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“A lot of what we believe about ourself influences our decision-making and our behaviors. A question I ask myself is, ‘What do I really believe about myself?’” Righteousness is a sonship right that deeply influences how you see yourself, how you approach God, and ultimately how you live your everyday life. In this episode, Steele Bergman and minister Edgar Mendoza unpack what righteousness really means and why it matters beyond definition. They explore how your view of righteousness can draw you closer to God with confidence, while ignorance of it can keep you at a distance with fear or shame. They also look at what it practically looks like to live from a place of righteousness and how it influences your thoughts, choices, and interactions, and contrast that with the struggle of living outside of that identity. If you’ve ever wrestled with feeling good enough for God or wondered how your rights as a son of God connect to your daily life, this conversation will help you see righteousness not as something to earn, but as something that transforms how you live. Conversation Links: Romans 3:22 [New American Bible (Revised Edition)] II Corinthians 5:21 [English Standard Version] Proverbs 28:1 [English Standard Version] Genesis 3:15 Romans 10:9 I John 3:20-22 [New International Version] Ephesians 4:16 [English Standard Version] James 1:22 Romans 14:4 [English Standard Version] Psalm 139:14 Galatians 5:13 [English Standard Version] To Learn More about The Way International: https://linktr.ee/thewayintl https://www.theway.org/contact-us/ Certain opinions expressed in this podcast may or may not represent the views of The Way International. All music used is either owned by The Way International, is used with permission, has been purchased for use, or is in the public domain.

“A big key in having joy in life is ‘Don’t just run away from the challenge or the pressure...but run toward God.’” Adulthood can feel like a blur of responsibilities: work, bills, relationships, errands, exhaustion. Between hustle culture, constant pressure to be productive, and the weight of expectations, many young adults feel burned out long before they feel joyful. In this episode, Lauren Schiano and minister Chris Shroyer explore how Scripture invites us to see joy, play, and refreshment not as escape, but as actual soul-level joy. They talk about how God built us with limits on purpose, why He isn’t impressed with burnout, and why He promotes rest in His Word. From learning how to establish life-giving rhythms and building a healthy community to finding hobbies that make you feel alive again, this episode is designed to help us rethink adulthood as a time where joy is not only allowed, but essential. God didn’t just call us only to work well, but to live well, delight deeply, and rest in the security that He holds what we can’t. Conversation Links: Mark 1:35 Psalm 16:11 Exodus 18 Romans 12:11 Exodus 18:18 Genesis 2:1-3 Exodus 35:1-3 Mark 2:27 [The Amplified Bible (1987)] Romans 10:9,10 Psalm 46:10 To Learn More about The Way International: https://linktr.ee/thewayintl https://www.theway.org/contact-us/ Certain opinions expressed in this podcast may or may not represent the views of The Way International. All music used is either owned by The Way International, is used with permission, has been purchased for use, or is in the public domain.

“We can get lost in the excitement, but taking the time to sit down for two hours, pull up a chair and actually have a conversation with someone, it’s that quality over quantity that we really see God go to work and people’s lives changed.” This bonus episode was recorded live at Rock of Ages ’25 for the young adult participants. Sierra Bergman moderated a roundtable discussion with Caleb Becvar, Sarah Siano, and Moriah Thomas about how we can adjust our mindset to the things of God so we aren’t pressured by the world’s demands and hustle culture. Rock of Ages Website To Learn More about The Way International: https://linktr.ee/thewayintl https://www.theway.org/contact-us/ Certain opinions expressed in this podcast may or may not represent the views of The Way International.  All music used is either owned by The Way International, is used with permission, has been purchased for use, or is in the public domain.

