The Walk: Devotionals for Worshippers

Greetings, dear readers, and welcome to our latest episode of The Walk for Worship Leader Magazine. Today, we delve into an inspiring episode with a special guest appearance by the esteemed worship leader, singer, and songwriter, Josh Baldwin.

Fighting for Peace: A Journey Through Faith

In this heartwarming and profound episode, Josh Baldwin shares a deeply personal story about his family's struggle with anxiety and the divine peace they found through faith. Baldwin, known for his powerful corporate worship songs, takes us on a journey of vulnerability, resilience, and the unyielding power of God's peace.

The Turbulent Season

Baldwin begins by referencing John 14:27, a verse that promises peace from Jesus, unlike any peace the world can give. This verse became a beacon of hope during a tumultuous time in his family’s life. In January 2023, while Baldwin was frequently traveling, his wife began experiencing severe anxiety and panic attacks, reminiscent of a similar episode four years prior. This unexpected resurgence of anxiety plunged their home into a period of deep distress and uncertainty.

Determined to find peace, Baldwin canceled his engagements to stay home and support his wife. They sought the Lord fervently, praying for understanding and relief. During this season, Baldwin had a scheduled songwriting session with friends, including one who had flown in from Australia. Despite his reluctance to leave his wife and feeling creatively drained, he attended the session.

The Birth of a Song

In a candid moment of sharing, Baldwin opened up about his family's struggles with his friends, which led to a powerful time of prayer and mutual support. This experience birthed a song that candidly expressed their fight for peace. The lyrics reflect the raw and honest cry for God's presence in the midst of turmoil, calling upon God’s many roles – Savior, Friend, Healer, Defender, Provider, and crucially, the Prince of Peace.

Initially, Baldwin envisioned the song as a personal anthem for his family. However, as they repeatedly listened to it, the song’s profound impact became clear. It resonated deeply, not just within their home but with others who heard it. Baldwin decided to include the song in his live album recorded at his church in Tennessee. During the recording, his wife shared her testimony, and they prayed for others battling anxiety, turning a personal trial into a collective moment of healing and faith.

The Prince of Peace

Baldwin emphasizes the transformative power of Jesus as the Prince of Peace. Drawing from Hebrew meanings and scriptural insights, he describes Jesus as the one who removes all peace-disturbing factors and secures peace wherever He reigns. This divine peace became the cornerstone of Baldwin's prayers for his family and their daily lives.

He shares how this peace is not a one-time experience but a daily journey. As a father, Baldwin sees the importance of instilling this peace in his children, teaching them to lean on God’s promises amidst fears and worries. Romans 16:20, which speaks of the God of peace crushing Satan under our feet, became a source of strength and assurance.

Encouragement for the Weary

In a heartfelt plea, Baldwin encourages those struggling with anxiety, sleeplessness, and worry to seek the Prince of Peace. He shares his own battles with worry, recognizing it as a tool the enemy uses to hinder our spiritual progress. Through prayer and surrender, he urges us to allow God's peace to surpass all understanding and reign in our hearts.

A Prayer for Peace

Baldwin closes with a prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to bring peace to all listeners, rebuking anxiety, worry, and fear in the name of Jesus. His prayer is a powerful reminder of the peace we can find in Christ, encouraging us to surrender our burdens and trust in His divine control.

As we reflect on Josh Baldwin's journey, we are reminded of the profound peace that comes from trusting in Jesus. His story is a testament to the power of faith, prayer, and community in overcoming life’s challenges. Baldwin's song, born out of personal struggle, has become a source of healing and hope for many.

Thank you for joining us in this journey of faith and peace. Until we meet again, may the Prince of Peace rule in your hearts and lives.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://joshbaldwin.com/
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.worshipleaderinstitute.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Josh Baldwin?

Josh Baldwin is a gold-certified singer-songwriter and worship leader who joined the Bethel Music collective in 2014. Starting his journey as a worship pastor for 10 years in North Carolina, he now resides in Tennessee. Josh writes corporate worship songs for the global church, reflecting his experiences with God in every season. His newest album, Made For More (2024), is his second live worship album, following his 2022 release, Where The Glory Is. This album features heartfelt songs for local and corporate worship, including the lead single, "Made For More." His gold-certified single “Stand in Your Love” reached No. 2 on the Billboard Christian charts and earned him K-Love nominations for “Breakout Single of the Year” and “Worship Song of the Year.” Josh has contributed to several Bethel Music albums, including VICTORY (2019), Peace (2020), Homecoming (2021), and Come Up Here (2023) with his song “Time and Time Again.” As a worship leader, Josh creates spaces for people to feel seen, encouraged, and invited into intimacy with God. He lives with his wife Sheila and their two children in Thompson's Station, TN, while continuing to tour domestically and internationally.

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Greetings, dear readers. In the latest episode of The Walk, hosted by Joshua Swanson, Editor-in-Chief of Worship Leader Magazine, we had the privilege of engaging with the Red Rocks Worship team from Colorado's Red Rocks Church. The episode delved into their identity as a worship collective, their experiences leading worship in different cities, and the heart behind their music.

Red Rocks Worship: A Collective and Fluid Ministry

The conversation began with an exploration of why Red Rocks Worship refers to itself as a "collective." Tyler Roberts, the worship pastor, explained that their team is dynamic and ever-changing, reflecting the fluidity of their ministry. The team has seen worship leaders come and go, each bringing unique gifts to serve their local church. This fluidity allows them to embrace different seasons and continually welcome new talents, creating a vibrant and adaptable worship community.

Experiences in Different Cities

The team shared their experiences of leading worship in various cities, including a recent visit to Portland. They noted the unique spiritual atmospheres in different locations, influenced by the history and culture of each place. Sidney Bacon highlighted the distinctiveness of Portland, with its beautiful stained glass and pews, creating a sense of connection to the past and the deep roots of faith.

Songwriting and the Power of "Ascend"

A significant part of the discussion focused on their songwriting process, particularly the song "Ascend." Kory Miller shared the profound journey of repentance and spiritual renewal that inspired the song. "Ascend" speaks to the purity and surrender required to enter God's presence, resonating deeply with the team and their collective experiences. The lyrics emphasize the importance of clean hands and pure hearts, echoing Psalm 24.

Impact of Current Events and Spiritual Warfare

Tyler Roberts and Kory Miller addressed how current cultural events influence their songwriting. They aim to unify the church by focusing on the unchanging truth of Jesus Christ, especially in tumultuous times. Their upcoming album, recorded during a politically charged season, seeks to galvanize the church and reinforce the message that Jesus is King, regardless of external circumstances.

The team also discussed the spiritual warfare they face as worship leaders. Kendra Benay shared her personal battles with dreams and the importance of persistent prayer. The conversation highlighted the need to recognize and combat spiritual attacks with truth and prayer, rather than accepting them as mere life challenges.

Encouragement for Worship Leaders and Believers

The episode concluded with words of encouragement from Tyler Roberts. He urged listeners to stay in the fight against spiritual warfare through praise and thanksgiving. He reminded us that Jesus is with us in every circumstance, and that praising Him can bring peace that surpasses understanding. This message is especially pertinent for worship leaders and believers navigating the complexities of life and faith.

This insightful episode of The Walk with Red Rocks Worship offers a profound look into the heart of a worship collective dedicated to serving their church and spreading the truth of Jesus Christ. Their journey of fluidity, unity, and spiritual resilience serves as an inspiration for all believers. As we navigate our own paths, may we remember to praise and seek the Lord with clean hands and pure hearts.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.redrocksworship.com/
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.worshipleaderinstitute.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Red Rocks Worship?

Red Rocks Worship serves as the music ministry for Red Rocks Church, a dynamic multi-campus congregation rooted in Denver, Colorado. Since its inception in 2005, Red Rocks Church has swiftly risen to become one of the nation's fastest-growing congregations, with vibrant communities spanning Colorado, Texas, and Belgium. 

Central to the church and worship team is a unified vision: To make Heaven more crowded. Red Rocks Worship dedicates itself to creating compelling music that exalts an irresistible God. Every faith-filled anthem they produce echoes the overarching mission of Red Rocks Church—to dismantle religious barriers and prioritize what truly matters: reaching people in need of a Savior. Regardless of the song or medium, the group's singular aim remains clear: to proclaim the way, the truth, and the life found in Jesus Christ.

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A Heartfelt Reflection on the Role of Worship Leaders in the Modern Church

In a recent episode of "The Walk" podcast, Joshua Swanson, Editor-in-Chief and host, welcomed Darren Mulligan from the band We Are Messengers. The discussion brought to light some compelling concerns about contemporary worship practices, particularly within large church movements and megachurches. Darren Mulligan's thoughtful reflections offer a timely reminder of the true essence of worship and the responsibilities that come with leading a congregation.

A Growing Concern in Worship Culture

Darren Mulligan opens with a poignant observation about the current state of worship music, especially in large church settings. He points out an "unbiblical obsession" with the personalities and styles of worship leaders, which often overshadows the true purpose of worship. Mulligan notes that these movements frequently rely on their music to bolster their brand, seeking broader influence, wealth, and prestige. This, he asserts, is a troubling trend, as the gospel was never intended to be glamorous.

The True Nature of Worship

Mulligan emphasizes that worship should encompass our entire lives, not merely the songs we sing. He cites Romans 12:1 to remind us that presenting our bodies as living sacrifices is our spiritual worship. Leading worship should be seen as a humble act of service, akin to foot washing, where the talents God has given are poured out to edify the church and glorify God. This stands in stark contrast to the self-promotion and pursuit of status that can sometimes be observed in modern worship culture.

The Role of Worship Leaders

A critical point raised by Mulligan is the elevation of worship leaders to a status that implies a distinction from other service roles within the church. This is often reflected in the structure of worship services, where the worship leader becomes the focal point as the house lights dim and the stage lights illuminate them. This subtle yet significant distinction can lead to a misplaced emphasis on the individual rather than on God.

Mulligan calls for a biblically informed understanding of worship. He stresses that worship leaders are not responsible for ushering in the presence of God or leading people into the throne room. God's presence is already among us, and every believer must approach the throne of grace individually through the finished work of Jesus Christ.

A Call to Authenticity and Service

While acknowledging the many worship leaders who serve faithfully and humbly, Mulligan issues a gentle warning against falling into the trap of celebrity culture within the church. He encourages worship leaders to evaluate their motivations and ensure they align with God's desires. Singing biblically accurate and cohesive songs is crucial to avoid furthering the spiritual immaturity prevalent in today's church culture.

Mulligan's reflections extend a heartfelt thanks to those worship leaders who inspire and edify the body of Christ through their service. He reminds us that the true call of a believer is to lose one's life for Jesus and to serve others, following the example of Christ who washed His disciples' feet.

Engaging in the Conversation

Joshua Swanson concludes the podcast by inviting listeners to engage in the conversation sparked by Mulligan's reflections. The community's feedback is valued and often turned into articles, providing a pulse on the current trends and concerns in worship.

Final Thoughts

Darren Mulligan's insights serve as a sobering reminder of the true purpose of worship and the sacred responsibility of those who lead it. As we navigate the complexities of contemporary worship culture, let us strive to maintain a focus on Christ, serving with humility and authenticity.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the links below.

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Links:

• https://wearemessengersmusic.com/
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.worshipleaderinstitute.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Darren Mulligan and We Are Messengers?

We Are Messengers has over 450 million career streams, over 2.7 billion airplay audience, and a multi-week #1 Billboard radio song (“Come What May”), along with six Top 5 and ten Top 10 Christian Airplay hits with “Image of God,” “Power,” “Maybe It’s Ok,” “Magnify,” “Point To You,” “Love,” “Everything Comes Alive,” “God With Us,” “This Is Jesus” and “From Heaven To Earth (Joy To The World).” The band has had multiple sync film and TV placements on major networks including Lionsgate, MTV and CBC. We Are Messengers has played for a live audience of over 2 million people across 40 states and 5 countries, including selling out shows in the Netherlands, England, and lead vocalist Darren Mulligan’s native Ireland. Following consecutive USA arena tours with TobyMac and Casting Crowns, the band headlined the Wholehearted Tour in 2022. From March to May of 2023, We Are Messengers was on Casting Crowns’ The Healer Tour, and among festival dates during the Summer of 2023, the band was also on the Summer Worship Nights Tour with Phil Wickham and Brandon Lake. The Dove-nominated and K-LOVE Fan Award winning group’s new album, Where The Joy Is, releases April 5, 2024.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Exploring the Depths of Worship with Sarah Kroger

In a recent episode of The Walk podcast, Worship Leader Magazine’s Editor-in-Chief Joshua Swanson had an engaging conversation with renowned artist, songwriter, and worship leader Sarah Kroger. Their discussion ranged from the personal challenges of faith to the transformative power of music ministry.

Navigating the Wilderness

Sarah Kroger opened up about a profound period in her life where she felt a disconnect from God. Despite her strong foundation in faith, she found herself unable to perceive God’s presence, leading to confusion and shame. This experience, however, became a critical part of her spiritual journey. She shared, 

“As much as I felt like the real presence of God around me in creation, there was this moment where things shifted, and I felt like I couldn't hear Him.”

Kroger emphasized that these moments of spiritual dryness are not uncommon and should not be a source of shame. Instead, they are an invitation to deepen one's faith and trust in God's unfathomable wisdom. She candidly reflected on the struggles and beauty of such a journey, underscoring the importance of honesty with God.

The Ministry of Music

Kroger's first radio tour was a revelatory experience, showcasing the deep ministry potential within Christian radio. She discovered that radio stations serve as crucial lifelines to their communities, offering solace, inspiration, and sometimes even life-changing moments to listeners. This revelation redefined her perspective on her music’s reach and impact.

She highlighted the humbling reality of her music's ministry, saying, 

“I write this music and release it and I submit it to the Lord and I just say, ‘Lord, do whatever you want with it.’” 

Kroger expressed gratitude for the anonymous listeners who have been touched by her songs, seeing it as a protection against pride and a reminder of the true purpose of her artistry.

Embracing Modern Tools for Ministry

The conversation also touched on the role of social media in Kroger’s ministry. Despite the challenges of comparison and the superficiality that social media can bring, she acknowledged its power to connect and minister to a diverse audience. A viral cover of “What a Wonderful World” on Instagram brought many non-believers to her page, illustrating social media’s potential to be a back door to Christian music and ministry.

Lessons in Belovedness

A recurring theme in Kroger’s work is the struggle with self-worth and comparison, which she poignantly addresses in her song “Belovedness.” Inspired by Henri Nouwen’s book “Life of the Beloved,” the song reflects Kroger’s journey towards embracing her identity in Christ, free from societal pressures and past hurts. This journey is ongoing, and Kroger’s transparency about her struggles provides a source of comfort and solidarity for many of her listeners.

A New Reality

The pandemic prompted Kroger to delve into new creative depths, resulting in her latest album, "A New Reality." The album was birthed from a place of reflection, as she walked through the seasons, both literal and spiritual. The title track, "New Reality," encapsulates her message of finding wonder in God’s creation and embracing the mysteries of faith.

Kroger’s conversation with Swanson illuminated the complex and often challenging path of faith. It’s a journey marked by highs and lows, certainty and doubt, but always underpinned by God’s unwavering presence. Her testimony is a powerful reminder that faith is not about having all the answers but about trusting in God’s goodness and sovereignty, even in the midst of uncertainty.

For more insights from Sarah Kroger and to experience her latest album, "A New Reality," visit WorshipLeader.com. Also, be sure to check out our show notes for her latest music video, "Still Yours," and explore the rich content available at LifeAudio.com.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.sarahkroger.com/
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.worshipleaderinstitute.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Sarah Kroger?

Sarah Kroger is a GMA Dove Award®-nominated artist, songwriter, and worship leader. She has released several albums, including *Your Time* (2011), *Hallelujah Is Our Song* (2013), *Bloom* (2019), *Light* (2020), and *London Sessions* (2023). Her latest project, *A New Reality*, is set to release on May 17, 2024, through Integrity Music.

Growing up with parents involved in worship ministry, Kroger’s love for music was kindled at an early age. However, the impact of bullying, combined with struggles with anxiety and shyness, kept her musical talents hidden for many years. Everything changed when she experienced an intimate encounter with Jesus during worship at a youth conference. "Worship became my language with God," she explains. "It allowed me to communicate with the Lord in a way I hadn’t experienced before...it opened my heart."

Recognizing music as a gift she wanted to give back to God, Kroger began leading worship globally, uniting people from diverse cultures and church backgrounds under the banner of Jesus. She is passionate about creating a safe and prayerful space through her music, focusing on an authentic portrayal of her relationship with God.

With *A New Reality*, Kroger hopes to convey that it is okay to question and to embrace the unraveling, knowing there is One who gently mends the tangled threads into a beautiful, reconstructed tapestry. The album features contemplative songs that reveal honest vulnerability and corporate worship songs that celebrate the magnificence of God. The entire collection offers new perspectives on suffering, questions, and silence as foundations for a renewed faith—one that is strengthened through struggle. Sarah Kroger invites listeners into this newness, encouraging them to ponder the mystery of God, rest in wonder, and see questions as a sacred path to a new reality.

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The Walk Podcast Celebrates Mother's Day: An Inspiring Conversation with Kim Walker-Smith

In a heartwarming special edition of The Walk Podcast, hosted by Worship Leader Magazine's Editor-in-Chief Joshua Swanson, listeners were treated to a profound discussion with renowned worship leader, artist, and songwriter Kim Walker-Smith. This Mother’s Day special not only honored mothers but offered insights applicable to all listeners, underscored by Kim's personal journey into motherhood and her reflections on parenting as a sacred honor.

The Legacy of Family

Kim shared her initially reluctant journey to motherhood, marked by fears and uncertainties that resonate with many. Despite her successful career leading worship globally, she revealed a pivotal moment when God shifted her perspective towards the legacy of family. This revelation came through struggles with her firstborn, Wyatt, whose sleep difficulties in his early months highlighted deeper fears Kim harbored about failing as a mother. Her candid recount of feeling abandoned by God, only to realize it was a moment of profound personal growth and healing, was particularly moving.

Your Role as a Parent

Her story is a testament to the transformative power of embracing one's role as a parent. Kim discussed the ongoing commitment required to connect with her children's hearts, a task that varies in difficulty as they grow but is always worth the effort. Her narrative is an encouraging reminder for parents in the worship community that their primary ministry begins at home, with their children.

The Devil Wants Your Children

The discussion also touched on the broader spiritual warfare over the family unit, urging parents to remain vigilant and proactive in their children's lives. Kim's powerful prayer encapsulated a blessing for all parents, invoking God's presence and guidance in their journey of raising children who are deeply connected with their faith.

Listeners were also invited to check out Kim's new song "Mama," a fitting tribute available in the show notes at worshipleader.com. This episode, supported by Planning Center and Life Audio, is not just a celebration of mothers but a call to all parents to cherish and fight for their sacred role.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the links below.

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Links:

• https://kimwalkersmith.com/
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.worshipleaderinstitute.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Kim Walker-Smith?

Kim Walker-Smith is celebrated for her exceptional vocals and spirit-led worship anthems. Kim emerged as a prominent worship leader for the Jesus Culture movement in the 2010s. With massive hits like "How He Loves", "Spirit Break Out," "Protector" and “Throne Room,” Kim has amassed over 400M streams and a combined social following of almost two million. Kim’s influence extends beyond music as she is a sought-after speaker and an influential faith leader. She and her husband, Skyler, reside in Montana and have three children, sons Wyatt and Bear, and daughter Maisie.

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Welcome, esteemed readers and devoted listeners, to another enriching exploration of worship as a dynamic spiritual practice and a formidable form of spiritual warfare. In the latest devotional podcast from The Walk, hosted by Joshua Swanson, Editor-in-Chief of Worship Leader Magazine, we are privileged to hear from Meredith Andrews, a revered voice in the worship community. Her insights not only delve into the personal and communal aspects of worship but also highlight its profound impact on confronting the spiritual and existential challenges we face today.

Worship as Warfare

Meredith Andrews, with heartfelt conviction, articulates worship as an essential strategy in spiritual warfare, not just for worship leaders but for every believer contending with life’s battles. She draws on poignant personal experiences and biblical narratives, emphasizing that worship is not merely a ritualistic engagement but an active, powerful stance against spiritual adversities. Her reflections are anchored in the scriptural account from 2 Chronicles 20, where Jehoshaphat and the Israelites, facing overwhelming odds, turned to God in worship before engaging in battle. This narrative underscores the pivotal role of worship in achieving divine victory, even when physical battles loom large.

The Role of Personal and Corporate Worship

Andrews’ experiences on the worship platform illustrate the dual nature of worship—it is both a personal encounter with God and a communal experience that strengthens and unifies the body of Christ. She recounts moments of vulnerability, where the act of worship became a conduit for God’s grace and power, providing peace and strategic guidance amid turmoil. Her testimony is a vivid illustration of how worship can transform personal fear into a declaration of faith and authority.

As we reflect on Meredith Andrews’ insights, we are reminded of the transformative power of worship—it is not only a response to God’s glory but a declaration of His sovereignty over our lives and our circumstances. Worship as a practice transcends the confines of church walls, touching every aspect of our lives,and empowering us to confront and conquer the trials we face.

