Shepherd Press Podcast

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, Shannon Kay McCoy sits down with Dr. Stanley Gale to explore how the book of Ecclesiastes speaks honestly to life “under the sun” while directing us to rest in God’s sovereign care.Throughout the conversation, Gale highlights how themes like vanity, joy, work, grief, and the fear of the Lord shape a faithful, grounded life. Ecclesiastes teaches us to embrace our creaturely limits, reject idolatry, and enjoy God’s good gifts without depending on them for ultimate meaning.This episode is especially helpful for pastors, counselors, and everyday Christians seeking biblical wisdom for navigating hardship with humility and hope.This episode unpacks:What “life under the sun” really meansWhy embracing human limitations leads to rest and wisdomHow the fear of the Lord anchors emotional and spiritual stabilityHow Ecclesiastes speaks to suffering, grief, and unmet expectationsHow enjoyment of life fits within a God-centered worldviewHow Ecclesiastes ultimately points us to Christ and eternal hopeOther Resources:Under the Sun: Redemptive Reality in the Book of Ecclesiastes by Stan GaleAlso by Stan Gale: God's Good News-The Gospel for Life

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Shannon K. McCoy sits down with Jon Scurtu, ACBC-certified biblical counselor, pastor at Logos Baptist Ministries, and author of Growing Out of Sin and Into Holiness, to unpack the doctrine of sanctification. Jon helps listeners move beyond common extremes of either self-effort or passivity, grounding growth in holiness in the believer’s union with Christ and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. Rather than presenting sanctification as self-improvement, this conversation reframes it as a grace-driven process that unfolds through Scripture, prayer, community, and suffering.Throughout the episode, listeners are reminded that sanctification ultimately flows from delight in Christ, not mere duty.This conversation unpacks:What sanctification is—and why it is often misunderstood How union with Christ produces lasting growthThe balance between God’s work and our active effort in the Christian life- The empowering role of the Holy Spirit in everyday obedienceWhy identity in Christ must precede effort and behavior changeHow Scripture, prayer, community, and faithful routines function as God’s means of graceThe role of suffering and trials in producing spiritual maturityGrowing out of Sin and into Holiness by Jon Scurtu

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, our host, Shannon Kay McCoy, speaks with biblical counselor, mother, and author Johanna Presley to explore how God’s Word speaks hope and clarity into autism in children.Drawing from both personal experience and biblical counseling practice, Johanna helps listeners understand autism through a gospel-centered lens—one that points us to a framework rooted in biblical identity, discernment, and the sufficiency of Scripture. She also equips listeners with practical ways to share the gospel with children with autistic traits.This conversation is especially encouraging for parents, counselors, and church members who desire to walk more faithfully alongside families affected by autism.This conversation unpacks:Creative and accessible ways to communicate the gospel to children with autistic traitsHow biblical counseling differs from secular counseling models when addressing autismUnique challenges families with members with autistic traits faceEncouragement and practical help for parents, biblical counselors, and church membersBiblical identity rooted in Christ, not a diagnosisResources to equip you:Biblical Counseling and Autism in Children by Johanna PressleyCritical Issues in Biblical Counseling Series— Ernie Baker, Consulting EditorBiblical Counseling and Common Grace by Heath LambertBiblical Counseling and Mental Disorder Diagnosis by Jenn ChenBiblical Counseling and They Psychologies by Ernie Baker

We are so excited to announce our 10 Days of Giving with Sufficiency of Scriptures! During the next 10 days, you can enjoy 20% off all our resources, and we will match that with a 20% donation to S.O.S. Ministries. This is an amazing opportunity to resource yourself with gospel-centered, heart-focused content while supporting S.O.S. Ministries and their vision to raise faithful believers in Uganda. Running from now to December 15!You can browse our resources hereYou can donate directly to S.O.S. Ministries here

