Healing Conversations with Dave Roberts

Have you ever felt like you're just going through the motions, searching for a sense of purpose and meaning in your life? You're not alone. In this episode of the podcast, the speaker explores the concept of covenant and how it can help you find your purpose and live a life that truly matters. The story of Abram, a key figure in the biblical narrative, serves as a powerful example of how covenant can shape our lives. Through his journey, we see how Abram's relationship with God is marked by trust, obedience, and faith. The speaker delves into the ways in which Abram's story can inspire us to live a life of purpose and meaning, even in the face of uncertainty and adversity. One of the key takeaways from this episode is the importance of letting go of the known and embracing the unknown. Abram's decision to leave his familiar life behind and follow God's call is a powerful reminder that true fulfillment often requires us to step out of our comfort zones. The speaker also explores the idea that covenant is not just about individual success, but about being part of something bigger than ourselves. As you listen to this episode, you'll be encouraged to reflect on your own life and consider how you can live a life of purpose and meaning. Join the speaker as they explore the ways in which covenant can help you find your place in the world and live a life that truly matters.

In a world where chaos and disorder seem to reign, it's easy to lose sight of the fact that there's a God who hovers over the chaos, bringing order and life out of it. This episode of Healing Conversations explores the biblical story of creation and how it speaks to our deepest desires for hope, redemption, and new beginnings. The speaker delves into the story of creation, highlighting the importance of understanding why God created the world, rather than just how it was made. By examining the ancient Near Eastern context and the biblical narrative, we gain a deeper understanding of God's creative process and the underlying truths that shape our lives. From the separation of light and darkness to the creation of the vault and the gathering of the waters, we see a God who is actively involved in shaping the world and bringing order out of chaos. As we explore the biblical story, we're reminded that God's creativity is not just about creating the world, but about bringing life and hope to it. The speaker discusses the importance of understanding the ancient mindset and the cultural context in which the biblical narrative was written. We also touch on the idea of free will and the consequences that come with it, and how God's intervention in history is intertwined with the natural laws that govern the world. In this episode, we're invited to see the world through the lens of God's creative power and love. We're encouraged to look beyond the chaos and disorder, and to trust in a God who hovers over our lives, bringing order and life out of the darkness. Join us as we explore the depths of the biblical story and discover the hope and redemption that it offers.

As we embark on a new series of conversations, the speaker invites us to reflect on the greatest story ever told – the biblical narrative. This story is more than just a collection of events; it's a masterfully crafted tale of redemption, woven with design patterns that reveal the human condition and God's plan for us. From the biblical story's inverse trajectory, where life's struggles are not just a precursor to death, but a journey towards fulfillment, to the promise of new beginnings and new life, this narrative is a powerful reminder that our story is not just about what's happening now, but about what's to come. In this episode, the speaker explores the biblical story's design patterns, highlighting the importance of understanding the narrative as a whole, rather than just individual events. They discuss the concept of the "seeing, desiring, and taking" pattern, which is repeated throughout the biblical story, and how it relates to our own lives. The speaker also delves into the idea of the biblical story's inverse trajectory, where our struggles are not just a precursor to death, but a journey towards fulfillment. The conversation also touches on the importance of understanding the biblical story as a story of redemption, rather than just a collection of historical events. The speaker emphasizes that this story is not just about what's happening now, but about what's to come, and that our lives are part of a larger narrative that's headed towards fulfillment. They also discuss the role of God in our lives, and how we often try to make ourselves the protagonist of the story, rather than acknowledging God's place in it. As we explore the greatest story ever told, we're reminded that our lives are not just about what's happening now, but about what's to come. Join the speaker as they continue to unpack the biblical narrative and its relevance to our lives, and discover how this story can bring hope and redemption to our own stories.

