Growing Together

Growing Together

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Growing Together episodes

  • Halloween, Faith, And Finding The Line

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    A totaled car, every airbag deployed, and a calm voice over OnStar. That’s how our conversation opens—and the shock, gratitude, and timing of what followed become a surprising doorway into a bigger question: how do we hold joy, safety, and faith as Halloween rolls around?

    We trace the tangled roots of the season—from Salem’s tragic trials and the unfair seizure of women’s property, to older European customs meant to ward off evil ahead of All Saints Day. Along the way, we talk about what makes someone “a witch” in today’s culture and why turning a historical injustice into a fashionable identity can miss the point. We also get honest about media: when a horror story redeems courage, and when it just glamorizes harm. If a show numbs our compassion, it deserves a hard pass.

    Then we get practical. Is it possible to trick-or-treat without bowing to darkness? We think so—if you treat conscience as a compass, not a sledgehammer. Scripture doesn’t name Halloween, but it does call us to avoid idols, protect the vulnerable, and consider weaker consciences. We share ways to light up your block with warmth, pass out candy with meaning, pray over kids, skip the gory houses, and still make memories that last. And we admit our own blind spots—how phones, football, and binge-watching can quietly become idols that steal our best attention from God.

    If you’ve wrestled with Christians and Halloween, this conversation offers history, nuance, and hope. You’ll leave with a simple framework: examine intent, honor conscience, choose what builds love, and let Scripture guide without becoming a weapon. If it draws you closer to God and your neighbor, you’re on the right path.

    1 hr 11 min
  • Christ in Crisis

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    We look at crisis through faith—what it is, how it feels, and how putting Christ at the center changes our choices. Real stories of work stress, grief, gratitude, and prayer show a practical path from impulse to peace.

    • defining crisis across daily stress and deep loss
    • boundaries, work ethic, and being the “go‑to” person
    • doing hard tasks for God’s glory instead of approval
    • why anger isn’t a tool that builds anything
    • praying first and trusting God over impulse
    • Exodus, gratitude, and spiritual amnesia
    • grief, community support, and surrender
    • money’s limits versus God’s comfort
    • perspective on reach, impact, and faithful service

    You can always send a text in if you’re listening from Buzzsprout, or message us on Facebook, comment on Facebook, call us, email us, whatever


    1 hr 9 min
  • What Discernment Is & How To Use It

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    We swap stories about moving worship into the gym and use that change to open a deeper talk on discernment—what it is, what it isn’t, and how Solomon’s prayer still shapes how we lead, speak, and listen. We keep it practical: separating emotion from wisdom, rooting in Scripture, and letting community and spiritual gifts be guided by truth and love.

    • why the gym transformation tested our trust and imagination
    • Solomon’s request for a discerning heart before wealth or power
    • how drift happens when wisdom is not tended
    • standing on Scripture in conflict without fueling outrage
    • emotion versus discernment and the cost of online noise
    • daily practices that grow wisdom: prayer, Scripture, worship, community
    • testing teachings and gifts with biblical guardrails
    • encouragement for anyone starting over with the Word
    • the difference between checkbox faith and a seeking life


    1 hr 6 min
  • Encouragement

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    We trade road stories and real pressures for a deeper look at encouragement and discernment—how fellowship steadies us, Scripture trains our speech, and anxiety shrinks when we focus on the next right thing. We test our words against Proverbs, Ephesians, and James to build up instead of break down.

    • travel tales and near-misses that lead into faith
    • Hebrews 10 and 3 on meeting and daily encouragement
    • discerning your circle and guarding your heart
    • workplace stress, anxiety loops, and practical resets
    • why negative talk boomerangs back on you
    • Ephesians 4 and Proverbs 4 on speech that heals
    • parenting and praise that actually builds confidence
    • simple habits: posted verses, pre-day prayers, naming progress
    • “incomplete pass” mindset for mistakes
    • final challenge: choose freshwater, not saltwater


    1 hr 4 min
  • How Does Your Faith Determine What You Watch on TV?

