CCEF Podcast: Where Life & Scripture Meet

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  Our Hearts Are Active 20.07.2026 35分

  Our circumstances, emotions, and relationships all shape us, but they don't define us. At the center of who we are is something deeper: the heart. In this fourth episode of our series exploring CCEF's seven distinctives, Gunner Gundersen is joined by Jonathan Holmes and Esther Liu to discuss what we mean when we say, "Our hearts are active." Together they explore how Scripture describes the heart as the center of our desires, fears, loves, worship, and choices. How does understanding the heart change the way we pursue personal growth, care for others, and participate in the life of the local church? The conversation moves beyond behavior modification to consider how God meets us at the deepest level of who we are. Jonathan, Esther, and Gunner share personal stories of how this distinctive has shaped their own walks with Christ and explain why curiosity, humility, and hope are essential when helping others. In this episode, you'll learn: • What CCEF means by "our hearts are active." • Why biblical change is more than changing outward behavior. • How desires, fears, and loves reveal what's happening in our hearts. • Why understanding the heart leads to deeper relationships and wiser care. • How this distinctive equips churches to cultivate meaningful, gospel-centered conversations. Mentioned in this episode: - Register for Dynamics of Biblical Change and our other courses at ccef.org/school- Learn more about our beliefs and distinctives at ccef.org/about Related Resources: - "How do I know when my actions are a result of sin in my heart or because of bodily weakness?" | video by Mike Emlet
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  We Are Embodied Souls Shaped by a World of Influences 06.07.2026 39分

  Our bodies, relationships, culture, suffering, work, spiritual battles, and life experiences all shape us in significant ways. Yet none of these influences alone defines who we are. As image bearers created by God, we are embodied souls who live before him, responding to both blessings and hardships in a world full of competing influences. In this episode, Mike Emlet, Jonathan Holmes, and Gunner Gundersen continue CCEF's series on our seven distinctives by exploring the third distinctive: We are embodied souls shaped by a world of influences. Together they discuss: Why our bodies matter for faithful care How relationships, culture, and suffering shape our lives Why spiritual warfare remains an important reality in counseling The danger of reducing people to a single explanation or diagnosis How slowing down helps us care for people more wisely Why the local church is uniquely equipped to know, love, and walk alongside people in all their complexity This conversation invites us to see people more fully—and to reflect the patient, compassionate care of Christ as we walk with them. Mentioned in this episode: - Download three free talks on anger at ccef.org/free-audio-for-anger- Learn more about our beliefs and distinctives at ccef.org/about - Descriptions and Prescriptions | Book by Dr. Mike Emlet
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  Scripture Comes from the Mouth of God 15.06.2026 49分

  CCEF's second distinctive states: "Scripture comes from the mouth of God." But what does that mean for everyday ministry, counseling, and relationships? In this episode, Gunner Gundersen is joined by Jonathan Holmes and Aaron Sironi to discuss how God's Word does more than provide answers—it shapes the way we listen, care, pray, discern, and walk alongside others. Together they explore how Scripture forms our priorities in counseling, helps us understand people, and serves as the lens through which we interpret both life and the world around us. The conversation also considers the richness of Scripture's many genres—from the Psalms and Wisdom Literature to the Gospels and Song of Songs—and how each uniquely equips us to care for others. Along the way, they reflect on parenting, marriage counseling, personal devotional life, and the indispensable role of Scripture in the life of the local church. Mentioned in this episode: Register for our conference at ccef.org/nc26 Learn more about our video series that equips churches to wisely handle domestic abuse: ccef.org/becoming-a-refuge Learn more about CCEF's Seven Distinctives Listen to Part 1: "The Personal God Gets Personal with Us"
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  The Personal God Gets Personal with Us 01.06.2026 40分

  In this first episode of a new seven-part series on CCEF's distinctives, Gunner Gundersen sits down with Ed Welch and Jonathan Holmes to discuss the first distinctive: "The personal God gets personal with us." Together, they reflect on how Scripture presents a God who draws near to his people: from the garden of Eden to the incarnation of Christ to the promised future where God will dwell with his people forever. The conversation explores how the Trinity shapes our understanding of relationships, counseling, church life, and personal ministry. These truths help churches to embody a "culture of pursuit" with warmth and hospitality as natural overflows of a real relationship with God. The episode also introduces CCEF's broader distinctives and explains why these priorities continue to shape the ministry's counseling, teaching, and care for the church. Mentioned in this episode: Our latest episode of the JBC: ccef.org/jbcOur distinctives: ccef.org/about/#distinctives Related resource: The Personal God | Article by David Powlison
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  Unity in Marriage: Lessons from Philippians (Part 2) 18.05.2026 35分

