Deeper Experiences with God | Special Release

Episode 8 – The IMMERSE Method of Experiencing Scripture with Dave Ripper

SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of the show, you can get 25% off Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Jesus [https://www.ivpress.com/experiencing-scripture-as-a-disciple-of-jesus?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25] by using the code IVPOD25 at checkout at ivpress.com. We hope you enjoy this episode! Summary Have you been looking for some practical steps to guide you into a more immersive daily experience with God? In this special solo episode of 'Deeper Experiences with God,' host Dave delves into a transformative method for encountering God more deeply in daily life. Drawing from his book Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Jesus [https://www.ivpress.com/experiencing-scripture-as-a-disciple-of-jesus?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25], he introduces the 'IMMERSE Method'—an acronym for Immersion, Meditation, Memorization, Encounter, Response, Supplication, and Experience. Each step is designed to help readers engage with the Bible in an experiential way, inspired by the teachings of Dallas Willard. Dave uses Matthew 11:28-30 to demonstrate how these steps can deepen one's spiritual journey, emphasizing a posture of reverence, anticipation, and trust.   Takeaways: * Immersion - approach Scripture with reverence and expectancy, believing you will encounter God as you read. * Takeaway: Before opening your Bible, pause to pray. You can use the words of Dallas Willard, “Lord, beyond the sacred page, I seek You.” Read the passage slowly, paying attention to context, key words, and what it might have meant to the first listeners. * Meditation - let the passage speak personally to you by reflecting on what stands out. * Takeaway: Read the passage again and notice what words or phrases draw your attention. Sit in silence for a few moments, allowing those words to sink in, and ask, “What might God be saying to me here?” * Memorization - internalize Scripture so it becomes part of you, shaping your thoughts and daily life. * Takeaway: Choose one phrase from the passage to carry with you throughout the day. For example, “Come to me, and I will give you rest.” Repeat it during moments of stress or pause to keep God’s word close to your heart. * Encounter - experience God’s presence in the text by using your imagination and attention. * Takeaway: Close your eyes and picture Jesus speaking the words directly to you. Imagine his tone, expression, and presence. Sit quietly, waiting for God to meet you in the stillness. * Response - consider how God is inviting you to act based on what you’ve read. * Takeaway: Ask, “How can I live this out today?” It might mean forgiving someone, slowing your pace, or extending kindness. Take one concrete action that reflects the passage’s invitation. * Supplication - bring your needs and desires before God with openness and trust. * Takeaway: Pray specifically for what you long for—peace, rest, wisdom, strength—and give God permission to work in your heart and circumstances. * Experience - reflect on what you experienced with God through the passage. * Takeaway: try journaling about your time with God: what stirred in your heart, what you prayed for, and any sense of God’s presence. Revisit this later to notice how God answered or worked in your life. Quote of the Show: * “ We don't just want to understand what the words say. We want to meet and encounter the Author, ” - Dave Ripper * “ What really deepens relationships? It’s shared experiences, and that's what God is inviting us to.” - Dave Ripper Links: * Website: https://www.daveripper.com/ [https://www.daveripper.com/]  * Book Link: Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Jesus [https://www.ivpress.com/experiencing-scripture-as-a-disciple-of-jesus?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25] This is a special, one-season release of the Deeper Experiences with God podcast from IVP author, Dave Ripper. To continue listening to the podcast after episode 8, follow the show on Dave's channels: * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deeper-experiences-with-god/id1806145190] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3zGVxBStToDU9KLllPLcGT?si=8788e81c360f4c03] * YouTube [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLeO2DL4AkXNd2EgCpz8EzhuMlNVfE2hC1&si=MtOPiIupTQZ2MkXt] * Amazon Music [https://a.co/d/7mWxog9] Disclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. As an Amazon Affiliate, this channel earns commissions from qualifying purchases when you use the links above.

