Respectable Sins (Part 3): Episode 685
March 18, 2021
The struggle with impatience, plus lies young adults believe, and how does God speak into our dating experiences?
Featured musical artist: Kerrie Roberts
Roundtable: The Sin of Impatience
It’s easy to judge someone who sins big. After all, we would never do that, right? But what about those sneaky, subtle sins that we excuse, ignore or explain away? The late Jerry Bridges called them “respectable” sins. But sin is sin. So what do we do? In part three of our roundtable series, our guests tackle the topic of impatience and irritability. Whether it’s losing your temper with a family member, obsessing about getting married, getting mad at your friends’ social media posts, or just not getting your way, impatience and frustration can creep in through many doors. Our guests discuss the subtle ways they’ve struggled with (and tried to excuse) these sins, and how God has shown them a way out.
Guests: Steve Kammer, Charles Berry, Diana Blaschke
Culture: Lies Young Adults Believe (Part 1)
Many millennials and Gen Z adults are discouraged. The seemingly impressive accomplishments of our peers are only a click away. By fixating on others, it’s easy to get discouraged and feel like our lives aren’t special. Or that we’re not far enough along in our life plans. Paul Angone has a passion for helping young adults discover their true identity in Christ. In part one of our discussion, he’ll debunk the myth of “I’m the only one struggling” and talk through missing chances on opportunities, the dangers of comparison, and what it’s really like to pursue our dreams.
Inbox: Did I Really Hear From God?
She dated her boyfriend for over three years before they broke up, then prayed about whether or not they should get back together. After feeling like God told her yes, they dated for another six months, only to break up again. Did she hear God correctly? Or at all? Counselor Yale Kushner weighs in.
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The struggle with discontentment, plus making Bible reading a daily habit, and what’s your role in finding a spouse? Featured musical artist: David DunnRoundtable: The Sin of DiscontentmentIt’s easy to judge someone who sins big. After all, we would never do that, right? But what about those sneaky, subtle sins that we excuse, ignore or explain away? The late Jerry Bridges called them “respectable” sins. But sin is sin. So what do we do? In part two of our roundtable series, our guests tackle the topic of discontentment. It may look like obsessing over getting married, comparing yourself to your friends’ adventures on social media, or hating your job and wishing you had a better one. Our guests discuss the subtle ways they’ve struggled with discontentment, and how being grateful for God’s blessings makes the ultimate difference.Culture: Make Bible Reading a Daily HabitIn college, Stacey Thureen was a competitive swimmer who was poised for athletic greatness. But something was missing. After a friend introduced her to Jesus, she found the peace she was longing for. Yet even after becoming a Christian, reading her Bible consistently was a daily struggle, and her spiritual growth stalled. Maybe you can relate? Stacey shares her story of coming to Christ and how she’s learned to read her Bible consistently amid a busy life. Inbox: Finding a Mate: God’s Job or Mine? He’s single and wants to date, but feels like his options are limited right now. The big question running through his head is: Does God lead you to your spouse, or do you have to find one yourself? Lisa Anderson weighs in.
March 11, 2021
The struggle with self-control, plus more real-life dating advice from Jonathan Pokluda, and a listener’s boyfriend is estranged from his family. Featured musical artist: Nathan TaskerRoundtable: The Sin of Self-IndulgenceIt’s easy to judge someone who sins big. After all, we would never do that, right? But what about those sneaky, subtle sins that we excuse, ignore or explain away? The late Jerry Bridges called them “respectable” sins. But sin is sin. So what do we do? In part one of our roundtable series, our guests tackle the topic of self-indulgence. It may be with food or another addictive behavior; or maybe it’s spending money, or outbursts of anger. Our guests discuss their self-control struggles, how they’ve tried to minimize them, and how in God’s grace they’ve now committed to a daily fight against this stronghold of sin. Guests: Kat Bittner, Diane Ingolia, Austin LightCulture: Dating in a 2021 World (Part 2)With the tech revolution, social media, smartphones and dating apps — not to mention a nasty pandemic all but squelching our opportunities for true connection — finding a mate is not for the faint of heart. But the question we’re all asking is: “What actually works?” Pastor Jonathan “JP” Pokluda offers excellent advice for how Christians should approach dating in an “anything goes” world. In part two of our conversation, he discusses how to stop playing games in dating, and debunks the myth of “you know when you know.” Inbox: Family FeudHe seems like a godly young man, and she wants to keep dating him. But he’s estranged from his family, and her mom is especially concerned about it. Is this scenario a deal-breaker for their dating relationship? Counselor Tim Sanford weighs in with wisdom for navigating this situation.
