IM Podcasts

PLAYING GOD IN A LOST WORLD

Why does humanity believe they have the right to take the role of God the Father?

Many people believe they have the right to be God because of an illusion of control, power, and self-sufficiency. In a world that glorifies independence and personal autonomy, mankind is often tempted to elevate itself, assuming authority over truth, morality, and destiny.

Today’s Podcast

The desire to define right and wrong, manipulate outcomes, and dictate purpose fuels a mindset that resists submission to the God of the universe and beyond. Some are deceived into thinking that knowledge, science, influence, or success grants them a god-like position, giving them the ability to command their own fate. Others reject God entirely, believing that humanity is the highest authority in existence. But this false confidence always leads to destruction, as no man can truly wield divine wisdom, absolute justice, or eternal sovereignty. Only God holds the keys to creation, time, and eternity, and those who exalt themselves above Him will ultimately fall under the weight of their own deception.

Society reinforces this delusion by glorifying individualism, personal ambition, and the rejection of divine accountability. Some place their trust in science, wealth, political power, or human intellect, believing these things grant them sovereignty over existence itself. Others reject God altogether, convinced that mankind is the highest authority and master of its own fate. Yet, this belief always leads to ruin, for no human can bear the weight of absolute wisdom, justice, or sovereignty. To assume the throne that belongs to God alone is to invite destruction, as pride always precedes a fall (Proverbs 16:18).

Those who exalt themselves above Him will ultimately collapse under the weight of their own deception, realizing that despite all efforts, they remain mere mortals—finite, flawed, and desperately in need of the One they sought to replace.

Welcome to the Exchanged Life Podcast, a refreshing redemption of hope and transformation in today's fast-paced world. Hosted by Dr. Stephen Phinney and Jonnie T, this podcast delves deep into the profound concept of the "exchanged life," offering listeners a journey toward spiritual renewal and personal growth. Visit our podcast today, HERE.

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A FAITHFUL WOMAN | RARE FOOTSTEPS

Jane, my beloved wife, walks in the footsteps of the faithful women of scripture—her heart grounded in God’s truth, her hands always ready to serve, and her prayers a guiding force for generations.

With grace and humility, she nurtures her family, offering kindness, encouragement, and unwavering devotion.

Being Jane’s husband is the greatest honor of my life. Walking beside her, building a life with her, and witnessing her unwavering faith has been a blessing beyond measure. She has shown me what true devotion looks like—what it means to love with grace, lead with wisdom, and serve with a heart centered on the Lord.

As the father of our children, I am humbled by the home we have created together, a place filled with love, truth, and the guiding light of God. She has been the cornerstone of our family, teaching, nurturing, and uplifting our children in a way that reflects the beauty of a Biblical mother. Because of her, I have experienced the richness of family, the depth of faith, and the joy of living a life rooted in Yeshua’s love. I am grateful every day for the privilege of standing beside Jane as her husband and raising our children together in the light of God’s promises.

BLESSED MOTHER’S DAY, MY BRIDE!

My Dearest Janie,

There are no words grand enough to capture the depth of gratitude and love I hold for you. You are not just my wife—you are a shining example of faithfulness, devotion, and truth. A woman after God’s own heart, you have nurtured our family with the gentle strength of a Biblical matriarch, leaving behind a legacy that will endure through generations.

Through every season, you have embodied the virtues of a faithful wife, steadfast in love, unwavering in your commitment, and guided by the wisdom of our Lord, Yeshua. Like Ruth, your loyalty has never faltered; like Hannah, your prayers have lifted our family before the throne of grace; and like Deborah, you have led with courage, strength, and wisdom.

Our children have been blessed beyond measure to have you as their mother. You have spoken truth into their lives, disciplining with love and leading with grace. You have taught them that faith is not just a belief but a way of life—a trust in God that does not waver when storms rise. Because of you, they have grown into people who honor God, who cherish family, and who understand the value of walking in the indwelling Life of Yeshua.

