In this uplifting episode of To Be Encouraged, Reverend Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble tackle the question: Is hope in short supply? In a world increasingly marked by uncertainty and discouragement, they explore the essential role of hope and its power to transform not just individual lives but entire communities. Drawing from their faith, personal stories, and even Hollywood, the hosts deliver practical insights and encouragement for listeners grappling with despair or looking to rekindle their own hope.

Reverend Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble discuss how hope is just as vital for survival as food, water, and air. Drawing on historical examples—such as survivors of concentration camps and catastrophes—they argue that when people lose hope, they often lose the will to live. Bishop Julius C. Trimble references theologian Jürgen Moltmann’s “theology of hope,” reminding us that hope is not passive anticipation but active faith in the future, both for ultimate fulfillment and for real, tangible improvement in the present. (03:03)

Building and maintaining community is central to manifesting hope. Bishop Julius C. Trimble shares insights from tragedies such as the 1995 Chicago heatwave, where isolation led to unnecessary loss of life (07:02). Both hosts emphasize that engaging in good works, checking on others, and fostering genuine relationships are ways to keep hope alive, especially during difficult times. The local church and other organizations can play a critical role as “ambassadors of hope,” making a real difference by reaching out to the lonely and discouraged. (08:24)

The episode ends with encouragement from both scripture and popular culture. Quoting The Shawshank Redemption, Bishop Julius C. Trimble reminds listeners: “Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things. And no good thing ever dies.” (12:43) He shares his mission: to encourage all people with the love of Christ to rise to their highest potential, emphasizing that hope, grounded in God’s love and justice, empowers us to face difficulties and support each other.

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In this profound episode of To Be and Encouraged, Reverend Dr. Brad Miller is joined by Bishop Julius C. Trimble for an urgent and heartfelt conversation about the crisis facing children both in the United States and around the globe. This episode addresses how systemic issues, policy changes, and neglect can have dire consequences—especially for the most vulnerable in society: our children. Grounded in faith and practical compassion, the discussion calls listeners to respond to this crisis at both local and global levels.

The conversation begins with a sobering look at the alarming rates of childhood hunger, malnutrition, and lack of access to basic needs. Since July 2025, over 1.5 million children in the US have lost food assistance due to policy changes; in several states, 46% of children previously enrolled in government-supported food aid have been cut off 01:13. Around the world, conflicts and disasters in places like Gaza, Ukraine, South Sudan, and Haiti have put millions of children at risk. These are not distant problems—they are present, urgent, and, as pointed out, "preventable suffering" 11:29.

Both speakers highlight the moral dimension of how societies and churches spend their resources. "Budgets are moral documents" they assert, and should reflect a commitment to the well-being of children, not just in words but in funding, action, and advocacy 14:00. The episode contrasts the billions spent on political advertising with the comparatively minor sums dedicated to fighting child hunger and supporting humanitarian causes 12:35. Local churches are encouraged to do "moral audits" of their own budgets to ensure they’re addressing immediate needs and living their values 16:01.

Listeners are called to be advocates for children, recognizing that proximity to the problem builds both awareness and motivation 04:38. Churches are encouraged to partner with local schools, daycare centers, and community organizations, and to support global efforts through reputable organizations like UMCOR. The episode powerfully ties these actions to the teachings of Jesus, emphasizing the biblical mandate to "let the children come," and the responsibility to bless, protect, and serve all children 07:18. The discussion closes with a moving story about the power of truly blessing children, a reminder that both prayer and tangible acts of care matter deeply 23:14.

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Hosts: Bishop Julius C. Trimble

In this powerful and timely episode, Reverend Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble reflect on justice, faith, and the true meaning of loving one’s neighbor as America marks its 250th anniversary. The conversation dives deep into how the teachings of Jesus and core biblical principles intersect with current societal debates, ideas of Christian nationalism, and our understanding of Constitutional values. With real-world examples, historical insights, and a call to action, the hosts challenge listeners to move beyond empty rhetoric and embody love and justice in both church and society.