March 4, 2021
A compassionate conversation on same-sex attraction, plus Jonathan Pokluda’s real-life dating advice, and distinguishing sexual desire from lust. Featured musical artist: Aaron ShustRoundtable: God’s Grace Amid Sexual Identity StrugglesMany of us have struggled with same-sex attraction or gender identity confusion — or know someone who has. In a culture that consistently tries to cancel biblical truth, what’s the current conversation around homosexuality, transsexuality, and an application of God’s grace for it all? Our guests tell their stories of walking this journey personally and with friends and family members, offering hope and clarity on this ever-important issue. Links to Resources:Speak to a CounselorBook: Is God Anti-Gay? by Sam AllberryBook: Loving My (LGBT) Neighbor by Glenn T. StantonHomosexuality ResourcesCulture: Dating in a 2021 World (Part 1)With the tech revolution, social media, smartphones and dating apps — not to mention a nasty pandemic all but squelching our opportunities for true connection — finding a mate is not for the faint of heart. But the question we’re all asking is: “What actually works?” Pastor Jonathan “JP” Pokluda offers excellent advice for how Christians should approach dating in an “anything goes” world. In part one of our discussion, he’ll address some myths about singleness and finding the “perfect” match. Inbox: Sexual Desire or Lust?Sexual desire is God-given. But Jesus clearly taught that lust is a sin. So what’s the difference? Is there a way to distinguish between normal sexual desires and lust? Counselor Glenn Lutjens weighs in with helpful thoughts on this difficult topic.
February 25, 2021
Prioritizing sleep and rest, plus guarding your post-election mental health, and is dating a fellow business owner a wise idea? Featured musical artist: Mosaic MSCRoundtable: Why You Need Better SleepMany young adults pride themselves on doing life with little rest. Stay up late, get another project done, drink lots of caffeine, and just tough it out. But the truth is, we all need sleep and down-time if we’re going to thrive in life. Our guests discuss their own hang-ups around getting good rest, and give tips for proper sleep hygiene, time management, ways to fall asleep and more. Culture: Staying Sane After the ElectionSeveral months after the 2020 U.S. election, residual passion and anger can still be felt around the country. If you’re glued to the news and social media around the clock, you’re bound to feel exhausted and upset. Is it possible to stay informed without letting it all drive you crazy? Psychiatrist Dr. Karl Benzio is back to provide helpful ideas for managing your mental health during this crazy time in our culture. Check out the Lighthouse Network for more info!Inbox: Dating a Business PartnerShe co-owns a business with him and thinks he’s a great guy. Now that his latest relationship ended, she’s wondering if it’s time confess she likes him. She’s prayed about it, but would dating each other be bad for business? Human resources expert Jenn Scheck advises how to best approach this.
February 18, 2021
Choosing in a world of endless options, plus a pandemic self-care checkup, and not obsessing over someone’s unresponsiveness. Featured musical artist: Danen KaneRoundtable: Too Anxious to ChooseOur world is full of options. Whether it’s restaurants to try, subscriptions to purchase, or how to spend a Saturday, just settling on a decision can feel like work. But what about when you’re faced with bigger, life-altering choices: Do I take this relationship to the next level? Is this the church I should join? Do I make this cross-country move or stay put? As the questions stir in our heads, it’s easy to let anxiety drive our decision-making — or keep us from making any decision at all. Our guests tell how they’ve learned to make wise choices in a sea of endless options, and give practical strategies for not overthinking big decisions. Culture: Are You Still OK After a Year of COVID?As the weeks and months tick by, our nation and world still face the harsh realities of life in the COVID-19 pandemic. Many have lost jobs and some even lost family members and close friends to the virus. How are you holding up? Counselor Geremy Keeton discusses lessons we can learn from this past year and how we can have hope in these uncertain times. For those longing for normalcy, it’s an opportunity to pause and reflect on the necessary elements of life amid the unexpected. For a free counseling consultation, visit our counseling page. Inbox: Did He See My Message? She really likes him and has sent him messages on social media. But even though she knows he’s logged into his accounts, he’s not replied to her. What gives? Lisa Anderson weighs in on the best way to respond to his non-responses.
February 11, 2021
Recognizing confidence versus arrogance, plus week two on embracing adulthood with grace, and should you splurge on stuff while single? Featured musical artist: Ginny OwensRoundtable: The Right Kind of ConfidenceWe’ve all met someone who just couldn’t tell us enough about his accomplishments. After tolerating his rambling, we searched for the nearest exit, hoping to not run into him again. For most people, especially in dating, arrogance is a gigantic turnoff. But is there a way to be genuinely confident without telling the world how great you are? Our guests discuss how they’ve learned to be confident (and recognize it in others) without crossing the line to being a jerk. Culture: Adulting for Jesus — Part 2Let’s face it: Being an adult isn’t easy. We all want to find our life’s calling, but many of us feel like we’re making it up as we go. The good news is, God is here to help us through. Comedian Kristin Weber has learned a lot about embracing the responsibilities of adulthood in today’s world. In part two of our conversation, she discusses taming social media, embracing the Sabbath, dealing with loneliness, and finding contentment in an age of anxiety. Inbox: To Buy or Not to Buy?He’s single and enjoys decorating his place with higher-end stuff. But should he scrimp now and save his money for marriage and the expenses that will come then? What does wise stewardship and balance look like in his single season? Lisa Anderson weighs in with thoughts on managing your money well as a single adult, and when it’s OK to splurge.
