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What if the most powerful catalysts for spiritual revival aren't sophisticated strategies or cutting-edge methodologies, but something far more fundamental—prayer rooted in friendship with Jesus?

Ryan Skoog, founder of Venture.org and author of "Lead with Prayer," takes us on a riveting journey into what he calls the "three uns"—unsafe, unreached, and unresourced areas of the world. Having witnessed unprecedented church growth in the most challenging environments imaginable, Ryan reveals the surprising truth behind the global revival that missiologists call the largest numerical expansion of Christianity in history.

Through hundreds of hours interviewing Christian leaders across six continents, Ryan discovered that effective prayer isn't primarily about technique or discipline, but relationship. From a woman who walks with Jesus through war-torn Myanmar jungles to a New York financier who schedules "Waste Time with God" in his calendar, the foundation is the same—friendship with Christ.

The contrast with Western prayer habits is stark. Research shows Christian leaders pray less as they gain more education and influence, essentially declaring through their actions, "I'm busier than Jesus." Yet neuroscience confirms what global church leaders demonstrate: relational prayer physically rewires our brains after just eight weeks of consistent practice.

Ryan shares breathtaking stories of miracles, deliverance, and transformation happening regularly in places where prayer is not a checkbox but a lifeline. From entire villages converting after witnessing demonic deliverance to crippled children walking after prayer, these aren't anomalies but consistent manifestations of God's power in responsive environments.

This conversation will challenge your concept of productivity, reframe your understanding of spiritual disciplines, and invite you into a more vibrant prayer life that starts with simply enjoying God's presence. As Ryan reminds us, we aren't called to approach prayer as experts but as enthusiasts, collecting prayer habits that transform not just moments but entire days in God's presence.

Ryan is cofounder and president of VENTURE.ORG, a nonprofit that works in the toughest places of the world, serving war refugees, trafficked people, oppressed children, and the unreached. Ryan is also a serial entrepreneur who co-founded several travel technology companies and co-authored the Bestselling book Lead with Prayer and the devotional Chosen.

Ryan's Social Links: LinkedIn Facebook Instagram

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Blood & Oil Podcast is filmed and recorded by Pastor Jesse LaForce and Zane Wheeler in California, with Terrence Theodore on video call from the East Coast. A variety of guests will join us as we discuss modern events through a biblical lens, so buckle up and enjoy the ride. Thanks to all of our supporters, and Praise God for the opportunity to serve Him in this way. We hope you have enjoyed this episode and pray for blessings upon your day.