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In this powerful episode of Words of Life, host Bernie Dake sits down with a panel of ministry leaders, creatives, and lifelong Salvationists to discuss why the Bible remains essential in a world searching for hope. Guests Melody Davis, Chris Hoffer, Caleb Loudon, and Claudia Roseno share personal stories of how Scripture has shaped their faith, grounded their families, and revealed God’s love in life-changing ways.

Together, the panel explores the historical influence of the Bible, the way Scripture has shaped human rights and culture, and how God continues to speak through His Word today. From childhood faith foundations to rediscovering Scripture as adults, each voice brings a unique testimony of God meeting His people through the living Word.

This episode is a reminder that the Bible is more than literature—it is God’s presence, God’s guidance, and God’s love letter to us. Whether you’re new to reading Scripture or looking to reignite your passion for God’s Word, you’ll find encouragement and hope in this honest conversation.

Here are several links to resources and studies to help you in your Bible study journey. But if you have any questions- send us an email at [email protected]

https://www.youversion.com/

https://www.thebiblerecap.com/

https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/41061-52-weeks-in-the-word

https://bibleproject.com/

https://lectio365.com/

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NOTE: When you sign up for Patreon, PLEASE do it through a web browser (Safari, Chrome, etc.) and NOT an app on your iPhone. The Apple app charges 30% !!! If you just click on the link above, it should be fine. 

Dr. Joseph Nicolosi, Jr. joins Becket Cook to discuss the recent WILD interview with Tucker Carlson and Milo Yiannopoulos. Milo mentions Dr. Nicolosi several times to Tucker. Dr. Nicolosi and Becket respond to many of Milo's comments and claims, and then Dr. Nicolosi walks us through the process of his method of helping men with unwanted same-sex attraction. Plus Becket reveals something major about himself concerning this whole subject at the end.

Dr. Nicolosi's Website: https://www.josephnicolosi.com

The Tucker Carlson x Milo Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NiTILBSU8tM&t=1s

The Becket Cook Show Ep. 223

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The Advent season carries a beautiful intention, yet many of us enter it with schedules that feel more like pressure cookers than peaceful celebrations. Between holiday shopping, school programs, family gatherings, travel, work commitments, and endless to-do lists, it’s no wonder December often feels more overwhelming than joyful.

Scripture doesn’t ignore the need for hard work or productivity. But it does warn us about misplaced priorities and the unhealthy pace that can pull our hearts away from God. That’s exactly what happened to Martha. When Jesus arrived, she immediately sprang into action—cooking, preparing, serving—doing all the things she thought were necessary. Meanwhile, her sister Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, listening, resting, and receiving.

To Martha, this felt unfair. To Jesus, it revealed something deeper.
“Martha, Martha… you are worried and upset about many things.”
In other words: You’re busy, but you’re missing the better thing.

It’s easy to relate. Many of us run through December so fast that we barely hear the soft invitation of Christ calling us to slow down and sit with Him. Jesus Himself modeled this rhythm of rest. In the midst of a demanding ministry, He slipped away early in the morning to pray, to be still, and to reconnect with the Father (Mark 1:35). If the Son of God prioritized intentional quiet, how much more do we need it?

The danger of constant busyness is that we become spiritually drained. We lose joy. We lose patience. We lose perspective. And slowly, we begin to lose sight of why we’re celebrating in the first place.

Christmas is meant to draw our hearts toward the Savior—not toward stress.

If the season feels too full, too heavy, or too chaotic, perhaps God is gently whispering the same words Jesus spoke to Martha:
Choose what is better. Choose Me first.

Even if the list remains unfinished.
Even if the house isn’t picture-perfect.
Even if plans change or things go undone.

He is the One thing that matters most, and when we sit at His feet, peace returns.

TONIGHT’S SCRIPTURE

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
— Luke 10:41–42

YOUR NIGHTLY PRAYER

Father,
You know my limits and the weight I carry. As my days fill with tasks and responsibilities, help me keep my heart centered on You. Slow my pace where it needs slowing. Redirect my focus where it has drifted. Let the joy of this Advent season outweigh the pressure of my to-do list. And remind me that even if everything doesn’t get done, everything is still okay as long as I remain close to You.
Thank You, Father.
Amen.

THREE THINGS TO MEDITATE UPON

Connect with God — on Abide, a Christian meditation app that provides a biblically grounded place to experience peace and progress in your relationship with Christ. Use this biblical meditation, narrated by Ben Little, to center yourself on the truth in God's word. Resting with God is a source of strength. Meditate on Mark 1:35. Allow the music & nature sounds, deep breathing, prayer, and scripture help you connect with God in a new way. 

For a 30 day free trial of our premium ad-free content, your trusted friend for meditation is right here: https://abide.com/peace

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Megan J. Conner explores persistent prayer and Godward confidence through Matthew 7:7. When needs feel unmet or dreams stall, the reset isn’t louder striving—it’s steady asking, seeking, and knocking with a anchored heart. This passage reads like a promise and a gentle nudge off the couch of casual expectation.

Highlights

• Ask: Bring the need. Name it clearly to God before narrating it to yourself.

