Real Life with Christ

From Brokenness to Belonging: Sherry’s Story of God’s Healing

On this episode of the "Real Life with Christ Podcast," Jonathan welcomes his mother-in-law, Sherry, back after a recording error. They joke about the technical mishap, framing it as a "trial run" and an opportunity to go more in-depth.  Sherry recounts a traumatic childhood memory at age two. She also shares that as a child, she felt a pull toward church despite her family not attending. Sherry reveals other painful parts of her past, including a complicated relationship with her parents and a lack of connection with her siblings. She discusses how these traumas created a lack of self-confidence and trust issues that affected her relationships. The conversation highlights the power of God in mending broken relationships and using past hurts for His glory. She emphasizes that her testimony is intended to help others and that her experiences serve as a testament to the transformative power of faith.

Music for the Soul

This episode of "The Real Life with Christ" features Jonathan and co-host Matt Whitehead, who shares his testimony and the ever changing landscape of his spiritual journey. Matt reveals he was once detained at Miami Airport for attempting to bring a machete through security and can solve a Rubik's Cube in under 30 seconds. He discusses his upbringing in the church and also speaks candidly about his college years.  Matt emphasizes the powerful connection between music and faith, noting how music impacts the soul and can be a means of glorifying God and building relationships. All of this while Jonathan tries to get back in the saddle again after a long break from podcasting.

The Reluctant Missionary: A Student’s Journey to the Mission Field

In this episode of Real Life with Christ, we sit down with Tucker Townsend, a student from our youth group who’s been called by God to the mission field—a calling they initially embraced with reluctance. What happens when God calls you to something you’re not sure you want to do? Tucker shares his personal story of struggling with God’s plan for his life, the doubts he faced, and how he came to accept their mission, even when he wasn't fully on board. This conversation dives into the tension between our own plans and God’s purpose, and how trusting in His guidance can transform our fears into faith. If you've ever questioned God’s calling or felt unprepared for the task He’s set before you, this episode will resonate deeply with you. Get a behind-the-scenes look at how God works through our reluctance and how His grace leads us to places we never thought we'd go. If you’re on your own journey of surrendering to God's will, this episode will offer encouragement and insight into trusting Him, even when it’s hard. Tune in for a real, honest discussion about God's calling, overcoming doubts, and stepping out in faith. Questions? Email Us! dakota@reallifewithchrist.com [http://reallifewithchrist.com] jonathan@reallifewithchrist.com [http://reallifewithchrist.com] Want more info on the IMB or the Nehemiah teams? Links below! https://www.imb.org/go/ [https://www.imb.org/go] https://www.nehemiahteams.com/ [http://www.nehemiahteams.com]

Walking in Her Footsteps: A Mother's Impact

In this heartfelt episode of Real Life with Christ, we sit down with Mandy Johnson, the beloved wife of our pastor. She shares the poignant story of her late mother, whose unwavering faith and love profoundly shaped her life. Join us as we explore the lessons learned, the moments cherished, and the legacy that continues to inspire her journey. Through laughter and tears, we’ll uncover how her mother’s impact echoes in her daily walk with Christ and how it guides her in her role as a wife, mother, and leader in the church. Tune in for a moving conversation about love, loss, and the enduring strength of faith.

Out of the Darkness: Janice Petosky’s Story of Faith, Forgiveness, and Hope

In this powerful episode of Real Life with Christ, hosts Dakota and Jonathan welcome Janice Petosky for an intimate and moving conversation. Following up on last week’s episode with her husband Ryan Petosky, who shared his story of redemption through Jesus despite his unfaithfulness, Janice bravely opens up about her own journey. She discusses the darkest moment of her life, where she nearly lost all hope and contemplated ending it all. But it was in that very moment of despair that she encountered Jesus, who lifted her out of the darkness and into His light. Join us as Janice shares her testimony of faith, forgiveness, and the miraculous power of God’s love and grace. This episode is a testament to the transformative power of Christ, even in the midst of the most challenging trials. Questions? Email us. dakota@reallifewithchrist.com [http://reallifewithchrist.com] jonathan@reallifewithchrist.com [http://reallifewithchrist.com]