Become New with John Ortberg

Become New

Join John Ortberg each day for 10 minutes of spiritual guidance on the person we are becoming.

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20 episodes
Updated Friday

Episodes20

Newest first

Friday · 15 min
Irritated? This Might Be Why. (2022)
What if your irritation is trying to tell you something? In this episode, John Ortberg explores one of Dallas Willard's most practical insights from The Renovation of the Heart: the everyday emotions and reactions we often dismiss may actually be warning lights revealing the true condition of our souls. Discover why denial is one of humanity's greatest spiritual obstacles, how God's grace exposes what needs healing, and why the path to transformation begins with honest self-awareness rather than self-condemnation.
Thursday · 14 min
Psychology Was Wrong About Self-Esteem (2022)
Is self-esteem really the key to a better life? For years, psychologists believed increasing self-esteem would solve many of our greatest personal and social problems. But after decades of research, the evidence pointed in a different direction. In this episode, John Ortberg explores what Dallas Willard teaches in The Renovation of the Heart about the deeper human problem and why lasting transformation begins with truth, humility, and God's mercy. Discover why the Christian path isn't about thinking more highly of yourself, but about receiving the grace that makes genuine change possible. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Welcome to the World by Sarah Watson, License #MB01LXS9AQLSJGH This episode was originally released in January 2022. Find all episodes from this series (Become New) here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Egad-Un8UFQxspz4fgd8L6D3GUFridT For more from Dallas Willard check out The Dallas Willard Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2373226
Wednesday · 14 min
Is Self-Care Biblical? with Dr. Rick Blackmon (2022)
Is self-care selfish? Or is it something Jesus actually invites us to practice? In this conversation, John Ortberg sits down with psychiatrist Dr. Rick Blackmon to explore Dallas Willard's vision of soul care from The Renovation of the Heart. Together they discuss emotional health, burnout, self-denial, and why understanding yourself is the first step toward caring for yourself well. Discover why true self-care isn't about self-indulgence, but about cultivating the kind of life that allows you to love God and serve others with greater joy, wisdom, and endurance. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Welcome to the World by Sarah Watson, License #MB01LXS9AQLSJGH This episode was originally released in January 2022. Find all episodes from this series (Become New) here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Egad-Un8UFQxspz4fgd8L6D3GUFridT For more from Dallas Willard check out The Dallas Willard Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2373226
Tuesday · 13 min
What Does It Really Mean to Live by the Spirit? (2022)
What does it really mean to live by the Spirit? In this episode, John Ortberg explores Dallas Willard's understanding of the spiritual life through The Renovation of the Heart. Discover why every person is both physical and spiritual, what makes the human will so remarkable, and why Jesus teaches us to pray, "Your will be done." If you've ever wondered what surrender actually looks like in everyday life, this conversation offers a practical and deeply biblical vision of depending on God rather than simply relying on yourself. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Welcome to the World by Sarah Watson, License #MB01LXS9AQLSJGH This episode was originally released in January 2022. Find all episodes from this series (Become New) here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Egad-Un8UFQxspz4fgd8L6D3GUFridT For more from Dallas Willard check out The Dallas Willard Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2373226
Monday · 14 min
What Does It Mean to Be A PERSON? (2022)