  Some of the most formative marriage counsel isn't found in a book, a technique, or a counseling session, but rather it comes from watching another couple walk faithfully with Jesus over time.  In part two of this conversation, CCEF's Gunner Gundersen and Aaron Sironi explore Paul's surprising strategy in Philippians: imitation. Paul doesn't point to marriage principles but instead insists we keep our eyes on people who imitate Christ.  Aaron also shares the rest of his story: how an honest "I don't know" in a conversation with a church elder launched him into biblical counseling, and what he's learned since about the deeper longings underneath many struggling marriages: Do I matter to you? Will you be there? Listen to a rich conversation about slow formation, counter-images, and what it looks like to have a marriage worthy of the gospel. Mentioned in this episode: Register now at ccef.org/2026 for our CCEF Annual Conference before the price increases after June 16. Related resources: Dynamics of Biblical Change | Online course taught by David Powlison Speaking Truth in Marital Conflict | Blog by Lauren Whitman On Marriage Counseling | JBC Must Reads by Aaron Sironi, Lauren Whitman, Winston Smith
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  Unity in Marriage: Lessons from Philippians (Part 1) 04.05.2026 40分

  What if some of the most important biblical passages for your marriage don't explicitly talk about husbands and wives? In this episode, Gunner Gundersen and Aaron Sironi explore how the book of Philippians offers a powerful framework for navigating conflict and cultivating unity in marriage. They uncover how the gospel itself shapes the way husbands and wives relate to one another. Aaron shares how lasting change in marriage doesn't come primarily through techniques but through adopting the mind of Christ: a posture of humility, sacrificial love, and deep attentiveness to one another's burdens. They'll cover why conflict in marriage is inevitable and how it can become redemptive, what it looks like to "re-do" conflict in a gospel-shaped way, and how Philippians 2 reframes how we approach our spouse's struggles. Whether you're married, counseling others, or simply seeking to grow in Christlike relationships, this conversation offers a hopeful and deeply practical vision for change. Mentioned in this episode: Please consider giving to CCEF to help bring more counseling resources and training to the church. You can give at ccef.org/donate. - I Don't Feel Like I have Enough Support from My Husband | Video by Lauren Whitman - Good Cop Bad Cop in the Home | Blog by Ed Welch
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  The Art of Mentoring 20.04.2026 31分

  What does it mean to mentor someone well? In this episode, Gunner Gundersen sits down with CCEF faculty member Todd Stryd to explore mentoring as a long-term, relational investment that shapes both the mentee and the mentor. Together, they discuss how mentoring provides clarity, fosters growth through both encouragement and critique, and ultimately becomes a place of deep dependence on God. Mentioned in this episode: Registration for our June courses is now open! One key course that features opportunities to grow in mentoring skills is Helping Relationships by Ed Welch. You can learn more and register at ccef.org/school. - Why Do You Think You Can Do Better? | Blog by Esther Liu
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  A Conversation with Jonathan Holmes: CCEF's Executive Director 06.04.2026 38分

  "We're excited to announce Jonathan Holmes as our new Executive Director! In this episode, Gunner interviews Jonathan about his journey into biblical counseling, his background, and his vision for CCEF. They discuss the importance of counseling in the church, the founding of Fieldstone Counseling, and the future direction of CCEF. Read the latest announcement from CCEF's Board of Trustees regarding Jonathan Holmes's recent appointment to the role of Executive Director. Mentioned in this episode: Becoming a Refuge is an on-demand teaching series that helps churches respond to domestic abuse. Learn more here. In this episode, Jonathan mentions an article by David Powlison, "What Is Your Calling?" Journal of Biblical Counseling 28, no. 3 (2014). Find it here.
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  The Beauty and Burden of Caregiving: A Personal Story (Part 2) 16.03.2026 38分

  In this episode of Where Life and Scripture Meet, host Gunner Gundersen continues his conversation with CCEF faculty member Mike Emlet about caring for aging parents. Building on the previous episode, Mike reflects on the blessings and burdens of caring for his mother during her final season of life. Mike shares how he and his wife navigated difficult caregiving decisions, wrestled with their own limitations, and sought wisdom as his mother's needs increased. Along the way, he reflects on anxiety, fatigue, grief, and the steady presence of God's grace in the midst of weakness. This conversation offers encouragement for anyone currently caring for aging loved ones, considering future caregiving responsibilities, or processing the grief that often accompanies these journeys. Mike describes how the Lord met his family through Scripture, prayer, and the support of the church, in a demanding season and reminded them that grace and weakness often coexist.
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  The Beauty and Burden of Caregiving: A Personal Story (Part 1) 02.03.2026 33分