In closing, let us carry forward the mantle of worship as our spiritual armor, emboldened by the truth that our worship not only reaches the heart of God but actively participates in the spiritual realm, bringing the Kingdom of God to bear on our earthly journeys.

May you find encouragement and strength in your walk of faith, and may our collective worship rise like a sweet fragrance to the heavens, declaring God’s sovereignty and love over every aspect of our lives.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://meredithandrews.com/
• Planning Center University: https://tinyurl.com/m3u4fn4n
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.worshipleaderinstitute.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Meredith Andrews?

Curb | Word Entertainment recording artist Meredith Andrews is passionate about writing and leading songs that keep people’s hearts and minds set on Jesus. Over the course of her career, the Dove Award-winning artist has been using her musical gifts, love for God, and her huge heart for His people - to teach and remind us all about the enormity of our awesome and loving Savior. Andrews was previously part of the Vertical Worship team, and more recently Belonging Co., her home church in Nashville. As a gifted songwriter and recording artist, she has been a part of multiple songs sung by churches across America such as “Open Up The Heavens”, “Lamb of God”, “Not For A Moment”, “Spirit of the Living God,” and “Faith and Wonder.” Andrews often leads worship at major women’s and worship leader conferences across the U.S., and has toured with Matt Maher, Natalie Grant, Big Daddy Weave, Vertical Worship, Phil Wickham, and Michael W. Smith, among others. Meredith’s latest album, Heaven's Frequency, released on March, 22, 2024.

Scripture References

• 2 Chronicles 20
• 2 Corinthians 10:3-5

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A Texan's Journey with Red Heifers and Biblical Prophecies

In today's exploration, we delve into a riveting conversation from the latest episode of "The Walk," hosted by our Editor-in-Chief, Joshua Swanson, with the distinguished Byron Stinson, a Texas native. This episode invites us into the profound layers of a project that’s stirred significant global interest among various faith communities—the transportation of five red heifers to Israel.

A Mission Rooted in Prophecy

The endeavor that Byron Stinson has embarked upon is not just a logistic challenge but a profound fulfillment of Biblical prophecies, resonating deeply with both Christian and Jewish eschatological traditions. As Joshua introduced Byron, we were reminded of the scripture's call for a red heifer in Numbers 19—a requirement for the biblical purification rites essential for the rebuilding of the Holy Temple.

A Divine Call and Response

Byron's narrative is a powerful testimony to a divine calling. At the tender age of 14, Byron heard what he believed to be a conversation between God and Lucifer, foretelling his future involvement with the Jewish people. This experience set the stage for his lifelong commitment to this cause, despite not knowing any Jewish individuals at the time. His story is a vivid illustration of faith’s journey from prophecy to action.

Engagement in Israel

Byron’s contributions to Israel began in earnest in 2007, funded by an unexpected boon from gas wells on his property. Instead of personal gain, Byron chose to dedicate these resources to fostering closer ties between Christian pastors and Jewish scholars in Israel. This initiative reflects a broader vision of unity and mutual enrichment between the faiths, grounded in shared reverence for sacred texts and histories.

The Red Heifer Project

The quest for the red heifers involved not only meticulous planning and coordination—engaging ranchers across Texas through modern technology—but also a significant spiritual and communal effort. The selected heifers, particularly distinguished by their pure red color, symbolize more than just animals; they are a bridge to fulfilling ancient rites that hold profound contemporary significance.

Interfaith Relations and Future Hopes

Byron passionately discussed the implications of the red heifer project on Christian-Jewish relations, emphasizing the covenantal relationship with God that both faiths cherish. He views these efforts as a step towards realizing a scriptural prophecy that envisions a unity in worship among all of God's children on the Temple Mount, promoting peace and mutual respect among the Abrahamic faiths.

A Call to Action

The episode was not just a recounting of past deeds but a fervent call to action for Christians to engage more deeply with their spiritual heritage and support the Jewish community in tangible ways. This aligns with our magazine's vision of nurturing a house of prayer for all nations, drawing us closer to the divine promise of peace and reconciliation.

As we reflect on Byron’s endeavors and the theological underpinnings discussed in this episode, let us consider how we, too, can contribute to this grand narrative of faith, hope, and unity. May our paths be guided by wisdom, and our actions be a testament to the love and obedience we owe to our Creator.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.bonehisrael.com/
• https://www.christianity.com/wiki/end-times/is-the-red-heifer-tale-in-israel-biblical-fact-or-prophetic-fiction.html
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.worshipleaderinstitute.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Byron Stinson?

Byron Stinson, alongside his wife Tammy, are devout Judeo-Christian adherents of the God of Abraham and the Messianic promise through David's lineage. Byron diligently serves as an international fundraiser and advisor for Boneh Israel, an organization dedicated to the restoration and building up of Israel, as inspired by prophetic scriptures such as Ezekiel 37:16. This passage symbolically unites the tribes of Israel, signifying their divine reunification.

Residing on the southern edge of Jerusalem with a picturesque view of the Shepherd’s fields near Bethlehem, Byron, Tammy, and their youngest son, Isaac, also maintain a charming farm along the Brazos River in Glen Rose, Texas. In 2007, the couple established the Father’s House Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity that promotes mercy ministries and organizes educational pilgrimages to Israel.

The Stinsons, blessed with eight children and over seventeen grandchildren, find profound joy in serving the Lord and contributing to their various enterprises, including Glen Rose Transportation Management Inc. and National Fleet Tracking LLC. Their careers are supported by a dedicated team, ensuring integrity and value in their services.

Byron’s leadership extends beyond business, having chaired the Glen Rose ISD Board, the Somervell County Library Board, and other significant roles within his community. He has contributed as President of The Promise in Glen Rose, the parks and recreation department of Somervell County, a central education district encompassing 40 schools, and as a member of the Somervell County Central Appraisal District. He also served as a constable in Somervell County from 1976 to 1979.

In a notable recent development, rabbis from Jerusalem authenticated 21 red heifers in Texas, overseen by Boneh Israel, marking a significant step in their journey to Israel, aligning with scriptural prophecy and the Stinsons' faith-driven initiatives.

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The Spiritual Genesis of Lucy Grimble

In a delightful and insightful episode of The Walk Podcast, Lucy Grimble, a gifted U.K.-based worship artist, sits down with Joshua Swanson, the sagacious Editor-in-Chief of Worship Leader Magazine. Together, they unveil the tapestry of Lucy's spiritual journey, intertwined delicately with the rich heritage of Anglican worship and the profound, transformative encounter with the Toronto Blessing.

Lucy’s narrative begins in the quiet suburbs of London, within the venerable walls of a Victorian Anglican church, where the unsuspecting formality was lovingly interrupted by a divine wind — the Spirit's touch. It was in these tender years that Lucy encountered the tangible reality of God's presence, shaping her path and beckoning her into a commitment to Christ — a decision uniquely her own, stepping beyond familial faith.

The Heart of Authentic Worship

As we eavesdrop on their conversation, Lucy's artistic voyage surfaces as one marked by authenticity. Her songwriting, a sanctuary of honest dialogue with God, resounds with the depth of psalms and the rawness of personal pilgrimage. She shares the emergence of her craft amidst faith's awakening, melding the two in a harmonious expression of devotion.

Diversity and Desire: The Church in London

Swanson probes the landscape of Lucy's context, the Anglican communion in London, rich with diversity and a universal thirst for the Spirit's outpouring. Lucy’s experiences across the ecclesiastical spectrum — from high church ceremonies to Pentecostal vigor — bear witness to a collective desire for God’s transformative work in society.

Artistic Integrity in the Shadow of Industry

Amidst the richness of their dialogue, Lucy recounts the challenge of nurturing creativity in an environment divergent from the commercial hub of Nashville's Christian Contemporary Music scene. With integrity and a desire to preserve the freedom of her artistic voice, Lucy embraces her roots in the U.K., savoring the earnest purity found in the fellowship of local artists.

The Birth of a Testimony Through Melody

The podcast glides into the reflective tones of Lucy’s latest album, a contemplative project birthed from the crucible of pandemic-driven despair. Here, in the tension between darkness and light, she finds a canvas for her testimony, painting with the hues of endurance and the brushstrokes of divine faithfulness.

A Word of Encouragement to Worship Leaders

For fellow worship leaders, Lucy imparts a resonant encouragement: the intrinsic worth of pursuing the beauty of the Lord, the enduring anchor of our soul's adoration. Her words, steeped in wisdom, beckon us to seek renewed revelation of Christ's splendor.

Lucy Grimble's story, shared with humility and vibrance on The Walk Podcast, is a beckoning call to encounter grace in the unlikely — to see God's spirit move in unexpected places and to sing a new song, one that resonates through the formal aisles of tradition and into the vibrant streets of contemporary life.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://lucygrimble.com/
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.worshipleaderinstitute.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Lucy Grimble?

In the heart of London, UK, stands Lucy Grimble, a worship leader and songwriter whose decade-long tenure has been marked by an unyielding commitment to crafting spaces of divine love and unity through music. With over ten years of experience, Lucy has honed her art as a solo performer and as the linchpin of a band of adept musicians and vocalists. Her music transcends mere performance; it is an invitation to experience the love of God, an embrace that dissolves barriers and kindles a deep-seated love for the divine, self, and neighbor.

Lucy's latest concept album, "Between the Shadow and the Sun," is a poignant chronicle of her three-year odyssey through the valleys of creativity, spirituality, and mental resilience. Born amidst the global pandemic's uncertainty, this collection of songs delves with rare sincerity into themes of trauma, doubt, unrest, and loss, capturing the collective human experience against the backdrop of recent global events. The album is an exploration of the coexistence of darkness and light within the human journey, reflecting the dichotomy of struggle and hope that defines the contemporary Christian experience.

"I found that pain and suffering cannot be divorced from the Christian walk," Lucy reflects, her insights informing the very sinews of her album. The project lays bare the process of learning to trust in God amidst trials, with introspective pieces like "Shedding Skin," "Ready for the Dawn," and "Plans" juxtaposed against the uplifting resonance of "Hope (Again)" and "Spacious Place." The soundscape of the album is a rich tapestry of intricate piano arrangements, layered vocal textures, and a folk-meets-synth melody line, creating an auditory experience with a wide appeal, particularly for those wrestling with their faith.

Lucy's fervent hope is that her listeners will find solace in the album's narrative, drawing from the well of God's unchanging kindness and mercy. She invites her audience to find a friend in the great darkness and to trust in the constancy of God's presence. "Between the Shadow and the Sun" is more than an album; it's a testament to hope, a narrative of wrestling, and ultimately, a chronicle of finding God's light in the darkest of places.

When Lucy is not immersing herself in songwriting and music production, she dedicates her time to guiding others through workshops on songwriting and worship, sharing her journey and fostering a new generation of worship artists. Her career is not merely a series of records but a continuous outpouring of her soul, with more creative projects eagerly anticipated in the pipeline.

Lucy Grimble stands as a beacon in the realm of worship music—a lyrical alchemist who transforms the raw materials of life's experiences into golden threads of melody, inviting all to partake in the beauty of God's eternal song.

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In this episode of “The Walk” podcast, Joshua Swanson, our esteemed Editor-in-Chief, engaged in a profound dialogue with the artist and worship leader Mac Powell, whose seasoned wisdom shines through the tenure of his journey in Christian music. 

Powell, with grace akin to the silver strands in his beard, reflects on his newfound role as an elder statesman in the industry. He fondly recalls the influence of stalwarts like Michael W. Smith and Stephen Curtis Chapman, now passing the baton as a mentor to the newer generation of artists. 

Divine Redirection in a Time of Global Pause

Amidst the unforeseen global pause brought by COVID-19, Powell found a divine redirection of his path— from touring to becoming an artist in residence at a local church in Atlanta, joining hands with Dr. Michael Youssef.

This transition unearthed treasures of fellowship and community, contrasting the transient connections of touring life. As a solo artist and a worship leader, he basks in the continuity of nurturing relationships within the body of Christ. 

Humility and the Fame Conundrum

His humility, a byproduct of his faith and family life, repudiates any notion of fame going to his head. Powell shares how the acknowledgment of not being "good enough" serves not as a defeat but a testament to Christ's sufficiency.

Confronting Lies with Gospel Truth

In his battle against the lies of inadequacy, Powell holds onto the gospel truth that his value and capabilities are firmly rooted in Jesus Christ. His fervent prayers and walks symbolize an ongoing pursuit of closeness with the Savior, an honest reflection of his dependency on God for every breath.

Mentoring the Next Generation

Powell's insights into mentoring the younger generation reveal his excitement for the fresh voices rising in the Christian music space. He observes the vibrant faith of youth, their growth, and their commitment, which bodes well for the future of worship. 

The Indispensable Church

Addressing concerns about the relevance of church for young people, Powell articulates the foundational Christian doctrine of communal worship—pointing to the scriptural mandate not to forsake gathering as believers. He sees the church as an irreplaceable forum for mutual edification and spiritual growth.

Personal Goals and Spiritual Leadership

As a leader in the worship music domain, Powell's goals remain steadfast: deepening his faith and understanding of Scripture, a journey inspired by his wife's dedication to studying the New Testament. His focus on personal spiritual growth aligns with his mission in ministry and music.

Music's Role in Spiritual Warfare

Speaking on spiritual warfare, Powell acknowledges its reality, emphasizing the vital role of music in the spiritual battle. He references scriptural instances where music and worship played pivotal roles in God's plan, and shares his own practice of incorporating hymns into worship, a tribute to the rich theological heritage they carry.

Family Ties in Ministry

Finally, Powell expresses the joy of touring with his family, where his children occasionally accompany him as part of his band, underscoring the intertwining of his faith and family life in his ministry.

As Powell left with a Chick-fil-A-inspired "my pleasure," we too are left with nourishment—but of the soul, fed by the earnest testament of a life devoted to worship, humility, and the stewardship of Christ's legacy in music.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.macpowell.com/
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.worshipleaderinstitute.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Mac Powell?

Hailing from the heartland of Alabama and relocating to Atlanta, Georgia during his high school years, Mac Powell would go on to establish the influential Christian rock ensemble, Third Day. This iconic group would not only shape the Christian music scene over their illustrious twenty-seven-year run but also amass a following that led to over 10 million album sales. Their accolades include capturing four Grammy Awards, one American Music Award, a remarkable twenty-four Dove Awards, and an esteemed induction into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame. 

After the band's farewell tour in 2018, Powell embarked on a solo journey, leading to the triumphant release of his album "New Creation" on October 15, 2021. Debuting at the summit of the Top Christian & Gospel album chart, "New Creation" marked Powell's continued resonance in the industry. Its lead single "River of Life" surged into the Top 10 on Christian radio, while the album's titular track "New Creation" remained a fixture in the top 10 for 19 weeks, peaking at No. 2 for 7 of those weeks.

Powell's commitment to his faith extends beyond the recording studio, as he serves at the Church of the Apostles in Atlanta. There, amidst the vibrant congregation, he weaves life with his beloved wife Aimee and their children, fostering a home where music and ministry intertwine.

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The Transformative Power of Scriptural Songwriting

Aaron Shust, a prominent voice in Christian music, offers an enlightening perspective on the role of Scripture in songwriting. His creative process, deeply anchored in biblical texts, transcends the mere composition of music. It is an act of faith, believing that the Word of God, when melded with melody, will accomplish its divine purposes in the hearts of listeners. Shust's commitment to this principle is particularly evident in his work with psalms, where he crafts musical expressions that resonate with both familiarity and spiritual profundity. His approach is not about creating from a deity's perspective but embodying the worshipper's voice, akin to David's psalms. As he quotes Jesus in Matthew 11, Shust underscores the inherent power of divine words that work beyond human capacity to inspire or evoke emotion.

A Pilgrimage to the Heart of Worship

Shust's pilgrimage to Israel in 2016 was transformative, deepening his understanding of biblical events and their present reality. He recounts how walking in the footsteps of Jesus across the historic landscapes of Israel imprinted on him a profound sense of the Scriptures' authenticity and the enduring significance of these sacred sites. This experience not only enriched his personal faith journey but also influenced his music, infusing it with the weight and spiritual significance of the Holy Land.

The Ongoing Relevance of Israel in Worship

In a world striving for equity and sensitivity, the unique role of Israel in God's divine narrative continues to captivate Shust. The mysterious choice of Israel and its people plays a pivotal role in the fulfillment of biblical prophecy, as well as in the unfolding of God's ultimate plan. Shust passionately conveys his desire to stand with Israel and acknowledges the intricate plans God has for all nations while maintaining a balanced love for Israel and its neighbors.

Generational Leadership in Worship

Reflecting on intergenerational dynamics within the church, Shust emphasizes the need for authenticity in worship across age groups. He challenges the next generation to inquire and engage with the practices of worship passed down to them, fostering a dialogue that respects tradition while allowing for evolution. As someone who now finds himself in the role of the mentor rather than the mentee, he seeks to inspire younger worshippers to contribute meaningfully to the church's legacy.

The Sanctity of Gathering

Shust highlights the beauty and necessity of the Christian community coming together in worship, echoing the early church's unity and fervor. He sees the gathering of believers as a fundamental expression of the church, vital to its spiritual vigor and reflective of the inherent human need for connection and shared faith.

Worship and Relevance in Songwriting

Navigating the delicate balance between timeless and contemporary, Shust aims for his music to hold relevance for all generations without alienating any. He aspires for his creations to be recognized as timeless classics, pairing eternal content with melodies that stand the test of time.

The Journey to Songwriting as a Calling

From his first song at the age of 11, Shust's songwriting journey has been one of spiritual and emotional exploration. His process, richly influenced by his musical education and personal faith, led him to discover the profound satisfaction of setting Scripture to music. His story is a testament to the power of creative expression as a means of worship.

Words of Wisdom: Advice to the Younger Self

Reflecting on his younger years, Shust would advise his younger self to embrace the present, trust in God's direction, and value the present ministry over future aspirations. His growth as an artist and believer underscores the importance of faithfulness in small things and the recognition of God's sovereignty over our life's path.

Artistic Creation as Ministry

Shust advocates for a ministry-focused approach to artistry, ensuring that creative works serve to edify others and glorify God. He encourages artists to consider the impact of their art on the spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being of their audience, moving beyond self-serving motives toward a ministry that points to the divine.

Leading Worship with Imperfection

In his humility, Shust acknowledges that worship leaders, like all believers, are flawed vessels. Yet, he has witnessed God's grace in using imperfect individuals to lead others in worship. Striving for a clean heart and pure hands is a continual pursuit for Shust, highlighting the necessity of confession and dependence on God's mercy.

Aaron Shust's dialogue in "The Walk" reminds us that worship is both a personal devotion and a communal experience. Through his music and reflections, he illustrates the power of authenticity, scriptural grounding, and the beauty of shared faith. His journey encourages us to seek deeper connections with our heritage of faith, to honor our traditions while welcoming fresh expressions, and to cherish the act of gathering as a cornerstone of worship.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.aaronshust.com/
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.worshipleaderinstitute.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Aaron Shust?

Aaron Shust's musical journey is marked by a profound connection with both the art of music and the spiritual depth of God's Word. From his early days at the piano, Aaron has been deeply engaged with the nuances of sound, melody, and musical structure. His commitment to exploring the complexities of Scripture has been equally significant, delving into the narratives that portray the messianic figure of Jesus.

Shust's discography, including hits like “My Savior My God,” reflects these core passions, earning him accolades such as the 2007 New Artist, Songwriter, and Song of the Year awards. His personal trials, including his son’s Down Syndrome diagnosis and family health battles, have deepened his reliance on faith, echoed in anthems like “My Hope is in You” and “Ever Be.”

Aaron’s exploration of his faith led to a rich connection with the Messianic Jewish community, deepening his understanding of the Hebrew Scriptures and Jewish customs. This journey profoundly influences his music, as evidenced in the project Heaven + Earth: The Psalms Project, where Shust integrates traditional Hebrew elements and collaborates with Israeli artists to bring ancient biblical praises to life.

Residing in Nashville with his wife Sarah and their children, Daniel, Nick, and Michael, Aaron Shust continues to weave his life experiences, faith, and musical talents into a tapestry that not only entertains but also spiritually nourishes his audience. 

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In the latest episode of The Walk podcast, we find ourselves in a rich conversation with the artists Marty and Jennifer Goetz, whose lives have been a tapestry woven with the threads of faith, music, and heritage. One cannot help but be moved by the authenticity with which they share their journey.

Embracing Heritage and Faith

Marty Goetz, a man who embraces his identity as a Jewish gospel singer, captures our imagination as he recounts his aspirations to be like the musical icons of his time. Yet, in the heartfelt and humble recollections shared with his wife, Jennifer, we are gently reminded of the transforming power of the Psalms and the timeless relevance of worship.

The Transformative Power of Partnership

Jennifer's voice in the conversation serves as a testament to the supportive and integral role she has played in their ministry, as well as a witness to the personal and spiritual transformation that unfolds when one encounters the divine amid life’s tumult.

