safe.” Related Articles and Resources: Webinar: Shooting in Sutherland Springs: What can your church learn from this tragedy?- https://wwv.group.com/refresh-the-church/shooting-sutherland-springs-webinar-recording/ Contact Craig Cable at [email protected] Jesus-Centered Planner 2018- https://www.mylifetree.com/2018-jesus-centered-planner/ The Jesus Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/ The Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/

If you live in America (although we know all about our few thousand listeners in the UK) you might not have any experience with what it's like to be a subject to a King. And if you're relying on popular television shows like Game of Thrones or Downton Abbey to color your opinion on the issue, you might not feel super inclined to live in a Kingdom. Join us this week as we examine what it looked like to live in a Kingdom. How we can use cultural experiences to expand our understanding of Kingdoms and ZOOM in on places where Jesus talked specifically about Kingdoms and what he was trying to expose to you and me. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- http://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources- The Future of the Church Summit- https://www.group.com/category/training-and-events/training/future-of-the-church-summit.do The Jesus-Centered Bible- www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/ The Jesus Centered Life, by Rick Lawrence- www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/ The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, by J.R.R. Tolkien- https://www.amazon.com/Hobbit-Lord-Rings-Fellowship-Towers/dp/0345538374/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1509981706&sr=1-1&keywords=the+lord+of+the+rings&dpID=51GJzbM5vTL&preST=_SX218_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&dpSrc=srch

How do we build and nurture a relationship with a Person we can’t see, touch, hear, smell, or taste? We’re told the goal of the Christian life is a close relationship with Jesus, but how do we do that without the benefit of our senses? In this fifth podcast in our month-long series focusing on the supernatural, we explore the mechanics of our relationship with Jesus—how we can lean into every day, natural, and normal ways of growing a mutual and deepening friendship with him. We do this by exploring seven foundational behaviors that artists must learn to grow their creativity—understanding how Jesus modeled these behaviors, with a pioneering ministry leader from the U.K., our friend Jonny Baker. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources: Bonus: Interview with a pastor about what the Bible has to do with community- https://soundcloud.com/paying-ridiculous-attention-to-jesus/what-the-bible-has-to-do-with-community Jesus-Centered Planner 2018- https://www.mylifetree.com/2018-jesus-centered-planner/ The Jesus Centered Life, by Rick Lawrence- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/ The Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/ (Article) How I learned to hear Jesus' voice- https://www.mylifetree.com/how-i-learned-to-hear-jesus/ The Creative Stance, by Various Authors- https://www.amazon.com/Creative-Stance-Bob-Roberta-Smith/dp/0993156312/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1509123036&sr=8-1&keywords=The+Creative+Stance Orbiting the Giant Hairball, by Gordon MacKenzie- https://www.amazon.com/Orbiting-Giant-Hairball-Corporate-Surviving/dp/0670879835/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1509123321&sr=8-1&keywords=orbiting+the+giant+hairball Teach Yourself to Think, by Edward DeBono- https://www.amazon.com/Teach-Yourself-Think-EDWARD-BONO/dp/0241257506/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1509123495&sr=8-4-fkmr0&keywords=How+to+Teach+People+to+Think+Edward+DeBono

Revelation is one of the most misunderstood books of the Bible. It's tantalizing reputation for offering signs that predict the future attract many people. But many others are skeptical, and even alarmed, by the images it depicts. How does this strange book apply to our lives? Is it a secret code that can accurately predict future events, or just a vision John (author of Revelation) had that only fits within the reality of ancient Rome? Rick and Becky offer insights on both as they take a high-level view of the whole book of Revelation, focusing on Jesus as the central figure to pay attention to. They also linger on one particularly relevant section that we can unquestionably apply to our modern lives--the warnings Jesus gave to each of the seven churches. These warnings are sure to encourage and also challenge each of us. This episode marks the end of our series on the supernatural. If you're just joining us check out our last three episodes: What is Supernatural? Spotting Supernatural Red Flags and Daring to Live Supernaturally. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources List of dates predicted for apocalyptic events- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_dates_predicted_for_apocalyptic_events Lifetree Café- http://lifetreecafe.com/ When God Left The Building- https://wwv.group.com/whengodleftthebuilding/ Clip from When God Left The Building featuring Nathan Matz- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aPLVfPEVNpg (Podcast) What is Supernatural- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-what-is-supernatural/ (Podcast) Spotting Supernatural Red Flags- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-spotting-supernatural-red-flags/ (Podcast)- Daring to Life Supernaturally- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-daring-to-live-supernaturally/ (Podcast) Whatever Makes You Happy- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-episode-007-whatever-makes-happy/ (Podcast) On Loving Ourselves- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-on-loving-ourselves/ (Podcast) Jesus Was the Worst Self-Help Guru Ever- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-jesus-was-the-worst-self-help-guru-ever/ (Article) How I learned to hear Jesus’ voice- https://www.mylifetree.com/how-i-learned-to-hear-jesus/ Why Nobody Wants to Go to Church Anymore- https://www.amazon.com/Why-Nobody-Wants-Church-Anymore/dp/0764488449 The Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/

Welcome to part three of our series on the supernatural. We started off our series defining the supernatural. Then last week we tackled the ugly underbelly of the supernatural, plus how you can spot red flags. This week we examine the positive role of the supernatural and how you can experience its power in your life. Join us as we speed read through Acts Chapters 9 & 10 and look at how the early church participated in the role of the Spirit in their lives. During this conversation, we'll ask: What similarities and differences do we see from their promptings of the Holy Spirit and those of our own lives? What can we do to unlock the power within us and live a more Spirit-driven life? Most importantly, what are the positive benefits of living a life that's prompted by the Spirit within us? P.S. Becky made a mistake in this episode (she's human, and sorry). Phillip wasn't stoned--it was Stephen.

From gold dust falling from the sky to people giving a word from God without permission, encountering the supernatural can be confusing (and even hurtful) sometimes. This week we kick-off part 2 of our series on the supernatural as we examine Jesus' interactions with the supernatural, including the creepiest guy around (Satan). Based in part on our own personal experiences, we also discuss a list of red flags to watch for when dealing with supernatural events. And we help you learn when and how to trust supernatural experiences by centering on Jesus.

