Deeper Experiences with God

Have you ever felt like you're in a season of life that's exceptionally wearisome? On this week’s episode Pastor Dave speaks with author, speaker and spiritual director, Becky L McCoy about her newly released book, In the Company of the Weary: 10 Gentle Spiritual Practices for your Tired Soul. Drawing from her own experiences of profound grief and faith burnout, Becky invites listeners to exchange outcome-driven spiritual performance for process-oriented, embodied connection with God — one gentle practice at a time. Takeaways:Visio Divina — seeing with the eyes of the soul. Becky introduces Visio Divina, the visual counterpart to Lectio Divina, as a practice of paying attention to what catches your eye (a piece of art, a landscape, or even just people-watching) and asking yourself what you notice, what you feel, and what God might be revealing through it. For Becky, it was this practice that unlocked curiosity as the posture at the heart of all spiritual formation.Action: Find a painting, a view, or something in your surroundings that catches your attention this week. Sit with it for a few minutes and ask: What am I noticing? What am I feeling? What might God be saying to me through this?The underrated gift of silence. In a world, and oftentimes a church culture, that fills every quiet moment with noise, Becky shares how learning to sit in silence transformed her relationship with God. Silence isn't about emptying your mind; it's about becoming more present and attuned to what's already going on in there.Action: Try one small experiment with silence this week — even five minutes in the car without a podcast or music. Notice what surfaces, and bring it to God.Finding a gentler way to stay connected in a hard season. Both Dave and Becky acknowledge the reality of people “going dark,” or withdrawing from community during seasons of deep pain. Becky offers a compassionate reframe: rather than pushing through in the same ways, consider finding gentler, lower-capacity ways to stay connected — whether that's holding babies in the nursery or simply showing up and going through the motions, which is more spiritually significant than we might think.Action: If you've been tempted to go dark, ask yourself: is there one small, low-pressure way I could stay even slightly connected to community this week? If you know someone who has gone quiet, consider reaching out with a simple, no-pressure acknowledgement.Acknowledging single women in the church. Becky speaks honestly about how single women — whether never married, divorced, or widowed — often fall through the cracks of church structures designed around couples and families. She encourages these women to get honest with themselves and trusted leaders about their capacity, and to examine how much of what they do is driven by obligation rather than genuine calling.Action: If this is you, take some time to honestly examine your current commitments. Which of them bring life, and which feel like obligation? Bring that question to God — and perhaps a trusted friend or your community. And if you know of single women in your church or community who serve, think of some gentle ways to appreciate and acknowledge them this week.Quotes of the Show:“ When we talk about spiritual formation, when it lines up with the heart of God, it is very process-oriented and not outcome-oriented.” - Becky L McCoy“ There are so many ways to connect with God that honor your human limitations.” - Becky L McCoy“ Curiosity should be at the base of all of our spiritual practices” - Becky L McCoyLinks:“Rooms by the Sea” (Visio Divina): https://artgallery.yale.edu/collections/objects/52939 Website: https://beckylmccoy.com/ Book Link: https://beckylmccoy.com/book/ Podcast: https://beckylmccoy.com/suckerpunched/

Have you ever thought that one of the best ways to connect with God might be through play? Join Dave for this week’s episode where he speaks with John Carroll, Executive Director of Dallas Willard Ministries’ School for Kingdom Living, about the surprising spiritual discipline of play and its role in experiencing life with God. Together, they explore themes of work, rest, burnout, and practicing Jesus’ teachings in everyday life. John shares how he’s encountered God through moments of joy, creativity, and even personal challenges—drawing deeply from the wisdom of Dallas Willard. As always, the conversation closes with a time of meditative prayer, grounding listeners in their identity in Christ. Takeaways:The Discipline of Play as Spiritual Practice: John Carroll shares how play—often overlooked in spiritual life—can be a powerful way to experience God’s joy