To our grandchildren and great-grandchild, you have been the cornerstone of wisdom and eternal love. They see in you the heart of a mother & grandmother who never ceases to pray, who embraces them with warmth, and who teaches them the beauty of God’s promises. They have learned from your example that devotion is found in the small moments—scripture whispered before bedtime, hands lifted in prayer, laughter that echoes through the home with the joy only faith in Christ can bring.

Beyond our family, you have been a guiding light to the women in our community. You have mentored, encouraged, and uplifted, reminding them that their worth is found in Christ, that their calling is sacred, and that their strength is limitless when rooted in indwelling faith. Your kindness has changed lives, your wisdom has shaped hearts, and your love has been a refuge to those who needed it most.

Janie, you are more than a blessing—you are God’s masterpiece, created to bring the light of Yeshua and His love to all those around you. Your faithfulness is written into the hearts of our children, grandchildren, and all who have had the privilege of knowing you. I thank the Lord every day for you, for the love we share, and for the beautiful life we have built together.

May you always know how deeply cherished and admired you are.

With all my love and eternal gratitude,

Stephen | Your Faithful Husband

Please share this post with every mother you know. It is a witness that Godly, faithful women still exist in a troubled world, struggling with the “norms” of motherhood—as noted in Proverbs 31.

The End Times Chronicles is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

The Exchanged Life Podcast | Transforming Lives

🔊 "Welcome to The Exchanged Life Podcast—where we unveil the rare, powerful truth of the believer’s identity in and through the life of Yeshua!"

-Jonnie T. and Dr. Stephen Phinney

As I journeyed deeper into my faith, I came to a profound realization—my true identity was not found in my own striving, but in the life of Yeshua dwelling within me. No longer defined by the weight of my past or the pressures of the world, I discovered that I was fully embraced in His righteousness, not by my own merit, but by the divine exchange of His life for mine.

As I grew in understanding, I saw that Yeshua’s identity was wholly rooted in His Father, living in perfect oneness, surrender, and obedience to His will. In that revelation, I found peace—knowing that just as Yeshua walked fully dependent on His Father, I was called to walk fully dependent on Him, allowing His life to flow through me. It was no longer I who lived, but Christ living in me, shaping my heart, renewing my mind, and calling me into the fullness of His presence.

Stephen Phinney | Read my full story HERE.

THE PODCAST

Unlike many faith-driven shows, The Exchanged Life Podcast dives into a rarely discussed yet essential truth—the believer’s complete identity in Christ, not as an achievement but as a divine exchange. It’s not about "doing for God," but living FROM Him, in Him, through the Holy Spirit’s transforming presence.

Join us as we explore biblical teachings, testimony-driven insights, and thought-provoking discussions, all centered around this profound revelation. You’ll hear from seasoned teachers, passionate voices, and everyday believers who have encountered the life-changing power of Christ within.

🌟 Subscribe today and step into the fullness of “Not I, but Christ”—where the old is gone, and Yeshua’s life becomes your life.

📡 Streaming now wherever you listen to podcasts!

🎙 The Exchanged Life Podcast—Revealing the Truth of Christ in You.

Check out this sample:

Listening to The Exchanged Life Podcast came to me long after my story started with IOM America. However, the podcast continues to be an inspiration in my faith journey—a revelation that completely transformed my understanding of who I am in Christ. For years, I struggled with striving, trying to live for God, unaware that I was meant to release the indwelling life of Yeshua.

Each episode spoke directly to my heart, unveiling the profound truth that my identity was never about my works, but about Christ living in me. As I embraced the message of “Not I, but Christ”, I experienced freedom from self-effort and stepped into the fullness of His grace, power, and presence. No longer defined by my failures or successes, I found peace in surrender—knowing that my true life is hidden in Him, and that His Spirit flows through me in ways beyond my own understanding. The Exchanged Life Podcast didn't just teach me theology; it ushered me into a new reality, where I rest in the truth that Christ is my everything. Please take time to listen to my story. »> - Kayla | Colorado

So, here’s the challenge: Connect one person today to our podcast.

