The Missional Life Podcast

Have you ever felt like God was silent, distant, or absent? In this powerful conversation, Kyle Strobel shares how seasons of spiritual dryness can become some of the most transformative moments in a believer's life. Discover why faith isn't built on emotional highs and how God often does His deepest work in the desert. If you're struggling with doubt, discouragement, or spiritual fatigue, this episode offers biblical hope and practical encouragement.About the GuestKyle Strobel is the Director of the Institute for Spiritual Formation and Associate Professor of Spiritual Theology at Talbot School of Theology. He is a theologian, author, speaker, and co-author of When God Seems Distant and Where Prayer Becomes Real. His work focuses on spiritual formation, prayer, and helping Christians experience genuine transformation in Christ. Reasons to ListenHope for Dry Seasons Discover why spiritual dryness is not necessarily a sign that something is wrong, but may actually be evidence that God is deepening your faith and transforming your heart. Practical Spiritual Formation Learn practical ways to continue praying, reading Scripture, and walking with Jesus when emotions and motivation disappear. Biblical Perspective Gain a deeper understanding of the Psalms, suffering, weakness, and God's surprising work in seasons that feel spiritually barren. Big TakeawaysGod Works in Deserts Seasons of spiritual dryness are often places where God exposes deeper issues of the heart and teaches us to trust Him by faith rather than feelings. Feelings Aren't Faith God's presence is not measured by emotional experiences. Mature faith learns to trust God's promises even when He feels distant. Weakness Reveals Need Spiritual growth happens when we recognize how much we need God's forgiveness, grace, and transforming work. The Psalms Give Language Honest prayers found in the Psalms help believers bring their confusion, disappointment, and struggles directly to God. Transformation Over Information Knowledge alone cannot produce Christlike character. Spiritual formation requires surrender, humility, and dependence on Jesus. Missional ChallengesPray the Psalms Daily Spend the next seven days praying one Psalm each day, allowing Scripture to shape your honest conversations with God. Practice Honest Prayer Bring one area of discouragement, doubt, or weakness directly to God instead of hiding it behind religious performance. Encourage a Struggling Believer Reach out to someone who may be experiencing spiritual dryness and remind them that God remains faithful even when He feels distant. Chapters00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Kyle Strobel 01:00 – Kyle's Personal Journey Through Spiritual Darkness 05:00 – Discovering the "Dark Night of the Soul" 10:00 – Why Information Doesn't Equal Transformation 13:00 – Understanding Spiritual Dryness in the Christian Life 16:00 – The Lifeline of Honest Community 17:00 – Learning to Pray the Psalms 19:00 – Why Churches Rarely Discuss Spiritual Dryness 25:00 – Passion vs. Deep Affection for Jesus 26:00 – Moving from Zeal to Steadfast Faithfulness 34:00 – What Churches Need to Understand About the Desert 37:00 – Practical Ways to Walk with God in Dry Seasons 43:00 – Finding God in Weakness 44:00 – Final Encouragement for Struggling Believers 45:00 – Fun Questions & Favorite Psalms 49:00 – Where to Connect with Kyle StrobelGuest Website & Social MediaBuy 'When God Seems Distant' BookWebsiteKyle Strobel Substack #themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #Jesus #KyleStrobel #SpiritualFormation #PrayerLife #ChristianGrowth #FaithJourney #WhenGodSeemsDistant #ChristianPodcast

Many women love Jesus but feel uncertain about their place in the church. In this episode of The Missional Life Podcast, Jamie Hulker invites us into a grace-filled, Scripture-centered conversation about identity, calling, and God’s design for women. Drawing from her Bible study Esteemed, Jamie reveals how Jesus consistently affirmed, commissioned, and entrusted women with Kingdom work. This episode is both freeing and deeply grounding in God’s Word. 