Join us for this special 15 minute interview about how one woman is using the Jesus-Centered Bible to make a huge impact in her community.

Welcome to October! If you're like Becky, you might be keeping your head down as you walk through town, afraid that a creepy zombie poster will leave you with bad dreams for a week. What better time to talk about the supernatural, right? In spite of its modern-day spooky reputation, the supernatural was a natural part of Jesus’ life. And if you're spending time with him today, it’s likely that you'll start to notice supernatural events happening in your life, too. So join us this week as we unpack exactly what the supernatural is, and take a look at the culture around us that's fascinated by supernatural entertainment but resistant to having a supernatural relationship with Jesus. We'll examine the roadblocks in our life that keep us from experiencing the Holy Spirit, and Jesus' response to removing those barriers. Related Articles and Resources- -The Jesus Centered Life by Rick Lawrence - https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/ -The Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nhttp://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/b_sb_ss_i_1_18?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=the+jesus-centered+bible&sprefix=The+Jesus-Centered%2Caps%2C361&crid=M3E91WYA0SY6 -[Download] Free 2017 Holiday Planner- https://www.mylifetree.com/printable-holiday-planner-download/ -Jesus-Centered Planner 2018 - https://www.mylifetree.com/printable-holiday-planner-download/

It's the last week of September and we're heading into the fastest time of the year—like boarding a water slide that’s about to speed us through the weeks ahead and then drop us feet-first into the new year. In addition to the rush, Rick also likes to call this the season of "overs," like overspending, over-scheduling, and over-obligating ourselves. How do we pay attention to the right things during so many “overs” and so much rush? How do we find our own balance between rest and busy (because it's not a one-size-fits-all formula)? This episode explores the answer as Rick and Becky take a look at the Jewish holiday calendar and discuss how it was specifically designed to lead people from season to season. Then they ZOOM in at how Jesus handled his schedule, obligations, and time, and how we can follow his lead by letting the Holy Spirit--not culture or the expectations of others--set our schedules. Bonus: Check out our holiday planner that's more than a planner! It's an invitation to slow down, pay ridiculous attention to Jesus, and pay ridiculous attention to others in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources: [Download] Free 2017 Holiday Planner- https://www.mylifetree.com/printable-holiday-planner-download/ [Podcast] When you need a hard reset- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-feel-like-life-needs-hard-reset/ [Download] Jewish Holiday Calendar- http://www.mylifetree.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/jewish-holidays.pdf Jesus-Centered Planner 2018- https://www.mylifetree.com/2018-jesus-centered-planner/ The Jesus Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/ The Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nhttp://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/b_sb_ss_i_1_18?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=the+jesus-centered+bible&sprefix=The+Jesus-Centered%2Caps%2C361&crid=M3E91WYA0SY6

We don't know about you, but the prospect of personal and spiritual growth is encouraging. Even more encouraging is the promise of the Holy Spirit to actively help us grow. If only he didn't use change as a way to do it. At least when we get to choose the change--like accepting a new job or deciding to move--we can embrace the inevitable bumps with a sense of "well, I did ask for this" bravery. But when we don't choose the change, or when it surprises us with its difficulty, we tend to freak out a little. Okay--maybe a lot. Join Rick, Becky, and special guest, Kami, as they discuss how change--even (especially!) the painful kind--produces growth in our spirits and in our relationships. Listen in as the conversation flows from Jesus' many teachings on organic, growing things, the lessons we can learn from his metaphors, and ideas for thriving during times of change. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources - Release My Grip by Kami Gilmour- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/release-my-grip/ - SoulFeed College Care Packages- https://www.mylifetree.com/soulfeed/ - The Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/ - The Jesus Centered Bible- https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nhttp://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible-shop-page/b_sb_ss_i_1_18?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=the+jesus-centered+bible&sprefix=The+Jesus-Centered%2Caps%2C361&crid=M3E91WYA0SY6 - (Pre-Order) Spiritual Grit, by Rick Lawrence- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/spiritual-grit/ - (Podcast) Who Does Jesus Say You Are?- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-jesus-say/ - (Podcast) Parenting Isn’t Over When They Say It Is- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-parenting-isnt-over-when-they-say-it-is/

Jesus often compares living in the Kingdom of God to becoming like children. He rebuked his disciples for sending children away. He said that to enter the Kingdom of Heaven, we’d need to become like little children. But he also called people out who were being childish. So how do we tell the difference between being childlike and childish? Join us this week as we ask that question, and then ZOOM in on passages where Jesus talked about children, and what he meant when he was praising a childlike attitude. BONUS: we're using our new Friends with God Story Bible for kids (or adults like Becky who like pictures and children's stories) as we experiment with experiencing the Bible like kids do. Download a free sample of the Friends with God Story Bible. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources: Friends with God Story Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/friends-god-story-bible/ Friends with God Devotions for Kids- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/friends-god-devotions-kids/ Learn about Lifetree Kids (aka Jesus-Centered for kids)- https://www.mylifetree.com/lifetree-kids/ (Podcast) Playing on the Playground with Jesus- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-episode-011-playing-playground/ (Article) Does Jesus Laugh?- https://www.mylifetree.com/does-jesus-laugh/

We all have baggage. Whether it's wounds caused by a friend or family member, or scars still healing from church, this baggage can become a heavy burden to lug around. Heavy, that is, until we let a friend carry it for us. Join Rick and Becky with special guest Andrea Syverson--author of the brand-new book, Alter Girl: Walking Away From Religion Into the Heart of Faith—as they celebrate this helpful friend. Of course his name is Jesus. From growing up with a Catholic background, to marrying a Protestant man, to attending and then leaving multiple churches (for different reasons), Andrea discusses the different seasons of her life that have ultimately led to a baggage-free relationship with Jesus. Her story will draw you in with its honest look at how we do "church" today, and how Jesus is the simple answer we can come back to again and again. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Resources and Articles Alter Girl by Andrea Syverson- https://www.mylifetree.com/alter-girl/ Why Nobody Wants to Go to Church Anymore- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/nobody-wants-go-church-anymore/ Church Refugees- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/church-refugees/ The Jesus-Centered Life- www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/ The Jesus-Centered Bible- www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible/ (Pre-Order) Spiritual Grit, by Rick Lawrence www.mylifetree.com/shop/spiritual-grit/ Podcast- Freedom with Sarah Bessey- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-freedom-sarah-bessey/