“Regardless of anything else that we experience, obtain—if we keep God’s commandments, we will have a successful life. And the beauty of that truth is that God promises to be our sufficiency in everything while we do that.” In this episode, Steele Bergman interviews ministers David Watson and Greg Carter to help young adults navigate the emotional, spiritual, and cultural pressures around earning money today. From feeling underpaid and overwhelmed to navigating influencer culture and quick-money opportunities, they explore how God’s Word can help us reframe our sense of worth, work, calling, and stewardship. They unpack why money feels so personal and why “financial success metrics” (salary benchmarks, savings goals, vacations, status goods) mess with our sense of worth. They also discuss the difference between “fast money” and faithful, steady growth, and how Scripture guides us toward integrity, wisdom, generosity, and peace. By the end, listeners can walk away with practical tools and Biblical grounding to make financial choices with clarity and confidence, especially when money is tight. Conversation Links: Philippians 4:19 I Timothy 6:9-11 Ecclesiastes 5:10 [English Standard Version] Ecclesiastes 5:12 [English Standard Version] Ephesians 2:10 [New International Version] I Peter 1:18,19 [New American Standard Bible] Ecclesiastes 12:13 Matthew 6:33 III John 2 I Timothy 6:6-8 [English Standard Version] Romans 12:2 Proverbs 13:11 [English Standard Version] The Way Corps Training Program “Budgeting for the Believer” Luke 6:38 John 3:16 Acts 20:35 I Thessalonians 5:17,18 [The Amplified Bible] John 10:10 Lighting the Way Today T-shirt To Learn More about The Way International: https://linktr.ee/thewayintl https://www.theway.org/contact-us/ Certain opinions expressed in this podcast may or may not represent the views of The Way International. All music used is either owned by The Way International, is used with permission, has been purchased for use, or is in the public domain.

“Everybody is a beginner at some point....And that’s OK. In fact, it’s very exciting. It’s an opportunity for you to be able to trust God, to be able to turn to Him.” So many young adults feel like they’re faking adulthood, like everyone else somehow knows what they’re doing. In this episode, Hunter Mullins and minister Lauren Ely unpack imposter syndrome through a spiritual lens: why we minimize our gifts, what insecurity whispers to us, and how stepping into responsibility doesn’t mean you’re pretending. We look at Biblical identity, real workplace examples, and why humility is not the same thing as self-doubt. There’s a way to be both youthful and capable, inexperienced and called, without feeling like you have to become someone you’re not. Conversation Links: Impostor Syndrome Definition The Way Corps Training Program “Joyful Noise” Psalm 95:1 Psalm 98:4 Exodus 3—4 Numbers 12:3 Camp Gunnison—The Way Family Ranch Psalm 3 I John 4:4 Lighting the Way Today T-shirt To Learn More about The Way International: https://linktr.ee/thewayintl https://www.theway.org/contact-us/ Certain opinions expressed in this podcast may or may not represent the views of The Way International. All music used is either owned by The Way International, is used with permission, has been purchased for use, or is in the public domain.

“When done correctly, these difficult discussions, they promote honest communication, they resolve conflicts, they facilitate change; and it’s one tool that we can use as we endeavor to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace.” Conflict is uncomfortable and often unavoidable and yet having difficult conversations can be vital for both unity and resolution between people. Join Taylor Thurlow and minister Aaron George in this episode as they talk about how our relationship with God shapes the way we approach difficult conversations. They explore why Christians often either avoid conflict or bulldoze through it, and how alternatively, Scripture invites us to approach conflict with courage, clarity, and kindness. This is a genuine talk about what is helpful and unhelpful to say in difficult conversations, how to stay respectful, and how to hold boundaries without acting out of fear or frustration.   Conversation Links: Matthew 11:29,30 Ephesians 4:3 Philemon I Timothy 2:4 I Corinthians 12:26 Galatians 2:11-13 Acts 4:36 Titus 1:9-13 II Corinthians 13:10 Galatians 6:1 Galatians 6:1 [The Amplified Bible (1987)] Proverbs 15:1 Proverbs 18:19 Philippians 4:8 Psalm 118:24 Isaiah 55:11 Romans 12:9-21 Luke 10:33-35 Lighting the Way Today T-shirt To Learn More about The Way International: https://linktr.ee/thewayintl https://www.theway.org/contact-us/ Certain opinions expressed in this podcast may or may not represent the views of The Way International. All music used is either owned by The Way International, is used with permission, has been purchased for use, or is in the public domain.