and presence.Takeaway: This week, choose one playful activity (hiking, sports, music, games, etc.) and invite God into it. Notice moments of joy and gratitude as you play.Focal Practices for Burnout Prevention: Research shows activities that make us lose track of time can help prevent burnout and nurture spiritual health.Takeaway: Identify one hobby or creative outlet that brings you fully into the present moment and schedule time for it this week.Community and Spiritual Formation: The School of Kingdom Living creates space for people to journey together in learning and practicing the way of Jesus.Takeaway: Look for a spiritual community—a small group, class, or retreat—where you can share your faith journey with others and grow together.Experiencing God Through Creation: Both John and Dave shared moments of encountering God through nature, whether on mountain hikes, at the ocean, or while surfing.Takeaway: Spend time outdoors this week—at a park, on a trail, or by the water—and intentionally pause to notice God’s beauty and presence around you.Living in Your True Identity: John invites listeners to embrace the prayer, “I am one in whom Christ dwells and delights, and I live in the strong and unshakable kingdom of God.”Takeaway: Write this prayer on a note card and return to it throughout your day—while driving, brushing your teeth, or before bed—to stay grounded in God’s love.Quote of the Show:“ The truth is that the kingdom is not in jeopardy and neither are we.” - John CarrollLinks:Website: https://dwillard.org/ Book Link: https://dwillard.org/school-of-kingdom-living/description

What happens when modern charismatic passion meets ancient Christian tradition? In this episode of 'Deeper Experiences with God,' host Dave converses with Andrew Arndt, lead pastor of New Life East in Colorado Springs and an accomplished author, including his latest book, 'A Strange and Gracious Light.' They explore the intersections of modern Christianity and ancient spiritual traditions, highlighting how these can deepen our relationship with God. Arndt recounts his journey through 20 years of ministry and his formative experiences growing up in a charismatic church while falling in love with ancient church tradition. He describes how reading Richard Foster's 'Celebration of Discipline' and encountering the Desert Fathers and Mothers enriched his spiritual practice through different seasons of suffering and growth, encouraging listeners to press into these “thick” spiritual practices. Takeaways:The Concept of 'Great Tradition Charismatic': Arndt identifies as a 'great tradition charismatic,' blending the vitality of charismatic worship with the theological depth of historical Christian traditions. He encourages leaders to integrate various Christian practices to enrich their faith communities.Explore one ancient practice—such as praying the Psalms, using a written prayer, or learning about the church calendar—to deepen your own walk with God.The Role of Suffering and Contemplative Prayer: Arndt shares his personal journey of suffering and identity crisis upon leaving his church plant in Denver. He emphasizes how embracing suffering and engaging in contemplative prayer can lead to profound spiritual transformation.Instead of rushing past your struggles, bring them to God in prayer. Try five minutes of silent, contemplative prayer this week.Wisdom from the Desert Fathers and Mothers: The conversation delves into the importance of learning from ancient Christian monastics who found God in desolate places. Arndt highlights how their teachings can guide modern believers through crises.Read a short saying or story from the Desert Fathers & Mothers and sit with it—ask, What might this mean for my life right now?Practicing Detachment and Simplicity: We often cling to ego and things that don’t ultimately satisfy—approval, busyness, or success. Letting go makes more room for God.This week, notice one compulsion you feel (checking your phone, seeking affirmation, overfilling your schedule). Practice pausing, breathing, and turning your attention back to God. Even ask the Holy Spirit to help you do this.Community and Spiritual Direction: The importance of surrounding oneself with a supportive community and seeking guidance from a spiritual director is discussed as essential for navigating spiritual crises and growth.Reach out to one trusted friend or mentor to talk honestly about your spiritual life. Invite them to pray with you or walk with you through your current season. Maybe even consider and pray about finding a Spiritual Director.Quote of the Show:“ I think it's almost always crisis that initiates the deepest kinds of transformation in our lives” - Andrew Arndt“ Most of our Christian life is just learning how to die well and it's learning to rest in peace in whatever grave God has given us in Jesus.” - Andrew Arndt “ Pop Evangelicalism is like a thinly veiled version of the gospel of the American dream.” - Andrew ArndtLinks:Website: http://andrewarndt.com/ Book Link: http://andrewarndt.com/book/