The Journey Through the Psalms

Their story is a narrative of discovery, with each chapter marked by a Psalm—like milestones along the path of their faith walk. The most profound of these Psalms, Psalm 23, becomes a lens through which they view their past and present, a scriptural anchor that has seen them through the shadows and into the light.

Rediscovering Worship

The Goetzes' reflections serve as a devotional roadmap, inviting us to consider the profound depths of Scripture and the personal relationship we can have with its Author. Marty's anecdote of rewriting Psalm 23, which was first sung out of a new believer's passion and later out of the wisdom of experience, challenges us to approach familiar passages with fresh eyes and renewed hearts.

Finding the Altar at Home

In the crucible of life's hardships, from cancer to the isolation brought on by a global pandemic, Marty and Jennifer discovered an altar in their home. They transformed their space into a House of Worship, rekindling their spiritual fervor and refining their ministry to reflect a more intimate and communal worship experience.

The Ministry of Song

Their conversation is a witness to the fact that the valleys and mountaintops of our faith journey can lead to a deeper, more profound worship—a worship that goes beyond the walls of churches and into the very heart of our daily lives.

Anticipating "Shepherd of Israel"

Their upcoming release, "Shepherd of Israel," holds the promise of a song born out of both tribulation and triumph, encapsulating their shared story and the stories of many who will find solace in its melody.

As we take our leave from this episode of The Walk, we carry with us the resonant truth that, like David the Psalmist and the Goetzes, we are all invited to sing a new song to the Lord, a song that rises from the narrative of our lives, echoing the faithfulness of the Shepherd of Israel.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.martygoetz.com/
• Planning Center University: https://tinyurl.com/m3u4fn4n
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Jennifer Yaffee Goetz?

Jennifer Yaffee was born in New York City into a conservative Jewish family. In her mid-twenties she began traveling with Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, and many other musical icons of the sixties. She was immersed in a pop culture lifestyle that anyone looking in would likely covet, yet she found herself empty and unfulfilled. At the age of 25 she gave her life to Yeshua, and in 1984 she married Marty Goetz, another Jewish believer in Jesus. Within that same year, Marty recorded his first album and the two have built Marty Goetz Ministries together from the ground up, traveling and singing all over the world to share the good news of Yeshua with both Jew and Gentile alike.

Who is Marty Goetz?

Emmy-nominated, Marty Goetz has been called a ‘Modern-Day Psalmist.’ His songs are scriptures beautifully set to music, leaving listeners spiritually moved, inspired and edified.  He has partnered in ministry with many others, including the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, Greg Laurie’s Harvest Christian Fellowship, Jewish Voice Ministries International, and numerous Christian and Messianic organizations throughout the world.

Marty became a 'Jew born anew' when, provoked by the increasing number of 'born agains' in his life, he began reading the Bible, “looking for loopholes." A few short weeks later, sitting alone one night on a friend's balcony, he realized with certainty that “the Jesus of the New Testament was the Messiah my Jewish people have been longing for.”

Marty has been recording music steadily since 1985, and today lives outside of Nashville, Tennessee, with his wife Jennifer, who also is a Jewish believer in Jesus. Their daughter, Misha, is herself a worship leader and recording artist, and lives outside of Washington, D.C. with her husband Joshua and their children Caleb, Samuel, and Lillian. 

In March 2020, at the beginning of the pandemic, Marty and Jenny began a live stream broadcast from their home every Tuesday and Friday at 7 PM (Central Time). The broadcast can be found on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. Their online gathering called ‘House of Worship’ is a time of worship, prayer, and fellowship that continues to this day.

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In the recent episode of The Walk listeners were treated to a profound and heartfelt devotional by Sean Rodriguez, a worship leader and artist renowned for his breakout pop anthem "Center Stage" and his participation in the 2023 Winter Jam Tour. With an evangelical heritage that shapes his music, Rodriguez is dedicated to celebrating God's transformative power and majesty, making him a fitting guest for a discussion on the essentials of worship leadership.

Sean Rodriguez's Personal Journey and Insights

Sean Rodriguez shared his personal journey, rooted in a rich church upbringing under the guidance of his grandfather, a pastor in Denver, Colorado. His narrative revealed the dual nature of church life, highlighting both its challenges and blessings. Rodriguez stressed the significance of growing up in a church environment, which instilled in him a deep-seated understanding of serving, leading, and the importance of aligning one's leadership with prayer and the pursuit of God's will over personal ambition.

The Heart of Worship Leadership

Central to Rodriguez's message was the concept of self-examination for worship leaders and team members alike. He urged individuals to reflect on their motivations for leading worship, emphasizing the need for authenticity and a heart aligned with God's purposes. This introspection extends beyond the leaders to encompass the entire worship team, fostering an environment where serving others becomes a primary focus. Rodriguez advocated for leadership through servitude, drawing on the biblical principle that true leaders are the foremost servants.

Facilitating Congregational Participation

Rodriguez also touched upon the dynamics of worship settings, challenging leaders to create spaces that encourage active participation rather than passive observation. This involves demonstrating worship through actions and attitudes, thereby guiding the congregation in their worship journey.

The episode served as a reminder of the sacred responsibility entrusted to worship leaders and teams, urging them to approach their roles with reverence, humility, and a steadfast commitment to fostering environments where the presence of God is palpably felt, and hearts are drawn closer to Him.

As we reflect on Sean Rodriguez's insights, let us carry forward the reminder that worship leadership is not merely a role but a divine calling to facilitate encounters with the living God, where the hearts of His people are united in adoration and reverence. May we embrace this calling with gratitude, diligence, and a ceaseless desire to see His will done in and through our lives.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.seanrodriguezmusic.com/
• Planning Center University: https://tinyurl.com/m3u4fn4n
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Sean Rodriguez?

Sean Rodriguez, previously known as Sean BE, has experienced a remarkable surge in visibility and impact within the Christian music scene, particularly highlighted by his role as a featured Pre-Jam artist during the 2023 Winter Jam tour—a significant event in the Christian music calendar. This new chapter in his career not only advances his musical endeavors but also pays homage to the evangelistic legacy his grandfather established over four decades ago. Before immersing himself in the music industry, Rodriguez dedicated his efforts to guiding young minds as a children’s pastor and youth leader. His 2023 hit, "Center Stage," has captured the hearts of a global audience, boasting over 2.5 million streams. Signed with WieRok Entertainment, Rodriguez has had the honor of sharing stages with luminaries like Michael W. Smith, for KING & COUNTRY, KB, and Cain at prestigious festivals such as Lifest, Big Ticket Festival, and Off The Charts Music Festival. His recent works include "The Unbelievable," a worshipful pop song that magnifies the transformative power of God, and "Glory," a hip-hop flavored track with Holly Halliwell, celebrating the divine majesty.

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From Asbury to Authenticity: The Walk Podcast Explores Revival with Consumed by Fire

The latest episode of The Walk, hosted by Worship Leader Magazine's Joshua Swanson, shines a spotlight on the Ward brothers of the band Consumed by Fire. The brothers share their fervent commitment to spreading the gospel through their music and discuss their spiritual journey influenced by their ministry-rich family heritage.

A Revival of Hearts: The Asbury Awakening Discussed

The conversation takes a deep dive into the recent revival movements, especially the one that began at Asbury University. The brothers reflect on the genuine thirst for God’s presence that is igniting a wildfire of faith across the nation, marking what they consider the precursor to the greatest revival yet.

The Church's Relevance in Contemporary Times

The podcast touches on a provocative question about the church's place in today’s world. The Ward brothers challenge the cynicism facing modern faith communities, advocating for a resurgence of expectation and divine wisdom as the antidote to doubt.

A New Generational Flame: The Fiery Faith of Youth Today

The discussion shifts to the remarkable traits of the upcoming generation of believers. The Wards express their admiration for the youth's unapologetic worship and innovative spirit, recognizing them as a potent force for the future of Christianity.

Balancing Ministry and Artistry: Worship Leading vs. Christian Performance

Navigating the complexities between ministry-focused music and the identity of a Christian artist, the Wards elaborate on their ministry-first mindset, emphasizing the power of music to usher listeners into the presence of God rather than glorify the performer.

Brotherhood and Bandhood: Navigating Life on the Road

The interview concludes with the Ward brothers recounting humorous and heartfelt stories from their life touring together, highlighting the realities of familial relationships intertwined with the vocation of ministry.

Closing Thoughts

The episode concludes with an acoustic rendition of "First Things First," symbolizing the band's commitment to their calling and the power of surrendering to God's will in their ministry and music.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://consumedbyfire.com/
• Planning Center University: https://tinyurl.com/m3u4fn4n
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/
  

Who is Consumed by Fire?

No strangers to the nomadic lifestyle intrinsic to their craft, the emerging Contemporary Christian Music ensemble, Consumed By Fire, embodies their moniker in a refreshingly authentic manner. This trio, hailing from Oklahoma, consists of Caleb Ward, whose voice leads the charge; Jordan Ward, who adds depth with harmonies and percussion; and Josh Ward, whose guitar strings complement the vocal harmonies, thereby fulfilling the divine purpose woven into their very existence: to disseminate the message of God's grace through the universal language of music. Caleb articulates a profound truth, stating, "Ministry, in any form it might have taken, is our innate calling." This calling is audibly reflected in their music, a melodic legacy influenced by the diverse musical palate of their father. Their current radio single, "First Things First," is a testament to the trio's familial synergy and the all-encompassing love bestowed upon them by their fathers—both earthly and divine. As this track ascends the radio charts, accolades from esteemed platforms like KLove and Air1 Radio have already begun to spotlight Consumed By Fire for their "deft lyricism and tight harmonies." With an arsenal of new music and a calendar of tour dates on the horizon, the band stands on the cusp of a thrilling and musically abundant year.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In our latest episode of The Walk podcast, we had the honor of delving into the heart and mind of Sarah Reeves, a multifaceted artist whose journey in music is as inspiring as it is instructive. Herein, we provide a comprehensive look at this illuminating exchange.

Welcoming Artistry and Worship

Joshua Swanson, our erudite Editor-in-Chief, sets the stage by introducing Sarah Reeves, an artist who entered the music scene at the mere age of 18. With a career burgeoning with versatility and fervor, Sarah epitomizes the blend of artistry, faith, and vocation. The episode begins with gratitude to Planning Center and the Worship Leader Institute for their invaluable support to the community.

The Essence of Worship

Sarah defines worship as an everyday lifestyle, permeated with sacrifice and surrender, extending beyond church walls into the minutiae of daily living. She advocates for a worshipful life marked by gratitude and a constant consciousness of God’s presence, whether in passing interactions or in the creative process of songwriting.

Balancing Sacredness and Career

In the nexus of worship's sacredness and the demands of a music career, Sarah candidly addresses the complexities she faced. From youthful band competitions to record deals and ministering through music, she navigates the challenges and temptations of the music industry. A poignant moment of self-reflection led her to pause writing worship music, recalibrate her intentions, and return with a renewed focus on serving the church and its congregants.

Challenging Christian Music Labels

Sarah expresses a desire for Christian artists to transcend the confines of labels like Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) and worship music. She aspires for a world where Christian artists freely create and perform across genres and settings, infusing their work with authenticity and spiritual depth that resonate with believers and seekers alike.

Creative Process: Pop vs. Worship

The creative process, for Sarah, remains fundamentally the same regardless of genre. Each day's emotions and reflections may give rise to a worship song or a pop melody. Collaboration and conversation fuel her songwriting, whether for the mainstream or the church.

Encouragement Against Burnout

With burnout prevalent among Christians, Sarah offers solace, advising rest and the importance of supportive community. She emphasizes the value of seeking counsel, focusing on healthy relationships, and guarding against isolation and negativity.

Advice to Her Younger Self

Reflecting on her journey, Sarah would advise her younger self to embrace patience, accept failure as a part of growth, and appreciate the beauty in life's trials. She underscores the importance of authenticity and the power of lived experience in songwriting.

A Vision for the Next Generation

Sarah's enthusiasm for the emerging generation is palpable. She admires their candor and yearns for their fresh perspectives to invigorate the church. She encourages them to maintain their innocence, avoid the pitfalls of comparison, and harness their unique God-given gifts.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://sarahreevesmusic.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/sarahreevesmusic/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Sarah Reeves?

Pop artist and songwriter Sarah Reeves signed her first record deal at age 18. Since then, in addition to pursuing her own artistry, she has dedicated a vast portion of her career to writing songs for other artists for TV and film. Her music has appeared in Disney Plus and National Geographic’s six-part original series “Welcome To Earth,” starring Will Smith; Disney’s Raya and the Last Dragon international trailer; promos for “American Idol” and UFC; and on television series across major networks like ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, Hallmark and Netflix, among others. Reeves has also been featured on tracks by high-profile DJs, including: Gattüso, Laidback Luke, R3HAB, and Armin Van Buuren. The Curb Records artist has garnered over 174 million global streams with music featured across multiple formats of radio across the globe including the U.S., Germany and the UK.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A Time for Everything: Discovering Faith's Seasons with Misha Goetz

In the latest episode of The Walk Podcast by Worship Leader Magazine, listeners will be graced with an intimate and moving narrative by musician Misha Goetz. Host Joshua Swanson introduces us to the Nashville native, whose story weaves through the tapestry of deep personal loss, unwavering faith, and the transformative power of music and worship.

The Impact of Personal Loss

Listeners will learn about the profound impact of the global pandemic on personal lives as Misha shares her heart-wrenching experience of miscarriage during that challenging period. Her story is a testament to the struggle and beauty of faith as she navigates through the seasons of grief and healing.

Misha's Messianic Jewish Heritage

As Misha recounts, her journey is deeply rooted in her Messianic Jewish heritage, having been raised in a household that celebrated Jesus as the Messiah, a faith that blossomed from the Jesus Movement in the 1970s in Southern California. This episode provides a rich context for understanding the complexities and depths of Messianic Judaism, particularly through the lens of music and worship.

The Call to Music

The episode will also offer insights into how Misha's unexpected path led her to a career in music, inspired by her familial lineage and spiritual calling. The listeners will hear about her creative process, which is as much about divine inspiration as it is about artistic discipline. Misha emphasizes the importance of identifying and prioritizing one's season in life, a concept that she has explored in her latest project, "A Time for Everything."

Navigating Life's Trials with Faith

Moreover, this podcast episode serves as a guide on how to navigate life's trials with grace and faith. Misha encourages listeners to seek God’s direction in every season and to be diligent in the callings they receive. Her personal anecdotes provide a blueprint for anyone looking to balance life's many roles while staying anchored in their faith.

The Power of Prayer and New Life

Misha's narrative culminates in the power of prayer and the miracle of new life, as she shares the joy of welcoming her child Samuel after a period of uncertainty and sorrow. Her story is a powerful reminder of the cycles of life and death, joy and sorrow, and the ever-present hope found in faith.

Seasons of Life

In closing, this episode of The Walk Podcast promises to be a soul-stirring encounter with one woman's journey through the valleys and mountaintops of life, deeply intertwined with the threads of worship, heritage, and the pursuit of God’s heart in every season.

Ecclesiastes 3:3-8

3 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:

2 a time to be born, and a time to die;

a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;

3 a time to kill, and a time to heal;

a time to break down, and a time to build up;

4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh;

a time to mourn, and a time to dance;

5 a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together;

a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;

6 a time to seek, and a time to lose;

a time to keep, and a time to cast away;

7 a time to tear, and a time to sew;

a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

8 a time to love, and a time to hate;

a time for war, and a time for peace.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://itsmishamusic.com/
• https://www.youtube.com/@MishaGoetz
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/
  

Who is Misha Goetz?

For over a decade Misha has dedicated her life to the art of music and the ministry of worship. 

Growing up as the only child to modern day psalmist Marty Goetz and his wife Jennifer, Misha’s earliest memories formed in Nashville behind the piano where she composed her first recorded song at the age of eight. “As a Messianic Jew, my dream is to unite Christian and Jew in worship of the Holy One of Israel,” says Misha. Her style of worship builds upon decades of her father’s ministry and yet incorporates her own youthful style and anointing. 

Her first full-length album, Weight of Glory, was released summer 2013 to critical acclaim. Her debut album is a blend of Messianic and Christian worship styles with most of the songs written and produced by Misha herself.  

Above all, Misha’s desire is that her music would penetrate to the heart and usher people into the presence of the Adonai. Her heart is to see a generation touched and transformed through surrender in worship. Her most recent full-length project is a DVD and CD she produced with her father titled Marty Goetz & Misha: LIVE from Jerusalem. It was filmed and recorded in Israel, overlooking the Old City of Jerusalem with a 26-piece orchestra. 

Currently, Misha resides outside of Washington, D.C. with her husband, Joshua, their seven-year-old son, Caleb, their two-year-old, Samuel, and their baby girl, Lillian. Her second solo album was released in October of 2022 and is available now everywhere you listen to music!

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Reimagining of "How Great Thou Art": A Conversation with Matt Maher and Matt Redman

In a compelling episode of "The Walk," hosted by Joshua Swanson, Editor-in-Chief of Worship Leader Magazine, contemporary worship music luminaries Matt Maher and Matt Redman delve into the profound legacy and innovative revival of the venerable hymn "How Great Thou Art" through their collaborative work, "How Great Thou Art (Until That Day)." This year marks the 75th anniversary of the hymn that has profoundly impacted worship across the globe, evidenced by over 1,600 recordings and billions of streams.

The History of “How Great Thou Art”

The episode provides a fascinating journey through the hymn's history, its unwavering relevance, and the personal connections and creative processes of Maher and Redman. They share insights into their long-standing friendship, intertwined with their musical journeys, and the serendipitous moments that have marked their collaborative efforts over the years.

Maher introduces an intriguing perspective on art and music, suggesting that while art decorates our physical spaces, music uniquely adorns time itself, offering a timeless medium through which worship can transcend temporal boundaries. This concept beautifully encapsulates the enduring appeal of "How Great Thou Art," a hymn that not only recounts the majesty of God's creation but also resonates with the human spirit across generations.

A New Rendition

The new rendition, "How Great Thou Art (Until That Day)," emerges as a heartfelt response to the current global landscape, particularly the strife in Ukraine. It intricately weaves new lyrical and musical elements into the classic hymn, reflecting a deep yearning for divine intervention and hope amidst turmoil. Redman and Maher's collaborative effort aims to honor the hymn's rich legacy while addressing contemporary realities, embodying the hymn's capacity to bridge historical and modern-day worship.

The project is underscored by a profound sense of community and purpose, extending beyond artistic expression to encompass humanitarian aid for Ukraine and Eastern Europe. The collective endeavor of Maher, Redman, and their partners exemplifies the power of worship music to not only uplift spirits but also mobilize support for those in need.

Transformative Power of Worship Music

In essence, this episode of "The Walk" encapsulates the transformative power of worship music, celebrating the fusion of tradition and innovation in "How Great Thou Art (Until That Day)." It serves as a testament to the hymn's enduring legacy and the unifying force of music in worship, transcending time and circumstances to touch hearts and inspire hope.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://mattredman.com/
• https://www.mattmahermusic.com/
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Matt Redman?

Matt Redman stands as a beacon in the landscape of worship music, his talents having earned him a GRAMMY® Award. Over the past two decades, his contributions have significantly shaped the hymnal of the global Church. Redman's spiritual odyssey has led him across continents—from the vibrant landscapes of South Africa to the serene settings of Japan, the rich cultures of India, the expansive horizons of Australia, and the historic ambiance of the Czech Republic.

His voice has filled some of the world's most renowned venues, including the iconic Madison Square Garden, the vast expanse of Wembley Stadium, and the prestigious Royal Albert Hall. Moreover, his creative endeavors have seen him recording in legendary studios such as Abbey Road in London and Capitol Records in Los Angeles. Among his most cherished compositions are "The Heart of Worship," "Blessed Be Your Name," and "Our God," with "10,000 Reasons" achieving the distinction of winning two GRAMMYs. His recent collaborations include "Do It Again" and "Build My Life."

Redman's talents extend beyond music; he is an accomplished author and, in 2021, ventured into the world of podcasts with 'Redman & Riddle,' co-hosted alongside fellow worship artist Jeremy Riddle. A milestone in his career is the announcement of his fourteenth full-length album, heralded by the debut single "Son of Suffering," set for release in mid-2023.

Originally hailing from England, Matt Redman has since made California his home, where he lives with his wife, Beth, and their five children.

Who is Matt Maher?

Since embarking on his journey with a major label in 2008, Matt Maher has firmly established himself as an influential figure within the realms of artistry and song composition. Esteemed as a nine-time GRAMMY® nominee and recipient of three GMA Dove Awards®, his contributions to worship music have resonated widely, leading to several radio hits. Among these, "Lord, I Need You" stands out, reaching the Top 5 on the CCLI chart, alongside other celebrated singles like "Because He Lives (Amen)" and "Alive & Breathing." Maher's creative prowess extends to hits such as "Hold Us Together," "Christ Is Risen," "All The People Said Amen," and "Your Grace Is Enough," with six of his compositions achieving the No. 1 spot on radio charts.