What does it really mean to be a person? In this episode, John Ortberg explores Dallas Willard's powerful framework for understanding the human person through The Renovation of the Heart. Discover how the heart, mind, body, relationships, and soul work together to form the whole person, and why lasting spiritual transformation involves far more than changing behavior. If you've ever felt divided, fragmented, or like different parts of your life are pulling in opposite directions, this conversation offers a hopeful vision of becoming whole through the transforming work of God. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Welcome to the World by Sarah Watson, License #MB01LXS9AQLSJGH This episode was originally released in January 2022. Find all episodes from this series (Become New) here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Egad-Un8UFQxspz4fgd8L6D3GUFridT For more from Dallas Willard check out The Dallas Willard Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2373226
July 24 · 12 min
Anxiety: “I cannot create peace in my life” (2022)
Can you experience God's peace while still struggling with anxiety? In this special conversation, John Ortberg is joined by his daughter, Laura Turner, to explore one of the deepest themes in Dallas Willard's The Renovation of the Heart: peace. Together they discuss why peace is more than the absence of worry, how acceptance differs from giving up, and why receiving God's love often matters more than getting everything right. If you've ever wondered whether anxiety means you're failing spiritually, this honest conversation offers hope, wisdom, and a fresh perspective on what it means to live at peace with God, yourself, and others. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Welcome to the World by Sarah Watson, License #MB01LXS9AQLSJGH This episode was originally released in January 2022. Find all episodes from this series (Become New) here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Egad-Un8UFQxspz4fgd8L6D3GUFridT For more from Dallas Willard check out The Dallas Willard Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2373226
July 23 · 13 min
The Key to Understanding ANYTHING (2022)
What do you do when your life feels like it's falling apart? In Episode 4 of our Become New series, John Ortberg continues exploring Dallas Willard's The Renovation of the Heart by examining one of Scripture's most encouraging promises: "In Christ all things hold together." Even when our relationships, health, finances, or emotions feel fractured, Jesus offers a deeper kind of stability that circumstances cannot destroy. Discover how God's vision of wholeness, or shalom, provides lasting hope in a fragmented world and why spiritual formation is ultimately about becoming whole in Christ. Continue the journey as we walk through The Renovation of the Heart together. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Welcome to the World by Sarah Watson, License #MB01LXS9AQLSJGH This episode was originally released in January 2022. Find all episodes from this series (Become New) here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Egad-Un8UFQxspz4fgd8L6D3GUFridT For more from Dallas Willard check out The Dallas Willard Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2373226
July 22 · 13 min
Hope Beyond Wishful Thinking (2022)
Fear dominates much of modern life. But Jesus offers something deeper than optimism. In Episode 3 of our Become New series (2022), John Ortberg continues exploring Dallas Willard's The Renovation of the Heart, asking why every human solution eventually falls short of changing the human heart. From ancient philosophy to politics, psychology, and self-improvement, people have searched for lasting hope. Jesus offers something radically different: transformation from the inside out. Discover why Dallas Willard called Jesus the greatest revolutionary in history and how becoming His apprentice changes not only individual lives but the world itself. Follow along as we continue this 15-part journey through The Renovation of the Heart. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Welcome to the World by Sarah Watson, License #MB01LXS9AQLSJGH This episode was originally released in January 2022. Find all episodes from this series (Become New) here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Egad-Un8UFQxspz4fgd8L6D3GUFridT For more from Dallas Willard check out The Dallas Willard Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2373226