Maybe it is someone who needs encouragement. Maybe someone who has resisted the truth. Maybe someone who has never heard the fullness of Yeshua’s life. One share could be the seed that changes a life forever.

Are you ready to be a vessel for His truth? Step up. Share it. Spread the message of the exchanged life. Until next time…

The End Times Chronicles hosts The Exchanged Life Podcast, a reader/listener-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

OUR MISSION:

In a world of uncertainty, deception, and rapid DEGENERATE change, The End Times Chronicles stands as a beacon of Yeshua’s truth, bringing sound Biblical prophecy into clear focus for today’s generation.

Grounded in Scripture, we illuminate the signs of the times, revealing how ancient prophecies align with modern events. Our mission is to equip believers with wisdom, discernment, and unwavering indwelling faith, ensuring they navigate these days with clarity, courage, and hope in Yeshua.

This is not about fear—it’s about preparation. Not speculation, but revelation.

Join us as we uncover God’s prophetic timeline and declare the victory of Christ in an ever-changing world.

A Little About the Founder:

Dr. Stephen Phinney has been in full-time ministry for close to 50 years. He is the Founder of IOM America (Institute of Ministry), Identity Matters Worldview Institute, and the IM Online School. He is the author of multiple books that focus on Christ, Culture, & Creator - all centered on the believer's identity in Christ. IOM America publishes online articles & media through multiple venues. Dr. Phinney holds degrees in Psychology, Counseling Psychology & International Cross-cultural Leadership (DMin). Read his full bio and story HERE.

He established The End Times Chronicles as a venue, a library of sorts, for posting publications and media centered on his interest in connecting Biblical prophecies to modern times. He is a respected writer, media producer, podcaster, and commentator.

Believe it or not, this is just a glimpse of what our channel has to offer! If you’re already a subscriber, you know the depth of insight, truth, and encouragement we bring. If you’re visiting for the first time, we invite you to explore, engage, and be uplifted. Our content is designed to ignite your faith, deepen your walk with Yeshua, and strengthen your understanding of His indwelling life. So, dive in—let His truth transform you, and may every message bring you closer to the fullness of His presence!

Please be blessed by our theme song, “End Times Anthem,” written by Stephen Phinney. Visit our iZ Music channel HERE.

Thank you for visiting The End Times Chronicles, a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

CELEBRATING GENERATION Z

IOM America's new music & audio channel is designed and dedicated to Generation Z - filled with inspiring songs of worship, podcasts, and teaching videos that focus on Yeshua/Jesus. Dive into a collection of uplifting and powerful music that speaks to your heart and soul, guiding you in your spiritual journey. Whether you're seeking solace, joy, or a deeper connection with your faith, our channel offers a sanctuary of sound that celebrates the love and teachings of Yeshua. Visit our iZ website: HERE

EXCITING NEWS

Reaching Generation Z: IOM America's Mission to Secure Identity and Freedom in Yeshua.

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and cultural shifts, Generation Z stands at the forefront of change. This generation, born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, is characterized by its digital fluency, social consciousness, and relentless pursuit of authenticity. Amidst these dynamics, IOM America has recognized the unique spiritual needs of Generation Z and is committed to guiding them toward Truth and Freedom through the life of Yeshua.

Seeking Truth and Freedom.

Generation Z is often described as a generation in search of truth. Disillusioned by the superficiality of social media and the instability of modern culture, they yearn for something more profound and meaningful. IOM America understands this quest and offers a pathway to Truth through the teachings of Yeshua. By presenting the Gospel in a way that resonates with their experiences and challenges, IOM America provides a solid foundation upon which Generation Z can build their lives.

Securing Identity through His Indwelling Life.