Episode 7 – The Great Charismatic Tradition with Andrew Arndt

SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of the show, you can get 25% off Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Jesus [https://www.ivpress.com/experiencing-scripture-as-a-disciple-of-jesus?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25] by using the code IVPOD25 at checkout at ivpress.com. We hope you enjoy this episode! Summary What happens when modern charismatic passion meets ancient Christian tradition? In this episode of Deeper Experiences with God, host Dave converses with Andrew Arndt, lead pastor of New Life East in Colorado Springs and an accomplished author, including his latest book, A Strange and Gracious Light. They explore the intersections of modern Christianity and ancient spiritual traditions, highlighting how these can deepen our relationship with God. Arndt recounts his journey through 20 years of ministry and his formative experiences growing up in a charismatic church while falling in love with ancient church tradition. He describes how reading Richard Foster's 'Celebration of Discipline' and encountering the Desert Fathers and Mothers enriched his spiritual practice through different seasons of suffering and growth, encouraging listeners to press into these “thick” spiritual practices.    Takeaways: * The Concept of 'Great Tradition Charismatic': Arndt identifies as a 'great tradition charismatic,' blending the vitality of charismatic worship with the theological depth of historical Christian traditions. He encourages leaders to integrate various Christian practices to enrich their faith communities. * Explore one ancient practice—such as praying the Psalms, using a written prayer, or learning about the church calendar—to deepen your own walk with God. * The Role of Suffering and Contemplative Prayer: Arndt shares his personal journey of suffering and identity crisis upon leaving his church plant in Denver. He emphasizes how embracing suffering and engaging in contemplative prayer can lead to profound spiritual transformation. * Instead of rushing past your struggles, bring them to God in prayer. Try five minutes of silent, contemplative prayer this week. * Wisdom from the Desert Fathers and Mothers: The conversation delves into the importance of learning from ancient Christian monastics who found God in desolate places. Arndt highlights how their teachings can guide modern believers through crises. * Read a short saying or story from the Desert Fathers & Mothers and sit with it—ask, What might this mean for my life right now? * Practicing Detachment and Simplicity: We often cling to ego and things that don’t ultimately satisfy—approval, busyness, or success. Letting go makes more room for God. * This week, notice one compulsion you feel (checking your phone, seeking affirmation, overfilling your schedule). Practice pausing, breathing, and turning your attention back to God. Even ask the Holy Spirit to help you do this. * Community and Spiritual Direction: The importance of surrounding oneself with a supportive community and seeking guidance from a spiritual director is discussed as essential for navigating spiritual crises and growth. * Reach out to one trusted friend or mentor to talk honestly about your spiritual life. Invite them to pray with you or walk with you through your current season. Maybe even consider and pray about finding a Spiritual Director. Quote of the Show: * “ I think it's almost always crisis that initiates the deepest kinds of transformation in our lives” - Andrew Arndt * “ Most of our Christian life is just learning how to die well and it's learning to rest in peace in whatever grave God has given us in Jesus.” - Andrew Arndt  * “ Pop Evangelicalism is like a thinly veiled version of the gospel of the American dream.” - Andrew Arndt Links: * Website: http://andrewarndt.com/ [http://andrewarndt.com/]  * Book Link: http://andrewarndt.com/book/ [http://andrewarndt.com/book/] This is a special, one-season release of the Deeper Experiences with God podcast from IVP author, Dave Ripper. To continue listening to the podcast after episode 8, follow the show on Dave's channels: * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deeper-experiences-with-god/id1806145190] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3zGVxBStToDU9KLllPLcGT?si=8788e81c360f4c03] * YouTube [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLeO2DL4AkXNd2EgCpz8EzhuMlNVfE2hC1&si=MtOPiIupTQZ2MkXt] * Amazon Music [https://a.co/d/7mWxog9] Disclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. As an Amazon Affiliate, this channel earns commissions from qualifying purchases when you use the links above.

Episode 6 – Encountering God at the Feet of Jesus with Bruce and Carolyn Hindmarsh

SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of the show, you can get 25% off Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Jesus [https://www.ivpress.com/experiencing-scripture-as-a-disciple-of-jesus?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25] by using the code IVPOD25 at checkout at ivpress.com. We hope you enjoy this episode! Summary How would our spiritual lives change if we could turn from distraction and linger at the feet of Jesus? In this episode of 'Deeper Experiences with God,' host Dave welcomes doctors Bruce [https://www.ivpress.com/bruce-hindmarsh?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25] and Carolyn [https://www.ivpress.com/carolyn-hindmarsh?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25] Hindmarsh to discuss encountering God's presence through scripture. Bruce, a professor of Spiritual Theology and History of Christianity, and Carolyn, who teaches Spiritual Theology and New Testament Greek, have co-authored the book 'At the Feet of Jesus: A Guide to Encountering Christ in the Gospels [https://www.ivpress.com/at-the-feet-of-jesus?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25].'  The conversation explores themes from Ignatian spirituality, the insights of Saint Augustine, and how scripture serves as a meeting place with God. The authors share their experiences offering retreats focused on encountering God through Gospel narratives, particularly the story of Mary of Bethany. The discussion touches on overcoming distractions, the importance of preparation, and the relational nature of engaging with scripture. Bruce and Carolyn also reflect on their personal spiritual journeys, sharing wisdom for deepening one's spiritual life and providing practical advice for married couples seeking to grow together in faith.    Takeaways: * Scripture as a Meeting Place with God: Bruce and Carolyn emphasize that scripture is not just for study but is a living space where we can encounter Christ personally. * Takeaway: When reading a Gospel passage, pause and ask, “How is Jesus present to me here and now?” * Mary of Bethany’s Posture of Presence: The story of Mary sitting at Jesus’ feet serves as a model for slowing down and listening deeply. * Takeaway: Choose one Gospel story this week and linger with it prayerfully, resisting the urge to rush through. * Overcoming Distractions in Prayer: They highlight the importance of preparing the heart and mind to meet God through scripture. * Takeaway: Before reading scripture, take a few minutes of silence to release distractions and invite the Holy Spirit to guide your attention. * Ignatian Spirituality & Augustine’s Wisdom: The conversation shows how spiritual practices from the Christian tradition can help us enter scripture relationally. * Takeaway: Try placing yourself imaginatively in a Gospel story—see, hear, and feel what it’s like to be with Jesus in that moment. * Spiritual Growth as a Couple: Bruce and Carolyn share insights into cultivating a shared spiritual life in marriage. * Takeaway: If married, set aside time with your spouse to read a short Gospel passage together and share what stands out to each of you. Quote of the Show: * “ We need God to reveal God.” - Carolyn Hindmarsh  * “ In the gospels…if this is Jesus speaking, it actually isn't just then and there.It's happening here and now.” - Bruce Hindmarsh Links: * Website: www.brucehindmarsh.com/ [https://www.brucehindmarsh.com/]  * Book Link: https://www.ivpress.com/at-the-feet-of-jesus?utm_source=IVPOD25&utm_medium=ivp_evn This is a special, one-season release of the Deeper Experiences with God podcast from IVP author, Dave Ripper. To continue listening to the podcast after episode 8, follow the show on Dave's channels: * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deeper-experiences-with-god/id1806145190] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3zGVxBStToDU9KLllPLcGT?si=8788e81c360f4c03] * YouTube [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLeO2DL4AkXNd2EgCpz8EzhuMlNVfE2hC1&si=MtOPiIupTQZ2MkXt] * Amazon Music [https://a.co/d/7mWxog9] Disclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. As an Amazon Affiliate, this channel earns commissions from qualifying purchases when you use the links above.

Episode 5 – Deep and Wide with Lacy Borgo

SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of the show, you can get 25% off Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Jesus [https://www.ivpress.com/experiencing-scripture-as-a-disciple-of-jesus?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25] by using the code IVPOD25 at checkout at ivpress.com. We hope you enjoy this episode! Summary What do children know about faith that adults often forget? In this next episode of Deeper Experiences with God, Dave sits down with Lacey Finn Borgo [https://www.ivpress.com/lacy-finn-borgo?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25], spiritual director and author of Faith Like a Child [https://www.ivpress.com/faith-like-a-child?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25], All Will Be Well [https://www.ivpress.com/all-will-be-well?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25], and Spiritual Conversations with Children [https://www.ivpress.com/spiritual-conversations-with-children?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25], to explore both deeper and wider experiences with God through childlike faith, simplicity and exploring human senses in silence and prayer. She shares some powerful personal anecdotes, including her difficult journey through surgery and her own personal daily practice of silence. The discussion covers the importance of developing your own 'survival three' spiritual practices and the role of listening in developing a loving relationship with God and others. Borgo concludes by leading a brief, childlike prayer exercise to demonstrate a practical spiritual practice of silence and meditation.    Takeaways: * Childlike Faith as a Path to Depth: Lacey Finn Borgo explores how humility, playfulness, and deep relational trust mirror the natural spirituality of children—and how adults can return to that posture. * Takeaway: Begin your day with a childlike prayer. Speak to God with curiosity, honesty, and simplicity—like a trusting conversation with a loving parent. * Childlike Faith as a Widening Path of Faith: Lacey shares several reflection exercises that require looking back on one’s childhood memories in prayer, and seek God in the midst of them. * Takeaway: Take some time to reflect in silence or journaling on your favorite childhood foods, pets, places, or other memories and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal how they might point to God, your Abba Father. * The “Survival Three” Practices: She shares her essential spiritual tools: silence, spiritual direction, and time in nature, which help her stay grounded in God's presence. * Takeaway: Choose one “survival” practice to experiment with this week. Try five minutes of silence a day, or explore one of the four gospels on Jesus’ life. * Healing Moments in Surrender: Lacey recounts a spiritual breakthrough during a health crisis, revealing how surrender and stillness can lead to profound connection with God. * Takeaway: Reflect on a moment of pain or uncertainty in your life. Where might God be inviting you into deeper trust?  * Listening as a Loving Posture: She emphasizes the sacredness of listening—not just as a skill, but as a spiritual act that nurtures both our relationship with God and with others. * Takeaway: Choose one moment today to fully listen—without fixing or reacting. Let your listening be an act of presence and love.  Quote of the Show: * “ Simplicity does not negate depth. ” - Lacy Borgo  * “Listening is so close to being loved” - Lacy Borgo Links: * Website: https://www.gooddirtministries.org/ [https://www.gooddirtministries.org/]  * Book Link: https://www.gooddirtministries.org/books-curriculum [https://www.gooddirtministries.org/books-curriculum]  * Instagram: @lacy_finn_borgo This is a special, one-season release of the Deeper Experiences with God podcast from IVP author, Dave Ripper. To continue listening to the podcast after episode 8, follow the show on Dave's channels: * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deeper-experiences-with-god/id1806145190] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3zGVxBStToDU9KLllPLcGT?si=8788e81c360f4c03] * YouTube [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLeO2DL4AkXNd2EgCpz8EzhuMlNVfE2hC1&si=MtOPiIupTQZ2MkXt] * Amazon Music [https://a.co/d/7mWxog9] Disclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. As an Amazon Affiliate, this channel earns commissions from qualifying purchases when you use the links above.