His songwriting talents have enriched the repertoires of artists across the Christian music spectrum, including Crowder, Hillsong, Casting Crowns, and Chris Tomlin, contributing to multiple entries on the CCLI chart’s Top 500 list. Maher's discography, boasting over 600,000 units sold, has been recognized with prestigious RIAA certifications, including a Platinum® for "Lord, I Need You."

With ten studio albums under his belt, including the GRAMMY-nominated "Echoes" and his ventures into seasonal music with "The Advent of Christmas," Maher's artistic journey is both diverse and impactful. As an official Steinway Artist, he has led his own tours and graced significant Catholic and Evangelical gatherings, such as the World Youth Day events, with his presence. His participation in major tours and festivals, including those led by Chris Tomlin and Tobymac, further highlights his integral role in contemporary Christian music.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

From Worship to Action: The Send's Rallying Cry for a Missionary Generation

In today’s exploration of the vibrant world of worship and mission, we delve into an enriching  "Conversations on the Walk," where Joshua Swanson, Editor-in-Chief of Worship Leader Magazine, engages with Andy Byrd, Founder of The Send, and Lindy Cofer from Circuit Riders. This dialogue orbits around the nexus of worship, evangelism, and the galvanizing of a generation for missionary work.

What Is The Send?

The Send emerges as a beacon, rallying individuals from various walks of life to their missionary callings, with a particular emphasis on reaching every corner of society. Their event in Nashville, not just a gathering but a launch pad for action, underscores the imperative for spiritual awakening and transformation across generations.

The Send crafts a strategy pivoting on large-scale gatherings that empower and train believers to innovate and expand their reach. This strategy is as adaptable as it is dynamic, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries, from America to Norway, South Africa, and the Philippines.

A Commitment To Unity

Andy Byrd elucidates the Send's dedication to unity among diverse denominations and Christian organizations. A meticulous campaign of collaboration, mobilization, and empowerment that culminates in impactful training and follow-ups is the crux of their mission. This unity is not just theoretical; it manifests in tangible outcomes and sustained efforts in mission fields.

Challenges Faced by The Send

One of the profound challenges The Send has faced in America, particularly post-COVID, is rallying the body of Christ. However, the success stories, like the emergence of Christian clubs in high schools and the unity movements among pastors, are a testament to the triumphs over these challenges. For Andy, leading The Send has been a faith-stretching journey, drawing him closer to Jesus amidst balancing the pressure and the incredible fruit. 

The Send and Worship

Lindy Cofer, a beacon of worship and mission, emphasizes the centrality of worship in The Send's mission. She draws from Isaiah 6, highlighting the transformative power of worship in knowing and exalting Jesus, thus commissioning believers. She envisions worship as a potent tool for evangelism, breaking down barriers to the knowledge of God, and igniting a passion for mission through music.

Lindy's spiritual journey has been deeply shaped by leading worship at The Send, experiencing the unifying force of collective, heartfelt worship. She anticipates a shift towards discipleship within the worship movement, steering away from celebrity culture towards a purer, more authentic expression of worship that magnifies Jesus and fosters transformation at every level of society.

The Send Nashville

As the conversation concludes, we are reminded of The Send’s upcoming event in Nashville, a clarion call for the church to step into their daily mission fields. The commitment of individuals like Andy and Lindy, and their innovative approaches to worship and evangelism, continue to inspire and activate believers worldwide.

In anticipation of the waves of change and revival that such movements will bring forth, we await with eagerness the new sounds and songs that will mark the continued move of God in our time.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://thesend.org/
• https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/1B005E517E6123F8?CAMEFROM=SEND_WEBSITE
• https://www.planningcenter.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Lindy Cofer?

Lindy Cofer is a mom, wife, and worship leader, and has a passion for foster care, adoption and advocacy for vulnerable children. Lindy and her husband, Chase have given their lives to activate and empower the Church to rise and be the solution for the 3.2 billion that have yet to hear the gospel in this nation and in the nations of the earth. They currently work full time as missionaries with The Send and YWAM Circuit Riders located in Huntington Beach, CA.

Who is Andy Byrd?

Andy Byrd and his wife Holly have dedicated their lives to spiritual awakening in the nations and in this generation. They work with a group of lifelong friends committed to consecrated community, Christ-centered living, revival, and cultural reformation. Andy is part of the leadership of the University of the Nations, YWAM Kona, and has been with YWAM for 25 years traveling to many different nations with a heart to raise up a revival generation. Andy and Holly have helped to pioneer Fire and Fragrance ministries, the Circuit Rider Movement, and The Send. One of the greatest joys of their lives and primary area of focus is their six children Asher, Makana, Hadassah, Rhema, Valor, and Chanel.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Melody of Duty: Yair Levi's Journey from the IDF to Worship

In the bustling heart of Nashville, a voice whispers a tale of longing—a longing for home, family, and heritage. Yair Levi, an Israeli Orthodox singer, carries within him the legacy of the ancient Levite tribe, a lineage of sacred service. But Yair's service extends beyond the spiritual; he is also a former captain in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), a role that has shaped his life as deeply as his music.

On a recent episode of "Conversations on the Walk," host Joshua Swanson delves into the story of Yair, a man whose life's work is a symphony composed of contrasting yet harmonious parts: artist, advocate, and soldier. The episode, rich with the echoes of history and the rhythms of faith, takes us on a journey through the many seasons of Yair's life.

Yair speaks with the intimacy of a man well-acquainted with sacrifice. Every Israeli joins the IDF at eighteen, but for Yair, it was not just a duty; it was a calling. His years in an elite unit akin to the American Navy SEALs were marked by secret operations and life-risking endeavors. Yet, it was in these moments of peril that Yair found clarity—a connection to his ancestors' dreams, the biblical patriarchs, and the divine promise given to his people.

Transitioning from military to music, Yair's story takes an unexpected turn. The heartbeat of his songs resonated unexpectedly with Christian audiences, stirring a curiosity within him about these new listeners. Through social media and shared melodies, Yair discovered common ground, connecting deeply with Christians moved by the Hebrew roots of their faith. His music, imbued with translations and teachings, became a bridge between cultures, a celebration of shared heritage.

But Yair's story is not without its somber notes. The war's outbreak forced him to don his uniform once more, stepping into the role of advocate. With poignant tales of loss and bravery, he sought to tell the truth of Israel's struggles, rallying support amidst the cacophony of global voices.

Swanson's conversation with Yair Levi is an invitation to witness a life where duty and devotion harmonize, where music becomes an anthem for unity and peace. As Yair dons his uniform in Tel Aviv, sharing stories of his service and his hopes for collaboration across faiths, we are reminded of the power of a single voice to inspire change and understanding.

"The Melody of Duty: Yair Levi's Journey from the IDF to Worship" is not merely another episode of a podcast; it is a narrative symphony that celebrates the multifaceted nature of faith, the shared journey towards peace, and the universal language of music.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.yairlevimusic.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Yair Levi?

Yair Levi, a Tel Aviv-based Jewish Israeli artist, seamlessly blends the roles of singer, songwriter, and music producer. Born into the lineage of the Levites, descendants of the Tribe of Levi, Yair's heritage profoundly influences his musical creations. His eight-year service as a Major in the Israeli Navy Seals has infused his work with a depth and resilience that is rare and captivating.

In his music, Yair masterfully intertwines the soulful essence of Jewish tradition with his deep-seated faith and Biblical values. His songs are more than mere melodies; they are a revival of ancient music, reimagined and brought into the contemporary world. This unique blend has not only endeared him to audiences within Israel but has also resonated across cultural and religious boundaries.

Yair's musical journey has been marked by significant collaborations with some of Israel's most esteemed musicians, expanding his influence beyond the Israeli borders in recent years. His ability to connect with diverse cultures and faiths through music is a testament to the universal language of art and belief.

One of Yair's most impactful works is 'Refa Na' ('please heal her'), inspired by a verse in Numbers 12:13. Composed in 2020 as a heartfelt plea for his ailing grandmother's recovery, the song has touched millions globally, transcending language barriers with translations in Chinese, German, Spanish, and more. This song's overwhelming success has catapulted Yair into the limelight as a surprisingly versatile and influential figure in the international faith music scene.

A particularly noteworthy rendition of 'Refa Na' was performed by Lebanese Christian singer Carine Basilli. In a beautiful gesture of unity and peace, she collaborated with Yair to sing the song in Arabic. This version stands as a powerful prayer for peace in the Middle East, bridging divides and fostering harmony through the shared language of music and faith.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Calvin Nowell's Musical Journey: Embracing Diversity and Authentic Worship

In the latest episode of "Conversations on the Walk," host Joshua Swanson welcomed the multifaceted talent Calvin Nowell. A figure synonymous with diversity and authenticity in Christian music, Nowell shared insights from his personal journey, reflecting on a career that includes collaborations with icons like Stevie Wonder and Michael W. Smith.

Intention In Worship

Nowell's narrative is a testament to unexpected beginnings and the transformative power of intention in worship. He began singing in college, not from a cultivated talent but through a desire for community and connection. His voice was first recognized not in a church or a studio, but during a talent segment of a personality contest. This revelation of his singing ability not only surprised his family but also set him on a path of spiritual and musical exploration.

Authenticity in Worship

The crux of Nowell's approach to worship is rooted in authenticity. He advocates for a heartfelt expression over technical prowess, influenced early on by a colleague at a telemarketing firm whose soul-stirring voice taught him to "concentrate" – to fully inhabit the message of the song. This philosophy has evidently resonated with others, distinguishing Nowell in recording sessions and worship settings alike.

Michael W. Smith The Mentor

Interestingly, Nowell's growth as a worship leader was self-navigated, as he didn't have a direct mentor. Instead, he observed and learned from the likes of Michael W. Smith, who demonstrated the art of leading worship by stepping aside to let the spirit lead. Nowell imbibed the subtlety of letting the heart lead more than the voice, which has become a signature of his ministry.

Looking back, Nowell wishes he had known the importance of relaxation and self-acceptance at the beginning of his career. He acknowledges the pressure to attain perfection and compete, but emphasizes the significance of recognizing one's inherent value and unique contributions to worship.

Global Worship Movements

In terms of the global movement of the Holy Spirit, Nowell noted a focus on learning and collecting experiences to understand God's work in the world. He emphasized the need for mental health awareness, prayer for nations, and quality time with family – all dots that the Holy Spirit helps us collect to understand our life's narrative.

He's passionate about the evolution of church worship, particularly the trend towards diversity in music and congregations. Nowell sees this as a response to a divine call for variety and a reflection of the multifaceted nature of God. He encourages churches to pursue intentional diversity, to seek out what and who is missing in their communities, and to learn from other cultures.

Diversity in Worship

Regarding tradition, Nowell shared his journey from predominantly black churches to predominantly white ones, advocating for a worship space that embraces both expressiveness and reflectiveness. Post George Floyd, he observes progress towards diversity but acknowledges there's much work to be done.

Nowell sees today's churches creating their own music as a thrilling development. He believes in the power of individual stories shaping unique worship songs and the importance of capturing a true expression of God for impact.

The Worship Music "Industry"

Navigating the intersection of worship and the music industry, Nowell has found balance in compartmentalization, separating business and ministry to maintain the sacredness of worship. His ultimate focus is creating environments where everyone wins, particularly God.

Calvin Nowell's story, shared on "Conversations on the Walk," is a compelling narrative of discovery, diversity, and dedication, offering a mirror to the evolving landscape of Christian worship where the heart's authenticity reigns supreme.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.instagram.com/calvinnowell/?hl=en
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Calvin Nowell?

Calvin Nowell's tapestry of talents is as rich as it is varied, painting him as a Renaissance man of the modern music industry. With a resume that sings as harmoniously as he does, Calvin has graced stages and studio sessions alongside Grammy-winning luminaries such as Stevie Wonder, Michael McDonald, and Michael W. Smith, to name-drop just a few. He's lent his branding brilliance and vocal virtuosity to these icons, all while shaping the sounds and spirits of congregations across America with his heartfelt worship leadership and songwriting prowess.

Yet, Calvin's artistry extends beyond the microphone and the sanctuary. He is a maestro of marketing, a speaker who captivates, and an influencer with the charm and acumen to elevate the most innovative of ideas. At the helm of Cmon Creative, his advertising agency, he orchestrates campaigns for both Fortune 500 companies and top-tier entertainers, turning visions into visual and visceral victories.

Based in the vibrant town of Franklin, TN, Calvin's life is a symphony of service, creativity, and leadership. Whether it's through a soul-stirring melody or a groundbreaking marketing strategy, his true passion is in ushering others toward their fullest potential, making the intangible tangible, the silent sing, and the unseen seen.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In the latest episode of The Walk Podcast, titled "A Conversation with 'You've Already Won' Songwriters Shane and Shane," listeners are welcomed into the thoughtful and heartfelt world of Shane Barnard and Shane Everett. They delve into their experiences with family, faith, and the shaping of young believers in a culture teeming with dissatisfaction and longing for something more fulfilling than what the world offers.

Evolution of Shane and Shane's Ministry

Joshua Swanson, the host, sets the stage for a profound discussion on the evolution of Shane and Shane's music ministry, the vision behind their Worship Initiative, and their undiminished influence on worship music. The Shanes speak on the challenges and beauty of guiding the next generation towards compassionate faith, emphasizing the need for empathy and care for those who struggle, regardless of the nature of their struggles.

Technology and Younger Christians

Both men express concern over the accelerated pace at which the younger generation experiences life due to technological advances, leading to a quicker realization that worldly pleasures do not satisfy the soul. They discuss the importance of the church community in a world that views the church as irrelevant, arguing that true contentment and joy are found in Christ alone, who fills the emptiness no earthly thing can.

Shane and Shane on Mentors

Shane and Shane share personal stories of their spiritual mentors who fostered their faith, and the transformative power of authentic Christian community. They stress the significance of songwriting and worship in conveying the truths of God, shaping the believer's identity in Christ, and maintaining the sanctity of worship amidst the business aspects of their ministry.

The podcast episode also touches on team dynamics within their organization and the challenges of fostering unity during transitional phases. The Shanes candidly share the struggles and learning curves associated with leadership and the stewardship of their roles.

"You've Already Won"

Listeners are treated to the backstory of the song "You've Already Won," born out of the hardships and victories of life, encapsulating the message of hope and ultimate triumph in Jesus. The conversation concludes with a focus on their heart for equipping worship leaders through The Worship Initiative, aiming to empower and resource those who lead the church in worship.

The episode is a profound exploration of the intersection of worship, discipleship, and community in the Christian faith, offering listeners a glimpse into the ministry and heart of Shane and Shane.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.shaneandshane.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Shane and Shane?

Joining us on The Walk are none other than Shane Barnard and Shane Everett, collectively known as Shane & Shane. This dynamic duo, united by their faith and a shared first name, embarked on their musical journey together after meeting in college. Over 15 years have passed since then, and their commitment to crafting worship music that glorifies the Lord remains unwavering.

Shane & Shane have distinguished themselves not only through their harmonious blend and heartfelt performances but also through their dedication to writing music that is deeply rooted in Scripture. 

In addition to their artistic endeavors, Shane & Shane have devoted themselves to nurturing and supporting fellow worship leaders and their teams. Through The Worship Initiative, they have established a vibrant community that serves as a resource for equipping and encouraging those involved in worship ministry. This initiative reflects their heart for mentorship and their desire to foster a culture of worship that is both spiritually authentic and musically excellent.

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Philippa Hanna Shares Her Journey, Songwriting, and Ministry Mindset

In a recent episode of "Conversations on the Walk," Worship Leader Magazine had the privilege of engaging with Philippa Hanna, a talented worship leader and songwriter hailing from the UK. Editor-in-Chief Joshua Swanson led the conversation, delving into Philippa's unique experiences, insights, and her approach to songwriting in a post-Christian world.

Encountering Revival

Philippa shared her personal encounter with revival, emphasizing that her salvation experience at the age of 21 was her own revival, a resurrection from spiritual death. Regardless of prevailing trends, Philippa's songwriting remains focused on reaching those who don't know Jesus or need a deeper connection with Him.

The Role of Worship

Exploring the role of worship in her church expression, Philippa highlighted its purpose to bring people into the presence of God. She stressed the importance of songs that not only encourage and give life but also serve as a form of teaching, ensuring they align with sound theology to reach diverse audiences.

Social Media's Double-Edged Sword

When asked about social media's role in her life, Philippa acknowledged its impact on mental health and wellbeing. While recognizing the potential pitfalls, she emphasized the platform's value in teaching, vulnerability, and sharing life stories responsibly.

Relevance of Church to the Youth

Addressing the perception that church may not be relevant to the youth, Philippa encouraged young people to actively contribute to making the church relevant for themselves and their peers. She challenged them to be the change they want to see, even if it means writing the unsung songs or speaking the unspoken truths.

Cultural Perspectives on Church

Drawing comparisons between the American and UK churches, Philippa appreciated the cultural diversity in the UK, where the gospel can be a fresh perspective. She cautioned against losing the significance of the message amid cultural familiarity and emphasized the timeless truth of Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life.

A Journey Through Worship

Philippa shared her diverse experiences as a ministry-minded artist, adapting her ministry to different seasons. From touring with mainstream artists to coaching worship leaders, her journey culminated in a season of worship, expressing her faith in a vertical, honest, and open manner.

Closing Words of Encouragement

In closing, Philippa encouraged listeners to embrace authenticity and not second-guess what God has placed on their hearts. She emphasized the importance of creating community, relationships, and love within the church, urging believers to focus on what brings life to those around them.

Philippa Hanna's insights offer a rich tapestry of faith, worship, and ministry. Her journey serves as an inspiration for worship leaders, songwriters, and believers alike, reminding us to stay true to God's calling in every season of life.

Who is Philippa Hanna?

Philippa Hanna is an established UK singer-songwriter whose independent career span over 17 years and culminated in her signing a recording contract with Integrity Music in 2020, marking the release of her first worship project ‘Stained Glass Stories’. Her music frequently draws upon her experiences of a turbulent youth and the Christian faith she found in 2004, crafting songs that ooze with honesty, authenticity and vocals that are as powerful as they are heartfelt. Philippa Hanna is recognised as a leading light in the Christian & Gospel scene in Europe and has a lot of experience in the mainstream music industry. Beyond being a gifted writer, worship leader, and storyteller, Philippa Hanna has been invited to open tours for household names including Lionel Richie, Little Mix, Leona Lewis, Wet Wet Wet and Anastacia, highlighting the broadness of her appeal. Two of her albums took the Official Christian & Gospel Charts #1 spot, with 'Come Back Fighting' peaking at #10 on the Official Country Chart. After the pandemic and becoming a mother, the singer songwriter has been gearing up to a new season of music. She released an acoustic project revisiting some of her most significant worship songs in late 2022, pointing to the continuation of her journey in this new chapter of her life as an individual and an artist.

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Finding Solace in Psalms – Mike Janzen's Journey and Planning Center's Serendipitous Genesis

In the latest episode of The Walk, hosted by Joshua Swanson, two captivating stories unfurl—a testament to the transformative power of faith and music. Mike Janzen, a multifaceted Canadian musician, recounts a profound devotional journey rooted in the Psalms, while Aaron Stewart, co-founder of Planning Center, reveals the serendipitous origin of the premier church service software. Their narratives intertwine tales of resilience, inspiration, and unwavering faith.

A Head Injury and The Psalms

Mike Janzen's odyssey toward his Psalms-based album was marked by adversity, beginning with a severe head injury. His candid narrative reveals a period of isolation and physical struggle, during which the Psalms became his lifeline. Psalms, notably 42, guided him through the darkest days, reminding him of God's abiding love and presence, even in the depths of despair.

His words echo a resounding truth—that God draws near to the brokenhearted, a sentiment profoundly felt during Janzen's darkest hours. As he wove through lament and trust, the Psalms became a sanctuary, offering solace and reminding him of God's unwavering affection.

Janzen's story serves as a poignant reminder to cherish moments of hardship while acknowledging the significance of supporting others in times of struggle. Mike’ mention of the role of music in healing evokes a call for worship leaders and songwriters to craft music resonating with those navigating adversity. Write songs focused on healing prayers!

The Genesis of Planning Center with Aaron Stewart

Transitioning to Aaron Stewart's narrative, the genesis of Planning Center emerged from a need for organization and accessibility in church services. Stewart and his collaborator, Jeff Berg, combined their tech prowess and worship leadership, inadvertently birthing a game-changing software suite.

Their story is one of accidental innovation, transitioning from handmade solutions to a digital platform that revolutionized church service management. Stewart's journey is a testament to embracing challenges and leveraging technology to serve a larger purpose, culminating in the birth of Planning Center—a vital tool for numerous congregations worldwide.

Faith and Community Support

In essence, both narratives underscore the importance of resilience, faith, and community support in navigating life's tribulations. Janzen's reliance on the Psalms and Stewart's tech-savvy ingenuity serve as beacons of hope and inspiration for worshipers and church leaders alike.

As the episode draws to a close, listeners are left with a powerful reminder—God's unwavering presence in adversity and the transformative potential of faith, music, and innovation. It's a narrative of finding solace in the Psalms and embracing unforeseen opportunities in the most unexpected of places.