“Just start praying about it….Get some people’s believing involved, and then when it’s the right time, God makes it clear to make that big decision. And I have peace when I make mistakes. I think part of understanding success is knowing why you failed. So it’s okay to fail because your heart is still pure for God and you know He’s got your back.” This bonus episode was recorded live at the Rock of Ages ’25 for the Teen Camp participants. Joanna Erickson has an insightful conversation with Marshall Nickolauson and his wife, Hope, about how trusting in God, and taking things one step at a time, can bring about lasting commitments, no matter how young you are. Based on their life experiences, they shared what worked and what didn’t as they grew in their walk with God and each other. Conversation Links: Rock of Ages 2025 Teaching Series Rock of Ages Event Website To Learn More about The Way International: https://linktr.ee/thewayintl https://www.theway.org/contact-us/ Certain opinions expressed in this podcast may or may not represent the views of The Way International. All music used is either owned by The Way International, is used with permission, has been purchased for use, or is in the public domain.

“When I go into the workplace, I don’t think about bringing in a personal agenda. I’m there to do my employer’s work to the best of my ability as a Christian.” Being a Christian at work can feel complicated, especially when your workplace doesn’t share your values. Instead of forcing conversations or shrinking back, this episode digs into what it means to live out your faith naturally through character, integrity, and presence. Jennifer Clesi interviews two ministers—Maria Rupp, who has worked for many years as a teacher in the public school system, and Sally Moudourou, who has spent most of her secular career as a lawyer. In this episode, they discuss where boldness matters, where quiet consistency is just as powerful, and how God can work through everyday interactions long before anyone asks you what church you go to. This is about influence, not pressure, and how you can show up and shine without becoming “that person.” Conversation Links: An Album of Verse, “Sermons We See” Ephesians 2:10 Genesis 2:19,20 Proverbs 3:27 Matthew 18:19 Colossians 3:22-24 I Corinthians 2:16 Romans 14:13 [New International Version] Revelation 3:20 The Bible Tells Me So I Thessalonians 2:1 Romans 12:18 The Way International Bookstore Jewelry Proverbs 11:13 Romans 12:21 Proverbs 3:5,6 To Learn More about The Way International: https://linktr.ee/thewayintl https://www.theway.org/contact-us/ Certain opinions expressed in this podcast may or may not represent the views of The Way International. All music used is either owned by The Way International, is used with permission, has been purchased for use, or is in the public domain.

“You have to not be circumstance-controlled....For me, I don’t want to let a bad work environment turn me into a bad worker. I have to fight to hold myself accountable and to work with integrity.” Many people are in jobs they didn’t plan on, don’t love, or don’t want long‑term. However, God is still present in the in‑between seasons where work feels “less than” or unclear. In this episode, Heather Neault interviews minister David Ely, and they talk about the frustration of waiting, the fear of falling behind, and how comparison can make the waiting feel even heavier when your job isn’t your dream. This episode also touches on how our faithfulness in small things can carry massive purpose for us, so we can have peace and joy regardless of our circumstances.  Conversation Links: Colossians 3:23 Romans 12:15 I Corinthians 12:27 Philippians 3:3-8 Genesis 37—50 Romans 12:2 I Kings 19:12 James 1:5 James 3:17 Philippians 4:6 Philippians 4:11-13 II Corinthians 11:23-33 I Timothy 6:6 I Thessalonians 5:18 To Learn More about The Way International: https://linktr.ee/thewayintl https://www.theway.org/contact-us/ Certain opinions expressed in this podcast may or may not represent the views of The Way International. All music used is either owned by The Way International, is used with permission, has been purchased for use, or is in the public domain.