Episode 4 – Non-Anxious Living and Spiritual Rhythms for Peace with Alan Fadling

SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of the show, you can get 25% off Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Jesus [https://www.ivpress.com/experiencing-scripture-as-a-disciple-of-jesus?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25] by using the code IVPOD25 at checkout at ivpress.com. We hope you enjoy this episode! Summary What if the key to a deeper, more transformative relationship with God isn’t doing more—but slowing down? In this episode of the Deeper Experiences with God podcast, host Dave Ripper interviews Alan Fadling [https://www.ivpress.com/alan-fadling?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25], president of Unhurried Living, about the significance of silence and rest, mastering peace, and deepening spiritual growth and leadership. Alan, the author of An Unhurried Life [https://www.ivpress.com/an-unhurried-life?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25], A Year of Slowing Down [https://www.ivpress.com/a-year-of-slowing-down?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25], An Unhurried Leader [https://www.ivpress.com/an-unhurried-leader?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25], and A Non-Anxious Life [https://www.ivpress.com/a-non-anxious-life?utm_medium=ivp_evn&utm_source=IVPOD25], discusses the foundational principles of his ministry: resting deeply, living fully, and leading effectively. They explore how to determine spiritual growth, particularly in the context of modern Christian leadership, and emphasize the necessity of rootedness and personal impact over mere organizational success.   Takeaways: * The Power of Slowing Down: Alan Fadling discusses how an unhurried life can lead to deeper spiritual growth and healthier leadership. He emphasizes that speed and constant productivity can erode our connection with God and others. * Takeaway: Embrace slowness and sameness as spiritual disciplines. Intentionally pause and notice where you see God in the day-to-day. * Spiritual Rhythms for Everyday Life: Alan introduces rhythms like silence, solitude, sameness, and stability as daily practices that cultivate inner peace and grounded leadership. * Takeaway: Choose one spiritual rhythm to incorporate this week. Start small—try five minutes of silence or solitude each day. * A Non-Anxious Friendship with Jesus: He invites leaders to move away from anxiety-driven performance and into a calm, rooted relationship with the Prince of Peace, marked by trust and presence. * Takeaway: Begin your workday with a breath prayer or centering practice. Let peace—not pressure—set your tone. * Redefining Leadership from the Inside Out: Alan challenges conventional leadership metrics by shifting the focus from external success to internal transformation and spiritual rootedness. * Takeaway: Reflect on where your leadership identity is rooted. Journal about how your inner life with God is shaping—or could better shape—your influence. Quote of the Show: * “ I love the idea that Jesus invites me into friendship and that He is the Prince of Peace. Isn't that going to affect the tone of our interactions? Won't he be the ultimate non-anxious presence with me? ” - Alan Fadling * “ [Anxiety] is what my caring looks like when God's not in the picture. When I think my caring is all there is.” - Alan Fadling * “ There's a lot of meaningless spontaneity, right alongside meaningless repetition. The meaning is not about the activity, it's about the intention.” - Alan Fadling * “ The trajectory of my life as I grow is in the direction of a more real me in conversation with a more real God.” - Alan Fadling Links: * LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanfadling/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanfadling/]  * Website: https://www.unhurriedliving.com/ [https://www.unhurriedliving.com/]  This is a special, one-season release of the Deeper Experiences with God podcast from IVP author, Dave Ripper. To continue listening to the podcast after episode 8, follow the show on Dave's channels: * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/deeper-experiences-with-god/id1806145190] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/3zGVxBStToDU9KLllPLcGT?si=8788e81c360f4c03] * YouTube [https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLeO2DL4AkXNd2EgCpz8EzhuMlNVfE2hC1&si=MtOPiIupTQZ2MkXt] * Amazon Music [https://a.co/d/7mWxog9] Disclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. As an Amazon Affiliate, this channel earns commissions from qualifying purchases when you use the links above.