July 21 · 13 min
What is Spiritual Formation? (2022)
In Episode 2 of our Become New series, John Ortberg continues exploring Dallas Willard's The Renovation of the Heart by unpacking Proverbs 4:23: "Guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." Together, we examine why our responses to life often expose the deeper formation taking place within us and how Jesus invites us into lasting transformation from the inside out. If you've ever wondered why you keep reacting the same way, despite your best intentions, this conversation offers a hopeful framework for understanding spiritual formation and learning to let Christ shape your heart. Subscribe and follow along as we continue this 15-part journey through The Renovation of the Heart. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Welcome to the World by Sarah Watson, License #MB01LXS9AQLSJGH This episode was originally released in January 2022. Find all episodes from this series (Become New) here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Egad-Un8UFQxspz4fgd8L6D3GUFridT For more from Dallas Willard check out The Dallas Willard Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2373226 00:00 Introduction 01:22 Why the Heart Matters Most 03:58 What Is the Human Spirit? 06:42 Your Responses Reveal Your Heart 09:18 The Shoe Store Story 11:52 A Lesson in Honesty 14:45 Everyone Is Being Spiritually Formed 17:22 Discipleship and Spiritual Formation 19:18 Guard Your Heart
July 20 · 14 min
Why Nothing Ever Feels Like Enough (2022)
What if lasting spiritual transformation isn't about trying harder? In this opening episode of our Become New series, John Ortberg introduces Dallas Willard's classic The Renovation of the Heart and explores Jesus' invitation to become people whose lives are transformed from the inside out. Rather than focusing on behavior modification, this conversation examines the deeper renovation of the heart, the nature of spiritual thirst, and the promise of living water that satisfies our deepest longings. If you've ever felt stuck, spiritually dry, or frustrated by repeated attempts to change yourself, this episode offers a hopeful vision of how genuine transformation happens through life with Jesus. Subscribe for the rest of this 15-part journey through The Renovation of the Heart as we explore what it truly means to become new. 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Welcome to the World by Sarah Watson, License #MB01LXS9AQLSJGH This episode was originally released in January 2022. Find all episodes from this series (Become New) here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3Egad-Un8UFQxspz4fgd8L6D3GUFridT For more from Dallas Willard check out The Dallas Willard Podcast: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2373226 00:00 Introduction 01:18 Why We Struggle to Change 03:34 Jesus' Two Greatest Priorities 05:55 Becoming People of Love 07:50 Introducing Dallas Willard 10:25 The Invitation Into Another World 14:08 Living Beyond Spiritual Thirst 18:10 Transformation vs. Behavior Modification 21:35 Life in the Desert 25:48 The Invitation to Become New 28:10 Final Encouragement
July 17 · 14 min
55. Stop Comparing. Start Living.
Why is comparison so hard to escape? In this reflection on Psalm 37, John Ortberg explores the hidden power of envy and why it quietly robs us of joy, gratitude, and peace. Drawing on insights from Rebecca Konyndyk DeYoung, John explains the difference between jealousy and envy, why comparison always leaves us feeling deficient, and how God's care frees us from measuring our lives against everyone else's. This episode explores: - Psalm 37 and overcoming envy - Why comparison is so destructive - The difference between jealousy and envy - Biblical stories of envy - Social media and the comparison trap - Living each day under God's loving care Scriptures: - Psalm 37 - Genesis 4 - Genesis 25–30 - Genesis 37 - Matthew 5:5 #Psalm37 #JohnOrtberg #Envy #Comparison #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Contentment #Faith 📚 Today's