“I just think we need to back up a little bit and relax, learn to be patient, and see how God’s going to go to work....We know God’s Word works, so just believe God’s Word! And we will get to our desired destination.” In this episode, Lauren Schiano interviews Rev. Marcia Greene, a seasoned minister and the author of a Way Magazine article from 2011 entitled “When Healing Takes Time.” Healing (physical, mental, relational) doesn’t always happen in a straight line. In this episode, Lauren and Marcia talk about the frustration of slow progress, setbacks, and unanswered questions, and why comparison and timelines can make healing harder. They explore a more honest view of healing and growth—one that allows for patience, endurance, and believing without pretending that illness, a broken heart, and pain will always automatically disappear overnight. Drawing from Scripture, they look at healing as a process that can unfold over time, offering a believing image of victory that doesn’t ignore reality. Do you need healing in your life? This episode is sure to provide helpful encouragement. Conversation Links: II Peter 3:8 Isaiah 55:9 As a Man Thinketh, by James Allen Proverbs 23:7 Lamentations 3:22,23 John 10:10 Romans 8:37 Psalm 51:10 II Corinthians 9:6 I Corinthians 13:7 Hebrews 12:1-3 Romans 5:3-5 Acts 3:1-8 The Way Magazine Jan/Feb 2011, “When Healing Takes Time” WMAE 025: When Healing Takes Time Mark 4:8 “Believing for Victory: Picture It!” II Timothy 1:7 Proverbs 27:17 Romans 8:31 Romans 12:2 To Learn More about The Way International: https://linktr.ee/thewayintl https://www.theway.org/contact-us/ Certain opinions expressed in this podcast may or may not represent the views of The Way International. All music used is either owned by The Way International, is used with permission, has been purchased for use, or is in the public domain.

“Recovery is a process. True healing comes from God; and healing typically takes effort. It doesn’t just happen on its own.” Divorce is more than a legal process. It can cause emotional pain and impact a person’s spiritual life. In this episode, Sierra Bergman interviews Rev. and Mrs. Vern Edwards (Jill), and they talk about the potential grief, shame, relief, anger, and confusion that may come with the end of a marriage. They explore what it means to rebuild life when something you believed would last doesn’t, and how trust in God can meet people in the middle of divorce, not only on the other side of it. This conversation looks at how God’s Word speaks to this situation with compassion, not condemnation. Conversation Links: Genesis 2:18 Genesis 2:24 Mark 10:1-9 Jeremiah 3:8 Romans 3:23 Hebrews 4:16 Psalm 103:11,12 I Corinthians 7:10-15 [New King James Version] I Corinthians 7:27,28 [New King James Version] Psalm 34:18 [New International Version] Psalm 30:5 LTWT 012: The Power of Forgiveness Home Fellowships Hebrews 11:34 LTWT 021: A God-Centered Approach to Engagement and Premarital Preparations Proverbs 16:9 To Learn More about The Way International: https://linktr.ee/thewayintl https://www.theway.org/contact-us/ Certain opinions expressed in this podcast may or may not represent the views of The Way International. All music used is either owned by The Way International, is used with permission, has been purchased for use, or is in the public domain.

“Life does keep going, which is initially one of the hardest parts of grief, because it feels like your world has stopped....As you’re getting through that, back to the joy, just remind yourself that it’s not always going to be like this. Time is one of your biggest assets.” Grief doesn’t come with a timeline, and it doesn’t look the same for everyone. In this episode, Taylor Thurlow talks to two ministers, Dr. Angela Priester and Hannah Sullwold, and they take an honest look at the effects of loss, how it might reshape routines, and may even impact our identity and beliefs, but they also show that God addresses grief in His Word, and there is a way through it. This episode also explores how God can work in us when someone we know is grieving, and why some of the most comforting words about grief come from Scripture, which doesn’t rush pain or pretend everything is okay. If you’ve ever wondered how people endure loss without losing themselves, this conversation is worth listening to. Conversation Links: John 11:35 Ecclesiastes 3:4 Revelation 21:4 Isaiah 50:4 II Corinthians 1:3,4 “The Hope Provides Comfort” I Thessalonians 4:17 Joshua 1:2 I Thessalonians 4:13 To Learn More about The Way International: https://linktr.ee/thewayintl https://www.theway.org/contact-us/ Certain opinions expressed in this podcast may or may not represent the views of The Way International. All music used is either owned by The Way International, is used with permission, has been purchased for use, or is in the public domain.

