The Unexpected Podcast

Episode 20 - One Size Does NOT Fit All

In this week's episode, we discuss the human tendency to impose one's values onto others and how this approach to life is both unproductive and potentially harmful. While certain standards do apply to all, each of us must determine the best pathway to living out God's design for our own lives.
"Do you have faith? Have it to yourself before God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves." Romans 14:22

Episode 19 - Do You Need a Tune-up?

We all get a little rusty in certain areas of our lives. There are times when we aren't firing on all cylinders. Depletion can happen to not only our minds and bodies but also our spirits. The good news is that there are ways to replenish our inner life.

Episode 18 - Aging Well

We all have one thing in common: We are all getting older. Although we don't always enjoy the effects of aging, science shows that having an aging brain actually has its benefits. Plus, we can lean on God's promises to sustain us in old age.
"He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age." Ruth 4:15
"Even to your old age and gray hairs, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you." Isaiah 46:4
"Moses was 120 years old when he died, yet his eyesight was clear, and he was as strong as ever." Deuteronomy 34:7

Episode 17 - Arlie Tagayuna

As a sociology professor, Dr. Arlie Tagayuna seeks to not only understand the current culture but also desires to promote positive change and restoration. Throughout the years we've known him, we can attest that he demonstrates Christ-like qualities in his kindness and generosity towards those around him. Dr. T., as he is known by some, is well-traveled and possesses a wealth of experience with people from various cultures and walks of life. We are sure you will enjoy this episode.

Episode 16 - The Lens of Memory

How accurate are our memories? What variables affect our perception of past events? Do we tend to let negative memories overshadow the good ones?
Perhaps the pathway to wholeness and maturity requires a proper assessment of our most prominent recollections.

Episode 15 - Don't Get Bitten by the Root of Bitterness

You've probably had your share of opportunities to let life make you bitter. Haven't we all? Let's talk about it.
Quotes and verses: "Never trust your tongue when your heart is bitter." - Samuel Johnson
"Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life." Proverbs 4:23
"Get rid of all bitterness, rage, malice, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you." Ephesians 4:31-32

Episode 14 - The World Beyond the Veil

This discussion took the most unexpected turn yet.
We talk about meditation, the spirit realm, and more.
May the arrogant be put to shame for wronging me without cause; but I will meditate on your precepts. Psalm 119:78
My eyes stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promises. Psalm 119:148

Episode 13 - Losing My Religion

Have you experienced God getting your attention in ways that are unique to your personality or to where you are in life?
In this episode, Amy shares divine encounters that occurred before she was ready to accept Jesus into her life.
"Draw near to God and He will draw near to you." - James 4:8
Losing My Religion: The Story of My Life by Amy Mercer: https://bit.ly/AmyMercerLosingMyReligion

Episode 12 - Finding a Happy Medium

The media is the primary means of mass communication, whether it's carried out through broadcasting, publishing, or the internet. Let's talk about it.
Quotes from this episode: "The media is the most powerful entity on earth. They have the power to make the innocent guilty and to make the guilty innocent, and that's power. Because they control the mind of the masses." - Malcolm X
"A technology...is merely a machine. A medium is the social and intellectual environment a machine creates." - Neil Postman, Amusing Ourselves to Death
"Praise the Lord! How joyful are those who fear the Lord and delight in obeying his commands. They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the Lord to care for them." - Psalm 112:1, 7 NLT

Episode 11 - The Benefits of Discomfort

We live with a multitude of modern conveniences at our fingertips. But is there a downside to our life of ease? Are there benefits to stepping out of our comfort zone?