Resources: Rebecca Konyndyk De Young, Glittering Vices: A New Look at the Seven Deadly Sins and Their Remedies Victor Hugo, “L’Avarice et L’Envie,” Le Conservateur littéraire (1819) Pope St. Gregory the Great, Moralia in Job (~580 CE) Francis Bacon, “Of Envy” (1625) Kurt Vonnegut, Jr., “Harrison Bergeon,” The Magazine of Fantasy and Science Fiction 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Vikersund by RØRE - MB01V0UASAACPKE Alta by RØRE - MB01IWZVJASGKHF 00:00 Comparison Is Stealing Your Joy 00:36 Psalm 37 Begins 01:09 The External Solution to Envy 01:32 Kurt Vonnegut's Harrison Bergeron 02:49 Why Equality Doesn't Cure Envy 03:18 Living in God's Kingdom 03:42 Don't Fret or Ruminate 04:02 Delight Yourself in the Lord 04:55 Jealousy vs. Envy 05:48 Why God Is Jealous but Never Envious 06:46 The Bible's Story of Envy 07:33 Envy Begins With Deficiency 08:05 An Envy Self-Assessment 09:16 Victor Hugo's Story of Envy 09:56 How Envy Shows Itself 10:56 Social Media & Comparison 11:32 Spending Your Days Under God's Care 12:13 Live an Envy-Free Day
July 16 · 14 min
54. Does Prayer Actually Change Anything?
If God already knows everything... why pray? In this reflection on Psalm 74, John Ortberg wrestles with one of the oldest questions about prayer. Can our prayers actually matter? Drawing on insights from Walter Brueggemann and Dallas Willard, John explores the difference between the ancient philosophical idea of the "Unmoved Mover" and the God revealed in Scripture—the God who listens, responds, and is deeply moved by His people. This episode explores: - Psalm 74 and communal lament - Psalms of orientation and disorientation - Why the church needs lament - God's unchanging character and responsive heart - Dallas Willard's "Most Moved Mover" - Why your prayers matter Scriptures: - Psalm 74 #psalm74 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #WalterBrueggemann #DallasWillard #Lament #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #God 📚 Today's Resources: Walter Brueggemann, Praying the Psalms: Engaging Scripture and the Life of the Spirit Dallas Willard, The Divine Conspiracy 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Vikersund by RØRE - MB01V0UASAACPKE Alta by RØRE - MB01IWZVJASGKHF 00:00 Does Prayer Change God? 00:30 Why Pray If God Already Knows? 01:24 Psalm 74 & Communal Lament 02:03 Psalms of Orientation & Disorientation 02:40 "Why Have You Rejected Us?" 03:34 Remembering God's Faithfulness 03:59 Walter Brueggemann on Lament 05:25 The God Who Suffers With Us 06:21 Is God Really Unchangeable? 07:07 Dallas Willard's Community of Prayerful Love 08:13 The Most Moved Mover 09:00 The Unmoved Mover vs. the God of the Bible 10:03 Jesus Reveals God's Heart 11:03 Bring God Your Disorientation 12:02 Enter Into Another Person's Lament
July 15 · 13 min
53. The Surprising Cure for Loneliness
What if the cure for loneliness isn't finding more people... but learning to be alone? In this reflection on Psalm 139, John Ortberg explores one of the deepest realities of being human: our longing to be fully known and never abandoned. Drawing on the wisdom of Dallas Willard, John explains why we spend so much energy avoiding solitude—and why silence may actually become the place where we discover God's loving presence most deeply. This episode explores: Psalm 139 and being fully known by God - The difference between aloneness and loneliness - Why we distract ourselves with constant noise - Dallas Willard's "strange cure for loneliness" - Romans 8 and God's inseparable love - How solitude leads to deeper community Scriptures: - Psalm 139 - Romans 8:35–39 - Hebrews 13:5 #Psalm139 #JohnOrtberg #DallasWillard #Loneliness #Solitude #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #GodKnowsYou 📚 Today's Resources: Dallas Willard, Hearing God Ludie Day Pickett, “Never Alone” Dallas Willard, The Divine Conspiracy 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Vikersund by RØRE - MB01V0UASAACPKE Alta by RØRE - MB01IWZVJASGKHF 00:00 The Strange Cure for Loneliness 00:30 Psalm 139 Begins 01:01 You Have Searched Me and Know Me 01:47 God Knows Every Moment 02:16 Even There, You Are Present 02:49 Fearfully and Wonderfully Made 03:23 Holding My Newborn Daughter 04:28 Dallas Willard's Story of Aloneness 05:17 The Human Condition of Being Alone 06:26 God Can Go Where No One Else Can 07:01 Never Alone 07:56 Why We Distract Ourselves 08:41 The Cure for Loneliness 09:19 Nothing Can Separate Us From God's Love 10:05 God Already Knows 10:33 Present to the Presence 11:06 Solitude Leads to Community 11:32 You Are Never Alone