💛✝️About the GuestJamie Hulker is a Christian author, Bible teacher, and ministry leader with a long-standing passion for helping believers engage Scripture and live faithfully on mission. She holds a Master of Arts from Moody Theological Seminary and has spent years writing and teaching expository Bible studies in church and small-group settings. Jamie is the author of Esteemed: God and His View of Women, a Bible study that explores God’s design, value, and calling for women throughout Scripture. She leads Esteemed studies both in person and online and regularly speaks in churches, conferences, and group environments, encouraging thoughtful biblical engagement marked by clarity, humility, and unity within the body of Christ.Reasons to ListenBiblical Clarity – Gain a Scripture-centered understanding of women’s roles without cultural distortion.Healing Perspective – Address confusion and discouragement many women feel about their place in the church.Unity Over Division – Learn how thoughtful biblical study can foster discussion rather than debate. Big TakeawaysGod Esteems Women – From Genesis to the Resurrection, God consistently affirms women’s value and calling.Scripture Over Assumptions – Many beliefs about women come from tradition, not careful biblical study.Jesus’ Example Matters – Jesus entrusted women with truth, leadership, and witness in radical ways.Calling Looks Different – God invites women into many forms of faithful service, not just one path.Truth Leads to Worship – Studying Scripture deeply should always move us toward love and obedience to God.Missional ChallengesStudy the Word – Commit to studying Scripture for yourself instead of relying solely on assumptions.Encourage a Woman – Affirm the gifts and calling you see in a woman in your life this week.Choose Unity – Practice Christ-centered conversation instead of division on secondary issues.⏱️ Episode Chapters00:00 – Introduction & Jamie’s Background02:40 – Why Esteemed Was Written05:00 – Women in God’s Redemptive Plan09:40 – Why Women Are Leaving the Church21:00 – Deborah, Jael, and Biblical Courage33:40 – Mary Magdalene & the Resurrection44:00 – Identity, Calling, and Encouragement55:00 – Final Reflections & Where to Connect🌐 Guest Links & ResourcesBuy Esteemed: God and His View of Women on AmazonVisit Jamie's WebsiteJamie on InstagramJamie on Facebook#themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #esteemed #womeninthechurch #biblicalwomanhood #scripturetruth #jesuscentered #faithandidentity_____________________________________________________________________________________________________>>>CLICK HERE to get your FREE 31 DAY MISSIONAL DEVOTIONALand to learn more about 'The Missional Life' ministry<<<_______________________________________

What would it look like to see the Great Commission fulfilled in our lifetime? In this episode of The Missional Life Podcast, Dr. James O. Davis, founder of the Global Church Network, shares a bold vision to mobilize the global church to complete the Great Commission by 2030. From humble beginnings to impacting leaders in more than 140 nations, Dr. Davis explains how collaboration, innovation, and unity in the body of Christ are essential to reaching the world with the gospel. He challenges believers to move beyond ego and logos to embrace the power of “we go.” This conversation will inspire you to see your role in God’s global mission.About the GuestDr. James O. Davis is the founder of the Global Church Network, a worldwide movement dedicated to equipping pastors and church leaders to fulfill the Great Commission. Through training initiatives, global gatherings, and strategic partnerships, the network has connected leaders in more than 140 nations. Dr. Davis has authored over 20 books and continues to inspire believers worldwide to work together to reach every nation with the gospel.Reasons to ListenA Bold Global Vision Dr. James Davis shares a compelling vision for how the global church can work together to complete the Great Commission by 2030.Leadership Wisdom Learn practical leadership insights from a seasoned global leader who has trained and connected pastors in more than 140 nations.Your Role in the Mission This conversation will help you see how every believer can play a part in God’s mission to reach the world.Big TakeawaysThe Great Commission Is Achievable When the global church collaborates and shares resources, reaching every nation with the gospel becomes possible.Unity Multiplies Impact Moving beyond competition and working together across denominations allows the church to advance the kingdom more effectively.Technology Accelerates the Mission Digital training platforms and global networks are equipping pastors and leaders in ways never before possible.Leadership Requires Growth Leaders must continually grow personally and spiritually to influence others effectively.Every Believer Has a Role God invites every Christian to participate in His mission, whether locally or globally.Missional ChallengesPray for Global Missions Set aside time this week to pray specifically for unreached people groups and global church leaders.Support Kingdom Collaboration Look for ways your church or ministry can partner with others to advance the gospel.Invest in Leadership Development Encourage and mentor younger believers who feel called to leadership or ministry.Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Dr. James Davis01:10 – Dr. Davis’ Conversion and Early Calling04:00 – The Vision Behind the Global Church Network08:00 – Leveraging Technology for Global Training12:00 – The Goal of Finishing the Great Commission by 203018:00 – Moving Beyond Ego and Logos in Ministry24:00 – The Role of Unity in the Global Church30:00 – Training and Equipping Leaders Worldwide36:00 – Advice for Young Christian Leaders44:00 – Final Encouragement for Living MissionallyGuest Website & Social MediaWebsite: https://gcnw.tvGlobal Church Divinity School: https://gcds.tvPersonal Website: https://jamesodavis.comHashtags#themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #Jesus #GreatCommission #GlobalMissions #ChristianLeadership #ChurchLeadership #KingdomMission #PastorTraining #ReachTheNations___________________________________________________________________________________________>>>CLICK HERE to get your FREE 31 DAY MISSIONAL DEVOTIONALand to learn more about 'The Missional Life' ministry<<<_______________________________________

What do you do when fear feels louder than faith? In this powerful episode of The Missional Life Podcast, Dr. Nancy Meyer shares her journey from chiropractic physician to courage coach and author of Defying Fear. Through personal stories, spiritual insight, and practical tools, Nancy reveals how God leads us from fear to faith one step at a time. This conversation will encourage you to face fear honestly, anchor your worth in Christ, and step boldly into God’s calling. 💛✝️About the GuestDr. Nancy Meyer is a licensed chiropractic physician, keynote speaker, author, and courage coach dedicated to helping people move from fear to faith. After retiring from clinical practice, she stepped fully into writing and speaking, focusing on encouragement, identity, and spiritual resilience. Dr. Meyer is the author of Defying Fear, a narrative-driven book that weaves together faith, emotional healing, and practical courage, helping readers embrace their God-given worth and step boldly into the life God is calling them to live.Reasons to ListenPractical Courage – Learn tangible ways to face fear using faith-based spiritual, emotional, and physical practices.Real-Life Storytelling – Be encouraged through relatable stories of perseverance, healing, and God’s timing.Faith-Centered Hope – Discover how anchoring your worth in Christ leads to lasting peace and confidence.Big TakeawaysGod’s Timing Matters – Delayed dreams are often preparation, not denial.Fear Thrives in Silence – Honesty with God and others breaks fear’s hold.Worth Is Unshakable – Our value comes from Christ, not performance or perfection.Faith Requires Action – Courage grows when we take small, faithful steps forward.Community Heals – God often uses supportive relationships to restore strength and hope.Missional ChallengesSpeak the Truth – This week, be honest with God about a fear you’ve been carrying.Anchor in Scripture – Choose one Bible verse and place it where you’ll see it daily.Take One Brave Step – Do one safe but challenging action that pushes past fear.Episode Chapters00:00 – Introduction & Background02:30 – God’s Long-Term Calling05:45 – Writing Defying Fear10:00 – From Fear to Faith17:00 – Community & Encouragement25:00 – Facing Fear Daily35:00 – Final EncouragementGuest Links & ResourcesDr. Nacy Meyer's WebsiteBuy Defying Fear on AmazonDr. Nancy Meyer on InstagramHashtags#themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #defyingfear #faithoverfear #christianencouragement #courageandfaith #jesuscentered_______________________________________________________________________________________________>>>CLICK HERE to get your FREE 31 DAY MISSIONAL DEVOTIONALand to learn more about 'The Missional Life' ministry<<<_______________________________________

💡 What if missionaries could hide entire Bibles inside everyday apps to bypass government surveillance? Eugene Bach, leading voice of the Back to Jerusalem movement, shares jaw-dropping stories of hackers using hologram Bibles, secret devices, and cutting-edge technology to smuggle God's Word into closed nations like China, North Korea, and Afghanistan. Learn how 170 million Chinese believers are meeting in factories, businesses, and homes right under the watchful eye of facial recognition cameras and super-app monitoring. This conversation will open your eyes to the creative ways God's Kingdom is advancing in the darkest places. 