One of the most pressing issues facing Generation Z is the struggle with identity. In a world where self-worth is often measured by likes, followers, and external validation, many young people find themselves lost and uncertain about their true selves in Yeshua. IOM America addresses this by emphasizing the importance of securing one's identity through the indwelling life of Yeshua. By advancing a personal relationship with Him, Generation Z can discover their true worth and purpose, grounded in the unchanging love and acceptance of their Savior.

Walking in the Light and Life of Biblical Sound Doctrines.

In addition to seeking truth and establishing their identity, Generation Z is also navigating a landscape marked by conflicting ideologies and moral relativism. IOM America equips them with the tools to discern and uphold biblical sound doctrines. By teaching the principles of Scripture and encouraging a life that reflects the light and life of Yeshua, IOM America empowers Generation Z to stand firm in their faith and make a positive impact on the world around them.

Our Bottom Line:

IOM America's focus on Generation Z is a testament to its commitment to nurturing a generation that seeks not only truth and freedom but also lives out its faith authentically. By guiding them towards the life of Yeshua, securing their identity through His indwelling presence, and walking in the light of biblical sound doctrines, IOM America is helping to shape a future where Generation Z can thrive spiritually and make a lasting difference in the world.

Share this post, get the news out, and assist in reaching the hearts and minds of Generation Z.

Help us in our iZ campaign by forwarding this page or our iZ website link: HERE

iZ Music Release: Jesus, Darkness to Light. My precious granddaughter, Grace, collaborated with her Opa to write and produce this video for our Gen Z campaign. We also thank Elijah for his beautiful voice. Enjoy!

The End Times Chronicles is the host to the iZ Campaign - a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

This post is brought to you by Creation Reformation at Roddy Bullock

SPONSORSHIP MADE EASY

Transform your Substack channel into your audience's go-to destination with a dynamic audio or video ad designed by IOM America! From concept to completion, we'll create a powerful and captivating ad that highlights your content, engages your audience, and drives traffic like never before. Plus, you keep a master copy for use royalty-free.

Let our creativity and expertise elevate your Substack channel to new heights. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make a lasting impact—partner with IOM America today!

I've been told that with our level of audio and video production talent and skill, we could make a fortune. We can create captivating and high-quality content that resonates with audiences. From stunning visuals to crystal-clear audio, we have all the ingredients to produce exceptional work that stands out in a competitive market. However, we are not into what we do for money.

The standard cost of production for a polished one-minute audio ad with professional voice talent, music, and sound effects can range from $500 to $2,000. Then, to place that ad in a network as large as ours would cost $30 per one-thousand listens (CPM) each time the ad is used. Basically, it would make me rich in one year, which is NOT my objective.

We want to use our talents and skills to help others impact the world with quality ads, bringing listeners to fellow Substack writers or their ministry. Our expertise in audio and video production allows us to craft compelling and engaging content that resonates with audiences and drives meaningful connections.

While we would like to do this free of charge, there are production costs.

HERE IS OUR OFFER

We reached 1.7 million inboxes last year to give you a measuring scope.

* For a one-time donation of $50, we will produce the audio ad and place it into one audio podcast, + one voiceover of a single article/essay published on our platforms, as in The End Times Chronicles, including your Substack link. Plus, you get a master copy of the audio file for your regular use.

* For a one-time donation of $100, we will produce the audio ad and place it in four audio podcasts, plus four voiceovers of four separate articles/essays published on our platforms, including your Substack link. You will also get a master copy of the audio file for your regular use.

* Finally, for a monthly donation of $35+ for a full year, we will produce an audio AND a two-minute video ad and place it into audio/video podcasts and multiple voiceover articles/essays published on our platforms, including your Substack link - averaging an ad insert once a month. Plus, you get a master copy of the audio and video file for regular use. In addition, we will feature you and your Substack in a single promotional/recommendation essay through one of our platforms.

My advisors tell me I am crazy for providing this offer. If it is crazy to help my fellow writers, then so be it.

Occasionally, we are asked to produce a one to five-minute video for ministries or writers. We keep it simple. We will produce these for a flat rate of $150.