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    Ever wondered how to sneak past those pesky service cancellation fees? Join us as we unravel a clever personal strategy that might just save you some cash and discuss how faith and values influence our TV habits. We also take a fascinating detour into the dark world of true crime, pondering the chilling realities behind infamous figures like Jeffrey Dahmer and John Wayne Gacy. Through the eyes of devoted investigators, we seek a sliver of positivity within these grim tales, while balancing the darkness with recommendations for lighter, quirky historical podcasts to cleanse the palate.

    Our conversation then meanders through the heartfelt and humorous pathways of family life, touching on everything from addiction recovery to the amusing chaos of planning family vacations. Stories of children’s innocent questions about the world around them provide laugh-out-loud moments, while highlighting the importance of teaching inclusivity and understanding. As we reminisce about old Westerns and classic TV shows, we reflect on how these cultural staples have shaped and shifted societal norms over the years, offering a warm dose of nostalgia and cultural insight.

    For those bitten by the travel bug, our episode wraps up with tales of adventure from airport escapades to the thrill of planning a first-time cruise. We even toss around some lively discussions about changing geographical names and the hilarity such changes might incite in future generations. As technical glitches slip in, we smoothly transition to a reflective moment of gratitude and prayer, hoping to leave you with a smile and a newfound appreciation for the twists and turns of everyday life.

    1 hr 4 min
  • Armor Up: Spiritual Protection in Troubled Times

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    The spiritual battlefield demands proper protection, and the breastplate of righteousness serves as our shield against the enemy's most cunning attacks. Discover how this crucial piece of God's armor guards your heart and mind—the most vulnerable parts of your spiritual being.

    Drawing from Ephesians 6, we explore what it truly means to stand in righteousness before God. This isn't about perfect behavior or religious performance; it's about embracing your position in Christ through faith. Romans 3:22-24 reminds us that righteousness comes as God's gift, not through our striving but through Christ's sacrifice.

    The power of this teaching becomes vividly clear as we journey through Psalm 106, examining Israel's cycle of rebellion and God's unfailing mercy. Their story mirrors our own struggles and reveals the devastating consequences of abandoning righteousness while highlighting God's enduring grace toward those who return to Him.

    Satan's ambush tactics take center stage as we uncover how the enemy targets believers through fear, accusation, and discouragement. His primary goal? To prevent effective prayer and keep us bound by shame. But James 4:7 provides our counter-strategy: "Submit to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." This two-part approach—humble submission followed by active resistance—forms the foundation of spiritual victory.

    Pride emerges as one of our greatest vulnerabilities, creating openings for spiritual attack while humility positions us to receive God's grace. Through practical examples and scriptural wisdom, you'll learn to identify prideful behaviors before they compromise your spiritual protection.

    Whether you're facing intense spiritual warfare or simply seeking to strengthen your daily walk with God, this teaching equips you with practical tools for standing firm against the enemy. Remember—your righteousness is already within you through Christ. It's time to walk confidently in that truth and experience the protection God has provided.

    48 min
  • The Ripple Effect of Sin

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    The tragic events that unfolded last week have shaken our nation and confronted Christians with a profound question: How do we respond when violence strikes? This episode dives deep into the spiritual implications of these tragedies beyond the political headlines.

    We explore the concept of sin's "ripple effect" – how like stones thrown into water, our actions create waves that extend far beyond ourselves. While social media overflows with conspiracy theories and calls for retribution, we confront the challenging truth that vengeance only creates more destructive ripples. Through scripture and personal reflection, we examine how justice differs from retribution, and why subordinating ourselves to God's will matters more than ever in times of crisis.

    The conversation takes a revealing turn as we consider today's youth – constantly bombarded by social media, lacking meaningful guidance, and desperately searching for identity. We reflect on how Charlie Kirk's mission to bring young people to Christ stands in stark contrast to a culture that offers them little spiritual nourishment. Stories from our own experiences highlight how even small acts of kindness create positive ripples that counter darkness.

    1 hr 47 min
  • The Weight of War and Faith- Guest Q & A

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    What happens to faith when it collides with the brutal realities of war? In this powerful episode, we're joined by Rich, a 27-year military veteran who listens to our podcast and brings a perspective we've never before explored on the show. He also happens to be Pastor Roger’s son! 