🌍📱About the GuestEugene Bach is the leading voice in the Back to Jerusalem movement, author, strategist, and host of the Back to Jerusalem Podcast. For over 27 years, he has lived and worked in China, serving as a bridge between the underground Chinese house church and global partners while helping mobilize Chinese missionaries to reach unreached people groups across the 10/40 window. He is the author of multiple books including China and End Time Prophecy, I Stand With Christ, The Underground Church, and The Lame Shall Take The Prey, and annually hosts the Hackers Conference where tech experts create innovative tools to share the Gospel in closed nations.Reasons to ListenWitness History Unfolding: You'll discover the untold story of the world's largest revival happening right now in China, where 28,000-30,000 people come to Christ every single day despite intense persecution. Eugene Bach provides firsthand accounts and statistics you won't hear anywhere else about 140-170 million Chinese believers living out radical faith.Learn Underground Church Strategies: Eugene reveals how Chinese believers creatively share the Gospel using hidden Bible apps, hologram devices, and meeting in factories and businesses to outsmart government surveillance and facial recognition technology. These innovative ministry methods will challenge your own approach to sharing faith and overcoming obstacles.Answer Your Mission Calling: Whether you're called to go, send, or support missionaries, this episode clarifies how Western Christians can actively partner with the Back to Jerusalem movement to reach the 9/10 unreached people groups between China and Jerusalem. You'll gain practical insights on representing Christ well in hostile environments and discover your role in completing the Great Commission.Big TakeawaysRepresent Christ Always: Even when you're being cheated, overcharged, or treated unfairly, you must reflect Christ's light rather than the darkness around you. People in darkness are drawn to Christian nations and communities not by accident—they recognize the transformative power of the Gospel in how believers live, even when it costs you personally.Freedom of Speech Matters: The first thing the enemy does in every nation—whether communist, Islamic, Hindu, or Buddhist—is restrict freedom of speech because the Word must go forth to complete the Great Commission. Christians must vigilantly protect and use their freedom to speak truth, recognizing that silence, not lies, is the true enemy of truth.You Can't Delegate Obedience: The Great Commission isn't a vision you can delegate to others—it's a command that has you, and you only have three choices: go, send, or disobey. Every believer must actively discern their unique calling in completing the Great Commission, whether that means going to the mission field, training and sending missionaries, or supporting those already serving.Integrate Faith Into Everything: The Chinese underground church thrives because believers don't separate their faith from family, business, or daily life—everything is interconnected in one community of Gospel witness. Instead of compartmentalizing your spiritual life from work and relationships, look for ways to naturally weave your faith into every aspect of your everyday activities.Persecution Reveals Desperation: When people risk life, freedom, and family to access God's Word—hiding Bibles on secret devices and meeting illegally—it reveals how desperately valuable Scripture truly is. Don't take for granted your easy access to multiple Bibles, apps, and churches; approach God's Word with the same hunger and desperation that persecuted believers demonstrate daily.Missional ChallengesPray for the Persecuted Church Daily: Set a daily reminder on your phone to pray specifically for Chinese believers and underground church missionaries facing persecution, detention, and surveillance. Visit BackToJerusalem.com to get current prayer updates and learn the names of specific leaders and regions that need intercession right now.Examine Your Speech Witness: For one week, pay attention to how you respond when you're frustrated, cheated, or treated unfairly—are you reflecting Christ's light or the darkness around you? Ask a trusted friend or spouse to lovingly hold you accountable to representing Jesus well, especially in difficult interactions with customer service, difficult people, or stressful situations.Choose Your Great Commission Role: Prayerfully evaluate whether God is calling you to go, send, or support missions work, then take one concrete action this month—research a mission trip, connect with a missionary to support financially, or sign up for cross-cultural training. Remember that you cannot delegate obedience to the Great Commission; determine your specific role and take the first step forward in faith.LinksWebsite: BackToJerusalem.com Back to JerusalemSocial Media Handles:●     Facebook: Back to Jerusalem●     Instagram: @BackToJerusalem●     Twitter/X: @TheOfficialBTJ●     YouTube: Back to Jerusalem #themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #BackToJerusalem #ChinaRevival #UndergroundChurch #GreatCommission #ChristianPersecution #WorldMissions #EugeneBach #1040WindowChapters[00:00:00] Introduction & Eugene Bach's Background - Dan introduces Eugene Bach and the Back to Jerusalem movement[00:01:00] The Vision Behind Back to Jerusalem - Eugene explains the heart and vision of the movement and how he got connected[00:03:00] Revival Numbers in China - Discussion of 28,000-30,000 daily conversions and 140-170 million believers[00:08:00] Regional Growth Patterns - Henan, Anhui, Shandong provinces and Wenzhou city's explosive growth[00:12:00] George Stott: The One-Legged Missionary - Incredible story of Wenzhou's first missionary[00:15:00] Official vs. Underground Church - Understanding the distinction and how both operate[00:21:00] What the Underground Church Looks Like - Modern house church meetings in businesses, factories, and homes[00:29:00] Surveillance & Control in China - WeChat super app, 5G facial recognition, and monitoring systems[00:32:00] Hackers Conference & Bible Technology - Pill-sized hologram Bibles and hidden Gospel distribution tools[00:37:00] Persecution & Consequences - Current realities for believers caught with ministry materials[00:42:00] The Spiritual Battle & Freedom of Speech - Comparing communist control to Western threats[00:49:00] Partnering with the Great Commission - How Western Christians can support Chinese missionaries[00:54:00] Fun Questions - Eugene shares about his favorite superpower, mission mistakes, and comfort food[01:01:00] How to Connect - BackToJerusalem.com, books, podcast, and ministry resources

Are you sacrificing your relationship with God to serve God? 💭 Author and ministry leader Karolyne Roberts opens up about spending her entire twenties striving for approval—even in ministry—until exhaustion forced her into a year-long sabbatical that changed everything. Discover how to break free from performance-driven Christianity, navigate social media comparison culture, and embrace the powerful practice of abiding in Christ daily. This honest conversation includes game-changing insights on the Fruit Fast, counting the cost before saying yes, and why Jesus withdrew when crowds grew. Perfect for overwhelmed believers ready to trade striving for surrender. 🙏About the GuestKarolyne Roberts is the author of "The Beauty of Being: Strive Less and Live More With God as Your Guide" and founder of the women's ministry Dear Daddy, where she writes letters to God as her Father. After experiencing burnout from a decade of ministry service, she took a transformative year-long sabbatical that reshaped her understanding of identity and rest in Christ. Karolyne is passionate about helping Christians—especially women—break free from performance-driven faith and discover the freedom of abiding in God's presence, and she leads various discipleship initiatives including the Abide Journaling Challenge and Miss Eternity Christian mentorship program.Reasons to ListenBreak the Performance Trap: If you're exhausted from trying to earn God's love through ministry and good works, Karolyne's honest story of hitting rock bottom on her 30th birthday will show you how to shift from striving to resting in your identity as God's beloved daughter. You'll learn practical tools like the Fruit Fast and Abide Journaling Challenge to help you cultivate authentic intimacy with God instead of religious burnout.Navigate Modern Comparison Culture: Discover biblical strategies for setting boundaries with social media, curating your feed intentionally, and measuring success by God's standards rather than likes, followers, or vanity metrics. Karolyne shares real-world wisdom on protecting your mental health in the digital age while still using platforms for kingdom purposes.Master the Balance: Learn how to pursue God's calling with healthy ambition while avoiding the extremes of either burning out or becoming unfruitful. Karolyne reveals her monthly Plan & Pray approach, the power of counting the cost before decisions, and why leaving space for God to interrupt your plans leads to the most fruitful seasons of ministry and life.Big TakeawaysYour Identity Over Activity: God's love for you isn't based on your performance, ministry achievements, or how much you serve—you're worthy simply because He chose you and sent Jesus to die for you. When you ground yourself in being God's daughter or son first, you can serve from a place of rest and freedom rather than striving for approval.Stop Planning, Start Surrendering: Instead of mapping out your entire year with rigid goals and vision boards, try planning month-by-month while surrendering each plan to God in prayer. This approach