From the time we're born we begin getting feedback. "You have gorgeous eyes." "Oh- I think he's going to follow in his father's footsteps." "You're funny." "You're smart." As we begin to grow older the definitions start to change. "Doctor" "Mother" "Divorced" When people introduce us, they use these describing terms as ways to explain who we are to other people. We hear these terms so often that we adopt them more fiercely into our lives than what Jesus says about us. In this episode we meet up with Simply Jesus Gathering speaker Lina AbuJamra. In addition to being a pediatric ER doctor, Lina’s also an author, host of a very popular podcast, “spokesperson of singlehood,” and the founder of Living with Power. While she's often outwardly defined by those terms, she's strives to live a life that’s defined by Jesus alone, and wants to encourage you to do the same. [NEW FREE DOWNLOAD & CHALLENGE] This fall we want to invite you to join us as we prioritize our schedules, goals and lifestyles with Jesus. This free printable workbook is a practical guide for living a life that's focused on Jesus. Download the guide and get started towards a more meaningful life. https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-routine-download/ Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Resources and Articles: Living with Power Ministry- http://www.livingwithpower.org/ Thrive by Lina AbuJamra- https://www.amazon.com/Thrive-Single-Life-God-Intended/dp/0802407145/ref=pd_sim_14_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=MZPMS72FNY7TRY4SQ48C Stripped- https://www.amazon.com/Stripped-When-Gods-Call-Turns/dp/0802409652/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1369542648&sr=1-1&keywords=stripped+lina+abujamra Resolved: https://www.amazon.com/Resolved-Ways-Stand-Strong-Believe/dp/080100652X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1473355486&sr=8-1&keywords=resolved+lina Today's Christian Single: https://www.moodyradio.org/programs/Todays-Single-Christian/ Morning Minutes: https://linaabujamra.com/morningminutes/ Lina's Faith Booster Series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6pdtP_YjjbN4bRHWsgCUcH9j6iAFOht0 Living with Power Podcast: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/living-with-power/id603388980?mt=2 (Podcast) Who does Jesus Say I am? https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-jesus-say/ (Podcast) What does it mean to hear Jesus' voice? https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-episode-006-mean-hear-jesus-voice/ (Podcast) What is God's Will? https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-what-is-gods-will/ The Jesus-Centered Bible- www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible/ (Pre-Order) Spiritual Grit, by Rick Lawrence https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/spiritual-grit/

When we hear the term "rabbi," we often associate it with the Jewish equivalent of a pastor. But when we do this, we miss out on a unique and overlooked perspective that transforms how we view the Holy Spirit, and how he works in our lives. Join Rick and Becky as they dive into the role of rabbis in the Old Testament, and explore their uniquely powerful relationship with a student apprentice called a "talmid." This relationship was VERY different from what we experience with our faith leaders today, but it's very much what Jesus wants us to have with his Spirit, the Invisible Rabbi. In this episode you'll zoom in on John 15 & 16 vs Acts 1-3, and discover how Jesus removed the highly exclusive role of a talmid so that all of us can be transformed by the Rabbi within us. This conversation about our Invisible Rabbi features an exclusive sneak peek of Rick's upcoming book, Spiritual Grit (releasing April 2018), where he shares the top six practices of following the Rabbi within us PLUS an invitation to take a Grit Quiz that measures your personalized spiritual grit score. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Resources and Articles Spiritual Grit Quiz- https://www.mylifetree.com/grit-quiz/ Spiritual Grit by Rick Lawrence- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/spiritual-grit/ The Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/ The Jesus-Centered Bible- www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible/ Podcast: Outrageously Committed to My Marriage- www.mylifetree.com/podcast-outrage…ed-to-marriage/ Podcast: All-In Relationships- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-all-in/

All. In. This describes the level of commitment a marriage thrives on. Through seasons of joy, pain, struggle, and triumph, when two people are all in, their relationship flourishes. All in is also the level of commitment Jesus has for us, and it's how he hopes we'll feel about him, too. This is why our interview guests, Justin Rossow, pastor of St. Luke Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor, MI, and his wife, Miriam, have approached their 21-year marriage as a metaphor for their own ongoing intimacy with Jesus, using it as a test kitchen to learn how to communicate, love, listen, and put each other first. So join us as we conclude our series of episodes recorded at the 2017 Simply Jesus Gathering with an intimate and honest view at marriage, intimacy, and how all of us, married or single, can be all in with Jesus. Have you joined the Pigs? We're a group of friends ready to go all in with Jesus--to live a life that's “free indeed” because we’re wholly dependent on him. Join us for exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, opportunities to make your voice matter, prayer support, and connections to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Resources and Articles We: Outrageously Committed to My Marriage- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/we-outrageously-committed-to-my-marriage/ The Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/the-jesus-centered-life/ The Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible/ Podcast: Outrageously Committed to My Marriage- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-outrageously-committed-to-marriage/

Welcome to episode 50 of Paying Ridiculous Attention to Jesus! We can't believe it but we’re celebrating a YEAR of the podcast and want to say a BIG thank you to all of our listeners. Today’s episode is on marriage, where two wills combine into one. Two broken people with opposing views combining their wills until death do them part… (Who's idea was that?! It’s just crazy!) And yet, it's in the moments that we or our spouses fall short in marriage that we cling to Jesus with everything we've got. Join us this week for a special 50th episode that shares stories from real people in real marriages,and how Jesus came through. Some of them ended in divorce, some of them stayed together, but in every one Jesus revealed to them a greater understanding of his never-ending love. This episode is inspired by a project we've been working on at the Jesus-Centered Life called We: Outrageously Committed to My Marriage (https://www.amazon.com/We-Outrageously-Committed-Jesus-Centered-Devotions/dp/1470748460/). Our goal was to unlock the stories of real marriages and how Jesus brought hope and healing to them. This collection of stories is combined into a 52 week devotion giving hope and healing for marriages. Experience the powerful healing of We for yourself or a friend. Related Articles and Resources We: Outrageously Committed to My Marriage- https://www.amazon.com/We-Outrageously-Committed-Jesus-Centered-Devotions/dp/1470748460/ The Jesus Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1502129986&sr=8-1&keywords=the+jesus-centered+life The Jesus-Centered Bible- http://jesuscenteredbible.com/

