Embracing Brokenness

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.

What do Mr. Rogers, the founder of LEGO, and a civil rights legend have in common? They were all "mere Christians" doing extraordinary things through ordinary work. In this episode of the Embracing Brokenness Podcast, Steve welcomes back bestselling author Jordan Raynor to dive into his latest book, 5 Mere Christians—a fresh, binge-worthy collection of biographies showing how everyday believers glorify God in powerful, practical ways.From Fred Rogers’ Christlike presence to Fannie Lou Hamer’s fearless justice, Jordan shares untold stories that will leave you inspired, challenged, and maybe even in tears (in the best way). You’ll hear:✅ Why “secular” work is sacred✅ How to eliminate hurry and live like Jesus✅ What CS Lewis, a former atheist, teaches us about discipleship✅ How your daily work—no matter what it is—matters for eternity🔥 Plus: Get the scoop on a once-in-a-lifetime giveaway trip to England & Denmark—walk in the footsteps of Lewis and LEGO!Don’t miss this episode if you’re ready to discover purpose in your 9-to-5, and see how your own brokenness is the starting point for something beautiful.📘 Pre-order "5 Mere Christians" and enter the epic trip giveaway ➡️ https://www.jordanraynor.com/🌐 Explore more at https://embracingbrokenness.org/

🔥 You’ve Been Tricked! Are You Living by the World’s Rules Without Even Realizing It? 🔥Society is more divided than ever—politically, socially, and even within the Church. The world demands that you pick a side, fight to be right, and put yourself first. But what if that’s the exact opposite of how we were designed to live?In this podcast episode, Steve & Colleen expose the deception behind the world’s system and reveal the Kingdom way—a way of living that leads to freedom, peace, and purpose. They dive deep into:✅ Why polarization is destroying relationships—and what to do about it.✅ The hidden cultural mandate that was given to humanity (but hijacked by the enemy).✅ Four game-changing mindset shifts that will transform how you see identity, freedom, love, and success.✅ How to break free from the world’s grip and start living by Kingdom principles TODAY.Are you really living by Kingdom values—or have you unknowingly adopted the world’s mindset? Watch or Listen now to find out! 🎙👇Click Here for a 7-Day Devotional Relating to this Podcast:https://embracingbrokenness.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Kingdom-vs-World-Rules-A-7-Day-Devotional.pdf

Ever feel like you’re wearing a mask—pretending to be someone you’re not just to fit in? In this powerful episode of the Embracing Brokenness Podcast, Steve and Colleen expose the hidden battle for your identity and how the enemy uses lies, fear, and past wounds to keep you stuck in a false self.🔥 Discover how social media, people-pleasing, and cultural pressures warp your self-image.📖 Learn why anchoring your identity in God’s truth is the key to freedom.💡 Unmask the exhausting facade of confidence and step into authenticity and healing.⚔️ Fight back against the enemy’s identity theft with faith, scripture, and the power of renewal.Your identity was never meant to be dictated by the world. It’s time to reclaim who you truly are in Christ. 🎧✨ Listen now!To go deeper with a 5-day devotional and/or an individual/group study guide, click the link to a free downloadable PDF. Free Devotional and Study GuideKey Scriptures to Meditate On• Genesis 1:27 – "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them." (Your identity is rooted in God’s design.)• John 1:12 – "Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God." (You are a child of God.)• 2 Corinthians 5:17 – "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" (Your past does not define you.)• Ephesians 2:10 – "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (You have purpose.)• Galatians 2:20 – "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." (Your identity is in Christ, not in your past or performance.)• 1 Peter 2:9 – "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession." (You are chosen, holy, and deeply loved.)

Shame is a relentless enemy, but it doesn’t have to define you. In this episode of the Embracing Brokenness Podcast, Steve and Colleen Adams dive deep into the roots of shame—how it takes hold, how it distorts our identity, and how we can finally break free. They share raw personal stories of struggle and redemption, exposing shame as a weapon of the enemy while revealing the overwhelming power of God’s grace to silence it. Don’t just listen—experience the breakthrough. Watch now and take your next step toward true freedom in Christ.

