Embracing Brokenness

In this powerful start to a new year, Steve sits down with longtime friend Rich Timmons—creative visionary, gallery owner, teacher, and author of Come… meet Jesus—for an honest conversation about faith, loss, and redemption.Rich shares how a Good Friday business collapse became the moment he finally cried out to God, and how a “Joseph and Mary” divine appointment helped lead him to Christ. He reflects on rebuilding his life with Jesus at the center, teaching art history through the life of Christ, and turning 67 masterworks into a devotional tool that blends Scripture and beauty.The conversation takes a profound turn as Rich opens up about losing his son to glioblastoma, and the strength of staying “yoked” to Jesus through grief. He also shares a deeply personal testimony of decades-long struggle with alcohol—and the moment God brought freedom through Psalm 9:6.If you’re walking through brokenness, grief, or a hidden struggle, this episode is a reminder: brokenness isn’t a barrier—it can become a bridge to healing.Learn more: comemeetjesus.art (Use promo code 1017 for 25% off)More about EBM: embracingbrokenness.orgChapters00:00 – The “cowboy” son and a gift with horses01:41 – The diagnosis: brain cancer and the weight of grief02:00 – Welcome + Season 7 kickoff + Steve & Rich history05:40 – Rich’s story begins: Kensington, dreams, and early influences09:00 – Air Force years and marriage to Julie11:30 – “Let’s buy a computer”—early business breakthrough13:15 – The crash: staff walks out on Good Friday15:05 – “Joseph and Mary”: Joe Castillo and the pocket Bible16:30 – Born again: “I made a right-hand turn”17:50 – Motorhome year: early discipleship and the Body of Christ19:15 – 45 years of business success (and hiring smart people)21:30 – Selling the business → opening the art gallery23:10 – Teaching art history through “one man”: Jesus26:05 – Losing Rich: glioblastoma and 18 months of care33:10 – “Rotten theology” and living in a broken world36:05 – Turning teaching into a book: Come… meet Jesus43:15 – The yoke: staying close to Christ in grief45:25 – Alcohol testimony + Psalm 9:6 + freedom50:15 – Brokenness as a bridge to healing53:50 – Book promo + discount code + closing

It’s the week of December 29, 2025—and Steve & Colleen Adams take time to look back with gratitude on what God has done through Embracing Brokenness Ministries this year, while also sharing a glimpse of what’s ahead in 2026.A central theme rises above everything: learning to wait on the Lord—to live from presence, intimacy, and obedience, not outcomes. Along the way, they share a few powerful ministry stories (including moments of real-time provision), reflect on meaningful guest conversations from 2025, and close by thanking the prayer team and ministry partners who make it all possible.If you’ve been weary, discouraged, or wondering whether your calling matters—this conversation will encourage you to keep following the Shepherd’s voice.Website: https://embracingbrokenness.org/Chapters:00:00 Feeling dry? Ask God for a glimpse (opening encouragement)00:33 Podcast intro01:20 Welcome + “How is it already Dec 29?”02:45 Recap purpose + heading into Year 704:20 Theme of 2025: waiting on the Lord + John 10:2706:35 “Head to heart” transformation (Identity Matters story)09:10 What’s possible when intimacy becomes real10:24 God speaks in daily life (Amish friend + pregnancy prayer)14:45 Presence as a way of life (not “doing more”)16:15 The real battle: distraction, dopamine, and digital noise19:20 What’s coming: the book + study guide + resources21:55 The Circle vision: tools, practices, and a deeper journey23:45 2025 guest highlights + books (Lewis Lee, Raynor, Poore, Payne, etc.)29:05 John Eldredge + Experience Jesus + the Pause app32:45 Off-camera encouragement: “It matters more than you know”35:08 Faithfulness in everyday moments (your calling counts)36:35 Ask God for a glimpse of eternity (when you’re discouraged)38:50 Thank you: prayer team, listeners, partners, donors