In a world where it's easy to get caught up in the chaos of everyday life, a recent conversation on this podcast explored the importance of staying focused on what truly matters. The speaker delved into the concept of being "wired for vision," discussing how our priorities and values can either lead us down a path of negativity and frustration or towards a life of purpose and fulfillment. This episode was a thought-provoking discussion on the biblical idea of living a life that's guided by a higher purpose. The speaker shared insights from Romans 13, highlighting the importance of living in harmony with the governing authorities, but also emphasized the need to prioritize our values and vision. The conversation also touched on the idea that our vision for the kingdom of God is not about overthrowing the existing systems, but about living in a way that reflects God's values of love, kindness, and compassion. The speaker was joined by a guest who shared his thoughts on the challenges of navigating complex issues and the importance of humility in our conversations. They discussed how easy it is to get caught up in our own biases and opinions, and how this can lead to a lack of kindness and understanding in our interactions with others. As we navigate the challenges of our own lives, this episode encourages us to take a step back and reflect on our priorities. Are we focusing on the things that truly matter, or are we getting caught up in the chaos of the world around us? Join the conversation and listen to this episode to discover how you can live a life that's guided by a higher purpose and vision.

In a world where anger and division seem to be at an all-time high, a recent study found that nine out of ten people in the United States are angry about something, while only four out of ten feel proud about something. This episode explores the reasons behind this phenomenon and how it's affecting our culture. The speaker delves into the idea that we're not just angry, but we're also seeking revenge, often based on a false sense of justice. This can lead to a vicious cycle of hurtful language and behavior, which can tear us apart as individuals and as a society. The speaker draws on biblical teachings, specifically from the book of Romans, to offer a different perspective on how to navigate these challenging times. Key takeaways from this episode include the importance of not conforming to the pattern of the world, but rather being transformed by the renewing of our minds. The speaker emphasizes the need to love sincerely, be humble, and practice goodness, which can lead to real change in the world. By doing so, we can break free from the cycle of anger and revenge and become the "salt of the earth" and the "light of the world." In this episode, the speaker is joined by Eric McClendon, who shares his insights on the relationship between anger and information. They discuss how the more informed we are, the more nuanced our understanding of complex issues becomes, and the less likely we are to be angry. The speaker also explores the idea that love must be sincere, and that our actions should be driven by a desire to do good, rather than by our emotions.

In a world where we're constantly bombarded with messages telling us we're not good enough, it's easy to feel like we're standing in the middle of a crowded marketplace, waiting to be stoned for our perceived shortcomings. But what if we told you that there's a different way to look at it? A way that says, "You're not alone, and you're not condemned." This episode of the podcast explores the idea that we're all wired to feel safe, and that God's love is the key to unlocking that sense of security. The conversation delves into the concept of our hardwiring and how it affects our lives. The speaker shares personal anecdotes and biblical stories to illustrate the importance of feeling secure in God's love. They discuss how our culture often focuses on condemning others, rather than offering a message of love and acceptance. The episode also touches on the idea that we're all prone to failure, and that it's okay not to be perfect. Through a thought-provoking discussion with a guest, the speaker explores the idea that God is for us, not against us. They examine the biblical story of the woman caught in adultery and how Jesus' response challenges our traditional views on morality and condemnation. The conversation also delves into the importance of confession and the role of a therapist or spiritual leader in helping us work through our struggles. If you're feeling like you're stuck in a cycle of guilt and shame, or if you're struggling to feel secure in God's love, this episode is for you. Join the conversation and discover a new way to look at your hardwiring and your place in the world. Listen to the full episode to hear the speaker's personal story and the biblical insights that will challenge your perspective and offer you hope and healing.

Have you ever felt like you're just going through the motions, waiting for something better? Or maybe you're struggling to make sense of the pain and suffering in the world around you? This episode of Healing Conversations explores the idea that we're wired for intercession, and that our groanings can be a sacred way to connect with God. In this conversation, the speaker delves into the concept of intercession, drawing on biblical teachings and real-life examples. They discuss how we often try to navigate the complexities of life on our own, but that God has given us a way to intercede, to have someone speak on our behalf. This can be a powerful way to find hope in the midst of uncertainty and pain. The speaker also talks about the importance of understanding decay and pain, and how we often try to avoid or minimize these experiences. However, they argue that intercessors choose to approach pain and suffering in a different way, seeing them as opportunities for growth and transformation. They also explore the idea of hope, and how it's rooted in the biblical teaching that we're patiently waiting for God to bring about a better plan. As we navigate the challenges of life, it's easy to get caught up in complaining or trying to fix everything on our own. But what if we could learn to groan in a way that's not just about complaining, but about seeking God's help and guidance? Join the conversation to learn more about being wired for intercession and how it can bring hope and healing to your life.