In this episode, author Carol Trahan shares her personal journey through deep sorrow, marked by personal loss, unanswered prayers, and overwhelming despair. The discussion navigates the pain of depression from a biblical perspective and how God can use sorrow to create a ministry of comfort. Carol recounts her experience of loss, her husband's death, and the challenges of raising her children as a single mother. She emphasizes the importance of embracing God's sovereignty, finding hope through scripture, and understanding sorrow as a tool that God uses for His glory. This episode is filled with hope and encouragement for anyone navigating the depths of depression and seeking God's comfort and purpose through it.Recommended Resources: Help! I'm Depressed by Carol TrahanHelp! I'm a Single Mom by Carol TrahanJoin us for our 10 days of giving by purchasing any of our resources at 20% off!Learn more about S.O.S Ministries here and donate directly here

In this hope-filled conversation, our host Shannon welcomes author and biblical counselor Molly Bertles to address a topic rarely talked about: biblical counsel for women struggling with masturbation. Molly shares her story, explains why this matters deeply in the church, and offers gospel-centered help and encouragement to women who feel isolated by shame—along with specific verses and action steps to fight against this sin.Listeners will hear about:What masturbation is and why women battle it tooThe dangers of secrecy and shame in sexual sinMolly’s testimony of struggling with masturbationHow the gospel brings freedom, forgiveness, and ongoing transformationPractical steps for women feeling stuck in this life-dominating sinRecommended Resources:You Are Not Alone by Molly BertlesHarvest USA Transforming Love Free CourseDig Deeper: Discussion QuestionsHow does defining masturbation as “solo sex” help us understand why it falls outside God’s design?What lies or false beliefs tend to fuel ongoing patterns of sexual sin in women?How would knowing your relationship with God is not based on performance comfort and strengthen you to fight against this sexual sin?How does knowing “You are not alone” change the way you fight masturbation?What specific comforts can you find in Jesus’ death to pursue holiness and purity?What does compassionate, wise accountability look like in situations like these?Why is simply trying to “stop the behavior” ineffective without addressing the heart?Discuss the idea of “broken cisterns” (Jeremiah 2:13) — what promises does sin make that it can’t deliver on?Find more of our resources hereFollow Us on FacebookFollow Us on Instagram

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo chats with author Matt Collier about his mini-book, 'Help! I Want My Life to Count.' Matt encourages teens to live for eternity, and use their skills and vocation to serve the Lord. He highlights the importance of community in making big life decisions, and the value of being faithful over fruitful. They discuss the difference between worldly success and true purpose, and practical steps for living for God's glory. Collier also shares insights from Psalm 90 and talks about his work with The Wilds and Camps Abroad.00:52 Introducing to Matt Collier01:25 Teen Perspectives on Life and Success05:49 Living for God's Glory: Practical Insights15:32 Faithfulness vs. Fruitfulness25:20 The Wilds and Camps Abroad: Impacting Youth Globally27:57 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsResourcesHelp! I Want My Life to Count by Matt CollierCheck Out Our LifeLine for Teens Mini-book SeriesCheck Out Our Lifeline Mini-book SeriesFollow Us on FacebookFollow Us on InstagramProduction Note: Due to technical difficulties, audio quality is lower than usual. Thank you for listening despite the imperfections!

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo discusses the topic of teens and authority with guest Chris Anastos, author of 'Help! How Do I Respond To Authority?'. The discussion emphasizes the significant impact a good response to authority can have on others, including pointing them to Christ. Chris shares insights on the inherent blessing of authority as part of God's good plan, and how even bad authorities can serve God's purpose in His sovereign plan. The conversation highlights how Christians, especially teens, can respond to authority in ways that enhance their testimony and influence others for Christ. He also shares the importance of following Christ's example, as seen in his perfect submission to authority. 00:23 Discussing Teens and Authority with Chris Anastos02:48 Biblical Perspective on Authority03:51 Practical Ways Teens Can Influence Others09:31 Challenges in Communicating Authority to Teens11:33 Understanding Hierarchies and Responding to Bad Authority14:20 The Importance of a Heart Attitude and the Local Church20:24 Chris Anastos' Personal Testimony and Final ThoughtsResourcesHelp! How Do I Respond to Authority? Check Out Our LifeLine for Teens Mini-book Series Check Out Our Lifeline Mini-book Series Follow Us on Facebook Follow Us on Instagram