When you make the donation for any of these offers, please note that you cannot receive a tax write-off for it, as it is considered a donation for a product. Instead, you must classify it as a business expense on your end. This distinction ensures that your financial records accurately reflect the nature of the transaction. We appreciate your understanding and support!

To take advantage of this offer, email me directly at [email protected], and we will contact you to start the process. This is a “win-win” for both of us.

Thanks for reviewing this offer! We all know other writers who could use this boost. Please share this post with them.

Listen to the podcast version:

In a global culture that often glorifies strength and perfection, authentic believers may find it daunting to publicly share their vulnerabilities and pain. The fear of judgment, misunderstanding, or rejection can loom large, causing many to hide their struggles behind a façade of stability. You know - fake it until you make it.

Yet, true healing and connection are found within these very moments of openness and honesty. When believers courageously share their authentic selves, they not only break the chains of isolation but also inspire others to do the same, building a spiritual community grounded in empathy and mutual support.

Embracing vulnerability is not a sign of weakness but a profound testament to the strength that comes from trusting in God's unwavering grace and love.

It's indeed true that both writers and readers often shy away from revealing their interpersonal weaknesses. Surveys and studies consistently show that the fear of vulnerability, judgment, and rejection leads many to mask their true selves by putting their best foot forward. This tendency to avoid exposure to one's weaknesses stems from societal pressures to appear strong and in control, coupled with the personal discomfort of facing one's own imperfections.

Authentic indwelt believers reveal their weaknesses!

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (ESV): "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

Are you content with your weaknesses?

The very act of sharing vulnerabilities can enact deeper connections and authentic understanding. When writers dare to expose their struggles, they create works that resonate profoundly with readers, offering solace and a shared connectivity. Similarly, readers who engage with such honest content may feel empowered to acknowledge and express their own vulnerabilities.

My secret? I brag about my weaknesses!

Embracing and bragging about our weaknesses is not an easy task, but it is through this brave transparency that true growth, healing, and ministry are built.

I WAS TRAINED TO LIE

Growing up, I learned to mask my insecurities through deceit, creating an illusion of confidence to hide my true vulnerabilities. Whether it was through small white lies or more elaborate fabrications, each act was a way to shield me from judgment and protect my fragile self-degrading esteem.

This behavior became a defense mechanism, ingrained over time, as I feared that revealing my authentic self would lead to rejection or ridicule—and it did! By covering up my insecurities, I hoped to gain acceptance, but in reality, it distanced me from every person in my little world. This pattern of dishonesty ultimately perpetuated a cycle of isolation, preventing me from experiencing the freedom that comes from embracing and acknowledging God’s perfect plan for my life.

The Boy Who Cried Wolf

I was labeled "The Boy Who Cried Wolf" because, over time, I developed a habit of exaggerating or fabricating situations to gain attention or sympathy. This repeated behavior made others lose trust in my words and doubt the authenticity of my experiences. Whenever I genuinely needed help or support, my pleas were met with skepticism and disbelief, as my past actions had eroded their confidence in my spoken word - me. This label became a painful reminder of the consequences of my dishonesty, highlighting the importance of integrity and the lasting impact my actions have had on my relationships throughout my life.

Throughout my life, I found myself navigating relationships without a roadmap. Nobody trained me on how to build normal, natural, and neutral relationships. This lack of guidance left me feeling uncertain and often “trying out” things I saw on television. As you would guess, that didn’t work out so well.

In the theater of life, I found myself cast in roles I never auditioned for. Navigating real-life situations, I became an actor, not by choice but necessity. Uncertain of how to connect authentically, I adopted various personas to fit in, masking my insecurities behind a series of facades. Each interaction became a performance, each relationship a stage where I played my part diligently. In this complex dance, I yearned for genuine connections yet struggled to break free from the scripts I had written for myself.