Have you ever noticed how many stories about Jesus in the Bible start out with him on his way to a party somewhere? It's a subtle thing, usually the kind of thing you skip right over when you're reading the story. Why do you think he was always being invited to parties? Join us this week as we ZOOM in with special guest Jay Pathak at the Jesus Gathering and pay attention to the radical way Jesus participated in relationships. Experience a little slice of our time at the Simply Jesus Gathering this week. Rick sat down with Jay at the gathering in the mountains to have a chat about everything Jesus. Be sure to be looking for next year's dates and don't miss out on this opportunity to experience real Jesus and real relationships. And is it time for you to join the Pigs? Are you ready to go all-in with Jesus? Ready to live a life that is “free indeed,” because you’re wholly dependent on Jesus? Are you ready to slow down and wallow in the mud-puddle stories of Jesus? Join the Pigs. We’ll invite you into exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, give you opportunities to make your voice matter, pray for you, and connect you to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Resources and Articles The Art of Neighboring by Jay Pathak- https://www.amazon.com/Jay-Pathak/e/B00ALM4AN0 The Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496159227&sr=8-1&keywords=Jesus-Centered+Life The Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible/ A Failure of Nerve- https://www.amazon.com/Failure-Nerve-Leadership-Age-Quick/dp/159627042X/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1501529954&sr=1-2&keywords=a+failure+of+nerve+by+edwin+friedman Extraordinary Relationships by Roberta Gilbert- https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_13?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=roberta+gilbert&sprefix=Roberta+Gilbe%2Cstripbooks%2C350&crid=2IJF42HX6EMIS

If someone you trust promises to do something, then doesn’t do it, it can be devastating. Well, what happens when we embrace a promise Jesus has given us, but we’re stuck waiting for it to happen? And what if it never happens? We feel frustration, anxiety, anger, and fear. And we don’t understand the purpose of the delay. Join Rick and special guest Conrad Gempf, an author and professor of New Testament studies at the London School of Theology, for a special interview recorded the Simply Jesus Gathering in Colorado. Continuing our July theme of doubt, Rick and Conrad zoom in on the story of Jarius, a synagogue ruler who’s desperate for Jesus to miraculously heal his daughter, and Jesus agrees. But along the way He gets sidetracked, and the daughter dies. Conrad reveals how we are all Jairus in this story, and what Jesus is actually doing in this breeding ground for doubt. And is it time for you to join the Pigs? Are you ready to go all-in with Jesus? Ready to live a life that is “free indeed,” because you’re wholly dependent on Jesus? Are you ready to slow down and wallow in the mud-puddle stories of Jesus? Join the Pigs. We’ll invite you into exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, give you opportunities to make your voice matter, pray for you, and connect you to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources: The Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1500305057&sr=8-1&keywords=The+Jesus-Centered+Life The Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible/ Jesus Asked by Conrad Gempf- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Asked-Conrad-Gempf/dp/031024773X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1500926696&sr=8-1&keywords=Conrad+Gempf (Podcast) Fighting the Cancer of Self-Doubt- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-fighting-the-cancer-of-self-doubt/ ie=UTF8&qid=1500926696&sr=8-1&keywords=Conrad+Gempf (Podcast) Fighting the Cancer of Self-Doubt- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-fighting-the-cancer-of-self-doubt/

Our doubts about ourselves, sometimes buried beneath a façade of overconfidence, eat away at our identity. We hear that sneering voice telling us we’re not good enough, that we’re a failure waiting to happen, and that we should hide the truth about ourselves from others. Self-doubt not only shackles us to fear, but it can infect and thwart our relationship with Jesus. And it’s universal—the issue isn’t if you’ll face self-doubt, it’s how you handle it when it creeps into your life. Join Rick and his longtime friend Andy Brazelton, the architect of Group’s youth ministry division who’s now an international business consultant, as they talk about their own personal battles with self-doubt, and their journey toward freedom. Through the lens of the Apostle Peter’s own descent into self-doubt, we’ll explore what it takes to keep moving when self-doubt sets in. Is it time for you to join the Pigs? Are you ready to go all-in with Jesus? Ready to live a life that is “free indeed,” because you’re wholly dependent on Jesus? Are you ready to slow down and wallow in the mud-puddle stories of Jesus? Join the Pigs. We’ll invite you into exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, give you opportunities to make your voice matter, pray for you, and connect you to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources: The Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1500305057&sr=8-1&keywords=The+Jesus-Centered+Life The Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible/ (Podcast) Who does Jesus say you are?- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-jesus-say/

Early in his ministry, Jesus delivered a shotgun-blast of teaching known as the Sermon on the Mount to a massive crowd following him. In the middle of a litany of “required behaviors” that are pretty much impossible for any of us to maintain, Jesus says something that sticks out, because it seems out of place. It’s a warning to about throwing pearls to pigs—not wasting what is holy on those who do not understand or appreciate holy. Join Rick and Becky as they dive into Jesus’ teaching, exploring what it means to guard the treasure Jesus has given to you. What can we learn about the “no pearls before swine” standard by simply slowing down and paying attention to the way Jesus has designed our bodies on a micro-level? And, is it time for you to join the Pigs? Are you ready to go all-in with Jesus? Ready to live a life that is “free indeed,” because you’re wholly dependent on Jesus? Are you ready to slow down and wallow in the mud-puddle stories of Jesus? Join the Pigs. We’ll invite you into exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, give you opportunities to make your voice matter, pray for you, and connect you to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources: The Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499701635&sr=8-1&keywords=Jesus+Centered+Life The Jesus-Centered Bible: https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible/ (Podcast) How to Determine God’s Will: https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-how-to-determine-gods-will/