In a world where division and conflict often seem to dominate the headlines, a powerful message of unity and belonging is just what we need to hear. This episode of the podcast explores the idea that we're all wired for connection and that our sense of belonging is at the heart of what it means to be human. The speaker delves into the book of Romans, where Paul writes about the importance of unity and belonging in our lives. He argues that we're not just individuals, but part of a larger family, connected to God and to each other. This message is just as relevant today as it was when Paul first wrote it, and it challenges us to rethink our priorities and our understanding of what it means to be a part of a community. Through a discussion with guest Eric McClenahan, the speaker explores the idea that unity is not just about getting along, but about being connected to something greater than ourselves. They discuss how our individual perspectives and priorities can either bring us together or drive us apart, and how our sense of belonging can be a powerful force for good in the world. As we navigate the complexities of our own lives and the world around us, this episode offers a timely reminder that we're all part of a larger story, and that our sense of belonging is at the heart of what it means to be human. Join the conversation and discover how embracing our shared humanity can bring us closer together and help us find our place in the world.

In a world where we often seek clear, undeniable signs of God's presence, we're left wondering: does God still speak? This episode of the podcast explores the age-old question of how God communicates with us, and whether we're still able to hear his voice. The conversation delves into the stories of the Bible, where God's voice is loud and clear, from the dramatic interventions of the Old Testament to the quiet whispers of the New Testament. The hosts discuss the importance of seeking, talking, listening, and abiding in God's presence, and how these practices can help us discern his voice in our lives. They also touch on the idea that God's revelation is not just about dramatic events, but about the everyday moments and experiences that shape our understanding of him. As they explore the complexities of God's communication, the hosts share personal anecdotes and insights, drawing from their own experiences and the stories of others. They also discuss the importance of humility and discernment in understanding God's voice, and how we can avoid the pitfalls of claiming to speak for God without proper authority. In this thought-provoking episode, the hosts invite listeners to reflect on their own relationship with God and how they can cultivate a deeper sense of awareness and connection with him. Join them as they explore the mysteries of God's communication and discover the ways in which he still speaks to us today.

In this episode of Healing Conversations, the speaker delves into the story of the Exodus, exploring the theme of God's persistence and roundabout ways. We're reminded that God's plan is often not what we expect, and that he works in mysterious ways to bring about freedom and deliverance. The story of the Israelites' journey out of Egypt is a powerful illustration of this concept. Despite their struggles and doubts, God remains faithful and persistent, working to bring about their ultimate freedom. The speaker highlights the importance of trusting in God's bigger picture, even when circumstances seem to suggest otherwise. We're encouraged to remember that God sees the big picture and is working to set us free from our own struggles and fears. The conversation also touches on the idea that God's ways are not always logical or easy to understand. The speaker shares personal anecdotes and biblical examples to illustrate this point, including the story of the Israelites' journey and the concept of God's sovereignty. We're reminded that faith is not about having all the answers, but about trusting in God's goodness and character. As we navigate our own struggles and doubts, the speaker encourages us to trust in God's persistence and roundabout ways. We're invited to join the conversation and explore the ways in which God is working in our lives, even when we can't see or understand what's happening.

In this episode of Healing Conversations, the speaker delves into the story of the Exodus, exploring the concept of God's persistence and roundabout ways. The narrative of the Israelites' journey from slavery to freedom serves as a powerful reminder that God's plan is often not what we expect, and that He works in mysterious ways to bring about His ultimate goal of freedom and redemption. The speaker discusses how the Israelites' experience is mirrored in our own lives, where we often struggle to see God's big picture and may feel discouraged by the challenges we face. However, the story of the Exodus teaches us that God is busy setting us free, even when circumstances seem to be getting worse. He is working to break the yoke of slavery, not just in the physical sense, but also in our minds and hearts. The speaker also touches on the idea that God's ways are not our ways, and that He often leads us in roundabout ways to achieve His purposes. This can be frustrating for us, but it's essential to trust in God's sovereignty and His love for us. The speaker shares personal anecdotes and biblical examples to illustrate this point, including the story of Moses and the Israelites' journey. As we navigate our own struggles and uncertainties, the speaker encourages us to remember that God sees the big picture and is working to set us free. He invites us to trust in His goodness and sovereignty, even when we don't understand what's happening. To hear more about God's persistence and roundabout ways, tune in to this episode of Healing Conversations.