When life teaches you to hide, Jesus invites you to heal. Author Clinton Parker joins Steve to share the story behind his new book, Beauty in the Dandelion: Shame Shattered by Grace and Love—from chaotic beginnings and early exposure to darkness, to the slow rescue of grace, safe people, and a Father who delights.We talk practicals: naming shame vs. guilt, breaking isolation, finding “safe” community, parenting through pain, and why putting your story on paper can become the first step toward freedom.📘 Get the book on Amazon: (link in show notes)🎧 Subscribe for more conversations on identity, healing, and restoration.Show notesGuest: Clinton Parker, author of Beauty in the Dandelion: Shame Shattered by Grace and Love.Buy the book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/3Xm4PlhAmazon Kindle edition: https://a.co/d/dCdWf4HAlso at Barnes & Noble. Chapters00:00 The Power of Writing Your Story01:35 Introduction to Clint Parker and His Journey03:31 Clint's Background and the Inspiration Behind His Book06:13 Childhood Chaos and Its Impact10:13 The Role of Faith and Community in Healing19:50 Finding Beauty in Dandelions: A Metaphor for Life23:29 Overcoming Shame and Embracing Identity28:55 The Journey of Growth and Maturity34:40 The Importance of Safe Spaces and Community39:35 The Impact of Sharing Your Story44:44 Hope and Encouragement for Others52:05 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

What does true freedom look like?At age 15, Warner Batty was sentenced to life without parole for taking a life. Fifty years later, he walked out of a Pennsylvania prison—free not just in body, but in spirit.In this raw and redemptive conversation, Steve sits down with Warner to talk about his journey from hopelessness and self-hatred to forgiveness and freedom in Christ. Hear how one man—“the hound from heaven”—persisted in sharing Jesus behind bars until the Holy Spirit broke through.Warner shares the pivotal moment of his salvation, his decades-long walk with Christ while incarcerated, and his eventual release under the Miller v. Alabama Supreme Court ruling. This episode is a powerful reminder that no one is beyond redemption, and that freedom begins within.Topics include:Growing up in poverty and racism in the 1960sLife without parole as a 15-year-oldA divine encounter with “the hound from heaven”Meeting the family of his victim to offer forgivenessRevival and ministry behind prison wallsFinding peace and purpose after 50 years“Without Jesus Christ, you are missing something. Without Him, you are lost.” – Warner BattyChapters:00:00 – Warner’s Early Life & Identity Struggles02:16 – Introduction to Warner’s Story04:01 – Who Warner Is Today05:49 – Life Before the Crime09:46 – The Crime & Life Sentence at 1513:51 – The “Hound From Heaven” Appears18:26 – The Holy Spirit Begins to Move22:56 – Warner Surrenders to Christ27:35 – A New Fire for the Gospel30:20 – Growing, Maturing & Learning Love39:13 – Reconciliation With His Mother41:07 – Meeting the Victim’s Family44:38 – Wrestling With Justice & Mercy46:47 – Supreme Court Cases That Changed His Fate53:22 – Release After 50 Years54:04 – Experiencing Freedom on the Outside56:34 – God’s Perfect Timing59:19 – Trauma, Accountability & Healing1:04:45 – Warner’s Powerful Closing Prayer

What happens when a pastor’s life falls apart—and God writes a better story?In this raw and redemptive conversation, Steve sits down with Greg Lindsey, author of The Rest of Your Story: The Path to the Christian Life You Want, to talk about failure, forgiveness, and the long road to freedom. Greg shares openly about the affair that nearly ended his marriage and ministry—and how Jesus met him in the rubble to begin a rescue that changed everything.Together, Steve and Greg unpack what it means to live from your story instead of running from it: how God redeems even our deepest failures, why the Church must learn to restore the fallen, and why intimacy with Jesus—not performance—is the true measure of success.🔹 Facing your past without fear🔹 How the Church can become a “MAS*H unit” for the wounded🔹 The danger of identity rooted in performance🔹 Experiencing—not just knowing—Jesus daily🔹 Why your story isn’t over because your Author isn’t finishedGreg’s honesty will challenge and comfort you—and remind you that no matter where you’ve been, there’s more to the story God is writing.🎧 Listen, share, and subscribe for more conversations on healing, identity, and transformation in Christ.Guest: Greg Lindsey — Pastor, Discovery Church Colorado Springs | Author, The Rest of Your Storyhttps://a.co/d/aF0j7N0Resources: https://www.glindsey.com/Chapters00:00 Embracing Brokenness: A Personal Journey09:53 The Role of Story and Rescue in Healing19:42 The Impact of Authenticity in Ministry29:54 Finding Validation and Identity in Christ31:53 Experiencing Jesus: Beyond Salvation35:23 The Journey of Intimacy with God39:01 Resilience and Perseverance in Faith44:05 Your Story Isn't Over: Embracing Hope51:32 The Impact of Obedience: A Call to Action