The Walk continues to weave compelling tales of faith, resilience, and creativity, leaving its audience enriched and inspired by the profound journeys of its guests.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.mikejanzentrio.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Mike Janzen?

Melding jazz, pop and classical styles, Mike Janzen brings an imaginative and fresh voice to the current music scene. From soul-stirring songwriting to mesmerizing piano solos, Mike’s music is approachable and hits the deep places of the heart.  The JUNO- and GMA-nominated musician has performed in concert halls, churches and festivals across North America, combining undeniable talent with a desire to create music that draws attention to the Maker.  

Music has informed and shaped Mike’s entire life. A gifted jazz pianist, composer, and arranger, his diverse career took a unique direction with the double-album release The Psalms Project (2021/Independent), a collection of Psalms-inspired sacred songs that emerged during his long period of recovery from a serious concussion injury. Described by GRAMMY-winning mixer John Bailey as “salve for the soul”, the music ebbs and flows with nuanced artistry, reverence and authenticity. Guest performances by some of this continent’s finest musicians (Steve Bell, Laila Biali, Erin Propp, Joey Landreth and Abbie Parker) lend enchanting musicality to the 19 thoughtfully crafted songs. Live audiences were enthralled by recent performances of The Psalms Project in both Toronto (Koerner Hall, 2022) and Winnipeg (Burton Cummings Theatre, 2023).

In Songs from the Canyon, Mike traverses new ground with his third album of Psalm interpretations (Nov. 2023/Independent). Vivid, powerful textures emerge as he explores creation’s awe-inspiring landscapes as well as the deep, plunging canyons of life’s suffering. Produced by the award-winning Timothy Abraham, the album has a profound sonic diversity, resonating from soaring strings to a belting gospel choir. Rich cinematic textures grace these 11 innovative compositions that feature guest performances by Chicago-based Dee Wilson and Indigenous artists Coco Stevenson and Jonathan Maracle. 

Mike’s diverse portfolio includes a variety of original and commissioned compositions: music for television (GLOBAL News 2021), choir (True Christian Faith 2023), and film (Jason Hildebrand’s Microfilms 2022; CBC’s documentary Pure Intentions). His orchestral arranging skills are showcased in numerous collaborations: with Steve Bell (Winnipeg Symphony, Toronto Symphony and the Nashville String Machine); the CBC-commissioned piece Bending Hendrix; and an entire orchestral show, Reimagining Broadway, with singer Sarah Slean. First debuting in Winnipeg in 2014, Reimagining Broadway has been performed across the country and is now slated for April 2024 performances with the Orchestre Symphonique in Quebec City.

Mike has recently released neoclassical solo piano compositions (under Michael Janzen) as well as a few singles Breaking Through (2021) and The Great Congregation (2022; feat. Nashville-based Abbie Parker). Since 2006, he has headlined a jazz trio that features bassist George Koller and drummers Davide Direnzo or Larnell Lewis. The Mike Janzen Trio’s 2010 album Try to Remember was hailed as “distinctive and sublime” by the Jazz Times. Mike’s talents earned him a 2017 JUNO Jazz Album of the Year nomination for his album Nudging Forever (2015)—original compositions blending lush orchestral sounds with the spontaneity of jazz.

Mike currently lives in Toronto with his family where he dabbles in gardening, paddle boarding, and tiny rink building. 

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In the latest episode of "Conversations on the Walk," Worship Leader Magazine's Joshua Swanson sits down with the talented Christian songwriter and artist, Benjamin William Hastings. Hailing from Ireland, Hastings shares insights into his life, Christmas traditions, and the profound journey of faith that has shaped his music.

Rediscovering the Presence of God

Hastings begins by discussing the challenge of keeping God at the center of our lives. He emphasizes the importance of recontextualizing God's presence, sharing a personal practice inspired by the Lord's Prayer that helps him maintain a focus on the divine in daily life.

Christmas Traditions and Influences

The conversation takes a festive turn as Swanson delves into Hastings's holiday traditions, including quirky Christmas Eve present rituals and the absence of a nativity set in his home. Hastings also reflects on the influence of growing up in Ireland, with its rich poetic tradition and his exposure to hymns that continue to shape his songwriting.

The Art of Songwriting

Hastings opens up about his songwriting process, narrating a humorous tale of attempting to craft a worship song based on calculated criteria. He shares a pivotal moment in his journey when a prophetic encounter redirected his focus to writing songs that are first and foremost expressions to God, rather than adhering to predetermined success formulas.

Navigating Faith's Valleys

The conversation takes a more serious turn as Hastings shares his recent struggles and questioning of foundational beliefs. He reveals a journey of wrestling with doubt and the tension between leading worship while grappling with personal faith challenges. Hastings' upcoming album reflects this internal struggle, offering an honest portrayal of his journey through doubt, imposter syndrome, and the pursuit of light in the midst of darkness.

Encouragement from the Millennial Generation

The interview concludes with a look at the encouraging aspects of the millennial generation. Hastings praises the generation's pursuit of honesty, truth, and transparency, citing a cultural shift towards authenticity. He acknowledges the potential shadows of this pursuit but expresses optimism for the positive impact it can have on faith communities.

In this candid and insightful interview, Benjamin William Hastings opens up about the complexities of faith, the creative process, and the ongoing pursuit of worship. As we eagerly await his upcoming album, Hastings's journey serves as an inspiring testament to the resilience of faith in the face of doubt and the transformative power of authentic worship.

Links:

• https://www.benjaminwilliamhastings.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who Is Benjamin William Hastings?

Benjamin William Hastings, a gifted Northern Irish songwriter, singer, and worship leader, found his musical and personal calling on a unique journey that spanned continents and genres. Raised in Belfast, he spent a transformative chapter of his twenties in Sydney, Australia, where he not only discovered a passion for music but also fell in love with Jessa, a kindred spirit who shared his love for words.

Their early attempts at songwriting as a couple proved challenging for their marriage, leading them to focus on building a family instead. Blessed with two perfect children, the Hastings family, including their beloved dog, later made a significant move to Los Angeles, CA, where Benjamin, a member of Hillsong UNITED, and Jessa, a renowned author, continued to pursue their individual crafts.

Benjamin's musical journey intertwined with the influential Hillsong UNITED, a church crowd that happened to include some of Jessa's childhood friends. Through collaborations, recordings, and tours, he became an integral part of many chart-topping songs, including Hillsong UNITED's "So Will I (100 Billion X)," Cory Asbury’s “The Father's House,” Brandon Lake’s “Gratitude,” and Hillsong Worship’s "O Praise The Name (Anástasis)."

Transitioning into a solo artist, Benjamin released his debut self-titled album, a collection of 25 songs that delve into the various facets of his life – family, love, faith, struggles, and the complexities of the human experience. In January 2023, he followed up with the Songwriter Edition, providing deeper insights into the backstories of his songs.

Benjamin's honesty shines through his music, offering listeners a raw and authentic experience. His lyrics explore themes such as the ongoing wrestle of exercising faith, confronting fear and doubt, finding and fighting for God in the midst of life's challenges. As he aptly puts it, "What better way to outwork an existential crisis than through a diary of song?"

Reflecting on his creative process, Benjamin shares, "Songs started coming out of me that didn’t feel like they belonged anywhere but didn’t feel like they should die either. I felt like there were things that needed to be said, and I needed to be the one to say them." The album encapsulates this sentiment with a poignant lyric from the first track, inviting listeners to "Hold onto your hats, hold onto your hearts. We’re gonna lie in the dirt but we’ll stare at the stars."

Benjamin William Hastings' musical journey is not just a collection of songs but a testament to the power of honesty, self-discovery, and the courage to share one's true self through music.

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In a candid and spirited conversation with Worship Leader Magazine Editor-in-Chief, Joshua Swanson, Darlene Zschech, the renowned Australian musician, songwriter, worship leader, and pastor, shares insights into her life, Christmas traditions down under, the state of worship music, and the heartbeat behind her recent songwriting. This intimate dialogue, captured on video, offers a glimpse into the heart of a woman who has left an indelible mark on the world of worship.

Christmas Down Under: A Unique Blend of Heat and Holy Moments

Darlene Zschech kicks off the conversation by unraveling the mysteries of an Australian Christmas. The beach becomes their sanctuary, where they sweat through a hot turkey meal, inspired by Hallmark movies. She paints a vivid picture of their unique Christmas tradition, where the juxtaposition of hot turkey and sandy beaches creates a memorable holiday experience.

Amidst laughter, Zschech shares her family's not-so-epic nativity set, humorously acknowledging the reassembled baby Jesus, who bears the signs of a few mishaps. Her favorite Christmas dish, a delectable French creation made with puff pastry, caramel, and custard, adds a touch of sweetness to the festive season.

When asked about her favorite Christmas carol, Zschech passionately expresses her love for O Holy Night, particularly Josh Groban's rendition. Yet, what truly captivates her during Christmas is the universal singing of scripture. 

Navigating the Currents of Worship Music

Transitioning to the state of worship music, Zschech delves into the cultural nuances that shape worship around the world. Drawing a sharp contrast between the persecuted church, where worship is a matter of life or death, and the comfortable Western world, she emphasizes the need for accountability to maintain the purity of worship.

Acknowledging the challenges that comfort poses to the Western Church, Zschech urges believers to stay hungry and avoid becoming complacent. She passionately advocates for the importance of the church body, emphasizing the need for open dialogue to uphold the purity of worship and prayer.

Sharing her involvement with Open Doors, an organization dedicated to supporting the persecuted church, Zschech sheds light on the sacrificial commitment of individuals like her husband's cousin, Wayne, who prioritizes sharing the gospel over personal safety.

Worship Beyond Music: Living a Lifestyle of Worship

Moving beyond the confines of music, Zschech reflects on the concept of a "lifestyle of worship." She narrates a poignant encounter with a young boy in Rwanda who challenged her to abandon the phrase in favor of simply calling it life. For her, living a life of worship involves maintaining a constant conversation with God, creating margin for the Holy Spirit's leading, and fostering an environment where worship extends beyond musical rehearsals.

As Zschech articulates the essence of worship, she underscores the need to empty hands of worldly attachments, embracing a posture that aligns with Romans 12—a holistic offering of one's entire being.

Navigating the Industry and Staying True to Worship

With a keen eye on the challenges within the worship industry, Zschech emphasizes the importance of compassion over criticism. Addressing the industry's struggles, she advocates for pioneers who explore new avenues for artists to earn a living without compromising their convictions.

In a world that often pits generations against each other, Zschech challenges the older generation to champion and support the creativity of the youth. Instead of feeling threatened, she urges believers to create room for the next generation's fresh expressions of worship.

Championing the Next Generation: A Call to Unity

Expressing her admiration for the younger generation's no-nonsense approach to faith, Zschech lauds their demand for authenticity. She sees their creative contributions as a revitalizing force in the church, urging the older generation to make way for the vibrant ideas and expressions of the youth.

In a powerful call to action, she challenges believers to champion the next generation, fostering an atmosphere of encouragement and support. Rejecting the notion of a divided church, Zschech envisions a united body where each generation contributes to the rich tapestry of worship.

From Worship Leader to Pastor: A Journey of Surrender

As the conversation draws to a close, Zschech reflects on the unexpected journey into pastoral ministry. Recounting a pivotal moment with her husband, Mark, she shares their 'Hineni' moment—a willingness to say 'yes' to God before fully understanding His plan. The decision to pastor a broken-down church, marked by humility and a desire to set a table for everyone, became a testament to their commitment to a unique vision of church life.

In her closing remarks, Zschech expresses gratitude for the privilege of living in this pivotal moment of history. With unwavering faith, she envisions a church that operates like a family table, where all are welcome, heard, and fueled to go out and make a difference in the world.

Darlene Zschech's conversation with Joshua Swanson offers more than a glimpse into her world; it provides a roadmap for a generation seeking authenticity, unity, and a vibrant expression of worship. As the heartbeat of Christmas and the soul of worship converge in this dialogue, Zschech's life becomes an invitation to embrace the sacred dance of surrender, authenticity, and a pursuit of God that transcends cultural boundaries.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.darlenezschech.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Darlene Zschech?

Darlene Zschech is an Australian Pentecostal Christian worship leader, singer-songwriter, pastor, author, and speaker. She is known for her work with Hillsong Church, where she served as the worship pastor from 1996 to 2007. She is also the co-founder of Compassionart, a charity that helps to raise money for orphans and widows.

Zschech was born in Brisbane, Australia, in 1965. She began singing and performing at a young age, and by the time she was a teenager, she was leading her own band. She came to faith in Jesus Christ in her early twenties, and soon after, she began using her musical talents to lead worship in churches.

In 1996, Zschech joined the worship team at Hillsong Church in Sydney, Australia. She quickly became a key member of the team, and her songwriting and leadership helped to make Hillsong one of the most influential worship teams in the world.

Zschech has written over 80 published worship songs, including the popular hymn Shout to the Lord. She has also released several solo albums, including "Kiss of Heaven" and "Change Your World."

In 2008, Zschech co-founded Compassionart, a charity that helps to raise money for orphans and widows. The charity has raised millions of dollars and has helped to provide food, shelter, and education to thousands of children.

Zschech is also a gifted speaker and author. She has written five books, including "Extravagant Worship" and "The Kiss of Heaven." She is a regular speaker at conferences and events around the world.

Zschech is married to her husband, Mark, and they have three children. She lives in the Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia.

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In a recent interview, songwriter and worship leader Jenn Johnson, renowned for her award-winning song Goodness of God, shared insights into her perspective on worship, the role of the local church, accountability, and the songwriting process. Johnson, who received the Song of the Year award at the 2023 Dove Awards for Goodness of God, opened up about her personal journey and the profound meanings behind her music.

Worship: A Multifaceted Lifestyle

When asked about the meaning of worship, Johnson described it as a multifaceted concept. Drawing on a vision she had, she explained how worship involves magnifying God, receiving His declarations over nations, and, importantly, becoming like the object of worship. Johnson emphasized that worship extends beyond musical expressions to encompass one's entire life, from public stages to private moments.

Balancing Worship and Accountability

The conversation delved into the challenge of ensuring that worship leaders don't end up worshipping the act of worship itself rather than God. Johnson emphasized the importance of avoiding self-absorption and shared an analogy of an elephant and a mouse crossing a bridge to illustrate the need for humility and a focus on God's glory rather than personal accomplishments.

The Role of the Church

As a church leader, Johnson expressed her deep appreciation for the local church. Reflecting on her upbringing in a small community church, she highlighted the beauty of a church focused on bringing the lost to Christ and caring for its members. Johnson stressed the significance of being planted in a church community, emphasizing the biblical principle that those planted in the house of the Lord flourish.

Accountability in Leadership

Discussing accountability, Johnson shared that it is one of her top priorities. She underscored the value of correction over encouragement and spoke about her personal experience of being corrected by her mother-in-law, Benny, whose love and guidance played a crucial role in shaping Johnson's life. Johnson advocated for creating a safe space for leaders to be vulnerable and transparent about their struggles.

Songwriting: A Journey of Inspiration

Johnson revealed that her songwriting process involves seeking inspiration from God. Whether facing natural disasters or personal challenges, she turns to the Lord and asks, "What are you saying?" She shared stories behind some of her songs, including You're Gonna Be Okay, written during her husband's nervous breakdown, and the powerful anthem Goodness of God, born out of overwhelming gratitude for God's faithfulness.

Encouragement for the Next Generation

In closing, Johnson offered words of encouragement for the next generation. Drawing inspiration from the biblical story of David, she emphasized the importance of staying faithful to one's current assignment and allowing God to elevate individuals in His perfect timing. 

Jenn Johnson's insightful and heartfelt conversation provides a glimpse into the heart of a worship leader who seeks to inspire and guide others in their journey of faith. From the multifaceted nature of worship to the vital role of accountability and the profound impact of her songwriting, Johnson's perspective offers wisdom and encouragement for individuals navigating their own spiritual paths.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://bethelmusic.com/roster/jenn-johnson
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Jenn Johnson?

Jenn Johnson is a co-founder and President of Bethel Music and Bethel Music Worship School, headquartered in Redding, California. She is also a musician, a songwriter, singer, speaker and author. Jenn has been an integral part of 16 albums by Bethel Music that have influenced the culture of worship across the global church. Jenn has written and been a part of several anthems sung by the global church such as “Goodness of God”, “You’re Gonna Be OK”, and “God I Look to You”. Jenn is the founder of “Lovely by Jenn Johnson,” a lifestyle brand intended to inspire, equip and engage women of all ages to thrive. She has written her first book, All Things Lovely, which released in November of 2021. Jenn, along with her husband Brian, reside in Redding, California, with their five wonderful children, Haley, Téa, Braden, Ryder Moses, and Malachi Judah.

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In a recent conversation with Worship Leader Magazine Editor Joshua Swanson, Rend Collective's Chris Llewellyn opened up about his son, new music, and the beauty of God's use of struggle to call us back to Him.

Llewellyn and Swanson began by discussing Rend Collective's history, which dates back to 2003. Llewellyn explained that the band began as a Bible study group and that their early music was simply a way to document their journey together.

"We must have pressed like a hundred EPs," Llewellyn said. "But it's nothing, nothing more than that. Uh, but Chris Tomlin and Martin Smith had two of them, and so, uh, those are kind of two pretty big names there."

Swanson asked Llewellyn how it came to be that Chris Tomlin and Martin Smith had two of Rend Collective's early EPs. Llewellyn explained that a mutual friend named Les Moir had passed them out, and that Tomlin had decided to invite Rend Collective on tour after Matt Redmond pulled out at the last minute.

Llewellyn then went on to talk about his son, who was born severely autistic. He explained that his son's condition has been a challenge for the family, but that it has also brought them closer to God.

"I think there's a beauty in the struggle," Llewellyn said. "God is using it to call us back to Him. He's using it to refine us. He's using it to make us more like Jesus."

Llewellyn also talked about Rend Collective's new music, which he said is more personal and honest than ever before.

"I think we're writing songs that are more specific to our own experiences," Llewellyn said. "We're not trying to write universal songs that will connect with everybody. We're just trying to write songs that are true to us."

Swanson concluded the conversation by asking Llewellyn what he hopes people will take away from his new music.

"I hope that people will be encouraged and challenged," Llewellyn said. "I hope that they will see that God is present in the midst of their struggles. And I hope that they will be drawn closer to Him."

Llewellyn's conversation with Swanson is a powerful reminder that God is with us in our struggles. He uses them to refine us and make us more like Jesus. He gives us the gift of music to help us express our faith and encourage others.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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The episode tells the story of Justin Gambino, a Texas worship leader, recording artist, and songwriter whose life journey is a testament to faith and forgiveness. Raised in a devout Christian family, Justin's early passion for music led him to become a talented musician. However, in his teenage years, he succumbed to self-destructive behaviors, including addiction and legal troubles. Facing a pivotal moment in court at the age of 18, he chose redemption by opting for community service and military service over jail time. During his military deployment in Iraq, he had a spiritual awakening, which led him back to his faith and music. After completing his military service, Justin pursued a career in music as a recording artist and worship leader. He faced challenges, especially during the 2020 pandemic, but had a profound encounter with God that transformed his life. This article highlights Justin's journey of redemption and revival through faith.

This is a very special testimonial episode of The Walk Podcast and we hope you enjoy it.

- - - - - - - - -

Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.justingambino.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Justin Gambino?

Since 2015, acclaimed Texas-based singer/songwriter Justin Gambino has been developing an enthusiastic following across the United States and around the world with his charismatic live performances and hope-filled anthems. With an EP, a full-length recording, and numerous cinematic music videos to his credit, Gambino’s signature songs include “Your Hands & Feet,” “Anchored” and “Going Under.” He’s performed at festivals, churches, camps and other venues, opening for such genre leaders as TobyMac, for KING + COUNTRY, Crowder, Casting Crowns, Skillet and Switchfoot.

Gambino’s testimony is a consistent theme in his music and ministry. A rebellious teen, he was arrested for theft at the age of 18. Opting for military enlistment and community service in lieu of incarceration, he spent eight years in the US Navy. While serving in Iraq, Gambino was asked to lead worship on base, rekindling a love for music he first embraced as a child. Battling PTSD and anger issues following his military service, Gambino turned to alcohol and spiraled into depression and despair. One night, on the floor of his apartment, he cried out to God for help and a new journey of redemption, hope and purpose began. Coming full circle, Gambino now holds the Brazoria County Revival each year on the steps of the Texas courthouse where he was sentenced as a teen.

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Worship Leader and The Walk Podcast had the exclusive opportunity to dive deep into the minds of the legendary Newsboys, featuring the dynamic duo of Michael Tait and Adam Agee. This candid and enlightening conversation took us on a journey through the intricate world of worship, music, and the challenges that fame brings. The Newsboys had more than just music to share; they offered a spiritual experience like no other.

The Sonic Puzzle of Worship Music

Our voyage begins with the enigmatic nature of worship music. The Newsboys were unapologetically candid about the complexities in defining and categorizing worship melodies. The question loomed large: Can worship music transcend the boundaries of genre? Michael Tait eloquently emphasized that worship traverses the vertical, honoring God, and the horizontal, our interactions with others. In their view, it's an extraordinary tool for communication with the Creator himself.