• Seek: Prayer moves feet too—watch for the open door and walk toward it.

• Knock: Keep going. Persistence is faith’s cardio, not its enemy.

• God isn’t hiding gifts like misplaced keys—He responds to pursuit.

• Peace grows when petitions are paired with trust, even before answers arrive.

• Delay doesn’t equal denial; sometimes it equals development.

• One small prayer whispered daily outlasts one big prayer yelled annually.

Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide

Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas!

Full Transcript Below:

Ask, Seek, Knock
By Megan J. Conner

Bible Reading:
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” - Matthew 7:7 (NIV)

Do you feel like there are needs in your life, or desires in your heart that remain unfulfilled? Perhaps you are longing for a change of circumstances, in need of tangible provision, or losing hope over a lingering, neglected dream.  Maybe you wonder if God is aware of these aspirations and is intentionally choosing to deny your desires. But before you assume the Lord is uninterested, ask yourself, have you brought these cares to Him?

The Word of God repeatedly offers us invitation after invitation to bring our concerns and requests to the Lord.  Philippians 4:6 encourages us not to be “… anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present our requests to God,” (NIV). When worries feel weighty, we can bring these feelings of overwhelm to the Lord. He is not standing far off, but instead is ready and waiting for us to call upon Him.

Hebrews 4:14-16 also reminds us how Jesus walked among humanity, and not only empathizes with our weaknesses and desires, but He fully understands. As such, we can “approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need,” (NIV). The Lord is

What if the greatest gift you give your kids this Christmas is a heart of generosity—and the chance to change someone else’s world?

This episode goes beyond stockings and wrapping paper to tackle one of the most pressing questions for believers during the holiday season: How do we practically teach our children the virtue of generosity, not just for the holidays, but for a lifetime—and in a way that makes a true, eternal difference?

Answer: Plant seeds of generosity in your family with Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Gift Catalog, a unique way for families to give gifts that can transform lives around the globe.

Browse the catalog and get involved at www.samaritanspurse.org/parent.

Catherine welcomes Kristy Graham, host of the On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse podcast and wife to Edward Graham, part of the legacy family behind this renowned global relief ministry. With firsthand experience raising four children and witnessing God’s faithfulness in some of the most challenging corners of the globe, Kristy brings unmatched insight and compassion to this timely discussion.

Editor's Note: This is a bonus feed drop in partnership with Samaritan's Purse. Our regular schedule for Your Nightly Prayer will resume this evening.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

• Transformative Giving - The Samaritan's Purse Christmas Gift Catalog: Learn how families can open a new kind of catalog—one offering goats, honeybees, water filters, heart surgeries, and more—to provide desperately needed gifts to people across the globe.
• Real Stories, Real Impact: Kristy recounts emotional, hope-filled stories: families in Iraq whose lives are remade by a simple beehive; a mother shattered by tragedy in need of purpose and dignity, restored by a brood of baby chicks; and the power of a $9 donation to feed a hungry infant and spark the hope of the Gospel for a mother who feels forgotten.
• Generosity That Changes Hearts—Including Our Own: Discover practical ways to involve your kids in picking out gifts, writing cards for teachers in someone’s honor, or pairing a meaningful donation with something tangible.
• Biblical Parallels: Kristy and Catherine share how the work of Samaritan’s purse brings to life the stories of Ruth, who gleaned what benevolent benefactors left for those less fortunate, and Hagar, who met the God who saw her need.
• Seeds of the Gospel: Every gift given through Samaritan’s Purse meets physical needs—and intentionally opens doors for the life-changing message of Christ. Whether it’s a water well, a jar of honey, or a vital medical procedure, these gifts become vehicles for sharing hope and introducing recipients to the God who truly sees them.

Call to Action:

This Christmas, will your family give a gift that extends beyond your home?
Explore life-changing opportunities at samaritanspurse.org/parent as a family, and ask your kids: “How can we be part of God’s story of hope this Christmas?”
Let your generosity become a legacy of faith, planting seeds for eternity.

Episode Links:

• Samaritan’s Purse Gift Catalog: www.samaritanspurse.org/parent
• On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse Podcast
• Catherine's Resources for Christian Parents

About the guest: Kristy Graham hosts On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse, a show she launched in 2019

What if the greatest gift you give your kids this Christmas is a heart of generosity—and the chance to change someone else’s world?

This episode goes beyond stockings and wrapping paper to tackle one of the most pressing questions for believers during the holiday season: How do we practically teach our children the virtue of generosity, not just for the holidays, but for a lifetime—and in a way that makes a true, eternal difference?

Answer: Plant seeds of generosity in your family with Samaritan’s Purse Christmas Gift Catalog, a unique way for families to give gifts that can transform lives around the globe.

Browse the catalog and get involved at www.samaritanspurse.org/parent.

Catherine welcomes Kristy Graham, host of the On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse podcast and wife to Edward Graham, part of the legacy family behind this renowned global relief ministry. With firsthand experience raising four children and witnessing God’s faithfulness in some of the most challenging corners of the globe, Kristy brings unmatched insight and compassion to this timely discussion.