Steve and Colleen talk with Tom and Karen Friedrichs of Broom Tree Landing, a ministry that offers no-cost retreat, coaching, and spiritual direction to pastors and ministry leaders who are tired, hurting, or on the edge of burnout. They share their own story of pastoral exhaustion, how God accelerated their “retirement dream” into a right now calling, and several powerful provision stories — including God funding someone’s retreat from another country.You’ll hear:Why healthy churches need healthy leadersSigns of burnout pastors often ignoreWhy availability is the real ministryHow God provides when you finally say “yes”Connect with Broom Tree Landing: https://www.broomtreelanding.org/Chapters00:00 Introduction and Welcome06:58 The Importance of Healthy Ministries13:52 Personal Journeys and Call to Ministry20:56 Provision and Trust in God27:37 Creating a Safe Space for Leaders29:19 Understanding Burnout in Ministry33:43 The Importance of Rest and Retreat38:33 Provision Stories: Miracles in Ministry43:23 The Power of Availability and Presence48:07 Encouragement for Those Struggling51:17 Establishing Healthy Rhythms in Life

Steve sits down with author and leadership coach Preston Poore to discuss his new book How Is Greater Than What. Together they unpack the overlooked “how” of leadership—why character, integrity, and faith matter more than performance.Hear Preston’s vulnerable stories from his years at Coca-Cola, how he learned to lead with heart, and why our identity in Christ defines every “how” in life and leadership.🎧 Listen. Reflect. Lead differently.Chapters00:00 The Fundamentals of Identity and Purpose03:06 Exploring Leadership and Character05:59 The Importance of Integrity in Leadership09:09 Understanding the 'How' in Leadership11:53 The Role of Dignity and Respect in Leadership14:57 Transformational Leadership Through Relationships24:54 The Turning Point in Leadership30:44 Identifying Leadership Traps33:00 The Journey of Personal Development39:22 Encouragement for Young Leaders42:31 Faith and Leadership: The Power of Love

“Helper” in Genesis 2:18 isn’t a downgrade—it’s ezer kenegdo: a powerful ally corresponding to. Steve & Colleen explore God’s original design, how sin distorted it, and how Jesus restores mutuality (Gal 3:28). Practical for marriage, ministry, friendships, and singles—plus a Zechariah 2:5 prayer of protection and presence.Here's the link to prayer of protection: https://embracingbrokenness.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/A-Wall-of-Fire-Around-Us-Crafted-Prayer-Zechariah-2-5.pdfChapters0:00 – Opening: generational context & show intro1:42 – Welcome back; why Genesis; episode title set-up3:52 – Prayer of protection (Zechariah 2:5)5:19 – Why pray aloud; prison context; PDF mention7:26 – Genesis 2:18 read; intro to ezer kenegdo9:45 – “Helper” and identity: Colleen’s story12:03 – God as ezer (rescuer/ally)13:07 – Psalm 33:20 (ESV) — “he is our help and our shield”14:30 – Kenegdo = corresponding/face-to-face; headship/submission clarified15:17 – Misuse of “submission”; weight of responsibility on the head17:11 – The Fall’s fracture (Genesis 3:16)18:44 – Consequences vs “curse” explained22:28 – Passivity & cultural misuse (lighthearted “15:1 words” moment)23:55 – Missing female leadership; global harms (trafficking/war)28:13 – Restoration in Christ (Galatians 3:28)30:13 – Jesus’ model: children, Samaritan woman, bleeding woman; Deborah34:45 – Personal stories: upbringing & marriage dynamics36:38 – Complementary gifts in ministry (“professor” bit)38:38 – Serving posture & witness; mission snapshots42:35 – Partnership anecdotes & outside observations44:53 – For singles & spiritual companionship (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10)46:53 – Abiding in Christ & finding community47:29 – “Tapestry” metaphor & New Jerusalem vision51:16 – Closing reflections51:36 – Outro / blessings