Have you ever felt like you're not good enough or qualified to make a difference in the world? You're not alone. In this episode, the speaker delves into the biblical concept of being sent, exploring how God's call to us is not just for a select few, but for everyone. From the story of Moses to the Great Commission, we'll examine how God's pattern of sending people to make a difference is a fundamental part of the Christian faith. The conversation touches on the idea that God sends us in response to needs, with a master plan to deliver and prosper us. We'll discuss how God's providence and power are available to us, and how our weaknesses can actually be a strength in His eyes. The speaker also shares personal anecdotes and insights from his own experiences, making this episode a relatable and inspiring listen. As we explore the concept of being sent, we'll discover that it's not just about grand, heroic actions, but about everyday moments of service and care. We'll learn how to listen for God's call in our lives, and how to respond with faith and obedience. Whether you're feeling stuck or uncertain about your place in the world, this episode is a reminder that you are called and equipped to make a difference. Join the speaker as he explores the biblical story of being sent, and discover how you can be a part of God's greater plan to bring freedom and deliverance to a world in need. Listen in to hear the full conversation and be inspired to take the first step in your own journey of being sent.

In this powerful episode of Healing Conversations, the speaker delves into the complex topic of brokenness, exploring how it can be a catalyst for growth, healing, and purpose. Drawing from the biblical narrative, the conversation highlights the stories of Moses and other key figures who, despite their flaws and failures, were used by God to achieve great things. The episode discusses how our brokenness can be a source of strength, rather than weakness, and how God sees beyond our mistakes to the potential within us. The speaker shares personal anecdotes and insights, illustrating how our experiences of pain and struggle can be opportunities for healing and redemption. The conversation also touches on the importance of humility, listening, and being willing to learn from our mistakes. Through the lens of the biblical story, the speaker shows how God uses broken people to bring about good, and how our own brokenness can be a source of hope and healing for others. The conversation is a reminder that we don't have to be perfect to be used by God, and that our stories of struggle and imperfection can be a powerful way to connect with others and share the love of God. If you're struggling with feelings of shame, guilt, or inadequacy, or if you're looking for a fresh perspective on how to live a life of purpose and meaning, this episode of Healing Conversations is a must-listen. Join the speaker as they explore the complexities of brokenness and the transformative power of God's love and redemption.

As we navigate the complexities of life, it's easy to get caught up in the idea that freedom is something we can achieve on our own terms. But what if the concept of freedom is more than just a state of being, but a choice we make every day? In this episode of the podcast, the speaker explores the idea that freedom is not just a destination, but a journey that requires us to surrender to something greater than ourselves. The conversation delves into the story of Joseph and the Israelites, who found themselves in a state of slavery and bondage. Despite their circumstances, they held onto the promise that God was working behind the scenes to bring them freedom. The speaker highlights three key aspects of this story: broken things, slow things, and chaotic things. We're reminded that life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and that God is always working to bring us out of our brokenness and into a place of freedom. The discussion also touches on the idea that God hears our prayers and is working to bring us freedom, even when we can't see it. The speaker shares personal anecdotes and insights from the Bible, highlighting the importance of surrendering to God's plan and trusting in His goodness. We're encouraged to reflect on our own lives and identify areas where we need to surrender and trust in God's sovereignty. As we listen to this episode, we're invited to consider what freedom means to us and how we can surrender to God's plan in our own lives. Join the conversation and discover how God is working to bring you freedom, even in the midst of brokenness, slowness, and chaos.

