#164 From Rigid Roots to Liberating Love: Gary's Transformation Story

What if the lowest point in your life reignited your faith? Join us in "Death to Life" as we explore powerful stories of transformation and strength found in divine love. Christian shares his journey from a strict Seventh-day Adventist upbringing in Perth Amboy, NJ, to finding purpose through faith. Despite challenges, including significant eye surgery, his vibrant community and cultural heritage helped him overcome a dark period in December 2022. Another story follows a young individual who, after losing a friend, struggled with faith, grief, and rebellion. With the help of a supportive youth leader, they realized true fulfillment lies beyond partying and substance use, highlighting the importance of mentorship.Finally, we delve into the transformative power of God's unconditional love. Personal accounts reveal how breaking free from legalism and shame leads to true freedom and identity in divine acceptance. From overcoming the pressures of canvassing summers to battling personal hypocrisies, these stories emphasize that embracing God's promises leads to peace and a profound sense of identity. Tune in to witness how these individuals moved from despair to a life rooted in divine love, showcasing the universal impact of God's love.0:00 - From Death to Life13:11 - A Journey of Faith and Doubt24:24 - Struggles With Legalism and Lust32:38 - Breaking Free From Condemnation and Shame45:38 - Discovering Freedom Through Love and Grace55:07 - Embracing God's Unconditional Love1:03:48 - Living in God's Unconditional Love💰 DONATE & SUPPORT our Ministry: lovereality.org/give👍 LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alovereality📷 FOLLOW us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riyoung31/📚 LEARN more at our site: lovereality.orgLooking for discipleship and fellowship? Join a Circle at lovereality.org/circles

What if your understanding of faith could shift from a vague belief to a deeply transformative relationship with Jesus? In this episode of the Death to Life podcast, our guest Schuyler shares his journey from a theologically mixed upbringing in mainstream Christianity and Christian Science to a profound encounter with Christ in his early 20s. This encounter reshaped his battles with sin and ignited his spiritual growth.We explore how personal experiences influence our grasp of spiritual truths, sharing insights from my wife Grace's faith journey and the importance of being spiritually open. We discuss Jesus's radical mercy and forgiveness, even in the face of grave injustice, and how this inspires us to practice kindness in our lives. As Grace and I prepare for parenthood, we reflect on the duties of relationships and parenting. Schuyler’s testimony and a touching exchange with another guest highlight the profound impact of faith and spiritual family. Join us to be moved by Schuyler's story for a deeper experience.0:00 - From Death to Life16:09 - Power of the Gospel28:11 - Journey of Faith in Relationship34:35 - Discovering Identity and Grace Through Love40:30 - Testimony of Grace and Blessings💰 DONATE & SUPPORT our Ministry: lovereality.org/give👍 LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alovereality📷 FOLLOW us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riyoung31/📚 LEARN more at our site: lovereality.orgLooking for discipleship and fellowship? Join a Circle at lovereality.org/circles

Imagine feeling shackled by brokenness and inadequacy, only to discover a path to true freedom and inner peace. Dr. Sherri, a clinical psychologist and our guest on this episode of the Death to Life podcast, experienced just that. She shares her transformative journey from a conflicted follower of Jesus to someone living the abundant life promised by Romans 8. Inspired by her 2019 turning point, she describes fully surrendering to God and rejecting the lies that kept her in bondage, emphasizing how changing thought patterns can break the chains of mental and spiritual oppression.Through her professional and personal experiences, Dr. Sherri illustrates the profound impact of seeking the Lord and immersing oneself in scripture. A significant breakthrough came when she confided in her cousin, Pastor Kevin, helping her dispel the darkness and recognize her true worth. Her story is a testament to the power of God’s love and redemption, offering listeners a pathway to wholeness and restoration. She emphasizes the necessity of a deep relationship with Jesus for true peace and freedom from shame, providing invaluable guidance on living according to God's design and embracing self-control granted by the Holy Spirit. Join us for this compelling conversation that promises to enrich and uplift your spiritual journey.0:00 - Transformation Through Surrender13:28 - Discovery of Faith and Healing19:38 - Revealing the Lie of Brokenness30:30 - Seeking Jesus for True Peace37:19 - Journey to Freedom From Shame53:23 - Understanding Depression Through a Biblical Lens59:04 - Discovering Faithfulness and Obedience1:10:49 - Letting Go of Burdens in Prayer💰 DONATE & SUPPORT our Ministry: lovereality.org/give👍 LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alovereality📷 FOLLOW us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riyoung31/📚 LEARN more at our site: lovereality.orghttps://www.lovereality.org/podcastsLooking for discipleship and fellowship? Join a Circle at lovereality.org/circles