February 4, 2021
Learning to enjoy your job, plus how to embrace adulthood with grace, and does her long-distance friendship have dating potential? Featured musical artist: James PedenRoundtable: On-the-Job JoyYour job is how you pay the bills, save for retirement and perform meaningful work. But work is a whole lot better if you enjoy doing it. The truth is, your job doesn’t have to be a daily grind. Our guests share their best strategies for making work fun — including taking breaks, prioritizing relationships over the next project, and finding a balance between staying sane and productive each and every day. Culture: Adulting for Jesus — Part 1Let’s face it: Being an adult isn’t easy. We all want to find our life’s calling, but many of us feel like we’re making it up as we go. The good news is, God is here to help us through. Comedian Kristin Weber has learned a lot about embracing the responsibilities of adulthood in today’s world. In part one of our conversation, she discusses trusting God with your future, honoring Him with your work, and the value of persevering through hardship. Inbox: Long-Distance PotentialShe really enjoys being friends with him, and would love to date him — but they live in different states. With so many miles in between them, would dating be a smart decision? Counselor Jenny Coffey weighs in with some helpful tips she learned from her own dating journey.
January 28, 2021
Staying focused on personal growth, plus why and when spiritual doubts can be OK, and how to avoid “missionary dating.” Featured musical artist: Ellie HolcombRoundtable: Personal Growth GoalsNow that we’re a few weeks into January, you might feel like giving up on your New Year's resolutions. All the early optimism starts fading into discouragement and you wonder, “Am I going to stay stuck again this year?” Our guests discuss how they stay focused on personal growth in multiple areas, and what keeps them motivated to reach important goals. If you want to be wiser, stronger, and get things done in 2021, this conversation will encourage you to keep growing. Culture: The Benefits of DoubtWhether you’ve been a Christian a long time or you’re a new believer, we all face the unsettling tension of doubt. Scripture shows us that even many heroes of the faith struggled to trust God. But doubt doesn’t have to derail us from our faith. In fact, it can lead to new opportunities to know God deeper. CRU’s Shelby Abbott has worked with students for many years, and wrestles with trusting God in his battle with chronic pain. His wise words and personal reflections will give you hope when doubt stares you down.Inbox: Beware of “Missionary Dating”She’s around a lot of guys, but they’re not mature or serious Christians. Is it OK to still go on dates with them, or is that unwise? Counselor Jenny Coffey weighs in.
January 21, 2021
Caring without compromising your values, plus (kinda) natural ways to share your faith, and should you date someone who’s not your type? Featured musical artist: Liz ViceRoundtable: Care, But Don’t CaveYour friend doesn’t share the same values as you. You want to be nice, but when he or she does something you don’t agree with, how should you respond? Should you tell them exactly what you think of their bad behavior? Brush it off? Wait and see? Our guests discuss what it looks like to be respectful toward people we disagree with, and how to love others without stonewalling, enabling, or compromising your faith. Guests: Sara Bess Kemeny, Austin Johnson, Glenn StantonCulture: The Long Game of Sharing the GospelLet’s face it: Sharing your faith with others is hard. We all know someone we’d love to see come to Christ, but the question remains: How do I talk with him or her about spiritual things? Randy Newman is a firm believer that evangelism looks more like a gradual process than just one conversation. Before becoming a Christian in college, he spent years interacting with believers and learning from them. Whether you find sharing the gospel scary or not, this conversation will encourage you. Inbox: Dating Outside Your TypeIs dating someone who’s not your type a valuable exercise or a waste of time? Is there a way to broaden who you find attractive? Lisa Anderson weighs in.
January 14, 2021
Friends and family answer questions about host Lisa Anderson, plus Justin Camp on men finding God, and is she too ambitious for her boyfriend? Featured musical artist: About a MileRoundtable: Lisa Anderson QuizLisa Anderson has hosted “The Boundless Show” since it began in 2008. In more than 12 years, she’s shared a lot of personal information. (She would say, sometimes too much information.) But do you know her favorite movie? Or what would make her turn down a date? Or what jobs she held before working at Boundless? Tune it to see if her team member James, her sister Sara, and her friend Julianna know the answers. And of course Lisa will offer random but witty commentary on all of their guesses. Culture: Men and God: To Infinity and Beyond!What do real-life American astronauts have to do with a man’s search for God? Justin Camp has some ideas. He uses the stories of these extraordinary men, plus a few more ordinary journeys (including his own) to give men the motivation to draw near to God, get unstuck from whatever’s holding them back, and start living with fresh eyes. A life well-lived is an adventure, Justin says, especially with God at its center. This one’s for the guys, but ladies, you’re welcome to listen too. Inbox: Too Ambitious for Her Boyfriend?They’ve been dating for a year and a half, but she can’t imagine marrying him. She has a high-paying job and speaks four languages; he’s job-hopping and living with his parents. She helped him buy his car and is starting to resent how much he needs her. What’s next? Lisa Anderson weighs in with some helpful thoughts.
January 7, 2021
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Life Is Hard. God Is Good. Let's Dance.
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