We have lots of choices when we consider what to do about patterns of sin in our life—we can ignore them, explain them away, beat ourselves up about them, or “re-frame” them. Or, we can find freedom from the prison of them by tapping into a strength that is greater than our own and finding our way out of the darkness. Join Rick and special guest Tom Melton, a longtime pastor who’s now a leadership and business consultant, as they take a deep dive into the “Jesus way” of rooting out and overcoming sin in our life, continuing our month-long focus on discipline. No matter what you’re struggling with, there is hope for you… Join the Pigs. Are you ready to go all-in with Jesus? Ready to live a life that is “free indeed,” because you’re wholly dependent on Jesus? Are you ready to slow down and wallow in the mud-puddle stories of Jesus? Join the Pigs. We’ll invite you into exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, give you opportunities to make your voice matter, pray for you, and connect you to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Articles and Resources: The Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1498493454&sr=1-1&keywords=The+Jesus-Centered+Life Addiction and Grace by Gerald May- https://www.amazon.com/Addiction-Grace-Spirituality-Healing-Addictions/dp/0061122432 Our Favorite Sins by Todd Hunter- https://www.amazon.com/Our-Favorite-Sins-Commit-Quit/dp/1595554440/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1498493236&sr=1-1&keywords=Our+Favorite+Sins Article- The Changing Shape of Temptation- https://www.barna.com/research/new-research-explores-the-changing-shape-of-temptation/

Dependence > Discipline Jesus is about to send His disciples on a daunting (to say the least) mission, so what does He do to help them out? He takes every last support and comfort from them before they leave. What gives? Well, join us this week as we slow way down to chew on Matthew 10, where Jesus offers a master class on dependence. How can something that feels so uncomfortable bring us so much life and strength? With Rick and Becky, learn what it looks like to practice radical dependence on Jesus in your everyday life. Join the Pigs. Are you ready to go all-in with Jesus? Ready to live a life that is “free indeed,” because you’re wholly dependent on Jesus? Are you ready to slow down and wallow in the mud-puddle stories of Jesus? Join the Pigs. We’ll invite you into exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, give you opportunities to make your voice matter, pray for you, and connect you to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here. Related Articles and Resources: Jesus Centered Life, Rick Lawrence: https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497881738&sr=8-1&keywords=the+jesus-centered+life The Jesus-Centered Bible: https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_1_18?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=the+jesus-centered+bible&sprefix=The+Jesus-Centered%2Caps%2C361&crid=M3E91WYA0SY6 Shrewd by Rick Lawrence: https://www.amazon.com/Shrewd-Daring-Startling-Command-Jesus/dp/1434700739/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1497881661&sr=8-1&keywords=shrewd+by+rick+lawrence (Podcast) Overcoming a Culture of “Try Harder to Get Better”: https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-overcoming-a-culture-of-try-harder-to-get-better/ (Podcast) How to Put Discipline In It’s Place: https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-how-to-put-discipline-in-its-place/

Continuing our month-long primer on “self-discipline” (and how we’ve turned it into both an idol and a prison), we give lots of practical help for tapping into our TRUE source of life. If Jesus is simply asking us to “abide” in Him, with fruit in our life as a result, then what’s the use of trying hard in life? We'll go after two important contrasting Scripture passages to find our balance point—James 2 and John 15. And if you’re struggling to let go of shame and guilt in your life, we’ll show you how to let it all go. Join us we pay ridiculous attention to what Jesus says about discipline. Join the Pigs. Are you ready to go all-in with Jesus? Ready to live a life that is “free indeed,” because you’re wholly dependent on Jesus? Are you ready to slow down and wallow in the mud-puddle stories of Jesus? Join the Pigs. We’ll invite you into exclusive behind-the-scenes insights, give you opportunities to make your voice matter, pray for you, and connect you to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here. Related Articles and Resources: Jesus Centered Life, Rick Lawrence: https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496958910&sr=8-1&keywords=Jesus+Centered+Life Sifted, Rick Lawrence: https://www.amazon.com/Sifted-Scandalous-Response-Satans-Outrageous/dp/1434700747/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1496959097&sr=1-1&keywords=Sifted Jesus Asked, Conrad Gempf: https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Asked-Conrad-Gempf/dp/031024773X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496958850&sr=8-1&keywords=Conrad+Gempf Who is this man?, John Ortberg: https://www.amazon.com/Who-This-Man-Unpredictable-Inescapable/dp/0310340497/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8 Beautiful Outlaw, https://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Outlaw-Experiencing-Extravagant-Personality/dp/1455525707/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

When it comes to living a dependent life with Jesus, how much of it is about our effort, and how much is about His effort? Jesus often pointed out religious leaders who were over-emphasizing discipline, and used them as examples of what not to do. But He’s also called us to live our lives on purpose. When He rescued the “adulterous woman,” He told her to “go and sin no more.” And He vowed that not even the smallest detail of God's law will disappear—instead, He promised to “fulfill the law.” What does that mean, anyway? In the Jesus-Centered Life, Rick Lawrence offers a path into a life free from all the “shoulds" we like to promote in the church. Join us this week as we dive into Paul's message—to two different audiences spaced five years apart—to see how he reveals the role of discipline in our lives. Join the Pigs. Are you ready to go all in with Jesus? Ready to live a life that is free because it’s wholly dependent on Jesus? Are you ready to slow down and wallow in the mud puddle stories of Jesus? Join the Pigs. We’ll invite you in on exclusive behind the scenes insights, ask your opinion, pray for you and connect you to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Resources: Jesus-Centered Life https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496699146&sr=8-1&keywords=jesus+centered+life Celebration of Discipline https://www.amazon.com/Celebration-Discipline-Path-Spiritual-Growth/dp/0060628391/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496699219&sr=8-1&keywords=celebration+of+discipline (Podcast) Finding Freedom with Sarah Bessey https://soundcloud.com/paying-ridiculous-attention-to-jesus/season-2-episode-014-freedom-with-sarah-bessey (Podcast) Jesus and the Restoration of Intimacy--The Real Issue Behind the Porn Epidemic https://soundcloud.com/paying-ridiculous-attention-to-jesus/season-2-episode-008-jesus-the-restoration-of-intimacythe-real-issue-behind-the-porn-epidemic