leaves room for God to surprise you, redirect your steps, and prevent the pride that comes from thinking you control your future—a lesson Karolyne learned powerfully in 2020.Community Prevents Burnout: You weren't designed to fulfill your purpose alone—God intentionally surrounds you with a community of believers who can pour into you, support you, and help carry the load. Before launching back into ministry, prioritize building authentic relationships and practice asking for help instead of trying to do everything yourself.Curate Your Digital Diet: Just as you guard what you eat physically, protect your mind by managing your screen time and intentionally curating your social media feed to include content that points you to Christ rather than comparison. The algorithm shows you more of what you engage with, so interact with scripture-based content and authentic believers rather than posts that make you feel inadequate.Count the Cost First: Before saying yes to opportunities, ministries, or new ventures, pause to count the cost—spiritually, financially, and in terms of time and energy. This biblical principle of waiting for confirmation and assessing what sacrifice God is requiring helps you avoid overcommitment and ensures you're stewarding His calling with wisdom rather than just enthusiasm.Missional ChallengesTake a Sabbath Rest: This week, designate one full day (like Sunday) where you completely step away from work, ministry tasks, and productivity—no planning, no projects, just worship, community, and rest. Practice surrendering control by trusting that God will handle what needs to be done tomorrow, and notice how this rhythm of rest rejuvenates your soul and strengthens you for the week ahead.Audit Your Screen Time: Check your phone's screen time report and compare how many hours you spent on social media this week versus how much time you spent in God's Word and prayer. Then curate your feed by unfollowing accounts that trigger comparison or inadequacy, and intentionally follow content creators who point you toward Christ and authentic faith.Fast Before Your Next Decision: The next time you're faced with a significant decision or opportunity—whether it's a ministry role, job offer, or commitment—don't answer immediately. Instead, take time to fast (whether from food, social media, or another area), seek God in prayer, and count the cost spiritually, financially, and relationally before giving your response, trusting that His timing is always perfect even when it feels last-minute.LinkWebsite: www.karolyne.comSocial Media: Instagram: @karolyneroberts YouTube: Karolyne Roberts Threads: @karolyneroberts TikTok: @karolyneroberts Pinterest: @karolyneroberts#themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #karolyneroberts #christianwomen #burnoutrecovery #restinGod #abideinChrist #performanceculture #spiritualgrowth #faithoverfearChapters[00:00:00] Introduction & Welcome to Karolyne Roberts[00:01:00] The Story Behind "The Beauty of Being"[00:03:00] From Ministry Burnout to Sabbatical Rest[00:06:00] Defining Striving vs. Resting in God[00:09:00] The Power of Community and Asking for Help[00:10:00] Developing the Fruits of the Spirit[00:13:00] The Fruit Fast Challenge Explained[00:15:00] Comparison and Performance Traps[00:18:00] Practical Steps: Stop Planning, Start Surrendering[00:21:00] Balancing Ambition with Faith and Rest[00:24:00] Counting the Cost Before Saying Yes[00:27:00] Following Jesus' Example of Withdrawing[00:30:00] Redefining Success: About the Father's Business[00:31:00] Social Media's Impact on Performance Pressure[00:35:00] Finding Your Worth Beyond the Screen[00:39:00] The Greatest Encouragement: God's Presence[00:41:00] Fun Questions & Final Thoughts[00:44:00] How to Connect with Karolyne_____________________________________________________________________________________________________>>>CLICK HERE to get your FREE 31 DAY MISSIONAL DEVOTIONALand to learn more about 'The Missional Life' ministry<<<_______________________________________

🔥 What does it really mean to be the salt of the earth? In this powerful episode, Christian rock artist Benny DiChiara of Empowered shares how God turned a canceled concert, a prophetic word, and a long season of waiting into a life-changing calling. Through his new EP Salt, Benny reveals lessons on spiritual endurance, divine timing, and standing firm in faith. You’ll be inspired to live boldly and step out in your God-given purpose—no matter how long the wait. 