Many of us were taught a gospel that’s true—but incomplete. It became a “ticket to heaven,” divorced from daily life, intimacy, and our purpose in God’s larger story. In this candid conversation, Steve and Colleen unpack how post-Enlightenment thinking, cultural striving, and a transactional faith left them exhausted and spiritually dry—and how Jesus invited them into union, abiding, and the wholeness of Shalom (“nothing missing, nothing broken”).They trace the story from Genesis 1:26–28 (the cultural mandate) to John 14:6, John 5:19, John 17:20–21, and John 10:10, showing how the “whole gospel” restores us to partnership with God—now. Expect practical honesty (including Colleen’s “contract with God” moment and Steve’s Monday-through-Friday faith challenge), a re-centering on intimacy over information, and a hopeful vision of life with God that integrates heaven and earth.Chapters00:00 The Desire for Intimacy with God02:53 The Incomplete Gospel and Its Impact05:44 Understanding God: Beyond Knowledge09:00 The Journey of Faith and Relationship12:09 The Transactional Nature of Christianity14:59 The Call for Intimacy and Union with God17:57 The Cultural Mandate and the Complete Gospel20:41 The Vision of Restoration and Purpose23:54 Living the Abundant Life in Christ

What if your struggles aren’t just problems to manage—but invitations from God to heal?In this episode of the Embracing Brokenness Podcast, Steve and Colleen dive deep into the difference between sin management and true spiritual healing. Through honest stories—including a boat named Revelation that literally went down in flames—they reveal how wounds, lies, and false identities shape our lives.Too often, we silence the “smoke alarm” of sin without dealing with the fire beneath it. Addiction, workaholism, or even seemingly harmless obsessions are symptoms of unhealed wounds. Real transformation comes not from filters, checklists, or self-help, but from surrender—allowing Jesus to meet us in our stories and replace the lies we believe with His truth.This conversation will challenge you to go beyond surface fixes and embrace the deeper healing God longs to bring.👉 Explore more resources, videos, and the Tree of Brokenness model at https://embracingbrokenness.org/Here's a link to the Tree of Brokenness artwork. https://embracingbrokenness.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/8.5x11-Brokenness-TEXT-scaled.jpgChapters00:00 The Revelation of Brokenness03:07 Understanding Healing and Trauma05:51 The False Self and Addiction09:01 Sin Management vs. True Healing12:06 The Role of Accountability in Healing15:01 Exploring Core Longings and Identity18:01 The Tree of Brokenness20:52 The Journey of Spiritual Formation23:47 The Process of Reformation27:00 Conclusion and Resources

So many of us spend our lives hiding our brokenness—pretending everything’s fine while we carry deep wounds that keep us from true freedom. In this honest conversation, Steve and Colleen share their personal journeys of pain, healing, and restoration. They tackle why most people resist admitting they’re broken, what happens if we ignore it, and how Jesus transforms our deepest wounds into places of life and freedom.From coffee-spilled meltdowns to the image of a Lamborghini built to reflect glory, they unpack what it really means to embrace your brokenness—and why it’s the essential first step toward living the abundant life God intended.If you’ve ever wrestled with shame, performance, or simply the ache of “not enough,” this episode will remind you: your brokenness isn’t the end of your story—it’s the place where God begins His healing work.Link to Upcoming Book: Embracing the Wayhttps://www.embracingtheway.com/Chapters00:00 The Coffee Incident: A Lesson in Healing02:52 Embracing Brokenness: The Journey Begins05:44 Understanding Brokenness: A Purposeful Perspective08:57 The Process of Healing: A Personal Journey11:42 Marriage and Brokenness: Recognizing Triggers14:49 The Impact of Past Relationships on Healing17:47 The Role of Vulnerability in Healing21:00 Authenticity vs. Performance: The Struggle23:47 The Consequences of Ignoring Brokenness26:42 The Importance of Connection: Staying Rooted29:46 The Journey of Restoration: Embracing the Process32:42 The Call to Action: Living Authentically35:44 Final Thoughts: The Beauty of Brokenness