Reverend Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble emphasize that biblical love isn’t passive. Quoting Romans 12 and the teachings of Jesus, they discuss how love equips us to “overcome evil with good” 00:17. It’s not enough to merely declare love or pass resolutions—the hosts highlight tangible actions, such as feeding the hungry, caring for orphans and strangers, and confronting systemic injustice 07:12. These are repeated themes from Jesus’ ministry and the prophets, and the hosts stress that faith communities must make these commands central, not peripheral.

The conversation draws connections between Scripture and America’s founding documents, reminding listeners that neither the Constitution nor the Declaration of Independence explicitly enshrines Christianity or a particular religion 11:28, 13:00. Bishop Julius C. Trimble cautions against lifting texts out of context to serve political agendas. Instead, he encourages a genuine engagement with the spirit of both our religious and civic traditions—a commitment to human dignity, mutual support, and the shared good, not exclusion or suspicion 12:10.

One of the episode’s central points is the distinction between simply attending church and being the church. Transformation comes not from rituals, but from active, just, and loving participation in the world 22:05. Bishop Julius C. Trimble invokes the Social Principles of the United Methodist Church and shares optimism about younger generations who respond to a gospel of love and justice. As the hosts celebrate the nation’s anniversary, they urge listeners to reject divisiveness and fear of “the other,” embracing instead a “generous and expansive understanding of neighbor” 06:00.

Key Quote:

“We cannot transform the world simply by going to church, but we can transform the world by being the church.” 22:05

Join Reverend Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble as they continue to offer encouraging words of faith, justice, and hope on “To Be Encouraged.”

In this thought-provoking episode, Bishop Julius C. Trimble joins Reverend Dr. Brad Miller to reflect on the 250th anniversary of the United States—an occasion inviting both celebration and critical reflection. Recorded in July 2026, the conversation spans the progress and persistent challenges facing America, especially those concerning justice, inclusivity, and the nation’s evolving identity.

The episode begins with personal updates, as Bishop Julius C. Trimble shares summer moments with his family in Virginia, all while recognizing the cyclical nature of weather complaints—a small but telling metaphor for broader social patterns. The dialogue quickly shifts to weightier topics, invoking the words of Frederick Douglass to remind listeners that anniversaries like July 4th can be complicated, especially in a nation whose legacy includes both remarkable growth and ongoing struggle for equity 01:36.

A central thread is the juxtaposition of America’s immense wealth—over 41% of the world’s millionaires reside here—and the alarming rates of food insecurity and incarceration 02:26. Bishop Julius C. Trimble highlights the paradox of a nation able to feed the world while a significant number of its children go hungry, and the troubling reality that over five million people are entangled in the criminal justice system 04:52. He credits the country’s commitment to public education and the hospital system, much of which was built by faith communities, as a sign of progress 05:38.

Amid such tensions, the conversation turns to hope: young people engaged in justice work, activists invested in environmental causes, and citizens eager to vote and enact change offer inspiration 06:09. Yet, Bishop Julius C. Trimble remains candid about ongoing struggles with racial fear, immigration debates, and the resurgence of white nationalist groups—exemplified by the Patriot Front’s masked July 4th march on the National Mall 12:15. Diversity, he insists, is woven into the fabric of America, and attempts to erase or ignore it not only resist reality but impoverish national life 15:04.

1. Progress and Pain Coexist: America's milestone anniversaries are best marked by honest assessment—acknowledging advancements in education and democracy while confronting inequalities in food security and incarceration 01:36 04:52.
2. Diversity is Destiny: Attempts to suppress or deny the nation's growing multiracial and multicultural character are both futile and contrary to American ideals 15:04.
3. Hope is Active: Change comes through the efforts of engaged citizens, especially young people, advocating for justice, creation care, and participation in the democratic process 06:09.
4. Justice Requires Honesty: Facing uncomfortable truths about race, immigration, and wealth distribution is essential for building a "more perfect union" 08:03 09:24.
5. The Role of Faith Communities: Churches remain vital in shaping public values and supporting those marginalized by systems of injustice, particularly in prison outreach and social services 04:52.