In the playwright of my life, I found myself playing a role written by others. Their expectations, opinions, and judgments became the script I followed, leaving little room for me to discover who I was. As I conformed to these external narratives, I felt a growing sense of inadequacy, as if I could never measure up to the standards set for me. Each decision and each action seemed to be a chapter authored by someone else, and in this process, I lost sight of reality - literally viewed life as a made-up world. The more I tried to fit into the roles assigned to me, the further I drifted from the person I wanted to be.

What was the boy to do?

It was an easy fix. In my quest to regain control over my life, I began to manipulate others by directing the life-script I had dreamt up. I crafted scenarios and guided interactions to fit my narrative, often at the expense of genuine connections. This newfound power gave me a sense of control, but it also distanced me from the authenticity I craved. Each manipulation was a step further from the young man God created me to be, leaving me “feeling” isolated and misunderstood.

In my pre-teen years, my best friend’s mother was a practicing witch. One day, she pulled me aside and told me I had supernatural powers to control the world around me, then asked me if I wanted to see this with my own eyes. Being the manipulator I was, I jumped in with both feet. While I will not elaborate on what I saw and did, I will tell you this opened the door to several years of sorcery - learning how to control the life-script of others through the darker side of spiritualism. I actively practiced these evil deeds until the Lord leveled the playing field on the day of my salvation - at 16 years of age.

Folks, the devil wanted my soul. He knew I was a perfect candidate for living a supernaturally empowered life, and he knew exactly what he was doing.

It took several years to finally release my grip on sorcery, a journey fraught with inner turmoil and relentless struggle. The dark allure held me captive, weaving illusions of power and control that were hard to break. However, through time, perseverance, prayers of deliverance, and an unwavering search for truth, God’s power and grace intervened. It was through the life and teachings of Yeshua that I found the strength to let go. His love and sacrifice illuminated my walk, providing a way out of the darkness and into a life of genuine freedom, peace, and identity in Him.

DISCERNMENT OF DARKNESS

To this day, I can pick up on oppression in and around others instantly. Because God allowed me to be exposed to the darker side of life and thus delivering me, I see deception quickly. God's light pierced through my once-dark world, lifting me from the depths of despair. As a result, early on in my Christian life, He gave me the precious gift of discernment, enabling me to recognize and confront oppression in all its forms instantly. This divine gift and insight have empowered me to navigate life with clarity and purpose, identifying the shadows that seek to hinder me and standing firm in the truth and freedom He has granted me.

This gift, as in the case of many prophets in the Bible, comes with a price. As people write or talk, I instantly discern all lies, written or spoken. At times, it “drives me crazy.” When I speak into their lives, addressing the falsehood and speaking forth the Truth, guess what? Rejection ensues, covert hatred abounds, and typically, the relationship is strained - taking me back to my childhood fears. The Devil is clever, but I know he remains stupid.

Your childhood is the roadmap to your ministry as a believer.

No matter what tragic events occurred in your childhood, trust that God uses all experiences for His good and the good of the ministry He has called you to.

Every hardship, every challenge, has been stitched into the tapestry of His divine plan, transforming pain into purpose and oppression into spiritual gifting.

Through His power and grace, the wounds of the past become the seeds of wisdom and compassion for the future, equipping you to fulfill your calling and touch the lives of others with His love.

Years ago, while wallowing in my self-pity, God led me to read this passage:

Jeremiah 1:5 (ESV): “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.”

I don’t know why Jeremiah was known as the weeping prophet, but I do know that the Lord used and planned his childhood experiences to prepare him to be one of the greatest prophets of all time. Today, I call Jeremiah my brother from my Hebrew mother.

Reader, I have learned many great things over the years. However, being vulnerable and “going public” with my life experiences is what I do best. I know one thing for certain: all things work together for the good of delivering the Gospel in truth and righteousness—without the fear of vulnerability.

The End Times Chronicles is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Listen to the podcast version:

In my effort to understand the balance between living under the law and embracing grace, here's my story that might resonate with you:

Growing up in a home where I had a father who was the son of a preacher, while he himself rejected Grandpa’s teachings & devout Christian household, I always felt the weight of religious expectations.