A dark battlefield. Countless dead. One man runs tirelessly, reviving the fallen. The rescued learn to revive others. Hope spreads. But then, someone builds a shelter. Others join. Before long, a castle stands where the battle once raged. From its balcony, people laugh, feast, and celebrate… blind to the dying just beyond the walls.In this robust conversation, Colleen shares a vivid vision that the Lord impressed on her heart—an image for the Church to ponder today. Steve and Michael join her to unpack what it means for discipleship, spiritual formation, and our tendency to trade mission for comfort.We’ll explore:Why revival must lead to discipleship, not complacencyHow “castles” in our lives pull us away from God’s callWarning signs that we’ve drifted from the battlefieldThe difference between cultural Christianity and kingdom livingHow to return to our first love and re-engage in the mission of JesusWhether you’re new to faith or decades in, this episode will challenge you to examine your heart, your focus, and your calling.📖 Revelation 3:17 – “You do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked.”🎧Ask yourself: Where have I left the battlefield?Chapters:00:00 - Introduction: Castles on the Battlefield 03:30 - Personal Reflections and Summer Highlights 07:45 - Vision of the Battlefield 12:45 - The Call to Revive Others 17:30 - Building Castles of Comfort 22:15 - Spiritual Complacency and Comfort 27:00 - Importance of Discipleship 32:40 - Reflections on the American Church 37:55 - Returning to Our First Love 43:20 - Practical Steps for Spiritual Alignment 48:45 - The Role of Community and Accountability 54:10 - Overcoming Distractions in Faith 59:35 - Closing Thoughts and Call to Action 1:05:00 - Final Reflections and Farewell

What do you do when evil shows up—and no one’s talking about it?In this honest and Spirit-led debrief, Steve and Colleen Adams reflect on their unforgettable interview with former FBI agent Scott Payne. From neo-Nazi cult rituals to the chilling refusal of a Bible to burn in a satanic bonfire, Scott’s story exposed real spiritual darkness. But it also revealed something else—how far the Church has drifted from affirming biblical masculinity and spiritual authority.Colleen shares how the Holy Spirit prompted her to speak boldly, challenging a culture that vilifies strength and a Church that’s gone silent.🎙️ What is true manhood in the face of real evil?🛡️ What’s the role of the Church in this cultural moment?🔥 And how do we reclaim truth, identity, and God’s heart for justice?This debrief is more than a conversation. It’s a wake-up call.📍Listen to the full interview with Scott Payne in Parts 1 & 2🌐 More on identity, healing & wholeness: https://embracingbrokenness.org/Chapters:0:00 Introduction and Welcome 3:00 Guest Introduction: Scott Payne8:00 Spiritual Warfare and Identity15:00 Scott Payne's Undercover Experiences25:00 Faith and Resilience35:00 The Role of Prayer45:00 Reflections on Masculinity and Society52:00 Redemption and Transformation56:00 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

Former undercover FBI agent and bestselling author Scott Payne returns in Part 2 of this jaw-dropping conversation with Steve and Colleen. In this episode, Scott recounts the harrowing details of infiltrating neo-Nazi accelerationist groups—including disturbing pagan rituals, foiled murder plots, and spiritual warfare in the darkest places imaginable. But through it all, his faith remained the anchor.Colleen joins the conversation with powerful reflections on biblical masculinity, the battle between good and evil, and the call to be both lion and lamb in today’s culture.💥 This is a raw, redemptive look at what it means to stand in the gap as a Christ follower in a broken world.📚 Codename: Pale Horse – Available now on Audible, Amazon, and everywhere books are sold. https://a.co/d/86MsDlgChapters00:00 The Wild Hunt and Pagan Rituals11:56 Infiltrating Extremist Groups23:38 The Dark Side of Accelerationism35:41 Spiritual Warfare and Redemption47:22 Masculinity and the Church