What if spending time with Jesus went beyond a typical pre-packaged daily “quite time”? You vow to get to your 30-minute quiet time and some days you do, but most days you don't. The days you do you're in and out, and don't know why you still aren't seeing Jesus in everything. Days you don't you feel guilty the rest of the day, vowing you will get on top of this. What if your relationship with Jesus was a 24/7 event where he is invited into every moment, not just a set period of time? What would that look like? Would you laugh with him more? Would you start to feel like you have a regular everyday friendship with him? What would that look like? Join Becky and special guest Stephanie Hillberry (author) as they unpack a journey the embarked on nearly 600 days ago that involved removing the boundaries that can sometimes artificially exist in a typical quiet time. It started with reading the book The Jesus-Centered Life and has led to a deeper connection with Jesus that occurs in everyday moments throughout their day. During this episode, Stephanie will share about the process and results of writing some of the newest members of the Jesus-Centered family including, The Jesus Interruption (a unique devotion created specifically for busy mothers) and Namesake (a coloring book/devotion that will help you discover who Jesus says you truly are). Join the Pigs. Are you ready to go all in with Jesus? Ready to live a life that is free because it's wholly dependent on Jesus? Are you ready to slow down and wallow in the mud puddle stories of Jesus? Join the Pigs. We'll invite you in on exclusive behind the scenes insights, ask your opinion, pray for you and connect you to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join Here (https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/). Related Articles and Resources: Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496159227&sr=8-1&keywords=Jesus-Centered+Life The Jesus Interruption by Stephanie Hillberry- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Interruption-Embracing-Messiness-Jesus-Centered/dp/1470748452/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496159300&sr=8-1&keywords=the+jesus+interruption Namesake by Stephanie Hillberry- https://www.amazon.com/Namesake-Revealing-Jesus-Centered-Coloring-Experience/dp/1470742772 WE- https://www.amazon.com/We-Outrageously-Committed-Jesus-Centered-Devotions/dp/1470748460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1495130419&sr=8-1&keywords=WE+Outrageously

God has a plan. Everything happens for a reason. All things work together for good. But what does that mean? If God has a plan, what if his plan isn't the same as mine? What if the thing he is keeping from us that we want so desperately is to protect us? What if God knowing what's best for us, doesn't automatically result in getting what we want? Join us this week as we interview legendary rock star Brad Corrigan of Dispatch. Despite being one of the most legendary rock stars of one of the most popular bands world-wide, Brad shares about living a life of being single despite having the strong desire to be a family man. Understanding that the chosen lifestyle of spending half his life touring with the band and the other half living in a trash dump in Nicaragua is the reason why that family dream hasn't worked out, he now devotes himself to being a "Spiritual Papa" to kids who sort through trash piles. This week on Paying Ridiculous Attention to Jesus Podcast Rick and Becky tackle a mud puddle story that many of you have been asking for us to do, when Jesus curses the fig tree in Mark chapter 11. We will zoom in on what Jesus was really showing us about a tree without fruit on it and how it relates to his will for our lives. Join the Pigs. Are you ready to go all in with Jesus? Ready to live a life that is free because it's wholly dependent on Jesus? Are you ready to slow down and wallow in the mud puddle stories of Jesus? Join the Pigs. We'll invite you in on exclusive behind the scenes insights, ask your opinion, pray for you and connect you to other Pigs inside our private Facebook group. Join here: https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Related Resources: Learn more about all of the resources we have for living a Jesus-Centered Life https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered/ (Podcast) How to determine God's will: https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-how-to-determine-gods-will/ (Podcast) Me, Jesus, and the person I married. https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-jesus-person-married/

When you're feeling like your life needs a hard reset it's easy to leave Jesus behind and head to the self-help section of the book store and get on top of your issue. It's understandable why; they're inspiring, motivating, and believable. We know that if we can just make a few small changes in our lives they can have a huge overall impact. The problem is that they rely on our own strength and self-discipline. Jesus isn't looking for a paint by numbers relationship where he's already picked out the design and color. What he's looking for is to paint with you. For you to invite him into the drawing and let him make adjustments. He also knows that in the beginning you will have paintings that need do-overs and that with time you'll get better at it. That's how he wants to do life with us. Join us this week in the Old Testament as we look at the story of Gideon putting out a fleece as a way to be sure that he knew what God wanted. We'll also share from some of the top self-help gurus out there and compare what they have to say to what Jesus has to say. Resources: Join the Pigs: https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Jesus-Centered Bible: https://www.mylifetree.com/product-category/books/bibles-books/ Diet Experiment with Jesus: https://www.mylifetree.com/they-say-podcast-2-week-diet-challenge/ (Podcast) On Loving Ourselves: https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-on-loving-ourselves/ (Podcast) Whatever Makes You Happy: https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-episode-007-whatever-makes-happy/ (Podcast) The Unexpected Gift of Coming up Empty: https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-the-unexpected-gift-of-coming-up-empty/ Why Mindful Wasn't Making Me Happy: https://www.mylifetree.com/mindful-wasnt-making-happy/

We give our best, try our hardest, and give our all. We chase after self-discipline, fight the good fight, and love our neighbors as ourselves. We win with love, give peace and kindness. We're all in for Jesus, and we know he's all in for us. But what if he wants to take your best and then waste it? In the Old Testament you were asked to go to the altar and give your best as an offering. You would labor to raise the best calf, the best lamb, or grow the best crop and then set it on the alter and light it on fire. Your best was a sweet smelling offering to the Lord and he was pleased with it. In a world dominated by the pursuit of the American dream, a world in pursuit of happiness, what would it look like to have your talent, your skill, your best you wasted on the altar? Join us this week as we go back to the Old Testament and look at some places where people like Job were wasted and still gave their best to the Lord. Related Resources: Join the Pigs: https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/ Jesus-Centered Life: https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1494258539&sr=8-1&keywords=Jesus+Centered+Life Jesus-Centered Bible:https://www.mylifetree.com/product-category/books/bibles-books/ (Podcast) The Unexpected Gift of Coming up Empty: https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-the-unexpected-gift-of-coming-up-empty/ (Article) Why Mindful Wasn't Making Me Happy: https://www.mylifetree.com/mindful-wasnt-making-happy/

