Summary

In this episode of After the Well, host Melissa Lapin interviews 12-year-old Eli Waters, who shares his unique perspective on faith, God, and identity. Eli discusses his journey of understanding his relationship with God, the importance of community, and how he communicates with God through dreams and personal reflection. He emphasizes the significance of God's love and the need for everyone to recognize their worth. Eli also expresses his passion for acting and how he sees God's presence in the arts, drawing lessons from the musical Wicked about identity and self-acceptance. In this engaging conversation, Melissa Lapin and Eli & Brooke Waters explore themes of leadership, community, and the importance of self-love. They discuss the portrayal of kingship in movies, the significance of community in personal development, and the journey of writing a book aimed at empowering children. The dialogue emphasizes the need to see the good in others and the importance of understanding God's love as opposed to fear. Eli shares insights from his own experiences and aspirations, encouraging young leaders to embrace their potential and love themselves.

Takeaways

• Eli emphasizes the importance of community in his faith journey.
• He believes that God shows love in various ways throughout life.
• Eli communicates with God through dreams and personal reflection.
• Understanding God's love is crucial for reassurance in tough times.
• Eli encourages others to recognize their worth and identity in God.
• He expresses a strong desire to be an actor and performer.
• Eli sees God's presence in all aspects of life, including the arts.
• He believes everyone deserves a chance to express their true identity.
• Eli discusses the importance of staying true to oneself, even when faced with criticism.
• He highlights the idea that the root of everything is good, as God has already won the battle.  God's gifts are irrevocable, regardless of one's past.
• Leadership qualities can shine through in unexpected ways.
• Kings are fearless and intentional in their actions.
• Community plays a crucial role in personal development.
• Misjudgments in relationships can lead to misunderstandings.
• Finding the kingdom in unlikely places can change perspectives.
• Every story has a heart that deserves to be understood.
• Self-love is essential in overcoming anxiety and judgment.
• Young leaders have the potential to influence their communities positively.
• God's love is about acceptance, not fear.