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Why do we feel like we have to "perform" to be loved by God? In this third part of our series, I’m joined by my cousin Mike Pennington to tackle the heavy weights of trauma and shame.

Mike opens up about his own childhood trauma and how it created a cycle of shame that took years to break. We discuss why shame is a "slap in the face to God's grace" and how to return to the reality that you are already 100% attached to Him—not because of what you’ve done, but because of who He is.

In this episode, we cover:

• The "LOTSA" framework for a simple Christian life: Love, Obey, Trust, Seek, Adore.
• The three questions God asks us in our mess: Where are you? Who are you listening to? What are you hungry for?
• How to stop "auditioning" for God and start abiding in Him.
• Why your past trauma does not define your standing with the Father.

"You can't do anything to make Him love you more, and you can't do anything to make Him love you less."

Connect with us:

• Website: waustingardner.com
• Join the community: W. Austin Gardner on Substack

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Austin Gardner, Mike Pennington, Followed by Mercy, Overcoming Shame, Healing from Trauma, Christian Identity, Grace vs Performance, Biblical Counseling, Abiding in Christ, John 17:23, Romans 8, Inner Healing, Spiritual Growth.

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.