  In this episode of Where Life and Scripture Meet, host Gunner Gundersen sits down with Dr. Mike Emlet to reflect on his recent experience caring for his aging mother during the final years of her life. Mike shares about his mom, "Mim" — her vibrant faith, her lifelong commitment to the local church, her sense of humor, and her remarkable ministry of handwritten letters. He also opens up about the gradual onset of cognitive decline, the impact of dementia and stroke, and the practical and emotional realities of caregiving. Mike and Gunner discuss the weight and the sweetness of walking closely with a loved one through suffering and decline. There is beauty and cost, and Jesus is in the midst of it. Mentioned in this episode: sign up to receive 6 conference sessions on conflict and unity. Sign up here: ccef.org/free-audio-for-conflict-and-unity/ Books by Dr. Mike Emlet: CrossTalk: Where Life and Scripture Meet Descriptions and Prescriptions: A Biblical Perspective on Psychiatric Diagnoses & Medications Saints, Sufferers, and Sinners: Loving Others as God Loves Us
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  Life Together in Christ: Why Union with Jesus Changes Our Relationships 16.02.2026 36分

  What does it mean to be united to Christ—and how does that shape the way we relate to others? In this episode, Gunner Gundersen, Esther Liu, and Darby Strickland explore the doctrine of union with Christ and its deeply practical impact on everyday relationships. If our truest relationship is already secure in Jesus, how might that free us to love others differently? Together, they discuss how union with Christ grounds us in unshakable security, frees us from defensiveness, gives courage to apologize and forgive, reorients transactional views of relationships, and helps us make sense of church hurt. Because we are united to Christ, we are also united to one another. That shared belonging reshapes how we approach conflict, difference, and even the pain of broken community. Join us as we consider what it looks like to live life together in Christ. Community: A Struggle to Fit | Blog by Darby Strickland "How can I avoid the temptation to isolate myself in suffering?" | Video by Cecelia Bernhardt Make Every Effort: Paul Urges Unity in the Church | Conference Session by Aaron Sironi
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  Revitalizing a Stagnant Marriage: Connection & Intentionality 01.12.2025 40分

  In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the often overlooked issue of stagnant marriages, exploring the subtle signs of disconnection and the importance of intentionality and spiritual friendship in marriage. They emphasize the need for curiosity and community support, as well as the difference between a covenant and a contract in marriage. They highlight practical steps couples can take to revitalize their relationships, including small gestures of love. Mentioned in this episode: If you've been encouraged by our podcast this year, would you consider giving a gift to CCEF today? Your support would go to immediate use today to help equip the global church for thoughtful, biblical conversations about matters of the heart. How can I avoid growing apart from my spouse in a season of suffering and grief? | Video by Aaron Sironi What Has Been Most Helpful in Your Marriage? | Blog post by Ed Welch Sexual Intimacy in Marriage: A Joint Trust | Blog post by Aaron Sironi
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  Understanding Grief: A Journey Through Loss 17.11.2025 40分

  In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the complex nature of lingering grief, exploring how it manifests in various ways. They share personal stories and insights on how grief can resurface during life milestones. They emphasize the importance of community support in navigating grief, as well as the need for patience and understanding in the grieving process. Ultimately, listeners will be reminded of God's presence and care during times of grief. Am I Doing This Right? What Lamentations Teaches Us about Grieving | Journal article by Todd Stryd Someone I Know Is Grieving | Book by Ed Welch Helping Your Family Grieve | Minibook by Darby Strickland When We Hurt Those Who Are Hurting | Blog post by Ed Welch How can I care well for someone who is grieving? | Video by Ed Welch
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  Walking Through Life Transitions & Embracing Change 03.11.2025 33分

  In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the topic of life transitions, sharing personal stories and insights on common struggles, temptations, and opportunities that arise during these changes. They discuss the importance of recognizing God's presence and providence through both big and small changes, and they share some encouragements they've found in Scripture. Mentioned in this episode: We're excited about the recent release of a handful of books from CCEF faculty: When It's Trauma: A Biblical Guide to Understanding Trauma & Walking Faithfully with Sufferers | Book by Darby Strickland A Big Change Happened: Helping Children Through Upheaval | Children's book by Darby Strickland Helping Your Children with Change: Holding Fast to God During Upheaval | Minibook by Darby Strickland Take Heart for Teens: Daily Devotions to Deepen Your Faith | Book by David Powlison
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  The Beauty of Adoption into God's Family 20.10.2025 36分