In this episode of the Embracing Brokenness podcast, hosts Steve and Colleen discuss the importance of staying true to the gospel amidst a deception-filled world.The conversation delves into the challenges of identifying false teachers and the need for believers to contend for their faith.They explore the characteristics of false teachings, the impact of materialism in the church, and the underlying pride and rebellion that often drive these issues. In this conversation, the speakers explore the themes of contending for the faith, the struggle against societal decline, and the importance of understanding and resisting deceptive teachings within the church.They discuss the implications of postmodernism on truth and morality, the distinction between condemnation and contention, and practical steps for individuals to deepen their faith and engage with others in meaningful discipleship.The conversation emphasizes the need for a strong biblical foundation and community support in navigating contemporary challenges to the Christian faith.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Ministry Update03:21 Staying True to the Gospel in a Deceptive World12:20 Contending for the Faith19:39 Identifying False Teachers27:20 The Heart of False Teachings and Rebellion28:57 The Struggle Against Flesh and Society's Decline31:08 Contending for the Faith: Definitions and Implications34:29 Condemnation vs. Contention: Understanding Our Role38:06 Navigating Postmodernism and Truth42:40 Identifying Deceptive Teachings in the Church51:13 Practical Steps for Contending in Our Lives

In this episode of the Embracing Brokenness podcast, hosts Steve and Colleen discuss the theme of intimacy with God, drawing parallels to the Garden of Eden. They explore the significance of the torn veil at Jesus' crucifixion, which symbolizes the restoration of direct access to God. The conversation delves into the challenges of maintaining intimacy with God in a performance-driven religious culture, the importance of recognizing echoes of Eden in our lives, and the need to understand God's love and authority. Steve and Colleen provide practical steps for listeners to cultivate a deeper relationship with God, emphasizing the promise of restoration and the hope of eternal communion with Him.

In this episode of the Embracing Brokenness podcast, Steve, Colleen, and Michael discuss the significance of consecrating the new year to the Lord. They explore the importance of daily consecration, understanding its meaning, and the scriptural foundations that support this practice. The conversation also includes practical steps for consecration, the significance of seeking a word or theme for the year, and personal experiences that highlight the transformative power of this spiritual discipline. Download Practical Steps to Consecrate the Year Here: https://embracingbrokenness.org/download-practical-steps-to-consecrate-the-year/

In this episode of the Embracing Brokenness podcast, Steve, Colleen, and Michael explore the topic of desire and its connection to the heart. They discuss how societal messages shape our understanding of desire, often leading to misalignment with God’s intentions. The conversation highlights discerning true desires, understanding disordered love, and recognizing how our longings point to our eternal home with God. They address healing, restoration, and the shifts in desire over time, encouraging listeners to embrace their desires as reflections of their true identity and relationship with God. Download Reflection Questions and Resources from this Podcast Here: https://embracingbrokenness.org/download-discerning-the-desires-of-your-heart-exercise/

In this episode of the Embracing Brokenness podcast, hosts Steve and Michael explore the biblical concept of 'minding your own business' as they delve into 1 Thessalonians 4. They discuss the importance of leading a quiet life amidst chaos, managing life a bit like a corporation, and the significance of stewardship and balance in various life areas. The conversation emphasizes God's creative authority in our lives, the need to avoid distractions and comparisons, and ultimately living a life that pleases God through love and stewardship. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Journey 02:55 Minding Your Own Business: A Biblical Perspective 06:11 Leading a Quiet Life in a Chaotic World 08:50 Managing Life Like a Corporation 11:53 The Importance of Balance in Life 15:05 Stewardship and Responsibility 17:51 God's Creative Authority in Our Lives 21:09 Avoiding Distractions and Comparisons 24:05 Living a Life that Pleases God 26:58 Final Thoughts and Encouragement