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo welcomes Tim Endean to discuss Tim's mini-book, 'Help, I'm Stressed Out'. The conversation delves into the various stressors teens face globally, the distinction between stress and anxiety, and the biblical approach to dealing with these issues. Tim shares insights from his extensive experience working with teens in various capacities, including his current ministry with Camps Abroad. The discussion covers practical steps to manage stress, the importance of recognizing God's control and care. He encourages listeners, specially teens, to lean on the truths of God's character for peace and comfort.00:26 Introducing Tim Endean02:41 Distinguishing Stress from Anxiety04:53 Biblical Solutions to Stress and Anxiety07:21 Physical and Lifestyle Improvements11:56 God's Sovereignty and Care22:30 Camps Abroad: Reaching Teens Worldwide24:34 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFurther Resources Help! I'm Stressed Out by Tim Endean Check Out the LifeLine for Teens Mini-book SeriesFollow Us on FacebookFollow Us on Instagram

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo welcomes guest Justin Daugherty to discuss his mini book, 'Help! I’m in Darkness'. Justin, a certified counselor, offers insights into the struggles faced by teenagers today, particularly focusing on depression. He explores the pressures of social media, school, and home life that contribute to this darkness. They discuss "coping mechanisms" and emphasize the importance of heart transformation through the gospel. The conversation also explains the difference between normal and unexplained sadness and provides practical steps for parents to support their teens. The episode underscores the sufficiency of scripture in addressing depression and aims to give hope and guidance to those dealing with such challenges.00:26 Introducing Justin Daugherty 01:23 Understanding Teen Depression02:35 Pressures and Coping Mechanisms for Teens06:50 Signs of Depression in Teens07:59 Distinguishing Normal Sadness from Unexplained Sadness14:20 Four Categories of Sadness17:27 Hope for Depression Through Christ22:47 Conclusion Further ResourcesHelp! I'm in Darkness by Justin DaughertyGood Mood, Bad Mood by Charles Hodges Check Out the LifeLine for Teens Mini-book SeriesFollow Us on FacebookFollow Us on Instagram

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, author Zach Sparkman discusses the prevalent struggle with pornography, particularly among teens. Drawing from his Lifeline for Teens mini-book, 'Help! I Want to Stay Pure', Sparkman provides both statistical insights and practical advice on combating sexual immorality through a biblical lens. The discussion covers the physiological impact of pornography, helpful principles drawn from King David’s fall into sin, and the acronym ARISE, which offers a structured approach to resisting temptation. The episode concludes with guidance for parents on how to address their teen’s struggle with pornography.00:23 Pornography and Its Impact on Teens01:43 The Prevalence and Dangers of Pornography02:34 Understanding the Temptation and Its Effects09:26 Differentiating Temptation from Sin14:21 David and Bathsheba: Lessons on Temptation16:39 The ARISE Acronym for Fighting Temptation22:03 Practical Steps and Hope for Teens24:33 Advice for Parents26:47 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsGrab a copy of our mini-book: 'Help! I Want to Stay Pure' Check Out our LifeLine for Teens Mini-book SeriesFollow Us on InstagramFollow Us on Facebook

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo interviews Leighton Upton about his mini-book, 'Help! I Want to Be a Leader'. They delve into the essence of true leadership as modeled by Jesus Christ, emphasizing that leadership is about influencing people by serving them. Leighton answers questions such as, "What makes a good leader?" and "How do I become one?" He also shares how teenagers, often influenced by contemporary 'influencers', can embody true biblical leadership by listening, receiving, knowing, and abiding in Christ. The discussion is filled with practical advice on how Christians can influence others by prioritizing their needs and serving them humbly.00:54 Introducing Leighton Upton01:45 Leighton's Background and Insights on Leadership04:11 Biblical Leadership vs. Worldly Leadership08:05 Practical Ways to Lead 12:22 Biblical Stories on Leadership 21:09 Leadership Lessons from Personal Experiences24:23 Further Resources for Teens28:15 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsGrab a copy of our mini-book "Help! I Want to Be a Leader"Check out our LifeLine for Teens Mini-Book Series Follow Us on Instagram Follow Us on Facebook

