The Missional Life Podcast

When God Feels Distant: Kyle Strobel on Finding Faith in Spiritual Dryness

Have you ever felt like God was silent, distant, or absent? In this powerful conversation, Kyle Strobel shares how seasons of spiritual dryness can become some of the most transformative moments in a believer's life. Discover why faith isn't built on emotional highs and how God often does His deepest work in the desert. If you're struggling with doubt, discouragement, or spiritual fatigue, this episode offers biblical hope and practical encouragement. About the Guest Kyle Strobel is the Director of the Institute for Spiritual Formation and Associate Professor of Spiritual Theology at Talbot School of Theology. He is a theologian, author, speaker, and co-author of When God Seems Distant and Where Prayer Becomes Real. His work focuses on spiritual formation, prayer, and helping Christians experience genuine transformation in Christ. Reasons to Listen 1. Hope for Dry Seasons Discover why spiritual dryness is not necessarily a sign that something is wrong, but may actually be evidence that God is deepening your faith and transforming your heart. 2. Practical Spiritual Formation Learn practical ways to continue praying, reading Scripture, and walking with Jesus when emotions and motivation disappear. 3. Biblical Perspective Gain a deeper understanding of the Psalms, suffering, weakness, and God's surprising work in seasons that feel spiritually barren. Big Takeaways 1. God Works in Deserts Seasons of spiritual dryness are often places where God exposes deeper issues of the heart and teaches us to trust Him by faith rather than feelings. 2. Feelings Aren't Faith God's presence is not measured by emotional experiences. Mature faith learns to trust God's promises even when He feels distant. 3. Weakness Reveals Need Spiritual growth happens when we recognize how much we need God's forgiveness, grace, and transforming work. 4. The Psalms Give Language Honest prayers found in the Psalms help believers bring their confusion, disappointment, and struggles directly to God. 5. Transformation Over Information Knowledge alone cannot produce Christlike character. Spiritual formation requires surrender, humility, and dependence on Jesus. Missional Challenges 1. Pray the Psalms Daily Spend the next seven days praying one Psalm each day, allowing Scripture to shape your honest conversations with God. 2. Practice Honest Prayer Bring one area of discouragement, doubt, or weakness directly to God instead of hiding it behind religious performance. 3. Encourage a Struggling Believer Reach out to someone who may be experiencing spiritual dryness and remind them that God remains faithful even when He feels distant. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Kyle Strobel 01:00 – Kyle's Personal Journey Through Spiritual Darkness 05:00 – Discovering the "Dark Night of the Soul" 10:00 – Why Information Doesn't Equal Transformation 13:00 – Understanding Spiritual Dryness in the Christian Life 16:00 – The Lifeline of Honest Community 17:00 – Learning to Pray the Psalms 19:00 – Why Churches Rarely Discuss Spiritual Dryness 25:00 – Passion vs. Deep Affection for Jesus 26:00 – Moving from Zeal to Steadfast Faithfulness 34:00 – What Churches Need to Understand About the Desert 37:00 – Practical Ways to Walk with God in Dry Seasons 43:00 – Finding God in Weakness 44:00 – Final Encouragement for Struggling Believers 45:00 – Fun Questions & Favorite Psalms 49:00 – Where to Connect with Kyle Strobel Guest Website & Social Media Buy 'When God Seems Distant' Book [https://www.amazon.com/When-God-Seems-Distant-Surprising-ebook/dp/B0FD95F653?ref_=ast_author_dp_rw&th=1&psc=1&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.kg2Psnq5XomWE5hREXYOrb_Vnr2GxvQEN6PHEYmo_rslRR4hnbgOS93LCQ2_GqymkmtAS3SyXihJzKYKWRbZ5V_AZs7r4TpBZiCUw50hU0unaDTqgUgHV_BypLpz6mrpHU5o-V54xXhFAW4MZfYnrqwn53V-bdfKtFNh8D_SlCZq2vkxirx1o6WztT3vzBZYCddOHNAdG-j7Rb3d215DlcdSknwfxKyimBhBGcDN-Pw.csU4Yf066dh-LXfmxMekbbmFMtDMpwm8p-OC-tDwbCc&dib_tag=AUTHOR] Website Kyle Strobel Substack [https://kylestrobel.substack.com/] #themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #Jesus #KyleStrobel #SpiritualFormation #PrayerLife #ChristianGrowth #FaithJourney #WhenGodSeemsDistant #ChristianPodcast