Performance as a Holy Act

As our conductor for this spiritual journey, Joshua Swanson dared to ask the question on everyone's minds: Can performing rock anthems be a form of worship? Adam Agee, the sage of the Newsboys, revealed that this idea evolved. Initially, they faced resistance to the audacious fusion of rock and worship. But to them, worship is an intimate expression of individual gifts that guide people towards the Creator. The crowds that unite during their performances are a testament to this profound connection.

The Fame Tightrope Walk

The spotlight can be both a blessing and a curse, and the Newsboys know it well. Michael Tait, with wisdom etched on his soul, spoke of the struggle to stay grounded in the face of temptation. To fend off the snares of fame, he advocates daily prayers and adorning spiritual armor against the influence of dark forces. He believes in relying on God's grace and making God a part of every endeavor. Adam Agee added a poignant note: fame doesn't grant immunity from self-doubt and trials, but their faith provides the strength to weather the storm.

Wisdom For Generations

To the aspiring souls of the next generation, the Newsboys offered profound guidance. They emphasized the importance of making wise choices and understanding the weight of consequences. Battle-scarred by their own struggles with self-doubt, they stressed the significance of dedicating each morning to God, making Him the priority in the rhythm of life. Their advice was a harmonious blend of practicality and faith.

Prayers for the Journey

As the serenade with the Newsboys drew to a close, Joshua Swanson asked the audience to join in prayers on behalf of these messengers of music and faith. Michael Tait requested prayers for the band's ongoing impact through their melodies, as well as for the stamina and consistency to carry forth their message. Adam Agee humbly sought prayers for their health and safety during their extensive tour, recognizing the challenges of life on the road.

The Newsboys' interview gave us more than a glimpse into their faith-driven artistry; it provided a portal into the profound complexities of their spirituality and their unwavering commitment to crafting music with a message. This was not just an interview; it was an exploration of their souls, revealing the intricate harmonies of faith, fame, and the power of music.

Key Takeaways

• Worship Music's Uncharted Territory: The Newsboys shed light on the complexity of defining worship music, challenging traditional boundaries and genre categorizations. Their view that worship encompasses honoring God and guiding interactions with others opens up new perspectives on the role of music in faith.
• Performing as a Spiritual Expression: The evolution of their belief that performing can be a form of worship showcases the band's willingness to push boundaries and embrace rock music as a vehicle for spiritual connection. Their concerts serve as a testament to the power of music to unite and elevate the audience's spirits.
• Staying Grounded Amidst Fame's Temptations: Michael Tait's emphasis on daily prayers and spiritual armor as protection against the trappings of fame reveals their commitment to staying true to their faith in the face of celebrity. Their experience highlights the struggle to balance spirituality with the demands of stardom.
• Advice for the Next Generation: The Newsboys' advice to the next generation underscores the importance of wise choices and an unwavering faith. Their personal experiences with self-doubt and their commitment to starting each day with devotion to God provide practical insights for those navigating their own journeys of faith and music.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Sponsor:

• Planning Center

Links:

• https://www.newsboys.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Newsboys?

Twenty-twenty left us with a choice. In the midst of safer-at-home orders, racial and political unrest, and a virus that wreaked havoc around the world, the question remained: Where do you stand? For Platinum group Newsboys, the answer was easy. Recognizing that their season of collaboration with former bandmates Peter Furler and Phil Joel for their nostalgic run as Newsboys UNITED was coming to a close, current band members Michael Tait, Duncan Phillips, Jeff Frankenstein and Jody Davis, began to assemble an album that gave no doubt as to who they are and what they believe. The result is STAND, one of the most thoughtfully-crafted releases of their career and a project that marks the band’s return to their original label home, Capitol CMG.

Since their early beginnings in Australia, Newsboys have propelled countless hits up the charts. With signature songs, including “We Believe,” “Born Again” and Platinum-certified mega hit “God’s Not Dead,” which birthed a film franchise of the same name, Newsboys have sold more than 10 million albums spanning 23 recordings. In addition, they’ve amassed one Platinum and eight Gold certifications, 33 #1 radio hits, four GRAMMY® nominations, two American Music Award nods and multiple Dove Awards. With the transition to Michael Tait as the band’s lead singer in 2009, Newsboys embarked on an unprecedented second act that continues today.

When the global pandemic shuttered live events indefinitely, the award-winning supergroup was given something they’ve never been afforded—time. For the first time in three decades, Newsboys had an uninterrupted season before them to write, record and experiment.

“It really allowed us to immerse ourselves in the studio side of life,” Phillips attests. “There’s kind of this psyche that goes along with being in the studio, which is totally different than the live situation. It’s a whole different head space. So for the first time in our career, we had the opportunity to really immerse ourselves in that. It’s crazy because I never thought it would happen.”

Ironically, although they were restricted in the sense that they couldn’t tour, they had never been more free to create. The uninhibited space allowed Tait to dive deeper into the creative process than ever before with the charismatic frontman co-writing all 10 tracks on the album and co-producing the project alongside Tedd T., Micah Kuiper, Bryan Fowler, Ben Glover and Jeff Sojka.

“It’s fun when you have time to unpack your thoughts and really think about what you want to say on a record. You get real reflective. God showed up and just started putting songs on my heart,” shares Tait, who wrote upwards of 50 songs over the past year. “You’re literally creating something out of nothing, but every song isn’t necessarily a home run. It’s trial and error.”

The unconstrained environment also gave the band free rein to put every song through the wringer, constantly rewriting, reworking and rearranging until every single lyric and sonic embellishment met their high standards of excellence.

“We wanted to get the best out of every song,” Tait shares. “It’s like picking up seashells and putting them in a bag, and you get home and you’re looking at them all going, ‘I got some killer stuff.’ Instead of just grabbing a handful, it’s looking at each piece and going, ‘What do I want to put in that bag?’ It’s going to get heavy, so we have to make sure it’s worth the weight, literally.”

Phillips agrees Tait’s integral investment and intentionality in every part of the process made STAND that much more indicative of who they are as a band. “I think there’s more of Michael in this record than any record he’s been involved in in a really, really great way, because Michael’s a great songwriter, and it allowed him as a lead singer to really own that side of what we do,” the long-time drummer offers. “I think there’s a magic that happens when a lead singer gets involved in the songwriting. I’ve seen him just shine and explore his creativity and take ownership in this version of Newsboys.”

This iteration of Newsboys—which the band members affectionately refer to as “Newsboys 2.0”—follows more than 200 shows and a full-length worship-centric LP with Newsboys UNITED. STAND pushes the band into the next chapter while building on the vibrant, synth-filled pop of 2016’s Love Riot.

Coming out of a season of collective loss and disappointment, Newsboys sought to craft a record that was the antithesis of 2020. While STAND is their response to the questions raised over the past year, melodically, it’s filled with bright sonic textures and arena-ready anthems—poised for their “Step Into The Light Tour” as they return to the road in the fall of 2021.

Lead single “Magnetic” serves as a fitting introduction to the upbeat collection. “The song is about the relentless chase God has for His creation,” Tait shares of the groove-laden track. “He loves you so much that He lets you assert your free will. He puts it all out there and says, ‘What are you going to choose?’ But at the same time, He will pull you back into Himself. You can’t escape at the end of the day.” 

The effervescent “Magnetic” opens the project before heading into subtle reggae-inspired territory with “Ain’t It Like Jesus,” a selection that reflects Tait’s appreciation for Bob Marley’s musical style and boasts of all the unexpected ways God shifts the paradigm of our lives. 

“It’s like Him to take every situation that Satan meant for bad and flip it, and that’s the beauty of the God we serve,” Tait contends, noting, “I felt like, musically, ‘Magnetic’ and ‘Ain’t It Like Jesus’ were crafted with the idea of, ‘How will this come off live?’ because every song ultimately ends up on stage.”

Pop gem “Blessing On Blessings” follows suit, challenging listeners to focus on all of the gifts—big and small—that God bestows on His children daily with a sunny piano-led melody. Meanwhile, the powerful “I Still Believe You’re Good” declares the goodness of God in the midst of unimaginable circumstances. Tait soon realized it was an unintentional nod to the recent turn of events. “When we started writing this song, it became so clear that this is really the whole COVID-19 story wrapped up in melody,” he says. “As Paul said, ‘I’m still going to be content in every situation.’ It’s easier said than done. But at the end of the day, we asked ourselves, can we find the rainbow in the COVID cloud? And we did.”

A follow-up of sorts to their signature ballad “We Believe,” the album’s title-cut solidifies where the group stands in a politically-charged culture. “We tried to write a song that speaks to the very purpose and mission of every human. We finished the song and were like, ‘This feels like an album theme.’ And especially nowadays in the face of so much hate. I mean, let’s face it, I’m a man of color, and people are trying to tell me black and white can’t get along; we don’t like each other,” Tait remarks. “When people ask you, ‘Where do you stand? Tell me the hope that lies within you,’ believers in Christ should stand. The Bible says God would rather you be cold or hot, not lukewarm. You’re not standing if you’re standing in the middle. You have to choose a side. If you’re going to be a bad boy, be a bad boy. If you’re going to be a God follower, then be a Jesus freak, do it.”

It’s evident what side Newsboys are on. In the midst of racial division, fans only need to turn their attention to the stage to catch a glimpse of true diversity on display. A black frontman, an Australian drummer and two additional American bandmates round out the Newsboys’ brotherhood. Their obvious camaraderie speaks louder than any soapbox could. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t realize the responsibility they have to speak truth. This album especially lives up to its name, letting listeners know exactly where it is they STAND. 

“You can say so much in a three-minute song. You can change the world,” Tait offers. “That’s a very blessed and privileged position to have. We take it seriously, and we love it, because we know that we’re conduits of something special

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Benji Cowart, a renowned Nashville songwriter, opens up about the struggles of balancing his creative profession with his spiritual journey. He candidly admits that the commercial aspects of songwriting have sometimes hindered his spiritual growth. However, he also recognizes that challenging periods can often serve as catalysts for spiritual revival. Cowart underscores the significance of seeking God's direction and embracing one's true calling in life. His insights offer valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of faith and career in the modern world.

Key Takeaways:

• Cowart acknowledges the difficulty of maintaining spiritual depth while working in a commercial industry like songwriting.
• He describes the "recipe for revival" as desperation, suggesting that challenging times can lead to spiritual growth.
• He emphasizes the importance of relying on God's guidance and recognizing one's calling in life.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

Sponsor:

• Planning Center

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Links:

• https://www.cowartcreative.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Benji Cowart?

Born and raised just north of Nashville in Hendersonville, TN, Benji’s roots are in Music City. Growing up in a home that encouraged creativity and musical expression. 

Whether he was singing around the house, at church or in a kid’s choir, christian music was a big part of Benji's life. It wasn't until middle school that he discovered his love for writing which was heavily was influenced by one of his English teachers.

Since then Benji has always been involved in some form of ministry. With his wife Jenna Cowart, Benji has served on staff at churches in North Port, Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada; Buffalo, New York; and Covington, Louisiana. Through his work in the church, Benji learned how to write songs for the congregations he was leading, and it was through this time of serving that he wrote "The Only Name (Yours Will Be)" and "Redeemed" which became his first major radio cuts with Big Daddy Weave. 

In 2013 Benji returned home to Nashville to begin his professional songwriting career signed under Word Entertainment where he has continued to write songs for christian music and sync. 

At the end of 2021 Benji signed with TIM Publishing. He is currently living in Franklin Tennessee with his wife Jenna and their four kids. He looks forward to his time at TIM Publishing and hopes to continue to write songs that God will use to impact people in very deep and profound ways.

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In a heartfelt and insightful devotional, Mac Powell, a renowned worship pastor, musician, and solo Christian artist best known for being a part of the band Third Day, shared his perspective on what he considers to be his daily medicine for physical, mental, and spiritual strength. 

Mac Powell centers his discussion on three pillars of daily medicine that have played a significant role in shaping his faith and sustaining him through life's challenges.

The Word of God:

Mac emphasizes the fundamental importance of the Bible in his life. He firmly believes in the Scriptures as a means for Believers to not only learn about God but also gain insights into life itself. He shares a personal testimony from his senior year in high school when he was led back to faith by reading the Book of Romans, illustrating the transformative power of God's Word. For Mac, daily engagement with the Bible, even if it's just a few verses, is essential for spiritual growth and strength.

• Key Takeaway: Regularly spending time with the Bible is crucial for spiritual nourishment and growth, and it has the power to rekindle one's faith.

The Spirit of God:

Mac Powell believes in the need for God's Holy Spirit to lead, guide, comfort, and counsel individuals. He underscores the role of prayer in fostering a connection with the Spirit. Mac's personal journey includes a commitment to prayer, which became more profound during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prayer, he explains, has the potential to provide answers and guidance, much like the time he spent reading the Bible in high school.

• Key Takeaway: Consistent and intentional prayer is a means of connecting with the Holy Spirit, receiving guidance, and navigating life's challenges.

Fellowship and Community:

In his third pillar, Mac emphasizes the significance of fellowship and community with other Believers. He believes that interacting with fellow Christians helps maintain accountability, truth, and a deeper understanding of God's will. The act of spending time with the body of Christ, sharing meals, and engaging in conversations about faith and life is vital to his spiritual growth.

• Key Takeaway: Fellowship with other believers is essential for grounding one's faith, maintaining accountability, and discerning the truth.

Biblical Inspiration:

Mac Powell draws inspiration from Acts 2:42, a verse that captures the essence of the early church's daily practices. He believes that the commitment to the apostles' teachings (the Word of God), fellowship, and prayer, as seen in this verse, serves as a timeless model for today's believers.

• Key Takeaway: The practices of the early church, as documented in Acts 2:42, serve as a guiding blueprint for modern Christians to strengthen their faith and grow spiritually.

Mac Powell's devotional highlights the importance of consistent and intentional engagement with three key elements: the Word of God, the Spirit of God through prayer, and fellowship with fellow believers. His personal anecdotes and biblical references underscore the transformative potential of these practices in maintaining physical, mental, and spiritual strength. As Mac beautifully expresses, these practices have been timeless cornerstones of faith that sustain and nourish the soul, as witnessed in Acts 2:42. In times of doubt or challenges, finding one's daily medicine in these three pillars can rekindle faith and provide the strength needed to navigate life's journey.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.macpowell.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/macpowell/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Mac Powell?

Mac Powell, originally from Alabama, moved to Atlanta, GA as a sophomore in high school where he would soon co-found the Christian rock band Third Day. Throughout their nearly three-decade career, the band sold over 10 million albums, earned four Grammy Awards, one American Music Award, 24 Dove Awards, and was inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame. Since Third Day’s farewell tour in 2018 Mac released his debut solo Christian album “New Creation” on October 15th, 2021 which landed at NO.1 on the Top Christian & Gospel album chart. River of Life, the debut single from “New Creation” became a Top 10 hit at Christian radio followed by the multi-week title track, New Creation, which spent 7 weeks at NO. 2 and 19 weeks inside the top 10. Mac is on staff at Church of the Apostles in Atlanta, GA where he lives with his wife Aimee and children.

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He has sold over 50 million records over his seven decade career and has recorded more songs than any other artist in history, he’s a legendary singer, a Hollywood actor and personality, an author, a winner of countless awards, but most importantly he has been a man of faith since he was 13 and at 89 he has an abundance of wisdom that we can all learn from. On this episode of The Walk, we feature a conversation the remarkable Pat Boone.

Pat Boone and Joshua Swanson discuss the importance of kindness and compassion and a life lived in the midst of Hollywood for Jesus. Pat Boone begins by saying that it is important to be kind and compassionate. Boone also says that worship can happen anywhere, not just on a platform. He believes that God has made each of us with our own unique individual sound, and that our diversity is a beautiful thing. 

Boone's statement about worship happening anywhere is a reminder that we can worship God in any way, anywhere, and at any time. We can worship Him through our singing, our prayers, and our actions. We can worship Him alone or with others. There is no one right way to worship.

Boone's analogy of creation to illustrate the beauty of diversity is a powerful one. Just as creation is diverse, so are we. We are all different, with our own unique gifts and talents. We should celebrate our diversity and unity in Christ.

Key Takeaways:

• Kindness and compassion are important. Pat Boone begins by saying that it's important to be kind and compassionate. 
• Worship can happen anywhere. Pat Boone goes on to say that worship doesn't have to happen just on the platform, but can also happen in the pews.
• We are all uniquely created. He believes that the beautiful thing about the Lord is that he has made us with our own unique individual sound. Even our voices are individual.
• Our identity should be rooted in Christ. Boone believes that if our identity is rooted in Christ first, then we can all become super blended in what we do.
• Diversity is a beautiful thing. He uses the analogy of creation to illustrate the beauty of diversity. He says that there is something beautiful about when all of the sound of creation comes together.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.patboone.com/
• https://www.goldlabelartists.com/product/country-jubilee-commemorative-edition-2lp-black-vinyl/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Pat Boone?

Pat Boone's journey is a remarkable tapestry of musical achievements. With a staggering 50 million records sold globally, he stands tall among the top 10 recording artists in history, marked by a series of consecutive Top 10 and No. 1 hits that underscore his undeniable influence on the music scene. Rising to prominence in the 1950s after triumphing in TV's inaugural national talent contest, Boone's smooth and wholesome musical style resonated deeply, leading to starring roles in Hollywood hits like "April Love" and "State Fair." His recent accolades include the Grace Award for Most Uplifting Performance In Movies at the esteemed Movieguide Awards for his role in "The Mulligan." Pat Boone's indelible legacy resonates through his music and contributions to entertainment. His triple stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, celebrating his achievements in Recording, Motion Picture, and Television, stand as a testament to his enduring impact. A virtuoso in singing, acting, songwriting, and authorship, Boone's timeless appeal continues to captivate across generations. As he has just released his highly-anticipated country album, "COUNTRY JUBILEE" on September 8, 2023, Boone's Nashville roots come alive in a heartfelt tribute featuring 25 tracks. The album showcases his versatile talent, including five Top 100 Country recordings, a captivating duet with Crystal Gayle titled "You and I," and an energetic anthem "GRITS," featuring collaborations with luminaries like Ray Stevens, The Gatlin Brothers, Lorrie Morgan, Deborah Allen, and Dean Miller. One crucial aspect that sets Pat Boone apart is his deep faith and conservative values, which have been an integral part of his identity throughout his career. Boone's unwavering commitment to his faith and values has often been reflected in his music choices and public persona.

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In this conversation with Charity Gayle, she shares insights about her journey in worship music and her commitment to keeping worship sacred. Charity discusses how she was introduced to worship music through her family's deeply spiritual upbringing and her early exposure to choir and worship in church. She emphasizes the importance of worshipping in secret as a way to maintain the authenticity of worship and its significance in her life.

Charity also reflects on the labels associated with music genres and emphasizes that the primary identity should be as disciples of Christ. She discusses her unique approach to worship, blending different styles and focusing on the authenticity of the church's song. She believes that when individual identities are rooted in Christ, a beautiful and unified sound emerges, much like the diverse sounds of creation.

Towards the end, Charity offers words of encouragement to local church leaders dealing with burnout. She emphasizes the importance of teamwork, communication, and seeking guidance from experienced elders in the church. She also shares her excitement about the next generation of young leaders who value authenticity and believes they hold something unique for the future. Lastly, she highlights the significance of accountability in her life, particularly through her pastor, her husband, her parents, and fellow worship team members.

Overall, Charity Gayle's conversation highlights the importance of authenticity in worship, the unity of the church's song, and the value of accountability and guidance in one's spiritual journey.

Key Takeaways:

- Charity Gayle emphasizes the importance of keeping worship sacred by practicing it in secret, understanding its weight, and realizing that it's a testimony shared with the Lord and the congregation.

- She believes that labels in music genres should take a back seat to the primary identity of being disciples of Christ.

- Charity discusses her unique approach to worship, blending various musical styles and focusing on the authenticity of the church's song.

- She offers words of encouragement to local church leaders, emphasizing teamwork, communication, and seeking guidance from experienced elders in the church to combat burnout.

- Charity is excited about the next generation of young leaders who value authenticity and believes they bring something unique to the future of worship.

- Accountability plays a vital role in her life through her pastor, her husband, her parents, and fellow worship team members.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.charitygayle.com/
• https://www.wearegatherhouse.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Charity Gayle?

Charity houses a powerful voice that has a fresh yet reminiscent sound. She loves the Lord with fierce faith and was raised in a home full of worship and has been involved in ministry since she was a child. Growing up in Buffalo, NY, Charity was a part of a culture that thrives in the spirit of unity while celebrating diversity. Surrounded by worship and the Word, her love for praising Jesus through music grew as she did. One of her favorite things growing up was watching her mom direct choir at Thursday night choir practice and by the age of 16, she was directing multiple choirs herself. “I love harmonies in gospel music. I think about Heaven being full of every type of voice from every nation, finding their part and praising God at the top of their lungs together around the Throne.”