In this second part of our conversation on assurance of salvation, guest Kelly Collier, author of Help! I’m Doubting, shares the importance of examining one's life for true spiritual fruit. Kelly highlights the common struggle of having a man-centered perspective on salvation and emphasizes the necessity of embracing Jesus Christ as the center of the Gospel. She also underscores the need to go to the Scriptures—the great revealer of the heart—and embrace its teachings.Additionally, Kelly, as the consulting editor, shares the heart and purpose behind the Lifeline for Teens series and how it’s uniquely crafted to minister to young people.00:57 – Understanding Salvation and Assurance02:45 – Overcoming Doubt in Salvation05:32 – The Role of Progressive Sanctification11:36 – Further Resources for Teens22:26 – The Ministry of The Wilds27:24 – Conclusion and Final ThoughtsGrab a copy of our mini-book "Help! I'm Doubting"Check out our Lifeline for Teens Mini-book Series Follow Shepherd Press on InstagramFollow Shepherd Press on Facebook

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo and guest Kelly Collier, an ACBC certified counselor and author, discuss the topic of doubting one's salvation, based on her mini-book "Help! I'm Doubting". Kelly shares her personal experiences and provides biblical insights into how teens and adults alike can navigate these doubts by turning to God's Word and believing His character. The conversation covers the differences between salvation and assurance of salvation, the importance of addressing doubts biblically, and practical ways for parents and youth workers to support teens. 01:35 Understanding Doubt & Means to Overcome It05:11 Teens and Universal Struggles16:11 The Role of Parents in Teen Discipleship21:12 Conclusion and Next StepsResources: Grab a copy of our mini-book "Help! I'm Doubting"Check out our Lifeline for Teens Mini-book Series Follow Shepherd Press on InstagramFollow Shepherd Press on Facebook

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo continues his conversation with Jim Newcomer about his mini-book on forgiveness. They delve deep into the theology and practical applications of forgiveness, discussing differences between 'lovingly covering' an offense and 'lovingly confronting' it. Jim Newcomer explains the scriptural foundation behind these concepts, pointing to verses from 1 Peter, Proverbs, and Corinthians. The episode also touches on situations involving repeated offenses, the need for wisdom in handling different scenarios of hurt, and the difference between forgiving an individual versus an organization. Towards the end, Newcomer discusses his co-editor role in the Lifeline for Teens mini book series, highlighting its unique focus on relevant issues for teens.00:28 Foundations of Forgiveness01:41 Covering in Love vs. Transactional Forgiveness06:02 Handling Continuous Sin and Serious Offenses14:23 Forgiveness in Complex Situations16:37 Expanded materials for Teens | LifeLine for Teens mini-book series21:07 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsResources:Grab a copy of our mini-book "Help! I Can't Forgive" Grab a copy of our mini-book for teens "Help! I Need to Forgive"Listen to part 1, "Help for Those Struggling to Forgive" with Jim NewcomerApple | Spotify | WebCheck out the Lifeline Mini-book seriesCheck out the LifeLine for Teens Mini-book seriesFollow Shepherd Press on InstagramFollow Shepherd Press on Facebook

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, guest Jim Newcomer talks about his mini-book 'Help! I Can't Forgive'. The discussion centers on the universal struggle with forgiveness, emphasizing its importance in spiritual growth. Jim shares his journey in pastoral ministry and his experiences with teaching forgiveness based on Matthew 18. The conversation explores the concept of a 'posture of forgiveness,' addressing common hesitations, the effects of non-forgiveness, and provides a five-step approach to achieving true forgiveness. The episode underscores the transformative power of understanding and practicing forgiveness, rooted in gospel principles. 00:50 Introduction to Jim Newcomer 02:45 The Struggle to Forgive 06:04 The High Price of Non-Forgiveness 11:05 The Pathway to Forgiveness 16:42 The Posture of Forgiveness 23:12 Conclusion and Preview of Next Episode Grab a copy of our mini-book "Help! I Can't Forgive" here: https://www.shepherdpress.com/products/help-i-cant-forgive/ Follow Shepherd Press on social media for more insights:Facebook: @shepherdpressInstagram: @shepherdpressinc