Listeners are invited to wrestle with these complexities, embracing both the hope and the challenge of loving a nation still striving to be its best.

In this compelling episode of To Be Encouraged, Reverend Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble tackle the topic of Christian response to war, political rhetoric, and the importance of peacemaking in turbulent times. The conversation is sparked by recent events involving military action in Iran, polarizing political language, and public controversy around the blending of faith and power. Drawing on scripture, Methodist tradition, and ecumenical perspectives, the hosts call listeners to deeper reflection and courageous action in advocating for peace.

Reverend Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble stress that every person has sacred worth as a child of God 01:49. This foundational belief shapes an inclusive worldview that rejects the diminishing of any group’s humanity and underpins the Christian call to be peacemakers rather than participants in cycles of violence 02:46.

The episode critiques both the language of political leaders and the tendency to conflate national power with divine endorsement, particularly when biblical imagery and authority are wielded to justify war 06:43. Quoting Galatians and Methodist teaching, Bishop Julius C. Trimble insists the church must “deplore war in all forms of violent conflict” and instead urge peaceful resolutions 06:28. The hosts challenge Christian nationalism and urge a return to biblical principles, not political expedience 18:36.

Listeners are encouraged to advocate for national priorities that reflect Christ’s teachings—redirecting resources from weapons to humanitarian efforts 19:23. Bishop Julius C. Trimble calls for personal agency in encouragement and peacemaking, citing 1 Thessalonians 5:11: “Therefore encourage one another and build up each other” 22:12. Small acts of kindness and public advocacy are both seen as vital Christian responses amid conflict.

• Christian peacemaking
• Sacred worth
• Just war theory
• Political rhetoric & faith
• Methodist teaching
• Advocacy for peace
• National priorities

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The episode weaves together history and present-day context, observing parallels between the struggles faced by those Dr. King championed—like the Memphis garbage workers in 1968—and today’s working poor and marginalized. Bishop Trimble notes the stark contrast in government priorities, with massive increases in military budgets and simultaneous cuts to crucial social programs (02:11), evoking King’s critique of militarism and economic disparity.

Turning to practical faith, Bishop Trimble emphasizes that Dr. King’s “reverend” identity is often overlooked. King, influenced by a high Christology and Methodist tradition, insisted on love for both God and neighbor as a non-negotiable foundation for social action (05:02). The conversation explores how King’s love ethic and his commitment to interfaith and ecumenical partnerships remain urgent models for the church and all people of goodwill, urging community engagement, peaceful protest, and transformative action.

The episode ultimately calls listeners to reject neutrality and complacency (14:41). Drawing inspiration from prophetic leaders—King, Gandhi, Pope Leo, Frederick Douglass, and John Lewis—the hosts challenge the church and individuals to be bearers of peace and justice, not merely by “thoughts and prayers,” but by active solidarity and courageous advocacy.

• Dr. King’s Legacy is Now: The struggle for justice, peace, and dignity is ongoing, and remembering King is not just about honoring the past, but about acting in the present (19:06).
• Love Ethic vs. Militarism & Inequality: The Christian call to love God and neighbor stands in opposition to unchecked militarism and economic injustice. True discipleship demands engagement, not neutrality (14:47).
• Action Beyond Prayer: Faith communities are invited to move from “thoughts and prayers” to engaged action in local churches, Bible studies, and peaceful advocacy (13:17).
• Encouragement Amid Challenge: Even in discouraging times, Bishop Trimble affirms the goodness of humanity and the unwavering love of God (23:19), urging all to help others and rise to their highest potential.