🌊💪 #Faith #ChristianRockAbout the GuestBenny DiChiara is the frontman of the Christian rock band Empowered, whose latest EP SALT calls believers to live as bold witnesses for Christ. After overcoming a traumatic brain injury and countless trials, Benny continues to use his platform to glorify Jesus and embolden others to live out their God-given purpose.Reasons to ListenDiscover the Heart Behind “SALT” - Hear the incredible story of how a divine word—Safety, Anointed, Legit, Timing—birthed a record that’s more than music; it’s a call to mission.Be Encouraged in God’s Timing - Benny’s decades-long journey is a testimony that God’s promises are never late—they’re always right on time.Learn to Fight from Victory, Not for It - From “Throat Punch the Devil” to lessons on spiritual warfare, Benny reminds us that believers aren’t called to play defense—we’re called to take territory for the Kingdom.Big TakeawaysGod’s timing is always perfect—your season will come when it aligns with His purpose.“Salt” preserves and purifies; as believers, we’re called to bring truth that endures, not the “sugar” of comfort or compromise.Feelings fade, but faith endures—don’t make decisions out of emotion, but out of obedience.Spiritual warfare is real, but victory is already won through Jesus.We don’t just need to know who we are—we must know whose we are.Missional ChallengesBe the Salt in Your Sphere - Ask the Holy Spirit to show you one person or space where you can bring truth and encouragement this week. Whether that’s a co-worker who’s weary, a neighbor you’ve avoided, or a friend who’s struggling — step into that moment with love and authenticity. Let your words preserve, uplift, and point back to Jesus.Trade Sugar for Salt - Reflect on areas in your life where you may have softened truth for the sake of comfort or approval. This week, choose to live with holy boldness. Speak truth in love, even when it’s uncomfortable. Let your faith have flavor — not the sweetness of compromise, but the purity of Christ’s love that endures and transforms.Move in His Timing, Not Yours - If you’ve been waiting for breakthrough, take a moment to surrender your timeline back to God. Instead of asking “When, Lord?” ask “What are You teaching me in this season?” Pray over your calling and take one small step of obedience today — trusting that His timing is never delayed, only divine.Link🎧 Listen to SALT by Empowered: rockin4jesus.com📲 Follow Empowered on YouTube: EMPOWERED#themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #EmpoweredBand #BennyDiChiara #ChristianRock #FaithInAction #BeTheSalt #KingdomMission Chapters[00:01:00] The Story Behind SALTBenny shares how a prophetic word at a small Kentucky church led to the creation of his band’s new EP, SALT — a message built on being “the salt of the earth.”[00:05:00] The Meaning of S.A.L.T. — Safety, Anointed, Legit, TimingBenny unpacks the prophetic acronym and reminds believers that God covers, anoints, and times every season perfectly.[00:12:00] From Religion to Relationship: Benny’s 1995 TestimonyA powerful story of Benny’s salvation — from resisting church invitations to fully surrendering his life to Jesus after hearing His voice for the first time.[00:20:00] Standing Firm in Battle and Spiritual WarfareDan and Benny dive into the difference between “salt” and “sugar,” and what it means to fight spiritual battles without compromise.[00:27:00] “Throat Punch the Devil” — A Call to Bold FaithBenny and Dan discuss righteous anger, standing up to the enemy, and reclaiming ground as believers who fight from victory, not for it.[00:38:00] The Message Behind “People of God”Benny explains the heart of this song — reminding listeners that we are God’s people, called to unity, prayer, and boldness in a deceived world.[00:49:00] Living Seasoned, Not SugaryDan affirms Benny’s “seasoned” calling and reflects on how mature, rooted believers are needed in this generation to bring salt and truth to a world craving light.________________________________________________________________________________________________>>>CLICK HERE to get your FREE 31 DAY MISSIONAL DEVOTIONALand to learn more about 'The Missional Life' ministry<<<_______________________________________

💡 What does it look like to live on mission as both a business leader and a musician? Chris Whittington joins us to share his powerful testimony of growing up in poverty, launching Whittington Steel, and writing songs that point people back to God’s Word. Hear the heart behind the 10th anniversary re-release of Bright Portal and why the new track “God Will Supply All Our Needs” is resonating globally. Whether you’re in business, ministry, or music, this episode will inspire you to see your work as part of God’s bigger mission. 