As we wrap up our series on the good life, this episode takes a deep dive into the importance of generosity. The speaker explores how generosity is woven into the fabric of American culture, from the Puritan ideals of colonial times to the present day. We'll examine how generosity multiplies resources, refreshes, and produces goodwill, and how it's not just about giving money, but also about being generous with our time, presence, and good mood. This episode is a thought-provoking conversation between the speaker and Eric McClanahan, a pastor who shares his insights on generosity and its impact on our lives and communities. They discuss how generosity is not just about meeting the needs of others, but also about being sensitive to those needs and being willing to take responsibility for making a difference. The conversation touches on the idea that generosity is not just about what we give, but also about how we give, and how our generosity can have a ripple effect on those around us. The speaker shares personal anecdotes and stories of how generosity has transformed lives, including his own church's experience with a building campaign and a partnership in Africa. Eric McClanahan shares his own experiences of being generous with his time and resources, and how it has impacted his life and relationships. Together, they explore the idea that generosity is not just a moral obligation, but also a way to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. In this episode, you'll hear practical wisdom on how to cultivate a generous spirit, how to be more aware of the needs around us, and how to make a positive impact in our communities. Join the conversation and discover the transformative power of generosity in your own life.

In a world where instant gratification and constant connectivity can make it feel like time is speeding by, it's easy to lose sight of the importance of patience. This episode of the podcast explores the value of patience in our lives, and how it can be a game-changer in our relationships, our work, and our overall well-being. The speaker delves into the concept of patience, discussing how it's not just a virtue, but a skill that can be developed and strengthened over time. They explore the idea that patience is contagious, and that when we surround ourselves with impatient people, we're more likely to become impatient ourselves. They also discuss how patience is essential for building understanding and resolving conflicts, and how it's a key component of a healthy and peaceful life. The speaker shares personal anecdotes and insights, including their own experiences with impatience and how they've learned to cultivate patience in their daily life. They also explore the idea that patience is not just about waiting, but about being still, being present, and being mindful. They discuss the importance of finding stillness and quiet in a world that's constantly demanding our attention, and how this can help us feel more grounded and at peace. In this episode, the speaker invites listeners to reflect on their own levels of patience and how it affects their relationships and daily life. They encourage listeners to take a deep breath and recognize the value of patience in their own journey, and to remember that God is patient with us, waiting for us to come to Him. If you're looking for a fresh perspective on patience and how it can transform your life, this episode is a must-listen.

In a world where opinions are loud and knowledge is abundant, it's easy to get caught up in the noise and forget the importance of being a learner. This episode of the podcast explores the value of humility and the dangers of being a "know-it-all." The speaker delves into the story of Elijah, a powerful prophet who became complacent in his knowledge and lost sight of the truth. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it's tempting to think we have all the answers. But the truth is, we're often stuck in our own perspectives, unwilling to listen to others or consider alternative viewpoints. The speaker shares the Fineman technique, a four-step process for demystifying complex topics and gaining a deeper understanding. This approach involves selecting a concept, mapping your knowledge, teaching it to a twelve-year-old, reviewing and refining, and testing your understanding. The conversation also touches on the importance of humility in learning, citing the Bible's emphasis on seeking wisdom and understanding. The speaker encourages listeners to be like the Bereans, who searched the scriptures daily to see if what they were being taught was true. By embracing a learner's mindset, we can avoid the pitfalls of being a know-it-all and instead cultivate a deeper understanding of the world around us. In this episode, the speaker is joined by Eric McClanahan, who shares his insights on the importance of being a learner in today's complex world. Together, they explore the challenges of navigating information overload and the need to seek out multiple sources of knowledge. If you're ready to shift your perspective and become a lifelong learner, tune in to this episode to discover the value of humility and the benefits of seeking wisdom.

In a world where negativity and criticism seem to dominate the airwaves, it's refreshing to talk about a superpower that can change the game: encouragement. This week on the podcast, the speaker explores the importance of being an encourager, and how it can have a profound impact on those around us. Encouragement is not just a feel-good concept; it's a powerful tool that can actually change the way we think and behave. The speaker delves into the science behind encouragement, citing studies that show how positive words can boost our mood, reduce anxiety, and even improve our physical health. But it's not just about us; encouragement can also have a profound impact on those around us, from our families to our communities. The speaker shares personal anecdotes and biblical teachings that highlight the importance of encouragement, including the story of the two frogs who were stuck in a pit and how the power of positive words helped them escape. They also discuss the concept of "encouragement as a habit" and how it can become a natural part of our daily lives. With the help of a special guest, Eric McClanahan, the speaker explores the challenges of being an encourager, including the tendency to focus on our own flaws and the importance of receiving encouragement ourselves. So, what can you do to become a more encouraging person? The speaker offers practical tips and insights, including the idea that encouragement is a choice and that we can make a difference by speaking positive words to those around us. Join the conversation and discover the power of encouragement for yourself.