What do children know about faith that adults often forget? In this next episode of Deeper Experiences with God, Dave sits down with Lacy Finn Borgo, author and spiritual director, to explore both deeper and wider experiences with God through childlike faith, simplicity and exploring human senses in silence and prayer. She shares some powerful personal anecdotes, including her difficult journey through surgery and her own personal daily practice of silence. The discussion covers the importance of developing your own 'survival three' spiritual practices and the role of listening in developing a loving relationship with God and others. Borgo concludes by leading a brief, childlike prayer exercise to demonstrate a practical spiritual practice of silence and meditation. Takeaways:Childlike Faith as a Path to Depth: Lacey Finn Borgo explores how humility, playfulness, and deep relational trust mirror the natural spirituality of children—and how adults can return to that posture.Takeaway: Begin your day with a childlike prayer. Speak to God with curiosity, honesty, and simplicity—like a trusting conversation with a loving parent.Childlike Faith as a Widening Path of Faith: Lacey shares several reflection exercises that require looking back on one’s childhood memories in prayer, and seek God in the midst of them.Takeaway: Take some time to reflect in silence or journaling on your favorite childhood foods, pets, places, or other memories and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal how they might point to God, your Abba Father.The “Survival Three” Practices: She shares her essential spiritual tools: silence, spiritual direction, and time in nature, which help her stay grounded in God's presence.Takeaway: Choose one “survival” practice to experiment with this week. Try five minutes of silence a day, or explore one of the four gospels on Jesus’ life.Healing Moments in Surrender: Lacey recounts a spiritual breakthrough during a health crisis, revealing how surrender and stillness can lead to profound connection with God.Takeaway: Reflect on a moment of pain or uncertainty in your life. Where might God be inviting you into deeper trust? Listening as a Loving Posture: She emphasizes the sacredness of listening—not just as a skill, but as a spiritual act that nurtures both our relationship with God and with others.Takeaway: Choose one moment today to fully listen—without fixing or reacting. Let your listening be an act of presence and love. Quote of the Show:“ Simplicity does not negate depth. ” - Lacy Borgo Links:Website: https://www.gooddirtministries.org/ Book Link: https://www.gooddirtministries.org/books-curriculum Instagram: @lacy_finn_borgo

How can we deepen our spiritual lives through stillness, surrender, and sacred tradition? In this episode, Dave speaks with Reverend Dr. Barbara Peacock about spiritual formation through an African American lens, focusing on prayer, soul care, and spiritual direction. Barbara shares her theological journey, personal struggles with depression and burnout, and the inspiration behind her book Soul Care and African American Practice. She explores historical connections to spiritual practices like Lectio Divina, linking them to notable figures in the African American community. The conversation emphasizes resilience, trust in God, and passive spirituality— inviting listeners to experience God’s love through stillness and surrender. Takeaways:Spiritual Tenacity: Barbara discusses the importance of spiritual tenacity and perseverance, linking it to her heritage and personal experiences. She emphasizes that tenacity is essential for surviving and thriving in adversity, a theme that resonates throughout the Bible and African American history.Takeaway: Embrace a posture of spiritual resilience by trusting God through challenges. Draw strength from personal and communal histories of perseverance.Receiving God's Love: Barbara emphasizes the power of passive spirituality—pausing, resting, and allowing yourself to be loved by God—as foundational to spiritual growth.Takeaway: Create space in your daily rhythm for stillness. Practice pausing to welcome God’s presence without striving.Lectio Divina and Sacred Reading: She introduces Lectio Divina as a slow, prayerful way of engaging