While my father avoided direct teachings of such expectations, the teachings of the law were drilled into me from a young age through what I call secondhand Christianity: obey the commandments, adhere to the rituals, and strive for perfection in every aspect of life. This rigid framework provided a sense of twisted self-rule structure, but it also instilled a deep fear of failure. Any misstep felt like a monumental disaster, and guilt and shame became my constant companions.

As I entered my teenage years, the struggle intensified. I tried desperately to live up to the unspoken standards set by the laws of my father, believing that my worth and self-manufactured salvation depended on my ability to follow every expectation perfectly. Despite my best efforts, I found myself falling short time and time again. The more I tried to achieve his unspoken rules through my own actions, the more frustrated and exhausted I became.

HYPOCRICY WAS HIS GOD

My father held high expectations for himself and his family, always striving for excellence and hoping that his dedication would inspire us to do the same. He preached the values of hard work, loyalty, and unwavering commitment to one's goals. Yet, behind the scenes, his life told a different story. He struggled with the very standards he set, grappling with personal demons and moments of weakness that contrasted sharply with the image he projected publicly. This dissonance created a complex dynamic, as we saw glimpses of both his aspirations and his vulnerabilities. His journey taught me that even those we look up to grapple with their own battles, and that the path to integrity and authenticity is seldom a straight line.

Since his outward expressions were deplorable, while his standards were immovable, his standards formed in his children an attitude of rebellion and disbelief in Christianity itself.

It wasn't until I attended an internship with a Grace oriented Christian counseling ministry that I was introduced to the concept of grace in a profound and transformative way. The teachers talked about the unconditional love and forgiveness offered through Jesus, emphasizing that salvation and acceptance were gifts from God, not something earned through works, certainly a new concept for me. This message was both liberating and bewildering; it challenged everything I had been taught about earning my place in life.

Over the next few years, deep within my soul, I wrestled with these conflicting teachings. On one hand, the law represented a lifetime of ingrained beliefs and practices, while watching a father who refuted them. On the other, grace offered freedom and rest. Slowly, I began to grasp that the law was fulfilled by my new Savior, which, over time, served as my guide, revealing my need to release the indwelling Savior to fulfill the external rules THROUGH my weaknesses. Grace became the means by which I could truly live out my faith. I was “hooked.”

The journey was far from easy. There were moments of relapse into old patterns, where I found myself trying to earn God's favor through my actions. But gradually, I learned to let go of the legalistic mindset and embrace the transformative power of indwelling Grace.

I discovered that living a Christian life was not about striving for perfection, but about accepting & releasing God's LIFE and extending that same life to others.

This shift in perspective brought a profound sense of peace and joy. No longer bound by the fear of failing to meet impossible standards, I could focus on growing in my relationship with God through the indwelling Life of Yeshua and serving others out of gratitude rather than obligation. Over time the LAW and GRACE, rather than being opposing forces, became complementary aspects of my faith journey. The law pointed me to my need for grace, and grace empowered me to live a life of a genuine authentic service to Yeshua.

While the road was long and fraught with struggle, it ultimately led to a deeper, more authentic faith. Embracing grace allowed me to find freedom in my identity as a child of God & Bridal member of His Son, resting in the assurance of His love and forgiveness.

My struggles with the law were a constant source of frustration and confusion, driving me to question my faith and my understanding of what it meant to live a righteous life - for years not realizing I was the righteousness of Christ.

2 Corinthians 5:21: "For our sake He made Him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God."

The relentless pursuit of perfection, dictated by a strict adherence to rules, left me feeling exhausted and spiritually depleted. It was during this period of turmoil that I turned to the Book of Galatians. Over many years of studying its profound messages, I found solace and clarity in Paul's teachings on grace and freedom through authentic indwelling faith of Yeshua. The revelation that my worth was not dependent on my ability to uphold the law, but on releasing the ONE who fulfilled the Law, transformed my spiritual journey. This shift allowed me to embrace a life of grace, finding peace and liberation in the truth of the Gospel.