"God's Perfect Will" "What if I misunderstand his will?" "If I get on God's perfect track, does that mean my life will be perfect?" "Does God always want to make the choices, or does he have some choices I can make?" "What about free will?" "Is God's mind made up, or can he change his mind?" Join us this month as we talk about "What is God's Will?" It's so confusing to think about God's will. This week we're going to zoom in on the story of the Roman soldier who asks Jesus to perform a miracle. We're going to slow way down and pay attention to the things Jesus did and didn't do. We've heard from our listeners on the go that when we talk about related resources on the show, often they forget where to go find them or to download them later. We're setting up an email list that will send you the related resources each week from the episode so that you don't have to remember to. Related Resources: • Free Downloads to Help You Pay Better Attention to Jesus: https://www.mylifetree.com/theysay/download-library/ • The Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence: https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492447552&sr=8-1&keywords=jesus+centered+life • White Board Wednesday: https://youthministry.com/white-board-wednesday/

We’re wrapping up our month long theme on identity, so be sure you go back and listen to all four of these episodes. We couldn't finish a series on identity without talking about body image. Join us this week as we interview Jobe Lewis and talk about his very unique journey towards combining his body and spirit. Jobe has a passionate message to encourage people to ditch their scales, focus on health and combine the spiritual health with fitness in everyday life. What would it look like if we de-compartmentalized Jesus from our diet and body images and instead invited him into them? Becky took a challenge a year ago and did a two week dieting experiment, you can listen to her journey here (https://www.mylifetree.com/the-dieting-experiment-thats-not-a-diet-part-two/). Start your own 2-week diet challenge with Jesus with our free download (https://www.mylifetree.com/they-say-podcast-2-week-diet-challenge/), this diet will set you free. Because self-improvement is overrated, paying ridiculous attention to Jesus is better. Remember we are inviting our regular listeners to join the pigs. We'll invite you to a closed Facebook group where the community and conversation is already getting exciting! Here's the sign up page (https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/). Related Links and Articles: • White Board Wednesday (A weekly video series for Youth Workers, Pastors and Volunteers)- https://youthministry.com/white-board-wednesday/ • Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492810637&sr=8-1&keywords=Jesus+Centered+Life • Learn more about the mission trips Jobe Lewis organizes at LifetreeAdventures.com- https://lifetreeadventures.com/

This month on Paying Ridiculous Attention to Jesus Podcast we're focusing identity, and who does Jesus say I am? Last week we talked about what it looks like to be set free from the shackles that are burdening us, and tripping us up. This week we are going to talk about what it would look like if we partnered with Jesus to set other people free. Join Rick Lawrence and Becky Hodges as they unpack the lyrics from a Christian song written in the 80's about freedom, and what it feels like to patiently partner with the Holy Spirit for someone else's freedom from captivity. Become a Pig! After three weeks we have decided on a name for our group we are inviting you to. If you have no idea what that is you might want to pick up Rick's Jesus-Centered Life, there's a chapter called "Living a Pig Life" that will make this very clear. This group will get special emails from Rick and Becky as well as be invited to a private Facebook group focused on wading in the mud puddle stories of Jesus. Join the pigs or learn more. Related Links: Jesus-Centered Life, by Rick Lawrence- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492447552&sr=8-1&keywords=jesus+centered+life The Jesus-Interruption, by Stephanie Hillberry- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Interruption-Embracing-Messiness-Jesus-Centered/dp/1470748452/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492447832&sr=8-1&keywords=the+jesus+interruption Namesake, by Stephanie Hillberry- https://www.amazon.com/Namesake-Revealing-Jesus-Centered-Coloring-Experience/dp/1470742772/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1492447867&sr=8-3&keywords=namesake Rick's Guide to a Retreat with Jesus- https://www.mylifetree.com/taking-retreat-jesus-free-download/ (Podcast) Who does Jesus Say I Am?- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-jesus-say/ (Podcast) Namesake- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-revealing-who-jesus-says-you-are/ How I learned to hear Jesus' voice- https://www.mylifetree.com/how-i-learned-to-hear-jesus/

What is Jesus hoping to set you free from? If you have grown up in Christianity you probably know all about conviction and sin. But what if there’s more to the story? If Jesus came to set captives free, what does that really look like in our life? And what if freedom is about even giving up things that aren’t necessarily sin? This week we have the amazing pleasure of interviewing author and blogger, Sarah Bessey. This is an honest conversation about how God is freeing her up in life, showing her the true author of discipline, and how the gentle the voice of the Holy Spirit really is. We’ll also examine the role of discipleship and how it’s difference than we might have thought. BONUS Rick wrote a fantastic new free download with his “how to guide” on having a spiritual retreat with Jesus, sign up for the member group to get your copy. (https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/) Our member group is growing! There’s no charge to be a part of it, but if you are a regular listener here we want to broaden our relationship with you. We will randomly choose people to give stuff to you, reach out to get your input and advice on things and we’re going to be praying for you. Click on the button above to join. This week we are releasing a new devotional for teenagers heading out of high school, whether that’s to college or somewhere else. It’s about navigating your future with Jesus with relevant devotionals and also life stuff (like what you should always have in your car, and rules for roommates.) It’s called Destination: Life, and we want to invite you in spreading this to the next generation, pick up a copy for a graduate you know. Links to Sarah Bessey: Sarah’s Blog- http://sarahbessey.com/ Sarah’s first book, Jesus Feminist- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Feminist-Invitation-Revisit-Bibles/dp/1476717257/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1491856346&sr=1-1&keywords=jesus+feminist Sarah’s second book, Out of Sorts- https://www.amazon.com/Out-Sorts-Making-Peace-Evolving/dp/1476717583/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1491856384&sr=1-1&keywords=out+of+sorts Related Links and Articles: Rick's Retreat with Jesus Guidebook: https://www.mylifetree.com/taking-retreat-jesus-free-download/ Destination: Life (Graduation Devotional)- https://www.mylifetree.com/shop/destination-life/ (Podcast) The story of the woman Jesus heals by her touching his clothes- https://www.mylifetree.com/podcast-jesus-say/ The Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible/ Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489786019&sr=8-1&keywords=Jesus+Centered+Life How I learned to hear Jesus’ voice- https://www.mylifetree.com/how-i-learned-to-hear-jesus/ (Podcast) When you don’t feel like a real adult- https://soundcloud.com/user-213899857/episode-021-when-you-fail-at-adulting