July 14 · 11 min
52. Does God Feel Far Away?
What do you do when you feel completely forsaken? In this reflection on Psalm 22, John Ortberg explores one of the most haunting prayers in all of Scripture: "My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?" These are not only the words of the psalmist—they are the words Jesus prayed from the cross. John explores the unique pain of abandonment, the difference between explanation and healing, and the remarkable hope hidden in one tiny word that many of us overlook: "My." This episode explores: - Psalm 22 and the experience of forsakenness - Why abandonment wounds so deeply - Jesus' cry from the cross - The man with the withered hand - The difference between explanation and healing - The hope found in belonging to God even in our darkest moments Scriptures: - Psalm 22 - Matthew 27 - Mark 15 - Mark 3 - Isaiah 53 #Psalm22 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #Jesus #Cross #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Hope #Suffering 📚 Today's Resources: The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Vikersund by RØRE - MB01V0UASAACPKE Alta by RØRE - MB01IWZVJASGKHF 00:00 The Deepest Prayer in Scripture 00:36 Psalm 22 Begins 01:21 What It Means to Be Forsaken 02:09 Why Forsakenness Hurts So Deeply 03:07 The Question That Won't Go Away 04:06 It's a Cry for Healing 04:43 The Man With the Withered Hand 05:07 God-Forsaken 06:20 The Fellowship of the Withered Hand 06:52 Jesus Prays Psalm 22 07:50 The Cross & Complete Forsakenness 08:16 One Little Word Changes Everything 08:50 "My God..." 09:42 He Is Still My God 10:18 Meeting Jesus in Our Deepest Pain 11:06 When the Prayer Becomes Simply... "My God"
July 13 · 13 min
51. This Law Explains the Whole Bible (Psalm 113)
Who really gets the good stuff? In this reflection on Psalm 113, John Ortberg explores what Dallas Willard called the Law of Inversion—one of the great themes running through the entire Bible. Again and again, God overturns the world's prestige system. The first become last. The overlooked become honored. The humble are lifted up. From Abel to Jacob, Hannah to Mary, the Beatitudes to Jesus washing His disciples' feet, Scripture tells one remarkable story: God's kingdom operates differently. This episode explores: - Psalm 113 and God's care for the overlooked - The Law of Inversion - The world's pecking order - Hannah's prayer and Mary's Magnificat - The Beatitudes - Jesus' upside-down kingdom - Why every person has access to "the good stuff" Scriptures: - Psalm 113 - Genesis - Exodus 15 - 1 Samuel 2 - Luke 1 - Matthew 5 - John 13 - Philippians 2 #Psalm113 #JohnOrtberg #DallasWillard #KingdomOfGod #Beatitudes #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Humility 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Vikersund by RØRE - MB01V0UASAACPKE Alta by RØRE - MB01IWZVJASGKHF 00:00 Who Gets the Good Stuff? 00:35 Psalm 113 Begins 01:15 God Raises the Poor From the Dust 01:40 The World's Prestige System 02:10 Dallas Willard's Law of Inversion 02:30 Cain, Abel & the First Reversal 02:53 Jacob, Joseph & God's Pattern 04:00 Miriam's Song of Victory 04:21 Hannah's Prayer 05:16 Mary's Magnificat 06:05 The Pecking Order Explained 07:21 Jesus Turns the World Upside Down 08:07 The Beatitudes & the Blessed Life 09:33 Jesus Washes His Disciples' Feet 09:56 The Great Law of the Kingdom 10:26 Remember: You Are Blessed 10:53 See People the Way God Does 11:16 Live the Law of Inversion
July 10 · 11 min
50. These Two Words Will Change Your Life
