Misc Episodes

We want to put this right up front: the string of car wrecks, stolen cars, busted engines and garage doors we endured this summer wasn’t God’s judgment on us — it was the crushing, pressing-in of a broken world that ultimately drew us deeper into dependence on him. In this episode, we catch you up on why we’ve been radio silent since April, the new email list and newsletter on theprodigaljourney.com, and the messy, expensive, strangely providential season we just lived through. We walk through Job and Isaiah 53 to show how Scripture helps us hold the tension that God doesn’t always answer “why” the way we want, but he joins us in suffering and promises a bigger, eternal answer. Dawn shares honestly about grief, insensitive people, and how pain grabs all your attention, while I confess how easy it is for me to slip into old ways of blaming or trying to manipulate God. We also share the practical fruit of the season — better cars, a smarter garage door, and a fresh perspective that some…

We state the main point at the outset: we must shift our time and energy from the area of concern to the area of responsibility and trust God instead of giving in to constant worry. The area of concern covers things we cannot control, such as the news, politics, and world events, while the area of responsibility covers what we can influence, like family, work, and our own responses. I speak from experience when I say we reduced news intake, increased prayer, and sought accountability to make this shift. We drew on Scripture—Ecclesiastes, Matthew 6, and Lamentations—to remind ourselves that God knows our needs and that his mercy is new each morning. We invite listeners to take inventory of their thoughts, hand worries to God in prayer, and focus on the next right thing they can do. We hope this guidance helps you trust God more and live faithfully in the responsibilities he has given you.

The core inquiry of this discourse revolves around the pivotal question: "What lesser things do you need to give up in order to receive something greater from God?" This episode delves into the necessity of creating space within our lives, thereby allowing divine intervention to manifest. We explore the narrative within Daniel chapter 10, reflecting on the significance of relinquishing certain non-sinful pursuits to facilitate a deeper spiritual engagement. The dialogue further challenges us to consider our motivations—are we seeking affirmation from others or resting in the unconditional affirmation bestowed upon us by God as His cherished children? Ultimately, we are prompted to reassess our priorities and identify what we may need to forgo in the pursuit of spiritual enrichment.

This podcast episode profoundly explores the concept of freedom, distinguishing between physical incarceration and the invisible prisons that many individuals experience in their lives. We engage in a candid conversation about the transformative power of faith and music, highlighting how songs can resonate deeply with those trapped in various forms of bondage. Our guest, Mike Weaver, leads us through his personal journey, revealing the pivotal role that music has played in his life and the lives of others, particularly during times of suffering and despair. We also delve into the songwriting process, emphasizing how vulnerability and authenticity can give rise to music that speaks to the heart of human experience. Ultimately, we celebrate the hope that emerges from sharing our stories and the enduring belief that, despite our struggles, divine grace is ever-present.

The cancer diagnosis that I received profoundly shaped my identity and perspective on life, leading me to recognize the invaluable lessons embedded within suffering. As I reflect on my journey, I have come to understand that pain and sorrow, which I once sought to evade, are, in fact, the most significant catalysts for personal growth. This episode features an insightful interview with Tim Timmons, a Grammy-nominated songwriter, who articulates his experiences and the wisdom he has gleaned from navigating life's adversities. Through our conversation, we delve into the essence of embracing challenges rather than resisting them, fostering a deeper connection to our faith and purpose. Join us as we explore these themes, recognizing that even in our struggles, there lies a profound opportunity for transformation and discovery.

WE ARE BACK!!! Welcome back to The Prodigal Journey, where we celebrate Christ's power through our weakness. After an unofficial year hiatus, we are excited to be diving back into the podcast. Please listen to this short update to hear what has been happening, and where we are going. I am very excited for things we have coming up and things we are planning for the podcast, so you don't want to miss this episode. Thank you for those who have reached out asking about the podcast. I am grateful f...

The exploration of the theme of canceled debt serves as a profound examination of divine forgiveness and its implications in the lives of believers. I draw from personal narratives, particularly my time in incarceration, as well as the significance of this scriptural theme. I reference Colossians 2:13-14, which conveys the essence of the Christian doctrine that through Christ's crucifixion, the record of sin against humanity has been irrevocably canceled. This concept is not merely theoretical; it is deeply personal and transformative, resonating with the speaker's own experiences of grace and redemption.

What does a logo have to do with a person’s journey back to God? In this special bonus episode of The Prodigal Journey, I sit down with Lauren Marshall, the designer behind the podcast’s logo, to talk about the story, research, and meaning that shaped its creation. Lauren shares how the Parable of the Prodigal Son—and the realization that both sons were lost in different ways—became foundational to the visual identity of The Prodigal Journey. They explore themes of identity, redemption, grace, vulnerability, and what it means to truly come home to God.