scripture, using Frederick Douglass as a historical example of this contemplative approach.Takeaway: Read scripture slowly and meditatively. Choose one verse a day and let it guide your reflection, prayer, and attention to God.Soul Care in Historical Context: Barbara links soul care and spiritual direction to the communal practices of enslaved Africans, who leaned on prayer, love, and mutual support during pivotal times, such as the Middle Passage journey.Honor the spiritual wisdom passed down through your community. Engage in practices that connect personal faith to collective healing.Dark Night of the Soul: Connecting the theology of St. John of the Cross to African American suffering, Barbara reflects on how spiritual darkness can lead to deeper trust and transformation.When experiencing uncertainty or despair, remain open to God’s work in the unknown. Transformation often begins in the dark.Quote of the Show:“ Being silent and being still are imperative for the formative journey. ” - Barbara PeacockLinks:Website: barbaralpeacock.com, peacockselfcare.com Book Link: https://www.ivpress.com/soul-care-in-african-american-practice X/Twitter: https://x.com/BarbaraLPeacock?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

Join Pastor Dave Ripper for a transformative conversation with bestselling author John Ortberg, a leading voice in spiritual formation. In this episode, they explore vital spiritual experiences, drawing from John’s book Steps: A Guide to Transforming Life When Willpower Isn’t Enough and the Christian roots of the 12-step program. Learn how to cultivate a deeper connection with God through practices like prayer, meditation, and scripture immersion, and discover actionable steps to overcome challenges and grow in faith. John shares insights from Dallas Willard, integrates psychology with spirituality, and leads a guided exercise to encounter God’s presence. TakeawaysVital Spiritual Experiences: John explains that vital spiritual experiences, like those that shaped the 12-step program, can be dramatic (e.g., Bill W.’s encounter with God) or gradual awakenings through disciplined practice. These experiences connect us to God’s transformative power. Takeaway: Focus on seeking God rather than chasing specific emotional experiences. Invite God into your daily life through prayer and meditation to foster spiritual growth.Conscious Contact with God (Step 11): Step 11 of the 12-step program emphasizes improving conscious contact with God through prayer and meditation. John suggests simple practices like reflecting on a word like “joy” throughout the day or recognizing others as “image bearers” to stay connected to God.Takeaway: Experiment with small, playful practices to turn your thoughts to God regularly, such as setting phone reminders or silently naming moments as sacred (e.g., “Bethel” – the house of God).Letting Go of Reputation: John shares wisdom from Dallas Willard about releasing the burden of reputation—what others think of you. He encourages trusting God with how you’re perceived rather than managing impressions.Takeaway: Practice secrecy when you do something good (e.g., don’t share achievements publicly) and openly admit mistakes to break the cycle of impression management. Try Dallas’s discipline of “not having the last word” when criticized.Scripture as a Living Connection: Dallas Willard’s approach to scripture emphasized immersion and memorization to experience God’s reality. John highlights Dallas’s balance of deep reverence for scripture’s truth.Takeaway: Spend intentional time with scripture, such as memorizing passages like John 14–15, to let God’s truth shape your thoughts and actions.Integrating Psychology and Faith: John discusses how Freud’s depth psychology addressed human complexity but dismissed spiritual experiences. Dallas Willard’s work, like Renovation of the Heart, integrates psychology and theology to understand personhood holistically.Takeaway: Reflect on how psychological insights can complement your faith. Explore Dallas Willard’s writings to deepen your understanding of spiritual formation.Quote of the Show“Reputation is just what you think other people think about you. It’s a very good thing to let go of.” – John Ortberg“If I go into worship thinking I must have this certain kind of experience, then I end up worshiping the experience instead of God.” – John OrtbergConnect with John OrtbergFollow John’s daily teachings at Become New: https://becomenew.com/Check out his book, Steps: A Guide to Transforming Life When Willpower Isn’t Enough, available wherever books are sold: https://www.amazon.com/Steps-Guide-Transforming-Willpower-Enough/dp/1496447042