What if the two most freeing words you could say are: "I can't." In this reflection on Psalm 143, John Ortberg explores why admitting our limitations isn't failure—it's the beginning of faith. Through a humorous story about assembling a chair, the story of Elijah's exhaustion, and a fresh look at Philippians 4:13, John reminds us that we were never meant to carry life on our own. This episode explores: - Psalm 143 and praying from weakness - Why self-sufficiency is a spiritual trap - Elijah's burnout and God's compassion - "The journey is too much for you" - A better understanding of Philippians 4:13 - Why "I can't" opens the door to God's strength Scriptures: - Psalm 143 - 1 Kings 19 - Psalm 127:1 - Philippians 4:13 #Psalm143 #JohnOrtberg #Prayer #Faith #DependenceOnGod #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #SpiritualFormation #Philippians413 #Hope 📚 Today's Resources: Gerald F. Hawthorne, World Biblical Commentary: Philippians 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Vikersund by RØRE - MB01V0UASAACPKE Alta by RØRE - MB01IWZVJASGKHF 00:00 Two Words That Can Change Your Life 00:23 Psalm 143 Begins 00:59 My Spirit Grows Faint 01:52 Teach Me the Way I Should Go 02:14 The Barrel Nut Story 03:11 Two Life-Changing Words: "I Can't" 03:59 What You Cannot Control 05:06 Why We Need God 05:31 Elijah's Exhaustion 06:03 "The Journey Is Too Much for You" 06:58 Unless the Lord Builds the House 07:19 Rethinking Philippians 4:13 08:04 "I Can Face All Things" 08:38 I Can't. He Can. 09:00 The Honest Prayer of Psalm 143
July 9 · 14 min
49. Why God Doesn’t Reveal Everything At Once
Is denial always a bad thing? In this reflection on Psalm 39, John Ortberg explores one of the Bible's strangest prayers: "Look away from me." Why would anyone pray that? Drawing on insights from Dallas Willard, Søren Kierkegaard, and Greg Ten Elshof, John explains the surprising difference between healthy denial and unhealthy denial, and why God often reveals truth gradually rather than all at once. This episode explores: - Psalm 39 and radical honesty - Why Job, Peter, and Jonah wanted distance from God - Healthy vs. unhealthy denial - Self-deception and procrastination - Why Jesus said, "You cannot bear it now" - The grace of gradual transformation Scriptures: - Psalm 39 - Job 7 - Luke 5 - Jonah 1 - John 16 #psalm39 #JohnOrtberg #DallasWillard #SelfDeception #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Truth #Healing 📚 Today's Resources: Gregg A. Ten Elshof, I Told Me So: Self-Deception and the Christian Life Søren Kierkegaard, The Sickness Unto Death Dallas Willard, Renovation of the Heart 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Vikersund by RØRE - MB01V0UASAACPKE Alta by RØRE - MB01IWZVJASGKHF 00:00 One of the Strangest Prayers in the Bible 00:33 Why We Need Denial 00:59 Psalm 39 Begins 01:22 Silence Isn't the Goal 02:12 "Look Away From Me" 02:51 Job's Similar Prayer 03:40 Peter & Jonah Run From God 04:29 How Self-Deception Works 05:08 "I'll Deal With It Later" 05:35 Kierkegaard on Denial 06:13 "You Cannot Bear It Now" 06:58 Dallas Willard on Healthy Denial 08:05 "You Can't Handle the Truth" 08:50 Healthy vs. Unhealthy Denial 10:30 Are You Ready to See? 11:16 God Reveals Truth With Love 11:57 Denial Is an Emergency Brake
July 8 · 13 min
48. The Opposite of Fear Isn't Courage
Is the opposite of fear really courage? In this reflection on Psalm 27, John Ortberg offers a surprising answer: No. The opposite of fear is God’s presence. Drawing on the wisdom of Dallas Willard, John explains why Jesus could repeatedly tell His followers, "Do not be afraid," and what that invitation actually means. This episode explores: - Psalm 27 and trusting God - Why courage isn't the ultimate antidote to fear - The difference between emotional states and character traits - The powerful "Then what?" exercise - A practical prayer for anxious moments - Learning to be hidden in God's presence Scriptures: - Psalm 27 - Exodus - Esther - Matthew 1 - 1 Samuel 17 #Psalm27 #JohnOrtberg #Fear #TrustGod #Prayer #DallasWillard #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Anxiety 📚 Today's Resources: The Big Book of AA, Step 4 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Vikersund by RØRE - MB01V0UASAACPKE Alta by RØRE - MB01IWZVJASGKHF 00:00 Fear Isn't the Real Problem 00:47 The Opposite of Fear Isn't Courage 01:15 Was Jesus Nuts? 01:43 Psalm 27 Begins 02:18 The Lord Is My Light and Salvation 02:44 Hidden in God 03:08 God Is the Antidote to Fear 03:33 State vs. Trait 04:43 Becoming a Courageous Person 05:33 Fear Not Doesn't Mean Feel Nothing 06:14 Moses, Esther & Joseph 06:41 What Are You Afraid Of? 07:18 The 12-Step Prayer About Fear 08:01 The Great White Shark Story 08:48 "Then What?" 10:25 Bringing Fear to God 11:17 Take Action, Then Trust God 11:40 The Lord Is My Light and Salvation