From Gender Confusion to Identity in Christ with Kyla Gillespie

What happens when every solution the world offers still leaves you empty? In this powerful episode, Kyla Gillespie shares her journey through gender confusion, transition, addiction, and ultimately life-changing restoration in Christ. Hear how God pursued her through deep brokenness and called her back to Himself with truth, grace, and love. This conversation offers hope for anyone wrestling with identity, purpose, or faith. Discover how Jesus transforms lives in ways no human solution ever can. About the Guest Kyla Gillespie is an international speaker, author, ministry leader, and founder of Renewed & Transformed Ministries. After spending years wrestling with gender dysphoria, same-sex attraction, addiction, and eventually transitioning and detransitioning, Kyla now shares her testimony of God's redemptive work through Jesus Christ. Her passion is helping the Church engage conversations about identity, sexuality, and discipleship with both truth and grace. Reasons to Listen 1. Powerful Redemption Story Hear firsthand how God pursued Kyla through addiction, gender transition, and deep personal brokenness, demonstrating that no one is beyond the reach of God's grace. 2. Practical Ministry Insights Learn how biblical friendships, authentic community, and discipleship can transform lives and help people navigate difficult identity struggles. 3. Hope for Today's Culture Gain biblical wisdom and encouragement for addressing some of the most important conversations facing families, churches, and believers today. Big Takeaways 1. God Calls Us Home No matter how far we wander, God lovingly pursues His children and invites them back into relationship with Him. 2. Identity Begins with Christ Lasting peace is not found in self-definition but in discovering who God says we are. 3. Community Matters Deeply Authentic Christian friendships provide a safe place for truth, grace, healing, and spiritual growth. 4. Transformation Takes Time God often works through a process of discipleship, Scripture, prayer, and faithful relationships rather than instant change. 5. No One Is Beyond Hope God's power to restore and redeem is greater than any struggle, addiction, shame, or confusion we face. Missional Challenges 1. Build One Meaningful Friendship Intentionally spend time with someone who is different from you this week and listen to their story without judgment. 2. Practice Honest Vulnerability Share one area of struggle with a trusted believer and invite them to pray and walk alongside you. 3. Become Better Equipped Read a book or resource on biblical identity and sexuality so you can engage these conversations with both truth and compassion. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Kyla Gillespie 01:00 – Why Kyla Wrote TransFormed 04:00 – Childhood Experiences and Gender Confusion 08:00 – Same-Sex Attraction and Teenage Struggles 13:00 – Family Divorce and Emotional Pain 17:00 – Alcoholism and Walking Away from Faith 20:00 – Pursuing Gender Transition 27:00 – Meeting Faithful Christian Friends 33:00 – The Power of Community and Discipleship 38:00 – Surgery, Emptiness, and Crying Out to God 40:00 – "Return to Me, Kyla" 44:00 – Embracing God's Design 47:00 – Encouragement for Those Wrestling with Identity 52:00 – Advice for Parents, Pastors, and Leaders 55:00 – Kyla's Book and Ministry Resources 56:00 – Fun Questions and Closing Thoughts Guest Website & Social Media Website: Kyla Gillespie Ministries [https://kylagillespie.com/] Buy: 'Transformed' book on Amazon! [https://www.amazon.ca/TransFormed-Journey-Confusion-Reassignment-Detransitioning/dp/B0FCL13CD7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=UV1G8D3Q8Y0L&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5JDi_aQXnLEQtzuMoi8PynJ58BYoMe1lVwmizmQhwF4.rCfEgNck4Z0-Fxh-Ippup2sM3j3d3-lTUiBkjObN-Y0&dib_tag=se&keywords=transformed+by+kyla+gillespie&qid=1767238878&sprefix=transformed+%2Caps%2C206&sr=8-1] #themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #KylaGillespie #IdentityInChrist #GenderIdentity #ChristianPodcast #FaithAndFreedom #JesusChangesLives #BiblicalTruth #RedemptionStory