Over the months ahead, I will be sharing what I learned in my studies, how these truths transformed my life, and ignited my journey that focuses on the believer’s identity in Yeshua.

AN OVERVIEW OF WHATS TO COME:

The Book of Galatians, written by the Apostle Paul, addresses significant theological concerns, particularly around the believer's identity in Yeshua (Jesus). Here's a summary in light of our upcoming theme:

Freedom and Identity in Yeshua:

* Paul emphasizes that believers are justified by faith in Yeshua, not by works of the law (Galatians 2:16). This foundational truth affirms that their identity is rooted in their faith and relationship with Yeshua rather than in adhering to the Mosaic Law.

* He speaks against the teachings of those who were advocating for the necessity of circumcision and other legalistic practices for salvation (Galatians 5:1-4). Instead, Paul declares that freedom in Yeshua is paramount, liberating believers from the bondage of the law.

* Paul reinforces the concept of spiritual adoption, stating that through faith, believers are children of God (Galatians 3:26-29). This profound adoption transcends cultural and societal divisions, uniting all believers in their identity in Yeshua.

* The letter also highlights the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers, producing the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). This transformation further solidifies their identity in Yeshua as they grow in spiritual maturity and reflect His character.

In summary, the Book of Galatians, the expression of my soul, reassures believers questioning their identity that their true identity is found in Yeshua through faith, marked by freedom from the law, spiritual adoption, and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. Please join me in this journey!

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WE ARE GATHERING FRESH QUOTES:

We believe that gathering fresh quotes from those who have listened to the Identity Matters Sunday audios is essential. These testimonials not only provide valuable feedback but also serve as a source of inspiration and encouragement for others. By sharing your experiences and reflections, you help us continue to grow and reach more hearts with the transformative message of faith and identity in Yeshua.

As we ramp up for our forthcoming new Exchanged Life Podcast, we are eager to make use of your valuable input to ensure a successful launch. Your insights and feedback are crucial in helping us shape the content and reach our full potential. Thank you for being an integral part of this exciting journey.

Consider leaving a quote in the comment section. Please include your name. By leaving us feedback, you are granting us permission to use your statement in promotions for the Exchanged Life Podcast.

We would be honored to have you take a sneak peek at our website, which provides samples and details of our upcoming podcast. Join us as we prepare for the exciting release on March 5, 2025. VISIT OUR WEBSITE

The Exchanged Life Podcast is a reader-supported publication & media outlet. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

Learn more about Jonnie T and Dr. Stephen Phinney . A special thank you to Riverside Studios and IM Truth Media.

YOUR OLD LIFE (NATURE) IS GONE

Your old life is gone unless the Spirit of Christ does not indwell you. If not born-again, your condition will always align with your Adamic nature.  You will default to trash produced by the “old nature” and, thus, live a life of death.  Meaning and purpose in life do NOT flow from the devil’s identity.

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."

IDENTIFIED BUT WALKING AFTER THE FLESH

All the things God says are true about us and come from the Life and mind of Christ within us.

Unless we use our mind, will, and emotions to “allow” or release the Spirit, we end up living off our thoughts, choosing our way, having defiled emotions, and fulfilling the desires embedded in our bodies. What Paul said to the Romans in chapter 7 leaves us with a deep understanding and clarity about what is going on within us when we do things we don’t want to do.

“So now, no longer am I the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the willing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not” (Romans 7:17-18).

The doctrines of identity within this passage are critical for the indwelt believer to embrace. Paul is telling us that he isn’t the one doing the things that he hates, but sin that is housed in his mortal body (flesh). He clearly understands his identity (who he is) and the nature of sin dwelling within his body. He is separating himself from his sin in the most literal way possible.

I AM NOT MY SIN

God has revealed to him that there is nothing good in his flesh – trash left behind by the old nature. Even though it sounds like Paul refuses to take responsibility for his choosing sin, he confesses one of the most profound Truths of identity – I am not my sin.

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