“How sweet it is when you do overcome disagreements with someone else, when you decide that your friendship is more important than feelings of hurt or being upset, and you forgive each other. That bond can intensify.” Friendship can be one of the most meaningful and painful relationships we experience. In this episode, Heather Neault and minister Stacie Cook talk about why friendships can fade, fracture, or end altogether, and what we can do to be a good friend to others and mend relationships when needed. They also explore expectations, loyalty, and ways to keep relationships alive as friends get older, farther away, and busier. Along the way, they look at how the Bible treats friendship not as a bonus, but as an essential part of a healthy life. Conversation Links: Acts 2:42 Acts 9:26,27 [New International Version] Acts 15:39 II Corinthians 3:5 Proverbs 17:17 I Samuel 18:1 John 11:35 To Learn More about The Way International: https://linktr.ee/thewayintl https://www.theway.org/contact-us/ Certain opinions expressed in this podcast may or may not represent the views of The Way International. All music used is either owned by The Way International, is used with permission, has been purchased for use, or is in the public domain.

“Communicate directly, firmly, and lovingly. There’s a way to communicate in a very neutral, non-combative way....I think people appreciate honest communication.” Boundaries are often misunderstood. At times, they might get confused with walls, avoidance, or selfishness. In this episode, Steele Bergman interviews minister Laura Mittler, and they explore what healthy boundaries actually are, why so many people struggle to set them, and how they can help us establish healthy relationships with others and stay vital ourselves. Steele and Laura also talk about the difference between loving people well and allowing them to push us too far, and how Biblical wisdom frames boundaries not as rejection, but as a way to protect what matters most. Conversation Links: Deuteronomy 19:14 [New King James Version] Proverbs 27:17 [New King James Version] I Corinthians 9:22 Genesis 1 LTWT 056: Screens and Spiritual Life To Learn More about The Way International: https://linktr.ee/thewayintl https://www.theway.org/contact-us/ Certain opinions expressed in this podcast may or may not represent the views of The Way International. All music used is either owned by The Way International, is used with permission, has been purchased for use, or is in the public domain.

“I really believe that God wants us to be the friend that we wish we had. So if we feel lonely and we want a friend, be that friend. God made us for community and connection.” Loneliness isn’t just about being alone. At times, it’s about feeling unseen, unheard, and disconnected, even in crowded rooms or full schedules. In this episode, Jennifer Clesi interviews minister Kim Thomas, and they unpack why loneliness is so prevalent in modern life and why independence and productivity don’t actually cure it. They explore the idea that our need for connection isn’t weakness—it’s part of how God designed us—and they show how God’s Word speaks honestly to the ache of isolation while offering a deeper vision of belonging. Conversation Links: “Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation” Definition of Loneliness “Feeling Lonely? Too Much Time on Social Media May Be Why” “Bible Engagement and ‘The Power of 4’: A Key to Spiritual Growth” Hebrews 13:5 Psalm 23:4 Proverbs 18:24 (The Amplified Bible) Proverbs 27:17 Genesis 2:18 I Peter 5:8 I Corinthians 12:26 Romans 12:15 (New International Version) Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 II Corinthians 2:11 I Corinthians 12:18-27 Ruth 1:16 (New International Version) “One Another” in the New Testament Colossians 1:26 Ephesians 4:1-3 Romans 1:11,12 II John 12 Home Fellowships Proverbs 4:23 Psalm 84:7 I Corinthians 9:22 Luke 6:31 (English Standard Version) Proverbs 11:25 (New International Version) Brené Brown To Learn More about The Way International: https://linktr.ee/thewayintl https://www.theway.org/contact-us/ Certain opinions expressed in this podcast may or may not represent the views of The Way International. All music used is either owned by The Way International, is used with permission, has been purchased for use, or is in the public domain.