  In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the profound doctrine of adoption into God's family, discussing its theological significance and personal implications. Our hosts reflect on their own experiences and the relational significance of understanding God as a loving Father. They discuss how we often struggle with an orphan mentality, emphasizing the importance of recognizing one's identity as a beloved child of God. Finally, they highlight the future inheritance that comes with being adopted into God's family. Mentioned in this episode: The audio from our 2025 National Conference is available for purchase! All 27 sessions included. Learn more at ccef.org/2025.
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  Biblical Self-Examination: Involving God & Others 06.10.2025 40分

  In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the importance of self-examination. They explore how self-examination is not merely a self-focused endeavor but a process that involves God and others. The conversation highlights the benefits of self-examination, including personal growth, awareness of one's weaknesses, and the recognition of God's grace. They also address common pitfalls, such as self-shaming and misguided approaches, and emphasize the need to also look for the good as part of the biblical self-examination process. Mentioned in this episode: Registration for courses is now open for the January 2026 term! This term we'll be offering Helping Relationships with Ed Welch, Scripture for Life & Ministry with Aaron Sironi, and Counseling in the Local Church with Michael Gembola. If you're looking for an opportunity for personal growth along with training to better serve those around you, we want to invite you to join us. You can learn more at ccef.org/school.
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  How to Grow in Patience 15.09.2025 32分

  In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the multifaceted nature of patience. From personal anecdotes to biblical insights, listen as they delve into why patience is challenging, how it can lead to profound personal growth, and practical ways to develop patience in challenging situations. They discuss how patience shapes our relationships, our understanding of God's timing, and our ability to trust in his plans. Mentioned in this episode: We're just a couple weeks out from the 2025 CCEF National Conference! We'll be taking a look at the life and ministry of the apostle Paul to see how we can grow in our care for one another. Registration closes after September 29, so register soon! We hope you'll join us this October 3–5, whether virtually or in-person in Hershey, PA. To learn more and register, visit ccef.org/2025. Related resource: A Small Book about a Big Problem: Meditations on Anger, Patience and Peace | Book by Ed Welch
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  Understanding & Cultivating Forgiveness 01.09.2025 38分

  In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the complexity of forgiveness. They address common misconceptions, the true meaning of forgiveness, the challenges we all face, and how to cultivate a forgiving spirit. They also emphasize the importance of understanding forgiveness as Christians, highlighting the balance between justice and mercy. Mentioned in this episode: Our ministry is fueled by the generous support of our donors. If this podcast has been an encouragement to you, would you consider giving to CCEF today? Your gift would help us continue to produce free resources like this for the good of God's people. You can learn more about ways to give at ccef.org/donate. Related resources: Is It Sinful to Keep a Record of Wrongs? | Blog post by Darby Strickland The World's Best Epilogue—Ever | Blog post by Ed Welch
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  Cultivating Gratitude: A Christian Perspective 21.07.2025 41分

  In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the topic of cultivating gratitude as a Christian. They discuss practical ways to foster gratitude in daily life, the challenges posed by a discontented culture, and the importance of perspective. They emphasize the coexistence of gratitude and sorrow, the transformative power of gratitude, and the need for humility in recognizing God's gifts. Mentioned in this episode: The price increases for our conference after August 4, so register soon! Learn more at ccef.org/2025. Related resources: Stretching Joy: 10 Ways to Notice God's Everyday Mercies | Blog post by Mike Emlet Jonah's Psalm of Thanksgiving | Blog post by Ed Welch Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Conference Announcement01:25 Fostering Gratitude in Daily Life 14:16 Why Gratitude Is Difficult 19:00 Honest Gratitude Amid Sorrow 27:54 What Gratitude Cultivates in Us 34:02 The Alphabet Game: Reflecting on Gratitude
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  Progressive Sanctification: Understanding Our Union with Christ 07.07.2025 37分

  In this episode, Gunner Gundersen, Darby Strickland, and Esther Liu discuss the process of progressive sanctification. They explore its meaning and implications, and how it plays out in the lives of believers. How does our union and relationship with Christ serve as the foundation for our sanctification? How does growing in our understanding of this help us become more like Jesus? While sanctification can be a messy process, there is hope and encouragement in recognizing that our growth in Christ is a journey, not a destination, and that God is committed to us throughout this process. Mentioned in this episode: Enter our giveaway for a set of notebooks, a tote bag, and a bundle of books on the topic of sanctification. Three winners will be chosen on July 25. Enter at ccef.org/giveaway. Related resources: How Does Sanctification Work? | Book by David Powlison Saints, Sufferers, and Sinners: Loving Others as God Loves Us | Book by Mike Emlet Real Change: Becoming More Like Jesus in Everyday Life | Book by Andrew Nicholls and Helen Thorne I'm discouraged by my persistent struggle with sin. How do I find hope? | Video by Lauren Whitman Why Do You Think You Can Do Better? | Blog post by Esther Liu