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, guest Grace Utomo shares her journey of relearning to pray after a traumatic brain injury, based on her upcoming book, "Hello, God." She discusses how the experience drove her to explore the basics of prayer, focusing on building an authentic and personal dialogue with God. She also shares practical advice on how to strengthen one's relationship with God through prayer, even when words fall short. Grace's book is a 31-day devotional aimed at helping readers nurture their prayer life, especially during times of discouragement and spiritual dryness, by drawing examples from scripture and her recovery journey.00:24 Meet the Guest: Grace Utomo01:17 Grace's Traumatic Experience and Recovery02:47 Rediscovering Prayer After Trauma04:41 Insights on Prayer and Personal Engagement with God08:59 Overview of Grace's New Book15:54 Encouragement for Those Struggling with Prayer20:25 Final Thoughts and Where to Find MoreGrab a copy of Grace's book, "Hello, God" here: https://www.shepherdpress.com/products/hello-god/Use our code 'HELLO' for 25% off your pre-order!Follow Shepherd Press on social media for more insights:Facebook: @shepherdpressInstagram: @shepherdpressinc

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo interviews Gracie Nelson, a middle school Bible teacher and biblical counselor, about her mini-book, 'Help! Can I Choose My Own Gender?' The conversation delves into the importance of biblical authority and how teens can find reassurance in God's preordained design for gender. Gracie highlights her goal to help teens and their parents understand and navigate modern gender identity issues through a gospel-centered, heart-focused perspective. The episode emphasizes the value of submission, humility, and obedience in understanding and embracing God's pre-determined gender. 00:36 Introducing the Topic of Gender Identity03:29 Cultural Messages and Teen Confusion04:19 Biblical Perspective on Gender07:00 Authority and Gender Identity18:32 Christ as the Ultimate Example23:29 Encouragement and Final ThoughtsGrab a copy of our mini-book 'Help! Can I Choose My Own Gender?' here: https://www.shepherdpress.com/products/help-can-i-choose-my-own-gender/Follow Shepherd Press on social media for more insights:Facebook: @shepherdpressInstagram: @shepherdpressinc

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, Ginger Hubbard joins us to discuss her book 'Don't Make Me Count to Three.' They delve into heart-oriented discipline, the high calling of motherhood, and how to parent from a gospel-centered perspective. Ginger shares practical insights on addressing outward behavior from a biblical viewpoint, emphasizing the importance of understanding and guiding the child's heart. The conversation also touches on the struggles of modern parenting and the significance of scripture in practical child training. Aimed at both moms and dads, the episode offers encouragement and practical tools for implementing biblical principles in parenting.00:25 Meet Ginger Hubbard02:29 The High Calling of Motherhood07:26 Parenting at the Heart Level19:28 Biblical Reproof and Discipline31:10 Encouragement for Moms and DadsGrab a copy of our 'Don't Make Me Count to Three' by Ginger Hubbard here:https://www.shepherdpress.com/products/dont-make-me-count-to-three/Follow Shepherd Press on social media for more insights:Facebook: @shepherdpressInstagram: @shepherdpressinc

In this episode of the Shepherd Press Podcast, host Anthony Russo is joined by Dr. John Temple to discuss his book, 'Help! I'm Drowning in Debt.' The conversation dives into common reasons Christians find themselves in debt such as wrong priorities, idolatry, and lack of self-control. Dr. Temple emphasizes the importance of finding contentment in God to combat materialistic influences. The discussion offers practical advice, including stopping further debt accumulation, increasing income, and eliminating unnecessary expenses. They stress the importance of balancing the sovereignty of God and human responsibility in managing finances. The episode concludes with a call to adopt disciplined budgeting and financial practices, framed within a Christian worldview.00:34 Understanding Debt and Its Causes01:36 Spiritual Solutions to Debt03:14 Practical Steps to Get Out of Debt04:11 Cutting Out Waste and Unnecessary Expenses05:31 The Importance of Contentment09:08 Avoiding Common Financial Mistakes19:01 Balancing God's Sovereignty and Human Responsibility22:26 Resources and Final ThoughtsGrab a copy of our mini-book 'Help! I'm Drowning in Debt' here:https://www.shepherdpress.com/products/help-im-drowning-in-debt/Follow Shepherd Press on social media for more insights:Facebook: @shepherdpressInstagram: @shepherdpressinc