Hosts: Speaker A (Rev. Dr. Brad Miller), Speaker B (Bishop Julius C. Trimble)

Topic: Why Easter Still Matters

In this powerful episode recorded during Holy Week, Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble explore the significance of Easter and its relevance in today’s world. They discuss how the resurrection brings hope, encouragement, and a mission to extend love and peace beyond the church walls. Bishop Trimble draws on personal stories, scripture, and reflections on nature to inspire listeners to embrace the ongoing work of Easter.

Bishop Trimble shares that Easter matters “today as much as it has ever mattered” 00:42. In times of discouragement, conflict, and uncertainty—global wars, rising costs, and migration—the resurrection reminds us that even in bleak situations, God is a God of victory and promise. The empty tomb is proof that “sin and death had been defeated” and that God's love endures 03:05. Easter is the evidence that “Good Friday is only Good Friday because Easter is coming” 01:25.

Through memories of Palm Sunday and the tradition of receiving crosses made from palm branches 02:20, Bishop Trimble points to the transformative power of faith across generations. The New Testament records multiple post-resurrection appearances of Jesus, which, according to Bishop Trimble, “reminds the church that the work continues throughout all nations” 07:12. Easter calls us to move beyond being “fearful fans of Jesus” and become bold witnesses, living out hope and love in our communities 10:41.

The episode closes with a reflection on nature’s signs of new life and how they encourage us to hope, even in dark times 12:00. The story of visiting the Garden Tomb in the Holy Land underscores the reality and ongoing promise of the empty tomb: “He is not here, he is risen, just as he said” 16:42. Bishop Trimble leads listeners in a prayer for peace, encouraging everyone to “love God and love our neighbors without apology” 19:43, and to let the Easter message make us agents of hope and transformation in the world.

Listen and be encouraged as you move forward into Eastertide—embracing hope, living with purpose, and sharing peace.

In this episode of "To Be Encouraged", Bishop Julius C. Trimble and Rev. Dr. Brad Miller engage in a candid and thoughtful conversation centered on leadership, the anxieties facing communities around the world, and how individuals and faith leaders can actively pursue peace amid challenging and uncertain times. Drawing on experiences in local and global ministry, dialogue spans topics from human rights and war to the practical, personal call to foster peace in everyday life.

Throughout the discussion, Bishop Trimble emphasizes that effective leadership is about more than authority—it necessitates a clear vision and a deliberate approach to building strong relationships, both locally and globally. The absence of these leadership fundamentals in current times is fueling public uncertainty and anxiety, as people question both the direction being set and the motivations behind decisions impacting daily life, from health insurance security to foreign policy concerns.

Amid global wars and interpersonal conflicts, Bishop Trimble calls for a commitment to "soul care" and personal peace as a foundation for creating broader harmony . The journey to peace begins in the heart, fostering beloved community at home, in churches, and neighborhoods. This includes engaging in practical actions—praying, advocating to leaders, and choosing compassionate conversation over conflict —rather than defaulting to destructive behaviors.

Building lasting peace, whether in international relations or a local school board, demands both the hard work of relationship-building and a posture of humility. Bishop Trimble discusses the analogy of beating swords into plowshares—emphasizing that peacemaking is neither quick nor easy and requires tangible, often uncomfortable conversations and decisions . Humility is highlighted as an essential virtue for leaders, and the conversation closes with encouragement from scripture and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: “To the best of your ability, live with peace and peace with all people” .

Tune in for an episode rich with insight and practical encouragement—reminding us that, even in troubled times, peacemaking and hope begin with each of us.

Podcast: To Be Encouraged

On this episode of To Be and Encouraged, hosts Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble confront one of the most challenging topics facing our world today—the onset of war between the United States and Iran. With a foundation in faith and an unwavering commitment to encouragement, the conversation explores gut-level reactions, theological challenges, and what it means to be peacemakers during tumultuous times.

