In this episode, we reflect on the continual learning and relearning essential for a vibrant spiritual life. From the importance of Bible reading and prayer to the vital role of church involvement, we discuss how life's trials and busyness can cause these practices to gradually wane. Maintaining them is crucial for spiritual health. We share practical insights on integrating the spiritual and secular aspects of life, prioritizing communion with God, and starting each day in His presence. Drawing inspiration from Jesus' early morning prayers, we illustrate how adopting such habits can deeply enrich one's walk with the Lord.
We also look at how the natural world's inherent rhythms are part of God's design and how routines teach us to seek nourishment and joy from Him continually. Unlike physical hunger, neglecting spiritual disciplines can lead to a diminished sense of need for God— even an increased appetite for worldly things, fostering a false sense of self-sufficiency. Conversely, consistently tapping into the means of grace, such as prayer and scripture, can increase our spiritual hunger and desire for God. Ultimately, spiritual disciplines are not mere obligations but opportunities to grow closer to God and delight in His presence.
Chapters
Spiritual Disciplines for Christian Growth
Practicing Spiritual Consistency Over Time
Nurturing a Spiritual Appetite
About the Hosts
Shai Linne (@shailinne) (Host) is an author and recording artist who has released numerous acclaimed Christian hip-hop albums. After completing a pastoral internship at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington D.C., Shai co-founded Risen Christ Fellowship, an inner-city church in his hometown of Philadelphia, PA. As an author, Shai’s most recent book is The New Reformation: Finding Hope in the Fight for Ethnic Unity (published in May 2021). Shai has been married to his wife Blair for 13 years. They have three children and live in Portland, OR.
Ben Otero (@benotero) (Co-host) is a senior web developer for a Church Plant Media, an organization that serves churches and missions organizations. Ben grew up in Tampa, Florida before moving to Philadelphia to study at the University of Pennsylvania, where he received a degree in economics. In addition to being a student of hip-hop culture, Ben is an elder at Crown and Joy Presbyterian Church in Richmond, Virginia, where He lives with Jeraldine, his wife of 18 years, and their 8 children.
William “Duce” Branch (@ambassador215) (a.k.a. The Ambassador) (Co-host) is a pioneering Christian Hip-hop artist and professor. Duce served for over a decade as a co-founder and leader, and primary spokesperson for the nationally acclaimed Christian rap ministry, The Cross Movement. He also co-planted and co-pastored an urban church in North Philadelphia from 2004-2009. Duce is currently enrolled in a doctoral program at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C., where he also serves as an adjunct professor for the College at Southeastern. He and his wife Michelle have been married for 26 years. They live in Wake Forest, NC and have four children
Credits
Executive Producer - Thomas J Terry
Recorded By - Humble Beast
Additional Production Elements - Miguel A. Iniesta
Editing and Mixing by - The Good Podcast Co.
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