In a world where negativity and criticism seem to dominate the airwaves, it's refreshing to talk about the importance of gracious words and the impact they can have on our relationships and our lives. This episode of the podcast explores the wisdom of the Book of Proverbs, which reminds us that our words have the power to either build up or tear down. The speaker delves into the concept of being careful with our words, highlighting the dangers of speaking derisively about others and the benefits of holding our tongues. We're also reminded that gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweet and healing to the soul. But what does it mean to live a life of gracious words? How can we cultivate this kind of language in our daily interactions? And what are the consequences of neglecting to do so? Through a thought-provoking conversation with guest Eric McClanahan, the speaker explores the ways in which our words can either bring people together or drive them apart. They discuss the importance of being mindful of our language, especially in the age of social media, where negativity and outrage can spread quickly. They also touch on the need for collaboration and meaningful conversations between people with different perspectives. If you're looking for a more positive and uplifting way to navigate the challenges of life, this episode is a must-listen. Join the conversation and discover the power of gracious words to transform your relationships and your world.

In a world where we often search for a utopian paradise, a place of peace and harmony, we're reminded that true bliss is not a physical location, but a state of being. This episode of the podcast explores the concept of Shangri-La, a mystical land that has captivated our imagination for centuries, and how it relates to the biblical idea of grace. The speaker delves into the story of Jonah, a prophet who was swallowed by a fish, and how his journey teaches us about the power of grace and forgiveness. We're also joined by Eric McLenaghan, a guest who shares his personal experiences and insights on the importance of receiving and offering grace in our relationships. Through their conversation, we're encouraged to reflect on our own lives and relationships, and how we can cultivate a sense of grace and forgiveness in our daily lives. The episode touches on the idea that true freedom and happiness come from within, and that we're all in need of grace, regardless of our circumstances. We're also reminded that grace is not just a feeling, but a choice we can make, and that it's essential for building healthy relationships and a positive atmosphere in our homes and communities. If you're struggling with feelings of guilt, shame, or resentment, or if you're looking for ways to improve your relationships and cultivate a sense of peace and harmony, this episode is for you. Join the conversation and discover how the power of grace can transform your life and the lives of those around you.

In a world where it seems like common sense is in short supply, this episode of the podcast explores the importance of wisdom in our lives. From the scientific definition of wisdom as expert knowledge in the fundamental pragmatics of life to the biblical concept of wisdom as a higher mindset, this conversation delves into the complexities of what it means to be wise. The speaker discusses the difference between conventional wisdom, which is often based on common sense guidelines for living, and critical wisdom, which involves questioning and challenging prevailing norms. They also explore the idea that wisdom is not just about knowledge, but about applying that knowledge in a way that takes into account the interests of others and the greater context. This episode also touches on the importance of intellectual integrity and the need to think critically about the information we consume. The conversation also highlights the challenges of finding wisdom in a world where everything seems to be biased towards a particular perspective. The speaker notes that we often prioritize personality over content and that this can lead to a lack of depth in our discussions. They also discuss the importance of taking off vice and putting on virtue, and how this can lead to a more compassionate and kind approach to life. This episode is a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be wise in a world that often values quick fixes and easy answers over careful consideration and critical thinking. If you're looking for a more nuanced understanding of wisdom and how to apply it in your life, this episode is a great place to start.

In a world where pride and self-importance can often get in the way of true connection and understanding, the speaker invites us to explore the transformative power of humility. This episode delves into the complexities of humility, a virtue often misunderstood as thinking less of oneself, but actually, it's about thinking of oneself less. By examining the scriptural examples of Jesus and the apostle Paul, we'll discover how humility can be a path to renewal, rest, and a deeper connection with others. Humility is not just a feeling or an attitude, but a choice we can make every day. It's about recognizing that our lives are not our own, but a part of a larger story that involves others and a higher power. By letting go of our need to be right and our desire for control, we can create space for others to share their perspectives and experiences, leading to a more authentic and meaningful life. The speaker discusses the importance of self-awareness, recognizing our limitations, and being open to new ideas. We'll also explore the concept of "sober-mindedness," which means thinking of ourselves with good common sense and a sense of fairness. By living in accordance with the truth that's been given to us, we can cultivate humility and create a safe space for others to rest and be themselves. If you're looking for a way to break free from the cycle of pride and self-importance, this episode is for you. Join the speaker as they explore the science of humility, discuss the challenges of measuring humility, and offer practical advice on how to cultivate this vital virtue in your daily life. Listen in to discover how humility can be a powerful tool for renewal, rest, and deeper connections with others.