    Rich’s story takes us from his early enlistment in the Air Force to his decades of Army service across multiple combat deployments. With refreshing candor, he shares how witnessing violence and death transformed his relationship with God: "You go to war and you kind of rethink your life... you see all those things and you're like, is there somebody who's looking out for you letting all these people die?"

    The conversation dives deep into moral injury – the spiritual wounds that come from experiences that violate one's core moral beliefs. Unlike many faith discussions that offer neat answers, this episode sits comfortably in the questions. We explore how combat veterans reconcile their duties with their faith, how they carry survivor's guilt, and the ongoing battle with PTSD that follows them home.

    Richard reveals the challenges of reintegration after deployment: "When you come back, you have to figure out where you fit in this puzzle anymore." We discuss the failures of veteran healthcare systems and how military families shoulder burdens civilians rarely see. His perspective on today's youth lacking awareness of sacrifice sparks a broader discussion about empathy in our digital age.

    Throughout this raw, honest dialogue, Richard demonstrates extraordinary resilience while acknowledging his continued struggles. His testimony reminds us that faith journeys aren't always straightforward, especially for those who've witnessed humanity at its darkest.

    Whether you're a veteran, know someone who served, or simply want to understand the complex relationship between faith and suffering, this episode offers profound insights into carrying burdens, finding meaning amid pain, and the ongoing spiritual journey after trauma. Listen and gain a deeper appreciation for those who serve and the invisible battles they continue to fight.

    2 hr 20 min
  • What's in Your Spiritual "Toolbox" When Life Gets Tough?

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    Picture this: You're facing a moment where your patience is threadbare, your emotions are surging, and the world seems determined to push all your buttons. What spiritual resources do you reach for first? In this candid conversation, we explore the must-have items in every Christian's spiritual toolbox—those go-to practices, verses, and mindsets that help us navigate both storms and smooth sailing.

    From the power of "heavenly language" that brings unexpected peace in tense moments to maintaining an open dialogue with God throughout your day (think of it as constantly texting your best friend), we unpack practical ways to access divine help when you need it most. We explore how specific scripture verses like 2 Corinthians 5:17 can transform your perspective, why putting on the full armor of God daily isn't optional, and how trusted friends who "sharpen your iron" make all the difference.

    The conversation takes fascinating turns as we discuss the challenge of leaving work stress at the door, finding the balance between patience and appropriate self-advocacy, and why God cares more about your heart attitude than your perfect performance. Whether you're a seasoned believer or just exploring faith, these practical spiritual tools offer real help for real life.

    1 hr 19 min
  • What Feelings Come From the Word Christian?

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    Ever found yourself spiraling into a panic after a late-night WebMD session? We've all been there, and in this episode, we share some hilarious stories of self-diagnosis mishaps and unexpected podiatrist visits that prove foot doctors aren't just for the elderly. Join us as we explore the comedic side of bending over for shoes and how minor health hiccups can sneak into our everyday lives. It's a lighthearted reminder of the importance of professional medical advice and regular foot care, with a sprinkle of laughter to ease the tension.

    But wait, there's more! From teenage growth spurts to the ongoing battle with the scale, we humorously recount our love-hate relationship with late-night snacks—hello, peanut butter—and the peculiar dreams that follow. If you've ever woken up wondering why your dreams vanish with the morning light, you're in good company. These nocturnal adventures are a rollercoaster ride through stress eating and midnight cravings, offering a fun glimpse into our quest for balance in an unpredictable world.

    As we navigate the intricacies of family feuds, church attendance, and the quirks of neighborly relations, you'll find stories that resonate with everyday challenges. Whether it's guiding children through religious practices or facing the frustrations of customer service blunders, the journey through work ethics, community, and the unspoken rules of church life is both entertaining and enlightening. We wrap up with a nostalgic nod to the Jerry Springer show's wild ride and end with a heartfelt prayer, hoping to leave you with a sense of gratitude and the warmth of shared stories.

    58 min

About Growing Together

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Step into a virtual garden of spiritual growth and community connection with the "Growing Together" podcast. This podcast is a nurturing space for individuals seeking to deepen their faith,…