What happens when an undercover FBI agent faces down hate groups, cartels, and spiritual darkness—and still holds fast to his faith?In this gripping Part 1 interview, Scott Payne, former FBI agent and New York Times bestselling author of Codename: Pale Horse, joins Steve to share his incredible journey. From growing up in a Christian home to infiltrating America's most violent criminal networks, Scott opens up about the challenges of living for Jesus in the darkest places on earth.🎙️ You’ll hear:How Scott integrated faith into his high-stakes undercover workHis chilling encounter with demonic forces that changed his life foreverThe wild story of how a school talent show led to his first covert missionThe emotional and spiritual cost of his work—and how God used it all for redemption🙏 Whether you're in ministry, law enforcement, or just looking for hope in hard places, this episode will both shock and inspire you.📚 Codename: Pale Horse – Available now on Audible, Amazon, and everywhere books are sold. https://a.co/d/86MsDlgChapters00:00 Undercover Operations: A High-Stakes Job02:43 The Journey of a Christ Follower in Law Enforcement05:56 Challenges and Triumphs in the FBI08:45 The Path to Becoming an Undercover Agent11:55 Childhood Influences and Early Experiences14:53 The Impact of Peer Pressure and Identity18:00 Spiritual Awakening and Transformation20:54 Navigating the World of Law Enforcement23:37 The Role of Faith in a Dangerous Profession26:42 First Experiences in Undercover Work29:58 Career Decisions and Law Enforcement Aspirations41:25 The Evolution of Undercover Work49:32 Infiltrating the Outlaws: A Deep Dive01:00:33 The High-Stakes Drug Deal01:11:55 Faith and Resilience in the Face of Danger01:23:17 Redemption Stories and Community Support

David Garlock’s journey is one of trauma, transformation, and triumph. After surviving years of horrific abuse, David and his brother took the life of their abuser—an act that led to a 25-year sentence. But in prison, David found something far greater than freedom: he found Jesus.In this episode of the Embracing Brokenness Podcast, Steve talks with David about:* His early years of abuse and family dysfunction* The decision that changed everything*Meeting God in a jail cell* His education journey—from GED to college degree* Working with Bryan Stevenson and appearing in Just Mercy* Why justice reform matters* What the Church can do to support returning citizensDavid's story is a powerful reminder that no one is beyond the reach of grace—and that God can use anyone for His glory.🔗 Visit davidlgarlock.com to learn more.🎙 Subscribe and share if this conversation speaks to you.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Embracing Brokenness03:01 David's Early Life and Trauma10:36 The Turning Point: Confession and Transformation19:36 Life After Incarceration and Family Dynamics24:52 Loss and Healing: The Impact of Grief28:11 The Importance of Faith and Advocacy29:23 The Power of Faith and Vulnerability36:40 Transformative Education Behind Bars54:48 Finding Purpose Through Adversity58:40 Redefining Identity Beyond Past Mistakes

What happens when a 16-year-old is sentenced to life in prison? What if that same person becomes a powerful voice for redemption, hope, and purpose?In this episode, Steve sits down with Lewis Lee, a man whose life journey will challenge everything you think you know about justice, transformation, and the power of God’s love.From the streets of West Philadelphia to a life sentence without parole, Lewis’ story is one of unimaginable pain, devastating choices, and a divine encounter that changed everything. After nearly 45 years behind bars, Lewis walks us through how prison not only saved his life but gave him a mission: to rescue others.Now the founder of Men of Purpose International, Lewis is helping formerly incarcerated men and women find community, purpose, and lasting change through the power of Jesus Christ.Whether you've been impacted by incarceration or simply want to witness what true restoration looks like—this is a story you need to hear.Topics include:* Growing up in Philly’s gang culture* A life-altering crime at age 15* The spiritual awakening that changed everything* Navigating 45 years behind bars with faith and purpose* Founding Men of Purpose International during the pandemic* His powerful message to today's youth and returning citizens🔗 Learn more at https://embracingbrokenness.org/📘 Featured Book: Get Free and Stay Free by David Lewishttps://a.co/d/eYx5VWf🌍 Connect with Men of Purpose Internationalhttps://menofpurposeintl.com/Chapters00:00 Introduction to Louis Lee's Journey01:49 Early Life and Influences in Philadelphia05:52 The Shift to a Life of Crime08:45 First Encounters with the Law15:10 The Robbery and Its Consequences20:43 Finding Faith in Prison23:30 A Renewed Commitment to Faith27:05 Prison as a Catalyst for Change30:14 Finding Peace in Uncertainty33:39 The Impact of Supreme Court Rulings36:11 Navigating Parole and Release38:55 Adjusting to Life After Prison41:02 Building Community Through Technology43:38 Vision for Men of Purpose International45:03 A Message to the Youth48:56 The Importance of Decision Making51:52 Returning to Serve and Inspire