What if your strict religious upbringing felt more like a prison than a path to God? Join us as Lindy shares her journey from a conservative religious family to finding genuine faith and community. Facing the pressures of purity culture and a judgmental church, Lindy felt isolated and fearful. Her turning point came at an 18-year-old summer camp where she experienced unconditional love and the true spirit of Christianity.Lindy's faith was reignited through deep Sabbath school discussions with her brother and his friend, but was tested again in a conservative environment at massage school. The pandemic added challenges, but an online seminar and a transformative prayer experience with Eddie renewed her spiritual fulfillment.Lindy's story of spiritual freedom and healing includes confronting her past and drawing strength from spiritual teachings and symbolic rituals. Listen to Lindy's inspiring transformation and join the upcoming Death to Life Bible Studies for your own spiritual growth and community connection. Don't miss this episode filled with hope, resilience, and divine love.0:00 - Finding Faith Beyond Religious Expectations16:17 - Journey to Understanding God's Goodness21:28 - Faith Journey and Spiritual Awakening37:37 - Journey to Spiritual Freedom51:46 - Death to Life Bible Studies Sign-Up💰 DONATE & SUPPORT our Ministry: lovereality.org/give👍 LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alovereality📷 FOLLOW us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riyoung31/📚 LEARN more at our site: lovereality.orghttps://www.lovereality.org/podcastsLooking for discipleship and fellowship? Join a Circle at lovereality.org/circles

Standing at the edge of despair, only to be pulled back by an unseen hand of hope, Michael's story captures this dramatic shift from contemplating suicide to embracing a life he never imagined. Join us as he shares how an invitation to a Love Reality event sparked an incredible transformation. Through a deeply vulnerable conversation, Michael's baptism symbolizes his release from self-doubt and destructive habits, welcoming him into a life of faith and community.When dance transcends mere movement, where is the line between art and intimacy? Michael discusses navigating personal boundaries in the vibrant yet complicated dance community. His candid reflections on seeking connection in fleeting relationships and addressing sex and consent amid expressive body language will resonate with anyone searching for love in the rhythm of life.Experience the power of rebirth in this episode as we journey with Michael through his struggles and healing. From a childhood marked by early exposure to pornography and lack of guidance to his quest for identity amid unhealthy relationships, his story is a poignant reminder of the complexities of human experience. Michael's transformation is not just about overcoming the odds; it's a testament to the restorative power of love, understanding, and believing in new beginnings.Timestamps:0:00 - Transformation and Freedom Through the Gospel9:59 - Life Changing Baptism Experience18:44 - Personal Journey Through Struggles and Healing28:23 - Navigating Intimacy and Boundaries in Dance💰 DONATE & SUPPORT our Ministry: lovereality.org/give👍 LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alovereality📷 FOLLOW us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riyoung31/📚 LEARN more at our site: lovereality.orghttps://www.lovereality.org/podcastsLooking for discipleship and fellowship? Join a Circle at lovereality.org/circles

Summary:Have you ever stood at the crossroads of conflict and conviction, where your deepest struggles meet divine purpose? Mallory Garza's riveting narrative unfolds as she recounts her transformative journey from gender confusion and same-sex attraction to a life of unshakable faith in Jesus Christ. Her testimony isn't just a story; it's a map that charts the rocky terrain of self-discovery, identity, and the relentless pursuit of something more in a world that often tells us we're never enough.Timestamps:21:03  - Journey of Faith and Transformation 26:38 - Walking in Faith and Freedom34:42 - Transformation Through Understanding the Gospel39:37 - Influence and Platform for Ministry46:13 - Journey of Faith and Redemption51:24 - Empowering Message of Hope and Love💰 DONATE & SUPPORT our Ministry: lovereality.org/give👍 LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alovereality📷 FOLLOW us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riyoung31/📚 LEARN more at our site: lovereality.orgLooking for discipleship and fellowship? Join a Circle at lovereality.org/circles