🌍🎵About The GuestChris Whittington is a musician, songwriter, and founder of Whittington Steel, whose journey from poverty in Houston to leading a thriving business is a powerful testimony of God’s provision. He recently released the 10th anniversary remastered edition of his album Bright Portal, featuring a new track rooted in Scripture that is impacting listeners around the world. Through both his music and his business, Chris seeks to glorify God and serve others with a family-centered, Kingdom-focused approach.Reasons To ListenFaith in Hardship – Hear how Chris Whittington’s journey from poverty and brokenness to faith and success reveals God’s power to redeem every struggle. His story will inspire you to trust God in your own challenges.Music with Scripture – Discover the heart behind Chris’s re-release of Bright Portal and why songs rooted in the Word of God continue to impact lives across the world. You’ll be encouraged to see how music can carry timeless truth.Kingdom at Work – Learn how Chris built Whittington Steel on biblical principles, treating employees like family and meeting practical needs. His example will challenge you to live your faith boldly in your workplace and community.Big TakeawaysGod Redeems Struggles – Chris’s story shows that even painful seasons can shape us into who God has called us to be. Trust that your hardships can become a platform for God’s glory.Scripture Transforms Art – Rooting songs and creativity in God’s Word gives them lasting power and eternal impact. Whatever your gifts, anchor them in Scripture to reach hearts for Christ.Work as Worship – Running a business with integrity and compassion is part of living missionally. See your workplace as a place where you can reflect Christ and serve others.Surround Yourself Well – Chris emphasizes the importance of partnering with people who sharpen your faith and excellence. Be intentional about building relationships that encourage growth and Kingdom impact.Live the One Mission – Whether in music, business, or daily life, there is only one mission: making Jesus known. Let this truth guide your decisions and give purpose to every part of your life.Missional ChallengesTrust God in Hardship – Think of one current struggle in your life and intentionally give it to God in prayer today, believing He can redeem it for your good and His glory.Bring Scripture Into Your Gifts – Whether you write, sing, create, or serve, find a way to weave a verse or biblical truth into what you do this week and let God’s Word speak through your talents.Love Others Practically – Look for one tangible way to meet a need in someone’s life—whether it’s helping with a bill, offering encouragement, or giving your time—so they can experience Christ’s love through you.Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Chris Whittington – Meet Chris, a musician and founder of Whittington Steel, as he shares his background and faith journey.01:00 – Why Re-release Bright Portal – Chris explains the inspiration behind the 10th anniversary remastered edition and the importance of remastering with excellence.03:00 – Songs That Still Speak – A look at how songs like Sing With All the Saints in Glory and the new track God Will Supply All Our Needs continue to resonate with listeners worldwide.08:00 – From Poverty to Provision – Chris opens up about his childhood, struggles after his parents’ divorce, and how God faithfully provided through his life and career.15:00 – Building a Kingdom Business – Insights into how Whittington Steel was built on biblical principles, with a family-like culture that cares for employees beyond the workplace.23:00 – Balancing Business and Music – Chris shares how he navigates dual callings as both a musician and business leader with the help of a strong team.29:00 – Collaboration and Kingdom Diversity – A discussion on the importance of surrounding yourself with excellent people and working together for God’s mission.33:00 – Creative Expression and Faith – The role of Scripture in creativity and how artistic gifts reveal different glimpses of God’s truth.34:00 – Fun Questions with Chris – Rapid-fire Q&A including who he’d write a song with from the Bible, funniest performance moments, and his go-to studio snack.38:00 – Final Encouragement and Prayer – Chris prays for the hosts and listeners, closing with encouragement to keep trusting God’s mission in every season of life.Links and Social Media Website: chriswhittington.comInstagram: chris.whittingtonYouTube: Chris WhittingtonFacebook: Chris Whittington - Bright Portal#themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #ChrisWhittington #ChristianPodcast #FaithAndMusic #KingdomBusiness #TestimonyOfFaith #WorshipMusic #ChristianInspiration #LivingOnMission_________________________________________________________________________________________>>>CLICK HERE to get your FREE 31 DAY MISSIONAL DEVOTIONALand to learn more about 'The Missional Life' ministry<<<_______________________________________