What if experiencing Jesus wasn’t reserved for spiritual elites—or the past? What if intimacy with God was meant to be the normal human experience, even in a world drowning in distraction?In this powerful debrief episode, Steve and Colleen reflect on Steve’s recent conversation with John Eldredge about his book Experience Jesus—Really. Together, they unpack what it means to reclaim our union with God in a culture that has conditioned us for hurry, noise, and digital addiction.From being “disciples of the internet” to the misunderstood beauty of ordinary mysticism, this episode is an invitation to return to presence—to rediscover your soul’s longing for daily connection with Jesus. They explore spiritual practices, emotional healing through union with Christ, and what it means to live with childlike wonder in a broken world.📱 Learn how the P.A.U.S.E. App and “Experiencing Jesus” meditations can rewire your spiritual life📖 Hear stories of personal transformation, simple postures of prayer, and ancient paths made new❤️ Reflect on how healing, presence, and love reshape your walk with God—and the Church’s witness today👉 This isn’t about doing more. It’s about experiencing more. Come rest in His presence with us.Chapters00:00 Rediscovering Faith in a Distracted World01:54 The Importance of Guided Prayer06:12 Disciples of the Internet17:24 Ordinary Mystics and Intimacy with God23:49 Practices for Experiencing God's Presence25:01 Daily Encounters with God26:22 Healing Through Union with Christ29:13 Mental Health and Spiritual Well-being32:52 Cultivating the Presence of God39:09 The Urgency of Spiritual Connection46:12 Practical Steps for Abiding in Christ

What if your soul has been trained not to experience God?In this profound and timely conversation, Steve Adams sits down with bestselling author John Eldredge to explore the themes of his new book, Experience Jesus—Really. Together, they confront one of the most overlooked realities of modern spiritual life: we’ve been discipled by distraction, noise, and digital overload—and it’s making it harder to connect with God.From reclaiming ancient practices to becoming “ordinary mystics,” John and Steve guide listeners into a deeper, more intimate daily encounter with Jesus. You’ll discover the path back to healing, peace, and joy—through union with Christ.🎧 Topics covered:Why you can’t focus in prayer (and it’s not your fault)What it really means to be a disciple of the internetHow to become an “ordinary mystic” and live like David, Paul, and Mary MagdaleneSimple practices to experience Jesus dailyHealing through presence—not performance📲 Mentioned Resources:Experience Jesus—Really (book + study guide) https://a.co/d/64HLow3Wild at Heart Ministries — https://wildatheart.org/The Pause App – new “Experiencing Jesus” module https://wildatheart.org/apps/one-minute-pause/When Laid to Rest (Wild at Heart Pause App Music)By Patrick Rundblad⏱️ Chapters00:00 – You’ve Been Discipled by the Internet 01:17 – Welcome to the Embracing Brokenness Podcast 03:03 – Why We Pause: A Prayer for Presence 06:00 – How’s Your Heart? Life, Ministry & Sabbath Rhythms 10:01 – Discipled by the Internet (Expanded) 14:18 – What Is an Ordinary Mystic? 17:39 – Is God's Love Really Better Than Life? 20:27 – Trauma, Anxiety & the Healing Union 24:29 – Why the Goal Is Union, Not Performance 28:04 – Why Experiencing God Feels So Hard (And What to Do About It) 29:56 – Examples of Ordinary Mystics 36:17 – Dwelling Within: The Indwelling Christ 39:00 – Practicing Union: Sacred Daily Rhythms 43:03 – One Thing You Can Do Today 44:31 – What Writing This Book Changed for John 45:56 – Closing

Is your view of God shaped by truth—or trauma? In this episode, Steve & Colleen explore how our past experiences distort our understanding of God, and how neuroscience, spiritual warfare, and abiding in Christ reveal the God who is truly love. If fear has shaped your faith, this is the episode for you.