Finding God in the Grind: Dave Hataj on Purpose in Work

What if your everyday job is actually your mission field? In this powerful episode, Dave Hataj shares how God transformed his life from a broken background into a calling to reach blue-collar workers. Through his ministry Craftsmen with Character, Dave reveals how purpose, dignity, and identity are found in Christ—even in the most ordinary work. You’ll be challenged to rethink what “ministry” really means. Discover how your job can become a platform for eternal impact. About the Guest Dave Hataj is the founder of Craftsmen with Character, a ministry focused on mentoring and equipping young people in the trades with purpose and biblical identity. He is also the author of The Craftsman Code, where he shares principles for meaningful work and legacy-building. Dave has spent over 30 years integrating faith into the workplace, especially within blue-collar environments. Reasons to Listen 1. Purpose in Work Discover how your everyday job can become a meaningful mission field where God uses you to impact others. 2. Power of Mentorship Learn why mentorship is essential for spiritual growth and how you can invest in the next generation. 3. Faith in Hard Seasons Be encouraged to persevere through difficult work environments and see how God transforms both you and your surroundings. Big Takeaways 1. Work Has Dignity Every job matters to God, and your work is a calling—not just a paycheck. 2. Identity Matters Understanding who you are in Christ brings confidence and purpose into your daily life. 3. Mentorship Is Essential Growth happens through relationships—seek mentors and become one. 4. Obedience Over Comfort God often calls us to hard places, but obedience leads to transformation. 5. Perspective Changes Everything When you invite God into your work, your environment may not change—but you will. Missional Challenges 1. Reframe Your Work Ask God daily to help you see your job through His perspective and purpose. 2. Invest in Someone Identify one person you can mentor or encourage this week in a practical way. 3. Live With Intention Choose one area of your work where you will intentionally reflect Christ’s character today. Chapters * 00:00 – Introduction to Dave Hataj * 02:00 – Dave’s Early Life & Calling * 07:00 – Returning to the Family Business * 12:00 – Purpose, Work & Identity * 18:00 – The Power of Mentorship * 24:00 – The Craftsman Code Explained * 32:00 – Transforming Workplace Culture * 40:00 – Mentorship vs Apprenticeship * 46:00 – Finding Meaning in Difficult Jobs * 48:30 – Final Advice & Closing Thoughts Connect with Dave Hataj * Website: https://davehataj.com * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davehataj * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davehataj Hashtags #themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #faithandwork #christianpodcast #kingdompurpose #biblicalidentity #mentorshipmatters #workasworship #christianliving #purposefullife ______________________________________________________________

From Prodigal to Purpose: Justin Gambino’s Redemption Story 🎸✨

What happens when your lowest moment becomes the start of your calling? Justin Gambino shares how a courtroom decision led to a life-changing journey through the Navy and back to God. This episode highlights the power of second chances and divine redirection. Learn how God uses even our mistakes for His glory. Your past does not disqualify your purpose. About the Guest Justin Gambino is an award-winning Christian music artist and speaker known for his powerful testimony of redemption. After a prodigal season that included legal trouble and military service, he encountered God in a life-changing way that led him back to worship and ministry. Today, he uses music and storytelling to help others experience God’s grace and transformation. Reasons to Listen: 1. Powerful Redemption Story Experience a real-life testimony of how God transforms failure into purpose, offering hope for anyone who feels far from Him. 2. Practical Faith Steps Learn how to overcome struggles like addiction, isolation, and spiritual dryness through community and God’s Word. 3. Calling & Purpose Insights Discover how to recognize and step into your God-given calling, even after setbacks. Big Takeaways 1. God Pursues You No matter how far you wander, God is always actively pursuing your heart and calling you back. 2. Your Circle Matters Surrounding yourself with Christ-centered people can radically change your spiritual direction. 3. Surrender Over Performance True ministry flows from intimacy with God—not striving or self-promotion. 4. Pain Has Purpose Even your lowest moments can become the foundation for your calling and testimony. 5. Return to Intimacy God desires relationship over activity—He simply wants time with His children. Missional Challenges 1. Evaluate Your Circle Take a close look at your closest relationships and intentionally pursue friendships that draw you closer to Christ. 2. Prioritize God’s Presence Set aside daily time in God’s Word and prayer, even if it’s just 10–15 minutes to start. 3. Use Your Gifts Boldly Identify one gift God has given you and use it this week to serve others and glorify Him. Chapters * 00:00 – Introduction to Justin Gambino * 01:00 – Early Life & Musical Beginnings * 04:00 – Prodigal Season & Legal Trouble * 08:00 – Military Service & Iraq Encounter * 14:00 – Struggles with PTSD & Addiction * 16:00 – Rediscovering Worship & Calling * 20:00 – Pride, Ministry, and Heart Check * 23:00 – Courthouse Revival Moment * 27:00 – God’s Pursuit & Transformation * 35:00 – Advice for Those Struggling * 39:00 – What’s Next for Justin * 41:00 – Fun Questions & Closing Connect with Justin Gambino * Website: https://justingambino.com [https://justingambino.com] * Socials: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/justingambinomusic/], Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/JustinGambinoSS?ref=hl], #themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #Jesus #ChristianPodcast #FaithJourney #RedemptionStory #WorshipLeader #ChristianMusic #HopeInChrist #BibleTruth _____________________________________________________________ ________________________________________ >>>CLICK HERE to get your FREE 31 DAY MISSIONAL DEVOTIONAL [https://lnk.bio/themissionallife] and to learn more about 'The Missional Life' ministry<<< [https://lnk.bio/themissionallife] _______________________________________