Have you ever felt your spiritual journey shaped by tradition? Our guest, Gary, has experienced this firsthand with roots in both Adventist and Mormon backgrounds. This episode explores his faith journey, marked by personal loss and a quest for a deeper Christianity free from rigid doctrines. His story includes the loss of a friend, insights from teachers like Graham Maxwell, and a shift from strict Adventism in Southern California to a broader understanding of God's grace. Gary's work with Hope House reflects his commitment to sharing a message of hope and finding peace in God's plan. Join us as we explore a story of spiritual growth where faith is lived with authenticity.0:00 - Generational Faith Journey in Southern California9:28 - Childhood Experiences in Conservative Adventist Culture14:30 - School Experience and Manson Encounter20:16 - Life Changes and Spiritual Growth27:40 - From Hawaii to Faith40:33 - Journey of Faith and Transformation48:36 - Transformation Through the Gospel1:02:02 - Growing in Faith and Community💰 DONATE & SUPPORT our Ministry: lovereality.org/give👍 LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alovereality📷 FOLLOW us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riyoung31/📚 LEARN more at our site: lovereality.orgLooking for discipleship and fellowship? Join a Circle at lovereality.org/circles

In our latest episode, we explore the transformative power of faith in the face of profound adversity. Through a tapestry of stories, we uncover how spiritual growth and redemption guide individuals through life's darkest moments. Teresa's journey takes us from the scars of abuse to the sanctuary of faith, a narrative that resonates with themes of resilience and hope. We then delve into the complex realities of single motherhood, trauma, and education, showcasing the courage it takes to juggle caregiving and personal advancement. Our guests also discuss the dichotomy within religious communities—where stigma and compassion coexist—and share how their paths ultimately led them to embrace the Gospel's message of love and acceptance. As this chapter closes, we leave you with stories of healing and new beginnings, highlighting that true transformation lies in finding strength through God's guidance. This episode is more than a collection of stories; it's an affirmation that faith can provide the anchor we need to weather life's storms.12:53 - Transitioning Through Trauma and Turmoil23:31 - Trauma and Abuse in Christian School41:33 - Surviving Abuse and Finding Strength50:31 - College Transition for Single Parent55:08 - Challenges of Single Motherhood and Faith1:11:48 - Journey of Healing and Transformation1:20:21 - Discovering Faith Through Bible Studies1:24:02 - Discovering Freedom Through Understanding the Gospel1:39:02 - Discovering Freedom and Intimacy With God💰 DONATE & SUPPORT our Ministry: lovereality.org/give👍 LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alovereality📷 FOLLOW us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riyoung31/📚 LEARN more at our site: lovereality.orgLooking for discipleship and fellowship? Join a Circle at lovereality.org/circles

Nick Lesch's story is a riveting account of resilience and redemption. Born in Anchorage, Alaska, he faced poverty and an absent father. At five years old, he survived a near-fatal three-story fall, an event that ignited his faith. After being adopted by a Seventh-day Adventist family, his life took a turn, but adolescence still posed challenges with family struggles and identity crises. A move from International Falls to New Mexico and a troubled relationship with his father led him into a difficult phase, but a transformative summer program steered him toward a more positive path.As Nick matured, he battled personal vices but found deeper meaning in his faith. Evangelism and a stronger connection to the gospel helped him overcome his struggles. By the end of the episode, you'll hear how God's grace turned his life from darkness to light, and how he's now dedicated to sharing this hope with others, especially his own family. Join us to witness the remarkable power of transformation and the resilience of the God's spirit.10:46 - Family Struggles and School Transitions18:52 - Growing Up and Finding Faith25:12 - Life's Ups and Downs35:32 - Overcoming Struggles Through Faith40:38 - Family Conflict and Spiritual Awakening44:26 - Journey to Finding God's Love55:18 - Impact of the Gospel Transformation1:03:16 - Growing in the Gospel💰 DONATE & SUPPORT our Ministry: lovereality.org/give👍 LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alovereality📷 FOLLOW us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riyoung31/📚 LEARN more at our site: lovereality.orgLooking for discipleship and fellowship? Join a Circle at lovereality.org/circles

Sarah's journey from a strict Adventist upbringing to finding her intrinsic worth through trials like bullying and a tumultuous relationship showcases the transformative power of faith and self-discovery. Through her story, we witness the resilience, revelation, and renewal that lead her to embrace her connection with God, emphasizing the enduring value of divine love over fleeting romantic pursuits.12:12 - Navigating Childhood Challenges and Resilience19:25 - Growing Up37:59 - Journey Through Adolescence and Faith53:07 - Stalking, Self-Worth, and Spiritual Guidance1:00:29 - Navigating Relationships and Self-Discovery1:16:16 - Finding God Beyond Tinder1:24:50 - Journey to Finding Faith1:31:03 - Discovering Worth Through Gospel Revelation1:45:43 - Reality of Love💰 DONATE & SUPPORT our Ministry: lovereality.org/give👍 LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alovereality📷 FOLLOW us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riyoung31/📚 LEARN more at our site: lovereality.orgLooking for discipleship and fellowship? Join a Circle at lovereality.org/circles