Who does Jesus say I am? When I first met Rick, he talked a lot about this question. He said it was the second most important question in life. And that question scared me, because I have been raised in a world of broken mirrors. Those mirrors have decided to point out all the things that are “wrong” with me, and deep down inside I thought that’s what Jesus was going to do too. When I finally let Jesus in, he set me free. His names were: chosen, daughter, rain that fertilizes and makes things grow, protected, wise, and a destroyer of darkness. He also told me that my life was a beautiful mess, a perfect artwork and that even in the ashes of my darkness he was making a fertile and wild garden. This week join us as we talk about the way Jesus makes art with people’s lives. We’ll share our own practical insights on how we have created space in our lives for Jesus to name us. BONUS Rick wrote a fantastic new free download with his “how to guide” on having a spiritual retreat with Jesus. We will also be inviting our listeners to join a special group. There’s no charge to be a part of it, but if you are a regular listener here we want to broaden our relationship with you. We will randomly choose people to give stuff to you, reach out to get your input and advice on things and we’re going to be praying for you. See below the related articles for details on how you can join. This week we are releasing a new resource for you to learn your name. It’s called Namesake, it’s a new Jesus-Centered Devotional Coloring book. Each page is a reflection of who Jesus says you are paired with a coloring page to engage you while you pray and reflect on the devotion. Related Links and Articles Namesake- https://www.amazon.com/Namesake-Revealing-Jesus-Centered-Coloring-Experience/dp/1470742772/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1490995218&sr=8-1&keywords=namesake+coloring+book Namesake Sample- https://2df6ifl6qf726uflde5e28ya-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/namesake.pdf The Jesus-Centered Bible- http://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible/ A Failure of Nerve by Edwin Friedman- https://www.amazon.com/Failure-Nerve-Leadership-Age-Quick/dp/159627042X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489785710&sr=8-1&keywords=A+Failure+of+nerve Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489786019&sr=8-1&keywords=Jesus+Centered+Life The surprising thing that happened when I quit applying the Bible to my life- https://www.mylifetree.com/surprising-thing-happened-quit-applying-bible-life/ Two simple steps for changing the way you read the Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/two-simple-steps-changing-way-read-bible/ Pierced New Testament for Teens- https://www.amazon.com/Pierced-Testament-Devotional-Experience-Youth/dp/1470740095/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1490392794&sr=8-1&keywords=pierced+new+testament Join the Paying Ridiculous Attention To Jesus Podcast Community- https://www.mylifetree.com/pratj-member-sign-up/

When you picture someone who has devoted his entire life to the passion of getting people to read the Bible…you might be thinking that person is a bit rigid, and judgmental. You are in for a refreshing surprise this week as we interview Glenn Paauw formally of Biblica and now running the Institute for Bible Reading. We love his heart for making the Bible alive and a story again. Be a part of starting a Bible reading movement this year. Many of our listeners read the Jesus-Centered Bible and we want to encourage you to pick up a half dozen copies and to be praying about who you can give them too. Because it was designed to make the Bible more relate-able and bring out the story of Jesus. Get your Bibles today! We will also be inviting our listeners to join a special group. There’s no charge to be a part of it, but if you are a regular listener here we want to broaden our relationship with you. We will randomly choose people to give stuff to you, reach out to get your input and advice on things and we’re going to be praying for you. See below the related articles for details on how you can join. Related Links and Articles The Institute for Bible Reading- https://instituteforbiblereading.org/ The Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible/ Pierced New Testament for Teens- https://www.amazon.com/Pierced-Testament-Devotional-Experience-Youth/dp/1470740095/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1490392794&sr=8-1&keywords=pierced+new+testament A Failure of Nerve by Edwin Friedman- https://www.amazon.com/Failure-Nerve-Leadership-Age-Quick/dp/159627042X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489785710&sr=8-1&keywords=A+Failure+of+nerve Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489786019&sr=8-1&keywords=Jesus+Centered+Life The Surprising thing that happened when I quit applying the Bible to my life- https://www.mylifetree.com/surprising-thing-happened-quit-applying-bible-life/ Two simple steps for changing the way you read the Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/two-simple-steps-changing-way-read-bible/

You opened your Bible, read a passage and immediately started applying it to your life. You read that part about how God doesn’t want you to tell a lie, and immediately started thinking about the small fib you told your co-worker the other day. Suddenly you’re wrecked with guilt and turning to prayer, or slamming the book closed. The truth is what happened is you missed the whole story. You missed what the passage was telling you about who Jesus is. Join us this week as we take a portion of Matthew 15 and apply a new filter while we read it. Watch as Jesus comes alive, and all of the insights we glean about him from a few paragraphs in the Bible. We want to invite all of you to take this experiment in your own Bible and share the new things you learn about Jesus. Related Links and Articles • The Jesus-Centered Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/jesus-centered-bible/ • A Failure of Nerve by Edwin Friedman- https://www.amazon.com/Failure-Nerve-Leadership-Age-Quick/dp/159627042X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489785710&sr=8-1&keywords=A+Failure+of+nerve • Jesus-Centered Life by Rick Lawrence- https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Centered-Life-Didnt-Think-Possible/dp/1470728273/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1489786019&sr=8-1&keywords=Jesus+Centered+Life • The surprising thing that happened when I quit applying the Bible to my life- https://www.mylifetree.com/surprising-thing-happened-quit-applying-bible-life/ • Two simple steps for changing the way you read the Bible- https://www.mylifetree.com/two-simple-steps-changing-way-read-bible/