She spent two years in Nashville in 2014 and 2015 where she fell more in love with the art of writing songs for the church. Focusing on bridging the gap between worship and gospel music, she has authored songs like ‘Amen’ ‘Psalm 100 (Enter In), Cleansed and ‘New Name Written Down in Glory’. Her first record, ‘Lord, You are my Song, debuted at #1 in the Christian and gospel genre in January 2018. She recently released her sophomore album ‘Endless Praise’ in Sept. 2021, featuring the song ‘Thank You Jesus for the Blood’ also debuting at #1. 

Most recently, Charity received a Dove Award for the song ‘Benediction (As You Go)’ on Selah’s record, “Firm Foundation”. 

Charity lives and leads worship with her husband, Ryan Kennedy. They are cultivating a movement for 24-hour prayer and worship called GatherHouse, and are continuing to write and spread the gospel in the US and globally.

Who Is Gatherhouse?

Gatherhouse is a movement out of Houston, Texas that states, “We are a people unapologetically in love with Jesus, committed to partnering with heaven in 24/7 prayer and worship, determined to give our lives to the work of seeing His Kingdom come to earth as it is in heaven through the life-altering love and presence of Jesus.”

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Tiffany Hudson of Elevation Worship uses an unlikely Bible character as an example of her “favorite worship leader.” John the Baptist isn’t necessarily remembered for his lyrical skills or musical abilities, but his heart is positioned in a posture of worship like few others written about in scripture. Tiffany’s devotional today teaches us how to posture ourselves in the same way as this great worship leader did when he fulfilled prophesy and prepared a way for the savior to come. 

Key Takeaways:

- John the Baptist recognized when the Spirit of God walked into the room.

- John prepared the way for Jesus.

- John was a prophet who always pointed back to Jesus.

- John preached a message of repentance. Repentance must be a part of our daily walk as Believers.

Matthew 3:1-3 In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea 2 and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” 3 This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah:

“A voice of one calling in the wilderness,

‘Prepare the way for the Lord,

    make straight paths for him.’”[a]

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.tiffanyhudsonmusic.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Tiffany Hudson?

Tiffany Hudson grew up in the church as a Pastor’s kid, always knowing she wanted to be in ministry. “I felt God draw my heart to Him and I began to fall in love with His presence,” Tiffany shares. “I didn’t know what it would look like or how God would use me, I just knew I was meant to serve His church.” It was also at her parent's church where she started honing in on her worship-leading skills, learning to play multiple instruments and write songs. 

Today, Tiffany is an award-winning songwriter (“Graves Into Gardens,” “Wait On You,” “Never Lost,” among others), a member of the GRAMMY Award-winning group Elevation Worship, and a worship leader at Elevation Church. 

She has also been honored to be part of the numerous accolades Elevation Worship has received:  RIAA Gold® certification status for their song “Graves Into Gardens,” a GRAMMY Award® in 2022 for their collaborative album with Maverick City Music Old Church Basement, two Billboard Music Awards® (in 2021 as Top Christian Artist and Top Christian Song “Graves Into Gardens”). Along with two GMA Dove Awards® in 2021 (Top Worship Recorded Song, “Graves Into Gardens;” Top Worship Album, Old Church Basement), she has also received additional GMA Dove Award nominations with the group.

Tiffany released her solo debut album, Hidden Here, on Elevation Worship Records which features a variety of styles that have individual worship focus as opposed to the corporate worship style Elevation Worship delivers.

She shares, “After a season of what felt like a creative drought, I began to sit down at my piano and felt the Lord begin to download songs and themes that felt very important to Him.”

Who Is Elevation Worship?

Elevation Worship is the worship ministry of Elevation Church, a multisite church based in Charlotte, N.C. led by Pastor Steven Furtick.

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Tyler Roberts of Red Rocks Worship brings our devotional today. He focuses on who you are in Christ. Knowing who you are and who you belong to will keep you focused on the Kingdom of God and not the kingdom of man.

Key Takeaways:

• Who do you belong to? You belong to the Lord. What does that mean?
• Whatever God makes is “wonderful” and made with a purpose. So, you are made with a purpose and are wonderful. - - Psalm 139
• You were born in His image with purpose. He has very good plans for you.
• James 1:23 says the word of God is like a mirror.
• Psalm 143:8 - every day, God, I need you to show me my purpose. Show me the way.

We close out the episode with the song There’s No Way by Red Rocks Worship, which is a great anthemic reminder of how there is truly no way our Father will let us down. His mercy endures forever. His love is complete. His salvation is forever. Amen.

"There's No Way"

There's no way I'm giving up

On the edge of my breakthrough

I've walked long enough to know

There's a grace for that's still enough

And a hope that I cling to

Even in the lowest low

There's still one thing that I know

[Chorus]

There's no way, no way You're going to let me down

You never have, never will and You won't start now

There's no way, no way Your promise can fail

It never has, never once and it never will

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.redrocksworship.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Tyler Roberts?

Tyler Roberts is a founding member, worship leader, and songwriter for Red Rocks Worship. He serves as Worship Pastor at Red Rocks Church in Denver, CO. Tyler is extremely passionate about equipping the church with faith-filled anthems.  He and his wife, Whittnay, have two boys named Camden & Nash. When they aren’t at church, they’re usually wrestling or watching football.

Who Is Red Rocks Worship?

Red Rocks Worship is the music ministry of Red Rocks Church, a multi-campus congregation based in Denver, Colorado. Founded in 2005, Red Rocks Church is one of the fastest-growing congregations in the country, with people attending their campuses throughout Colorado, Texas, and Belgium. The team’s ethos originated when the church first opened its first satellite campus. Worship Pastor Tyler Roberts says, “During that season, we brought on more worship leaders for our new campus. We were trying to figure out how to align these different voices and agree on what to sing each Sunday. We quickly learned that each of us has different backgrounds and different tastes. We wondered, ‘What if we met together weekly for prayer and just started writing songs together?’ So, our songwriting and identity as Red Rocks Worship grew from that time of seeking to become unified as one voice.”  The church and worship team are built around a singular vision: To make Heaven more crowded.  To that end, Red Rocks Worship crafts irresistible music that magnifies an irresistible God. Each faith-filled anthem carries a thread that runs throughout Red Rocks Church, a desire to remove religious barriers and elevate what matters most: people in need of a Savior. And no matter the song, no matter the medium, the group’s goal is simple: we want everyone to know the only way, the truth, and the life found in Jesus.

Scripture References

• Psalm 143:8
• Psalm 139:113-14
• Romans 8

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The tension between being celebrated for your gifting versus pointing the glory back to the Creator, our heavenly Father, is constant for people of faith.. On today’s episode of The Walk, our devotion is brought by a seasoned Worship Leader, songwriter, missionary, and artist, Jon Shabaglian. Jon has a word for all of us who claim to be Christ followers on just how easy it is to make God angry by abusing the gift we have been given for our own personal gain.

Jon also has an interesting background which brings an international view of making music given in his history as an Armenian believer. His grandparents were rescued by German Mennonite missionaries and escaped the Armenian genocide during World War I, was part of an historic reconciliation gathering in Istanbul, Turkey, in 2015 to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the Armenian genocide. He wrote and recorded “Reconciliation Song,” featuring Turkish violinist Orhan Celebi, which was showcased in the documentary “Journey To Redemption.”

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.jonshabaglian.com/
• https://www.jonshabaglian.com/psalmist-mission
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/
  

Who is Jon Shabaglian?

Jon Shabaglian has been an acclaimed recording artist, songwriter, worship leader and pastor for more than two decades. With eight albums to his credit, Shabaglian has also toured internationally as a music missionary. In addition, he is the founder and leader of Psalmist Mission, a multi-faceted nonprofit presenting annual music and spiritual formation intensives designed to raise up biblically grounded worship leaders and Kingdom artists around the world. 

Shabaglian, whose Armenian grandparents were rescued by German Mennonite missionaries and escaped genocide during World War I, was part of an historic reconciliation gathering in Istanbul, Turkey, in 2015 to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the Armenian genocide. He wrote and recorded “Reconciliation Song,” featuring Turkish violinist Orhan Celebi, which was showcased in the documentary “Journey To Redemption.”

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Michael Bethany of Gateway Worship has been through a lot of transitions in his life. This episode of our devotional podcast, The Walk, starts when Michael was a boy growing up in his father's church and he heard the call to go into ministry. 

Michael recently released an album called, Overflow, and it delivers a live worship experience featuring a multicultural sound of worship birthed out of Michael’s personal overflow of intimacy with God that was fostered and developed through the many transitions that Michael has walked through.

Genesis 12:1 (NIV) - The Call of Abram - The Lord had said to Abram, “Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you."

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.michaelbethany.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
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• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Michael Bethany?

Stellar Award nominated songwriter and two-time BMI Christian Song Award recipient (Fred Hammond’s No. 1 Billboard hit “They That Wait” and “Here In Our Praise”), Michael Bethany is passionate about creating multicultural worship experiences that activate an overflow of intimacy with God. His freshman independent album, Yours Forever, debuted at No. 5 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart while his videos have received over 19 million views on YouTube alone. Collaborating with musical greats like Hammond, Leeland Mooring, Kirk Franklin, Marvin Sapp, Tamela Mann and more, Michael is based out of Gateway Church in Southlake, TX where he leads dynamic worship at services and conferences. Featured by TBN, Daystar and other television networks, Michael has mentored and empowered worship ministries around the world, as well as launched the non-profit organization, Overflow Culture. A native of St. Louis, MO, Michael now resides in Fort Worth, TX along with his wife, Chavon, and two sons.

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When the prayer of a parent for the healing of their child goes unanswered it can cause anyone to lose their faith. Chris Llewellyn from Rend Collective is our guest and he brings a devotional that shares some of his personal experiences in an honest and transparent way. During a very difficult time in Chris’s life he clung to this scripture: 

2 Timothy 2:13 (NIV) …if we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself.

Even if we don’t have enough faith during lifes most difficult times, God remains faithful. 

“We went into a doctor's office and we didn't know what to expect, but we had prayed all the right prayers, and me coming from a charismatic background, I thought that was how it worked. I thought you prayed and you got miracles. I had never experienced that moment before, where you don't get the miracle, or at least it doesn't show up in the way that you expect.” - - Chris Llewellyn

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.liinks.co/chrisllewellyn_
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Chris Llewellyn?

Chris Llewellyn is an Irish singer/songwriter, now working out of Nashville, Tennessee. True to his Celtic roots, his songs explore life through a lens of honest, inquisitive faith. His lyric driven writing style draws inspiration from the storytellers of his homeland (Van Morrison, Glen Hansard, Foy Vance, U2), while pressing forward musically into expressions as varied as alt-pop, Americana and live looping performances. His solo project co-exists alongside his career as a founding member of platinum-selling worship act, “Rend Collective”.

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It's always incredible when a story that we've heard our entire lives turns into a story that we feel like we're hearing for the first time. As we grow in our faith and understanding of his Word, the Lord reveals more layers of truth and allows us to experience things that open up our eyes to new revelations. This story of Noah, as told from the perspective of our special guest Yancy, is one of those special stories that takes on new meaning as we are faced with challenges. 

Genesis 6:9 This is the account of Noah and his family. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked faithfully with God. 

God is asking for our "Yes." So often we miss that because we're not listening. Yancy's fantastic devotional challenges us to stop, listen, and respond to the voice of the Lord with the same passion and commitment that Noah did when he was asked to build a giant boat. It made no sense at the time, but he had given his "Yes" to God, and because of that Noah's actions changed the course of history. Thanks, Noah!

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://yancyministries.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Yancy?

From Yancy:

“From the time in my life that I was single digits, I always knew God had put me on this earth to do music. Looking back I realize a lot of adults that surrounded me were aware, at least on some level, of what God had for me because they were cheering me on and encouraging me in an unprecedented way. I made my first album and hit the road performing concerts when I was a senior in high school and never looked back. In so many ways these twenty-five years have played differently than what I dreamed. The journey has certainly looked different than what my mind’s eye teenage dream could imagine, but to be fair, the pieces of my story have in many ways been so much sweeter. Ephesians 3:20 & 21 are still two of my favorite verses and for this milestone of my career and ministry, I can’t help but smile and realize that it truly has been better than what I could ask, think or imagine.

I’ve spent all 25 years of my music career as an independent artist. I’m certainly an unconventional artist and the fact that God has allowed me to fulfill my calling to make and perform music full-time is icing on the cake. Part underdog, part Energizer bunny. Part the little engine that could: I’m still here. Still doing what I love making Jesus loud.

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"Beaming" in from New Zealand, one of our friends, Grant Norsworthy is our guest on this devotional episode of The Walk. From his days in Sonicflood leading I Could Sing Of Your Love Forever to an encounter with God on stage when he said, "Grant, I never asked you to sing of my Love. Instead, I asked you to be my love," Grant has a big message for all worshippers.

He brings us back to the basics of what words like "worship" and "awesome" mean. 

James 1:26 (NIV) Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.grantnorsworthy.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who Is Grant Norsworthy

Grant Norsworthy is not another singer who talks too much. He’s a speaker who sings songs.

An Aussie who was based in Nashville, Tennessee, USA from 2002 to 2018, Grant Norsworthy achieved considerable success as a professional musician including a Grammy® nomination, a Dove Award, extensive touring, recording and radio hits with bands like Paul Colman Trio and Sonicflood.

Now conducting global ministry work from his Nelson, New Zealand home base, Grant uses his musicianship, freewheeling wit and uncommon candour to encourage audiences to deeper faith in Christ and good works. As the founder, content developer and principal instructor for More Than Music Mentor, he provides high quality online and onsite training for the heart and the art of worshiping musicians everywhere.

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This special mid-week drop of The Walk is an interview with Scott Volk from Together for Israel. 

Together for Israel is a non-profit ministry that exists to fulfill the biblical mandate to support those laboring in the land of Israel. We support the believers in Israel by unashamedly raising funds that specifically go to those who are laboring in the Land for the Gospel (Rom. 15:26-27).

We are also a support for the Church as we bring clear Biblical teaching regarding God’s heart for Israel as well as themes related to the Church coming into its necessary ‘fullness’ which must happen before Israel is saved (Rom 11:25-26).

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO WORSHIP THROUGH ISRAEL?

Worship is acknowledging and declaring the worthiness of God and His deeds when we meet Him in Spirit and in Truth.

We invite you to Worship Through Israel with us. Bring your God given gifts & offer them as a sacrifice to God during this unforgettable journey through Israel.

RETURN TO THE HEART OF WORSHIP IN THE HOLY LAND WITH MEREDITH ANDREWS & SPECIAL GUESTS

Not your average tour, our journey though the Holy Land will leave you changed forever. This tour is curated to awaken your heart for worship, inspire your mind and draw you nearer to God. Each day we will learn together, share meals, and build friendships that last a lifetime.

This tour will include nights of worship and ministry with Meredith Andrews and a special guest (who we will be announcing very soon), as well as songwriting workshops, devotional times filled with praise and more.

• https://www.worshipthroughisrael.com/
• https://www.togetherforisrael.org/

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Everyone has an origin story and some are faced with trauma and hardship at an early age. On today’s episode of our devotional podcast, The Walk, Nathan Sheridan tells his story and it’s not an easy story to hear. He faced incredible challenges throughout his childhood, but God brought him through. 

Romans 8:28-29 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[i] have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.

That verse can seem hollow for those in the midst of hardships, but be encouraged, God will see you through and he will work this for the good of those who love him. That “love” word is key to really understanding the verse. Press in to Jesus during those difficulties and fall in love with his Word and his promises and you will find a pathway forward.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.nathansheridanofficial.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
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• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Nathan Sheridan?

Born in Pensacola, Florida, to parents dealing with addiction, Nathan Sheridan was raised in Louisiana by his grandparents. Following a tumultuous childhood that included the loss of his older sister to brain cancer, Sheridan made a commitment to Christ when he was 14. Upon high school graduation he enlisted in the National Guard and served his country for six years. While deployed in Kuwait, Sheridan led worship for fellow soldiers, providing a foundation that impacts his ministry today.

His critically acclaimed full-length debut, Broken With You, released in 2018 and features the poignant track “Again.” Paying tribute to veterans of the Greatest Generation, the music video for “Again” premiered on CMT in 2019 as part of its “Artist Discovery" platform. Sheridan's inspiring life story has been featured on The 700 Club, 100 Huntley Street and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association's GPS: God. People. Stories. podcast, among other outlets; and he has opened for such artists as Matthew West, Tasha Layton and CAIN. After signing with Amplo Records in 2022, Sheridan bowed his label debut, “Something Worth Singing About,” and the single has garnered more than three million streams to date.

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Some situations are so painful that telling the story is just too hard, so the testimonies never get shared. In this episode of The Walk, Jess Loper (Chambers) shares a very personal experience that ends in redemption and healing. The strength and leadership that she displays just by being willing to share about her situation is a testament to who she is at her core; a strong, faithful, forgiving, servant of Jesus.

Romans 8:28 (ESV) And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.

Way to go, Jess. Thank you for being transparent and you’re not alone. There are so many others with a similar story and we know that your being willing to share will bring courage and healing to others as well.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.gotee.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Jess Loper?

Jess Loper, Senior VP of Brand Management (Gotee Records), President of Publishing (Emack Music) and Founder, Without Labels Collective.

Jess Loper began her career in the newsroom serving as an Editor with Business Wire who services the Associated Press with press releases for publicly held companies. From there she took her love of words into the music industry in the A&R department at Capitol CMG/Universal Music. In this position she was an integral part of the production process for CMG’s roster of artists while also handling business affairs, union negotiations, and film & tv licensing for the label. In 2017, she’s joined the team at Gotee Records as the Senior VP of Brand Management (Gotee Records) and President of Publishing (Emack Music). Gotee Records and Emack Music are a record label and a music publishing and administration company started in 1994 under the leadership of artist, TobyMac and label president, Joey Elwood. Recently, she also launched Without Labels Collective, a company that focuses on music supervision and licensing for film & television (The Jesus Music Documentary, Trinity Broadcasting Networks, The Huckabee Show, Compassion International, and Thrive just to name a few). This new venture is also focused on educating and supporting songwriters & artists on the business side of the creative process. Outside of her career in the music industry, her writing has been featured in the Huffington Post & Business Week among other digital news outlets and printed publications. Her greatest role in life has been getting to be a mom to Brody (14) & Kellen (12) and bonus mom to Jackson Loper (14).  She married her favorite songwriter, Brent Loper, in the spring of '22 on the front porch of their little farmhouse in Culleoka, TN.

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On today's devotional podcast, we are blessed to have Seth & Nirva, artists and songwriters out of Chicago, who both bring different stories that intersect surrounding the concept of destroying strongholds and taking every thought captive. 

The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 10 that we can make thoughts obey Christ. 

3 For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. 5 We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ, 6 being ready to punish every disobedience, when your obedience is complete.

Seth & Nirva's personal stories taught them how overcoming strongholds is actually possible according to God's Word. Listen and learn and be inspired by this thoughtful and passionate couple on this episode of The Walk, devotionals for worshippers. 

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• http://sethandnirva.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
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• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Seth & Nirva?

Known for delivering worshipful, vertical songs that uniquely blend a range of pop and gospel influences, Seth & Nirva are each extraordinary artists in their own right. Nirva was a vocalist in TobyMac’s Diverse City Band for over a decade, while Seth served as a backing vocalist for some of Christian music’s leading names, including Kirk Franklin, Chris Tomlin and CeCe Winans. The duo’s 2014 debut, I Need You, was followed by 2016’s Never Alone. The latter project is highlighted by the racial reconciliation anthem “Brother” (feat. TobyMac), its message continuing to open doors for the couple to sing and speak on the subject at churches and conferences throughout the US and abroad. In 2020, Seth & Nirva released One Voice, a 13-track collection of music and spoken-word vignettes further addressing such topics as racial reconciliation and apologetics.    

Now based in Virginia, where Nirva serves as an assistant professor of commercial music at Liberty University, Seth & Nirva also continue to co-host the Freemind Podcast. Since its launch in 2018, the podcast has released more than 100 episodes addressing cultural hot-button issues from a biblical perspective. Featured guests have included pro-life advocate Abby Johnson; author, speaker and Moody Bible Institute professor Dr. Christopher Yuan; author, speaker and former atheist Mary Jo Sharp; and John Stonestreet, president of the Colson Center for Christian Worldview, among numerous others.

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There are so many times we come to the Lord thinking that what we bring to him is somehow relevant or important. When, according to our guest Aaron Shust who has written some amazing worship songs like My Savior My God, our Father in heaven doesn't need anything from us, but he simply delights in us coming to him in praise and worship. There's nothing we can bring him that will change how much he loves us. 

That love should show us just how WORTHY our King is of our praise. He is worthy of our prayers. He is worthy of our constant attention. Everything is right in the world when we sit in his presence communicating with him without an agenda and without concern for what we can offer him, but instead, simply receiving and worshiping. 

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.aaronshust.com/
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Who is Aaron Shust?

Aaron’s fascination with music—with unique sounds, melodies, progressions, and

techniques—has always been a salient part of who he is. From an early age, Aaron has felt most at home in front of a piano. Just as innate to Aaron is his love of God’s Word—of wrestling with the Scriptures, with the hard and beautiful things they say, and the way they foretell and fulfill a picture of a suffering servant, King Jesus.