Three Key Takeaways:

1. War Always Comes at a Human Cost

Both Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble voice palpable grief and dismay over the war’s impact, focusing especially on the loss of innocent lives. Bishop Julius C. Trimble highlights the tragic news of a missile strike on a school that killed 100 girls, emphasizing, “Whenever bombs drop, children die.” The hosts lament the term “collateral damage,” underscoring that each loss reflects real people—children, families, and even American service members. Their reaction is a powerful call to remember the human faces often obscured by political rhetoric and military strategy.

2. Faith-Based Foundations Call for Peace

Drawing from the United Methodist Book of Resolutions and the teachings of Jesus, the conversation reminds listeners that war should only be a last resort—if ever. Bishop Julius C. Trimble quotes church doctrine, stressing, “The church deplores war... and urges the peaceful settlement of all disputes.” The episode weaves together scriptural references (Ecclesiastes, Romans, Isaiah), consistently pointing back to the message: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” While acknowledging the complexity of scripture regarding war, the hosts urge listeners to pursue peace to the greatest extent possible.

3. The Call to Advocacy and Hope

Amidst despair, the hosts encourage faith communities to lean into their prophetic and pastoral role. They grapple with tough questions: Have all peaceful avenues been exhausted? Are we truly living out our faith’s vision for reconciliation? The answer, for both, is to keep hope alive by embodying the “aspirational nature of God’s will”—to study war no more and invest in reconciliation, dialogue, and love, even when it feels idealistic. As Rev. Dr. Brad Miller reflects, this higher calling demands courage and vision, especially in seasons of violence and uncertainty.

Tune in to hear a thoughtful, faith-centered dialogue on war, peace, and how ordinary people and faith leaders alike can remain hopeful and actively seek justice—even in discouraging times.

Bishop Julius C. Trimble

Topic: The Essence of Faith

In this inspiring episode of "To Be Encouraged," Bishop Julius C. Trimble offers heartfelt encouragement and fresh perspectives on the nature of faith. Drawing from biblical wisdom, theological insights, and personal experience, he weaves a message that uplifts and empowers listeners wherever they may be on their journey.

Kicking off with a warm greeting, Bishop Julius C. Trimble delves into the meaning of faith, referencing Hebrews 11:1 and the words of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He reminds us that faith is not just believing in what we cannot see, but taking courageous steps even before the path is fully revealed. Through relatable stories—including the special significance of a green frog gifted to him when he became a bishop—Bishop Julius C. Trimble shares what it means to truly “fully rely on God.”

1. Faith Is Assured Trust—In What We Hope and Cannot See

Drawing from Hebrews 11:1, Bishop Julius C. Trimble reminds listeners that faith means having assurance in what we hope for and confidence in things not yet visible. He echoes Dr. King’s poignant metaphor: taking the first step without seeing the whole staircase, inviting us to live courageously and trust in outcomes not immediately clear.

2. Acceptance Is a Gift, Not an Achievement

A powerful insight quoted from theologian Paul Tillich stands at the episode’s heart: “Faith is accepting that you have already been accepted.” Bishop Julius C. Trimble emphasizes that each person is blessed with sacred worth and dignity, unalterable by circumstance or others’ opinions. This acceptance is grounding, serving as a foundation for resilience and self-worth.

3. Fully Rely on God—Symbolized by the “FROG”

Sharing a personal story, Bishop Julius C. Trimble recounts receiving a green frog—a reminder to “Fully Rely On God.” This simple yet profound acronym became a spiritual touchstone as he began his ministry as a bishop. He offers it as a prayer for listeners: to let faith grow continually and to trust in a God who loves us deeply.

Final Blessing

Bishop Trimble closes with a blessing, encouraging everyone to remain strong in faith and to remember that they are already accepted and loved.

Tune in to this episode for a compact dose of inspiration and practical encouragement for your faith journey!