Have you ever felt like you're stuck in a rut, focusing on what's broken in your life rather than what's going right? This episode of the podcast explores the importance of gratitude in a world that often emphasizes what's lacking. The speaker delves into the concept of behavioral spirituality, discussing how our thoughts and behaviors can either lead to freedom or oppression. In this conversation, the speaker shares a powerful story from the Bible about ten lepers who were healed, but only one returned to express gratitude. This story highlights the difficulty many people face in practicing gratitude, even when they've experienced positive changes in their lives. The speaker also discusses the science behind gratitude, revealing its numerous benefits, including increased happiness, better relationships, and improved physical health. The conversation also touches on the idea that our culture often focuses on what's broken, rather than what's working well. This can lead to a mindset of cynicism and negativity, making it challenging to cultivate gratitude. The speaker shares personal anecdotes and practical tips for incorporating gratitude into daily life, such as journaling, prayer, and reflecting on the good things that happen each day. As you listen to this episode, you'll be encouraged to reframe your perspective and focus on the good things in your life. The speaker invites you to ask yourself, "What's the best possible choice for me to make today?" and to consider the benefits of practicing gratitude in your daily life. Join the conversation and discover how gratitude can lead to freedom and a more positive outlook.

In a world where hope can feel elusive, a conversation about its importance and where it comes from can be a game-changer. This episode delves into the concept of hope, exploring its connection to our well-being, relationships, and the world around us. The speaker discusses how hope is not just a feeling, but a choice that can be cultivated through practices and relationships. The conversation touches on the idea that hope is rooted in ultimate things, such as a higher power or a sense of purpose. The speaker shares personal experiences and stories of how hope has been a source of strength and comfort in difficult times. They also explore the concept of the "God of the gaps," where people often attribute hope to a higher power when they can't explain something. The speaker suggests that hope can be found in relationships, experiences, and practices, rather than just a specific deity. The discussion also highlights the importance of community and connection in building hope. The speaker notes that when we feel small and connected to others, we are more likely to feel hopeful. They also touch on the idea that hope is not just a feeling, but a choice that can be made through practices such as gratitude, forgiveness, and kindness. As we navigate life's challenges, it's easy to get caught up in our own stories and struggles. But what if we could shift our perspective and see the bigger picture? What if we could cultivate hope in our lives and in our communities? This episode offers a refreshing perspective on the importance of hope and how it can be a source of strength and comfort in difficult times. Join the conversation to learn more about the power of hope and how it can transform your life.

In this episode of Healing Conversations, the speaker delves into the complex and often misunderstood topic of forgiveness. We're often told to forgive, but what does that really mean, and how do we do it? The speaker explores the different aspects of forgiveness, from decisional forgiveness to emotional forgiveness, and how they fit together.

In this episode of the podcast, the speaker delves into the concept of behavioral spirituality, exploring the connection between our beliefs and actions. They discuss how our values and virtues can be put into practice in real life, and how this can lead to a more integrated and fulfilling human experience.

In this episode of Healing Conversations, Dave Roberts discusses how responsibility starts early, with a focus on building relationships and friendships, and how it's about being a good neighbor. Dave also talks about how responsibility is real food, satisfying our deeper needs, and how it's about seeing opportunities to make a difference.

In this episode of Healing Conversations, Dave Roberts explores the concept of joy with special guest Eric McClenahan. They dive into the story of Jesus turning water into wine at a wedding in Cana, discussing how this miracle represents the joy of presence, new things, and abundance. They also discuss the importance of being intentional about joy, using the analogy of jelly beans to illustrate the limited time we have on this earth. The conversation touches on the idea that joy is a choice and that we need to be aware of what brings us joy in our lives.