Editor's Note - this is a bonus feed drop, in partnership with Samaritan's Purse. Your Daily Prayer's regular episodes will continue on the 8th.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

• Transformative Giving - The Samaritan's Purse Christmas Gift Catalog: Learn how families can open a new kind of catalog—one offering goats, honeybees, water filters, heart surgeries, and more—to provide desperately needed gifts to people across the globe.
• Real Stories, Real Impact: Kristy recounts emotional, hope-filled stories: families in Iraq whose lives are remade by a simple beehive; a mother shattered by tragedy in need of purpose and dignity, restored by a brood of baby chicks; and the power of a $9 donation to feed a hungry infant and spark the hope of the Gospel for a mother who feels forgotten.
• Generosity That Changes Hearts—Including Our Own: Discover practical ways to involve your kids in picking out gifts, writing cards for teachers in someone’s honor, or pairing a meaningful donation with something tangible.
• Biblical Parallels: Kristy and Catherine share how the work of Samaritan’s purse brings to life the stories of Ruth, who gleaned what benevolent benefactors left for those less fortunate, and Hagar, who met the God who saw her need.
• Seeds of the Gospel: Every gift given through Samaritan’s Purse meets physical needs—and intentionally opens doors for the life-changing message of Christ. Whether it’s a water well, a jar of honey, or a vital medical procedure, these gifts become vehicles for sharing hope and introducing recipients to the God who truly sees them.

Call to Action:

This Christmas, will your family give a gift that extends beyond your home?
Explore life-changing opportunities at samaritanspurse.org/parent as a family, and ask your kids: “How can we be part of God’s story of hope this Christmas?”
Let your generosity become a legacy of faith, planting seeds for eternity.

Episode Links:

• Samaritan’s Purse Gift Catalog: www.samaritanspurse.org/parent
• On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse Podcast
• Catherine's Resources for Christian Parents

About the guest: Kristy Graham hosts On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse, a show she launched in 2019 to hi

Please visit https://www.biblestudyheadquarters.com/ for more tools and resources to help you grow in faith.  You can also become a regular supporter of this podcast on the website.

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If you enjoy the show and want to buy John a coffee, please click here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/johnstange

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The "Desire Jesus One Year Devotional" can be found here:  https://amzn.to/41v1DKh

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To email John Stange directly, please send your message to [email protected].

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Please visit https://www.biblestudyheadquarters.com/ for more tools and resources to help you grow in faith.  You can also become a regular supporter of this podcast on the website.

.

If you enjoy the show and want to buy John a coffee, please click here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/johnstange

.

The "Desire Jesus One Year Devotional" can be found here:  https://amzn.to/41v1DKh

.

To email John Stange directly, please send your message to [email protected].

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

This powerful episode of the Compared to Who? podcast dives deep into the story of Cheri Garcia, a nationally recognized recovery advocate, entrepreneur, and the founder of Cornbread Hustle. Cheri joins Heather Creekmore to share her extraordinary journey through addiction, bulimia, and the relentless pursuit of approval and achievement.

What You’ll Hear:

• Cheri’s Hidden Struggles: From a “typical” all-American upbringing to battling addiction, reveals how her father’s meth use triggered a desperate search for approval, leading her down her own path of substance abuse. She opens up about her history with meth, alcohol, and bulimia, as well as the shame that hid behind her achievements.

• Entrepreneurial Escape: Despite her addictions, Cheri became a successful entrepreneur, starting businesses—even while still in high school. Listen as she describes how workaholism became a new kind of drug, and why success could never satisfy her underlying wounds.

• Rock Bottom & Surrender: Cheri’s story takes a pivotal turn after a DWI arrest, propelling her toward sobriety. She shares the moment on Christmas Day when she chose to give herself the “gift of sobriety” and the spiritual awakening that followed, including a haunting worship song, a powerful Bible verse, and a deep confrontation with God.

• Breaking the Shame Cycle: The conversation explores the difference between guilt and shame, the importance of vulnerability vs. mere transparency, and why secrets keep us sick.

  Cheri explains how confessing your struggles—no matter how dark—can set you free.

• Mental Health and Medication: In a refreshingly honest discussion, Cheri talks about her journey with mental health and the complexities of accepting help, including medication, after years of trying to "pray harder" through her pain.

• Community & True Friendship: Hear how authentic community, especially among women in recovery, helped Cheri finally accept herself without needing to "offer" anything.

Key Takeaways:

• Recovery is often a journey of switching unhealthy fixes for healthier, but sometimes still unsatisfying, ones.

• Healing from shame requires bringing secrets into the light and embracing community.

• Vulnerability—not just transparency—is where true transformation happens.

• Sometimes faith and mental health treatment go hand-in-hand, and there’s no shame in seeking help.

• You are worthy of love, friendship, and community, apart from your achievements.

Resources & Links:

• Connect with Cheri on Instagram: @luminous_cheri

• Find out about We Share: weshare.org/heather

A Note from Heather:

If you find yourself struggling with addiction, body image, or feeling like you have to achieve to be worthy, let this episode remind you: You’re not alone. There is hope, healing, and community waiting for you.

Listen & subscribe for more honest stories that help you stop comparing and start living!

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.