You’ll hear these twin loves in Shust’s music, from his debut success with “My Savior My God,” winning the 2007 New Artist, Songwriter, and Song of the Year. Later, as he grappled with a surprise Down Syndrome diagnosis for one son and waged a war with chronic illness for two, he continued to declare “My Hope is in You,” a song which spent 14 weeks at #1, and “Ever Be,” which debuted at #3 on the NCA chart. Aaron bolsters the faith of his listeners and surprises them, too, as with his 2014 Christmas Album Unto Us, recorded with the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra. With this collection, Shust turns conventional classics into something fresh and adds his own work to the canon of Christmas music.

Over the past several years, Aaron has delved deeply into friendship with Messianic Jews, both in Nashville and Israel, as well as into the Hebrew Scriptures and Jewish tradition that they yield. Here, Aaron and his family have found not only friendship, but also a depth of insight into the rich background of the Yeshua Aaron proclaims, and what this depth of meaning can bring to believers today.

You’ll hear the reverence Aaron has developed for this Jewish heritage in Heaven + Earth: The Psalms Project. From melodic patterns and Middle Eastern instruments to passages sung in Hebrew and collaboration with Israeli musicians, Shust is determined that the listener will steep in the Psalmist’s musical vocabulary and therefore, have an intimate and imaginatively accurate experience of this ancient treasure of praise, lament, and contemplation.

Shust, a native of Pittsburgh, makes his home in Nashville with his wife Sarah and their sons Daniel, Nick, and Michael, as well as a growing menagerie of pets.

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Some Worship Leaders and songwriters have put in more time than others and therefore bring a depth of wisdom that can only be achieved through dedication. Justin Rizzo is one of those individuals. He’s an artist that writes music, movies, plays and has led thousands of hours of worship at the International House of Prayer in Kansas City.

On this devotional episode, he addresses what so many of us can relate to - - insecurity around our prayers. 

“I want to encourage you today to have boldness and to have confidence in your spirit. God delights in you when you come before him and there's never ever a wasted prayer.” - - Justin Rizzo

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• www.justinrizzo.com
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Justin Rizzo?

Justin Rizzo is a worship leader, songwriter, composer, and recording artist based in Kansas City, Missouri. He has released multiple worship albums and been featured on multiple compilation projects, along with writing and producing four full-length musicals. He is a worship leader coach and has a passion to raise up worship leaders and creatives of all types and see them thrive. In addition, he owns a production company called Firelight Creative that focuses on creating musicals and films. He also travels extensively to lead worship and speak at events around the world. He lives in Kansas City, Missouri USA with his with Naomi and their two daughters.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It’s no secret that some of the best songwriters pull their inspiration from personal experiences. In this episode of our devotional podcast, The Walk, once of worship’s most celebrated songwriters, Benji Cowart, shares how his son taught him a lesson that he’s carried with him his entire life.

“I popped in and I'm like, ‘Hey bud.’ And he's like, ‘daddy, can you play with me?’ And I'm like, ‘sure.’ I was thinking I was gonna sit down for two minutes, hang out with him, and then move on. And then he said, ‘but daddy, take your shoes off.’ He, at that age, even understood if I had my shoes off I wasn't going anywhere else.” 

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• http://www.cowartcreative.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Benji Cowart?

Born and raised just north of Nashville in Hendersonville, TN, Benji’s roots are in Music City. Growing up in a home that encouraged creativity and musical expression. 

Whether he was singing around the house, at church or in a kid’s choir, christian music was a big part of Benji's life. It wasn't until middle school that he discovered his love for writing which was heavily was influenced by one of his English teachers.

Since then Benji has always been involved in some form of ministry. With his wife Jenna Cowart, Benji has served on staff at churches in North Port, Florida; Las Vegas, Nevada; Buffalo, New York; and Covington, Louisiana. Through his work in the church, Benji learned how to write songs for the congregations he was leading, and it was through this time of serving that he wrote "The Only Name (Yours Will Be)" and "Redeemed" which became his first major radio cuts with Big Daddy Weave. 

In 2013 Benji returned home to Nashville to begin his professional songwriting career signed under Word Entertainment where he has continued to write songs for christian music and sync. 

At the end of 2021 Benji signed with TIM Publishing. He is currently living in Franklin Tennessee with his wife Jenna and their four kids. He looks forward to his time at TIM Publishing and hopes to continue to write songs that God will use to impact people in very deep and profound ways.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

A true friend is not only someone who builds you up with “kisses and kindness,” but also someone who is willing to deliver hard truths that help you grow into a better person. A person more aligned with God’s vision for you. A person willing to love you by being fully honest with you.

In this devotional episode of The Walk, Robbie Reider from Crossroads Church in Cincinnati, Ohio, shares an intimate look at a time in his life when his “Savior Complex” almost got in the way of God’s plan for his life. But, were it not for a true friend willing to deliver a truth that wasn’t so fun to hear, Robbie may have veered off course and missed the huge blessing that God had right in front him.

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• Crsrdsmusic.com
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Robbie Reider?

Each of us are musicians and worship leaders who serve weekly at Crossroads Church sites across the Cincinnati area. We’re also friends, mothers, fathers, sons and daughters who believe in the power of music and the power of God. Our hope is to create music that’s useful to our church. And our songs are written to help you connect with God in whatever season of life you find yourself. If you’re struggling and seeking hope, or if you’re joyful in redemption, or lost in confusion — we have a song for you to sing.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When one thinks of the heroes of worship in the Bible, who are some of the characters that come to mind? Abraham? Of course, he was a great man of faith and the first official “worshipper” in the Bible. (Genesis 22:1-19) King David? Well, he wrote most of the Psalms, which our modern Christian songwriters use to supplement their own lyrics, so that makes sense. 

But what about Job?

Brent McCorkle is a songwriter, composer, worship leader, editor, and film director. He recently Co-Directed the popular film, The Jesus Revolution, and shares an introspective story about how Job changed the way he looks at worship, and in turn changed his life, forever.  

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.brentmccorkle.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Brent McCorkle?

Director/Writer/Composer Brent McCorkle makes films that are known for their heartfelt and visually compelling storytelling. Prior to co-directing JESUS REVOLUTION, Brent co-wrote, co-edited, directed 2nd unit, and composed the original score on the Kingdom Story Company Lionsgate hit, I CAN ONLY IMAGINE. The faith-based family film starred Dennis Quaid and J. Michael Finley, was theatrically released in 2018, and grossed over $83 million at the box office.

McCorkle’s first project with the Erwin Brothers was WOODLAWN, a sports drama based on the true story of Miami Dolphins superstar running back Tony Nathan. When Woodlawn High School in Birmingham, Alabama, was controversially desegregated in 1973, Nathan became the first black football superstar in Alabama and is credited with helping to unify the mainly white football team at a time when racial tensions were high. Starring Sean Astin, Nic Bishop, Caleb Castille, Sherri Shepherd, and Jon Voight, WOODLAWN is directed by the Erwin Brothers, with McCorkle serving as co-editor and co-composer.

McCorkle’s feature film directorial debut was the biographical drama UNCONDITIONAL, which starred Michael Ealy and Lynn Collins. In addition to writing, directing, editing, and co-scoring the film, UNCONDITIONAL was also nominated for Outstanding Independent Motion Picture by the NAACP Image Awards in 2013.

A credited screenwriter on UNCONDITIONAL and I CAN ONLY IMAGINE, Brent has also composed original score scores for UNCONDITIONAL, I CAN ONLY IMAGINE, WOODLAWN and STEVE MCQUEEN: AMERICAN ICON. Brent co-directed JESUS REVOLUTION.

Brent currently resides on a farm in Nashville, Tennessee with his wife, their five children, and goats(!).

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Psalm 40:2 (NIV)

2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit,

    out of the mud and mire;

he set my feet on a rock

    and gave me a firm place to stand.

So often in life, we must be broken before the Lord puts us back together and reveals in that brokenness his true plan for our lives. Iveth Luna is one of Contemporary Christian Music’s newcomers and she’s on a mission to point listeners to Jesus. In this episode, she talks about her call to leading worship and singing for the Lord.

Her reference scripture is Psalm 40:2, which is a constant reminder that the rock in our life can’t be our dreams, our jobs, or anything else that’s tangible in this world. Our “rock” is actually the faith we have that Jesus is alive and the promises in the Bible are true. Therefore, when we fall into a pit of despair, we can have faith that the Lord is there to lift us up, put our feet back on solid ground, and as long as we’re pointing our hearts to heaven, he will guide our path.

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Sponsor:

• Song Discovery
• www.songdiscovery.com

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.ivethluna.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Iveth Luna?

Named one of the “Top 10 Unforgettable Artists of 2022” by Air1 Radio, Red Street Records’ Iveth Luna is one of Contemporary Christian Music’s newcomers on a mission to point listeners to Jesus. Iveth’s musical journey started early in the Church, where she felt called to use her talents to honor the Lord. When music and God’s word were combined, it brought healing for her through hard times, she began writing music to share with others this message of hope and truth. Tapping into her experience as a worship leader combined with her pop/Latin roots, Iveth’s distinct sound, and bilingual talents give her an edge within the genre. With over 7 million streams in 2022, her debut single “In You”, reached #28 on the Billboard Christian Airplay Chart and was included on Air1 Radio’s “Top 10 Unforgettable Songs of 2022.” Iveth is hopeful that her music will bring healing to others as it did for her. You can find information about upcoming music and events on her social media: @ivethlunamusic or her website: www.ivethluna.com. Hear her latest release, “Ears to Hear”, available everywhere you stream music now.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

There are some tests that take 40 years to turn into testimonies. In this episode of The Walk, we hear about Ryan Stevenson’s amazing mother and her 40 years of faithfulness. He also covers his perspective on God versus Jesus, which is both relevant and timely for so many of us that grew up in legalistic environments where the love of Christ was second to the discipline needed to build a relationship with a distant and unloving God.

Ryan is best known for songs like Eye of the Storm, and for co-writing, Speak Life, with Toby Mac. But his thoughtful commentary on the love of God and his goodness shows that Ryan is a deep thinker and passionate about cultural change and transformation.

Ephesians 3:20-21 (ESV)

20 Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.

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Sponsor:

• Ear Trumpet Labs
• https://www.eartrumpetlabs.com/

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.ryanstevensonmusic.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Ryan Stevenson?

A GRAMMY® and Billboard Music Award nominee with Dove and ASCAP Christian Music Awards to his credit, Ryan Stevenson’s music has provided a soundtrack of hope and encouragement for listeners around the world for more than a decade. Co-writer of TobyMac’s 2014 GRAMMY®-nominated #1 hit “Speak Life,” Stevenson was further propelled into the spotlight with his own Gold-certified, Dove Award-winning 2016 chart-topper “Eye of the Storm,” which held the top spot at Christian radio for 16 weeks. A Pacific Northwest native who spent seven years as a paramedic before signing with Gotee Records in 2013, Stevenson’s acclaimed discography includes Fresh Start (2015), No Matter What (2018), and Wildest Dreams (2020), among other releases. His latest recording, Able, released April 28.

Also known for such radio favorites as “No Matter What” (feat. Bart Millard), “Amadeo (Still My God),” and “When We Fall Apart" (feat. Vince Gill & Amy Grant), Stevenson’s music has achieved six #1 Billboard charting radio singles (four as an artist or featured artist and two as a co-writer). He has toured with top artists including TobyMac, MercyMe and Newsboys, and since 2020 Stevenson has been headlining intimate concerts in churches, theaters and homes. In three years he has played more than 170 shows to a total of 34,000 fans, his deeply personal songs and stories encouraging communities around the country. 

Stevenson is the author of Eye of the Storm: Experiencing God When You Can’t See Him(Harvest House), and host of the “Weathering the Storm” Podcast on K-LOVE’s AccessMore. His podcast guests have included Amy Grant, TobyMac, MercyMe's Bart Millard and The Shack author Paul Young, among many others.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Brett Younker may be best known as a songwriter and worship leader with Passion City Church in Atlanta, but, as you’ll hear in this outstanding devotional, he’s a church planter and most definitely a preacher. His heart for God is apparent and his challenge to all of us to open our whole hearts to God and allow the Holy Spirit to guide us through his plan for our lives is always a relevant message.

Brett quotes A. W. Tozer in this episode and here is another relevant Tozer quote for this great devotional: “If the Holy Spirit was withdrawn from the church today, 95 percent of what we do would go on and no one would know the difference. If the Holy Spirit had been withdrawn from the New Testament church, 95 percent of what they did would stop, and everybody would know the difference.”

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Sponsor:

• Worship Leader
• www.worshipleader.com

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://passioncitychurch.com/topic/brett-younker/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Brett Younker?

A movement founded by Louie and Shelley Giglio in 1995, Passion has been rooted in the truth of Isaiah 26:8 – “Yes Lord, walking in the way of Your truth we wait eagerly for You, for Your name and Your renown are the desire of our hearts” – existing to glorify God by uniting students in worship, prayer, and justice for spiritual awakening in this generation. Passion has ushered in the writing, recording, and leading of some of the most recognizable and unforgettable worship anthems of this generation and is led by Kristian Stanfill, Brett Younker, Melodie Malone, and a new wave of voices including Sean Curran and Chidima. Chris Tomlin, Matt Redman, Crowder, Christy Nockels, and more have also lent their voices alongside Passion throughout the years. Passion’s latest full-length album, “I’ve Witnessed It,” was recorded live at Passion 2023, which was held in two locations with more than 30,000 students in attendance across the two events. The first gathering in Dallas/Ft. Worth, TX at Dickies Arena, followed by Passion's home base in Atlanta, GA at State Farm Arena.

With more than 3.3 Billion global streams, 3 RIAA Certified Gold Singles including “Glorious Day,” “Even So Come,” and “One Thing Remains” and a multitude of chart-topping singles such as “Build My Life,” “God, You’re So Good,” “How Great Is Our God,” “God Of This City,” and “10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord),” listeners across the world continue to be impacted by the music of Passion.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Martin Smith’s father set him on a course that would define the direction of his life just two weeks after he was born. What could have been a tragedy was turned into a life of serving the church and spreading the gospel through songwriting and worship leading. This incredible testimony from the frontman of arguably the most influential UK Christian rock/worship band, Delirious?, makes for an exciting devotional episode. 

The scripture Martin bounces off of is 1 Samuel 16:14-16 (ESV) - 14 Now the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and a harmful spirit from the Lord tormented him. 15 And Saul's servants said to him, “Behold now, a harmful spirit from God is tormenting you. 16 Let our lord now command your servants who are before you to seek out a man who is skillful in playing the lyre, and when the harmful spirit from God is upon you, he will play it, and you will be well.”

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Sponsor:

• Song Discovery
• www.songdiscovery.com

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://martinsmithmusic.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Martin Smith?

For the last three decades, UK worship artist, songwriter, and producer Martin Smith has been penning songs that bring fresh air to the lungs of the Church. From “Did You Feel the Mountains Tremble?” and “Waiting Here for You” to “I Could Sing of Your Love Forever” and “History Maker,” Martin’s songs have connected generations, inspiring and influencing worship leaders and worshippers alike. And whether as frontman for the ground-breaking band Delirious?, lead singer of Army of Bones, or as a solo worship leader, Martin has been involved with almost every aspect of the modern worship movement.

Married to Anna, father to six children, and part of St. Peter’s Church in Brighton, England, Martin continues to write, tour and lead worship.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

It's not just those in the creative field that deal with disappointment, but all of us and Crystal's perspective is valuable as a reminder of where we can take that disappointment. Our King and Heavenly Father loves us and his encouragement to us is that, when we feel broken due to disappointment, we can bring those feelings to him. We can lay it all down and respond in worship and find peace in the midst of grief.

Romans 12:1-2 - Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

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Sponsor:

• Worship Leader
• www.worshipleader.com
• Sennheiser
• https://worshipleader.com/technology/the-sennheiser-profile-usb-microphone-review-a-premium-podcasting-option/

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://www.crystalyatesmusic.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Crystal Yates?

Crystal Yates is a singer-songwriter, worship leader, conference speaker, artist,

and mentor originally from Northwest Florida, and now based out of Dallas TX.  Her music and life reflect the deep impact of change that occurred after hearing the gospel and accepting Christ at 18 years old.  Crystal is a multi-award winning singer and Dove award nominated songwriter. She has recently been recently awarded 2022 Christian Country Artist of the Year by the Texas Country Music Association.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

So many of us experienced a stripping down and a refining process during COVID. But the beauty of our relationship with the Lord is that, as Meredith says in this episode of our devotionals podcast The Walk, when God brings things into the light is to bring them into fullness and healing.

2 Corinthians 4, “Outwardly, we are wasting away yet inwardly, we are being renewed day by day, and these light and momentary afflictions are achieving for us an eternal weight of glory that far outweighs them all. So then we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. Because what is seen as temporary. What is unseen is eternal and God is inviting us into the unseen realm.”

Meredith Andrews shows her depth of understanding of God’s Kingdom and our role in that Kingdom in this fantastic episode of The Walk. We do have authority and when we step into that, as God’s children, we can bring him with us wherever we go, and what an adventure it will be. 

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Sponsor:

Worship Leader

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:

• https://meredithandrews.com/
• https://MeredithAndrews.lnk.to/CarryTheWorld
• https://www.facebook.com/MeredithAndrews
• https://www.instagram.com/meremusic/
• https://www.youtube.com/meredithandrewsmusic
• https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/
• https://authenticmedia.company/
• https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Meredith Andrews?

Curb | Word Entertainment recording artist Meredith Andrews is passionate about writing and leading songs that keep people’s hearts and minds set on Jesus. Over the course of her career, the Dove Award-winning artist has been using her musical gifts, love for God, and her huge heart for His people - to teach and remind us all about the enormity of our awesome and loving Savior. Andrews was previously part of the Vertical Worship team, and more recently Belonging Co., her home church in Nashville. As a gifted songwriter and recording artist, she has been a part of multiple songs sung by churches across America such as “Open Up The Heavens”, “Lamb of God”, “Not For A Moment”, “Spirit of the Living God,” and “Faith and Wonder.” Andrews often leads worship at major women’s and worship leader conferences across the U.S., and has toured with Matt Maher, Natalie Grant, Big Daddy Weave, Vertical Worship, Phil Wickham, and Michael W. Smith, among others. Meredith’s latest release is “Welcomed By The King” (The Church Will Sing, Meredith Andrews, Saddleback Worship).

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Wouldn’t it be epic to be a rock star? Fame. Money. Glory. Amazing, right? Well, not so much.

Not many of our guests have had as much commercial success, or worldly success, as Steele Croswhite. In his days as a rock star, he shared stages with some of the biggest bands of the 90s and early 2000s like The Counting Crows, Sheryl Crow, Ziggy Marley, The Foo Fighters, and more.

Then, Jesus came and his life completely changed. It’s an exciting episode that reminds us that the path of following Jesus over everything is the path to true joy.
Psalm 119:74 (NLT)May all who fear you find in me a cause for joy, for I have put my hope in your word.

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Sponsor:

National Worship Leader Conference
www.worshipleader.com/conference

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Please subscribe to our social channels for more information and great content surrounding building a lifestyle of worship. This podcast is brought to you by Authentic Media and Worship Leader. Our host is Joshua Swanson and the show’s co-producer and editor is Matt McCartie. More episodes can be found at the link below.

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Links:
http://www.therockmusic.org/
https://www.instagram.com/worshipleader/
https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/https://authenticmedia.company/
https://worshipleader.com/all-podcasts/our-host/

Who is Steele Croswhite?
Signing his first record deal at the age of 21, Steele Croswhite began his career as the lead vocalist, songwriter, and guitarist for the acclaimed rock band Silvercrush. While the group earned Billboard chart success and toured with artists like Sheryl Crow, Foo Fighters, and Maroon 5, Croswhite’s life was falling apart. He drifted from his Christian upbringing, lured by the trappings of fame and reeling from his father’s untimely death. Encouraged by his sister to visit the church she was attending, Croswhite experienced the true grace of Jesus Christ and rededicated his life to the Lord. Today, he serves as a pastor and worship leader at The Rock Church, a suburban Salt Lake City congregation on a mission to share the Hope and grace of Christ in Utah—a state with among the fewest Bible-believing Christians in the country. It was. Through outreach efforts in the community, including those from Mormon/LDS backgrounds, The Rock Church seeks to work together, in unity, to reach the world for Jesus Christ.

The Rock Music is the worship ministry of The Rock Church. It is a collaboration of musicians who are dedicated to writing, recording, and performing relevant Christ-centered music without compromise. Rooted in the local church, our sole desire is to: Love God, Bless the Saints, & Win the Lost. With Christ as our anchor, each musician subscribes to the following mission statement: I have been put on the earth to touch the world for God through music, and to be part of the best bands in the world known for loving Jesus Christ. The collective—helmed by Croswhite—has released 11 full-length records and eight EPs. In addition, selections from The Rock Music are showcased on the DREAM Records and PURE FLIX releases “God's Not Dead: A Light In Darkness Soundtrack” and “Samson: Songs From and Inspired by the Motion Picture”. Their latest single “Mercy” is available now on all streaming platforms.

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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.