In this episode of Healing Conversations, host Dave Roberts explores the importance of theology in everyday life. He's joined by Eric McLennaghan, a thoughtful and insightful guest who shares his perspectives on the complexities of theology and its impact on our understanding of God. They delve into the concept of orthodoxy, sectarianism, and cultish theology, discussing how these ideas shape our understanding of the divine. The conversation also touches on the role of scripture, tradition, reason, and experience in forming our theologies, and how we can navigate the diverse perspectives within Christianity.

In this episode of Healing Conversations, host Dave Roberts explores the idea of "after the Amen" - what happens when we leave the church building and take our faith into the world. He delves into the story of Thomas, who needed to see and touch Jesus to believe, and how Jesus' patience and love helped him come to faith. Dave also discusses the importance of feeding others with peace, patience, and faith, and how we need to feed on these things ourselves in order to share them with others. Joining the conversation is Eric McLaughlin, who shares his thoughts on how to live out our faith in everyday life.

In this episode of Healing Conversations, hosts Dave Roberts and Eric McClenahan explore the question of purpose and what it means to live a life of meaning and fulfillment. They dive into James Chapter 5, discussing the importance of stewardship, creation, service, and building, and how these principles can help us avoid complacency and oppression. The conversation touches on the dangers of systemic complacency, the importance of community, and the need to build bridges across differences. With personal anecdotes and biblical insights, Dave and Eric encourage listeners to reflect on their own purpose and how they can live out their values in a way that makes a positive impact in the world.

On this Easter Sunday episode of Healing Conversations, host Dave Roberts explores the power of words and their impact on our lives. He delves into the biblical passage from James chapter three, discussing how our words can be a source of life or death, and how we can use them to build up or tear down others. Dave also talks with guest Debbie Payne about the importance of being mindful of our words and their effect on those around us, and how we can create a positive atmosphere in our homes and communities.

In this episode of Healing Conversations, Dave Roberts explores the concept of atomic habits with a biblical perspective. He delves into the book of James, discussing the importance of being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Dave also shares insights from Vince Lombardi's coaching philosophy, highlighting the value of mastering the fundamentals. Eric McClennan joins the conversation, sharing his thoughts on the connection between atomic habits and living out one's faith in a practical way. They discuss how these habits can lead to a more authentic and meaningful life, and how they can be applied in everyday situations.

In this episode of Healing Conversations, Dave Roberts explores the concept of erosion and how it affects our faith. He's joined by Eric McClanahan to discuss James, the half-brother of Jesus, and his letter that offers practical advice on how to stay vigilant in our faith. They dive into the idea of erosion, what it means to have faith wear thin, and how to combat it with an attitude of optimism, perseverance, and maturity. They also discuss the importance of wisdom, trust, and humility in our daily lives, and how these qualities can help us navigate life's challenges.

In this episode of Healing Conversations, Dave Roberts explores the simplicity of wonder with guest Eric McLennan. They discuss how our culture's emphasis on control and cynicism can lead to a loss of childlike wonder. Eric shares his personal struggles with cynicism and the importance of trust, while Dave delves into the biblical concept of becoming like little children to enter the kingdom of heaven. They also touch on the idea that true greatness is not about power or status, but about humility and dependence on a higher power. This conversation invites listeners to reflect on their own sense of wonder and what it means to live a life of simplicity and trust.

In this episode of Healing Conversations, Dave Roberts explores the simplicity of surrender with guest Eric McClanahan. They delve into the idea of embracing Christ and letting go of control, discussing how this surrender can lead to a deeper sense of peace and purpose. They also touch on the concept of taking up one's cross, which isn't just about physical martyrdom, but about carrying the burdens and challenges of life with strength and faith. The conversation is a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to live a life of surrender and trust in a higher power.

Simplicity of Focus

Simplicity

Blind Spots: Vengence

In this episode of Healing Conversations, host Dave Roberts explores the concept of integrity with guest Eric McClanahan. They delve into the idea that integrity is not just about moral and sexual purity, but about being consistent in all areas of life. 

Blind Spots in Communication

Blind Spots

Busy Brain

You Belong Despite Your Fears

1st Week of Advent: You Belong

The Thanksgiving Attitude Part 2

The Thanksgiving Attitude