Chosen and Loved: Healing Rejection Through God’s Love with Clint Byars

What do you do when rejection, shame, and painful words from your past keep shaping how you see yourself? In this episode, Clint Byars shares how God’s love restores identity, heals the heart, and breaks the lies that keep believers stuck. You’ll hear practical, biblical insight on moving from performance and insecurity into freedom, grace, and sonship. This conversation will encourage you to trust the Father more deeply and live from the truth that you are chosen, accepted, and loved. About the Guest Clint Byars is the founding and lead pastor of Forward Church in Sharpsburg, Georgia, and a trusted voice on identity in Christ, grace, and healing. He is the author of 11 Christ-centered books, including his newest release, Chosen and Loved, which brings hope to those who feel rejected, wounded, or overlooked. In addition to releasing more than 80 teaching series, Clint has developed prayer and meditation resources called Tools for Transformation, founded the Forward School of Transformation, graduated from Impact International School of Ministries, and regularly teaches at Charis Bible College. Reasons to Listen 1. Healing Truths Clint shares practical, gospel-centered insight for anyone carrying rejection, shame, or wounds from the past. This episode helps listeners move from merely knowing God loves them to actually living secure in that love. 2. Identity in Christ The conversation powerfully explains why so many believers still struggle with feeling unwanted and how renewed identity changes daily life, relationships, and spiritual freedom. 3. Purpose After Healing Clint offers a compelling vision for how healing is not the end goal, but the beginning of stepping into God’s mission by asking, “Who do you love?” Big Takeaways 1. God Wants You God does not merely tolerate His children; He deeply desires them. That truth shifts how believers approach prayer, healing, and intimacy with the Father. 2. Identity Shapes Behavior What you believe in your heart about yourself will eventually shape your actions. Real transformation comes when God’s truth rewrites your inner self-image. 3. Safety Changes Everything When people feel safe with God as Father, they begin to trust Him, open their hearts, and experience deeper healing and freedom. 4. Grace Breaks Cycles Understanding God’s love and grace empowers believers to overcome destructive patterns, not by striving harder, but by living from who they already are in Christ. 5. Love Clarifies Calling Instead of obsessing over what to do, believers can begin by asking who God has placed on their heart to love and serve. Missional Challenges 1. Receive the Father’s Love Spend time this week praying through Scriptures about adoption, sonship, and God’s love until those truths move from your head into your heart. 2. Rewrite the Lies Identify one recurring lie of rejection or shame you have believed, and replace it daily with a biblical truth about your identity in Christ. 3. Love Someone Intentionally Ask God who He wants you to notice, encourage, or serve this week, and take one concrete step toward that person in love. Chapters 00:00 Intro and guest welcome 00:01 Why Clint Byars wrote Chosen and Loved 00:04 Why believers still feel overlooked and unwanted 00:09 What changes when you know you’re loved by God 00:13 Trusting the Father like a child 00:16 Seeing God as a loving Father, not a harsh ruler 00:24 God doesn’t need us—He wants us 00:29 Rejection, shame, and renewing the heart 00:40 How identity transformation changes behavior 00:41 What happens when people move forward in freedom 00:44 “Who do you love?” and discovering purpose 00:48 Fun round: coffee, football, and final thoughts 00:50 How to connect with Clint Byars 00:52 Podcast outro Website & Social Media Website: Clint Byars official site and resources. [https://www.clintbyars.com/] Church: Forward Church [https://forward.church/our-pastors]. Instagram: Forward Church GA [https://www.instagram.com/forwardchurchga] Facebook: Forward Ministries [https://www.facebook.com/ForwardChurchGA/] YouTube: Forward Ministries [https://www.youtube.com/forwardchurchga] #themissionallife #themissionallifepodcast #ClintByars #ChosenAndLoved #IdentityInChrist #ChristianPodcast #HealingFromRejection #FathersLove #GraceAndTruth #KingdomLiving ____________________________________________________ ________________________________________ >>>CLICK HERE to get your FREE 31 DAY MISSIONAL DEVOTIONAL [https://lnk.bio/themissionallife] and to learn more about 'The Missional Life' ministry<<< [https://lnk.bio/themissionallife] _______________________________________