July 7 · 13 min
47. What God Actually Wants
What actually makes someone a good person? In this reflection on Psalm 51, John Ortberg explores one of the most important differences between religion and the teaching of Jesus. David doesn't simply pray, "Forgive my sins." He prays, "Create in me a clean heart." Drawing on insights from Dallas Willard and the remarkable story of Joni Eareckson Tada, John explains why God is after something far deeper than behavior modification. He wants transformation from the inside out. This episode explores: - Psalm 51 and David's prayer - The difference between behavior and the heart - Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount - Why outward obedience isn't enough - Joni Eareckson Tada's powerful insight about sin - Becoming the kind of person who naturally desires what is good Scriptures: - Psalm 51 - Matthew 5 - Matthew 23 - 2 Samuel 11–12 #Psalm51 #JohnOrtberg #JoniEarecksonTada #DallasWillard #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #HeartTransformation #SermonOnTheMount 📚 Today's Resources: Dallas Willard Joni Eareckson Tada 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Vikersund by RØRE - MB01V0UASAACPKE Alta by RØRE - MB01IWZVJASGKHF 00:00 What Does God Really Want? 00:44 The Most Misunderstood Part of the Spiritual Life 01:32 Psalm 51 & David's Prayer 02:15 Create in Me a Clean Heart 03:04 What Makes Someone a Good Person? 03:41 Jesus vs. Behavior Modification 04:43 Lust, the Heart & the Sermon on the Mount 05:18 Why Jesus Talks About Gouging Out Your Eye 06:08 Reductio ad Absurdum Explained 06:57 Meet Joni Eareckson Tada 07:50 "Sin Was an Attitude as Much as an Act" 09:20 The Prayer We All Need 09:48 Stop White-Knuckling Your Faith 10:34 God Wants to Change Your Desires 11:01 Love, Joy & Peace Begin in the Heart
July 6 · 13 min
46. Glenn Packiam: Don't Let a Wounded Heart Become a Bitter Spirit
What do you do when prayer feels impossible? In this conversation, John Ortberg is joined by pastor and author Glenn Packiam to reflect on Psalm 73 and the reality of spiritual slumps. Glenn shares why he always returns to the Psalms when he struggles to pray, and together they explore envy, self-pity, hope, and God's unwavering presence. This episode explores: - Psalm 73 and spiritual honesty - The danger of a wounded heart and bitter spirit - "The Bible is reading you" - Why "Yet I am always with You" changes everything - Christian hope beyond present circumstances - Ty Cobb's surprising lesson for prayer - Why the best thing you can do is simply keep showing up Scriptures: - Psalm 73 #Psalm73 #JohnOrtberg #GlennPackiam #Prayer #SpiritualFormation #ChristianFaith #BibleStudy #Psalms #Hope #FaithInHardTimes 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Vikersund by RØRE - MB01V0UASAACPKE Alta by RØRE - MB01IWZVJASGKHF 00:00 Meet Glenn Packiam 00:48 Returning to the Psalms 02:20 Psalm 73 & A Slipping Faith 03:23 Envying the Prosperity of the Wicked 04:05 When the Bible Reads You 04:56 A Wounded Heart & Bitter Spirit 05:52 Losing Perspective 06:13 "Yet I Am Always With You" 07:00 God Holds You by the Hand 07:29 My Flesh and My Heart May Fail 08:18 When You Can't Fix Yourself 09:46 A Future Filled With Hope 10:31 Ty Cobb's Bunting Lesson 11:14 What to Do in a Spiritual Slump 11:53 Keep Showing Up

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55. Stop Comparing. Start Living.

54. Does Prayer Actually Change Anything?

53. The Surprising Cure for Loneliness

52. Does God Feel Far Away?

51. This Law Explains the Whole Bible (Psalm 113)

50. These Two Words Will Change Your Life

49. Why God Doesn’t Reveal Everything At Once

48. The Opposite of Fear Isn't Courage

47. What God Actually Wants

46. Glenn Packiam: Don't Let a Wounded Heart Become a Bitter Spirit