#191 Dustin Barker: Discovering Freedom in Christ's Image

Could understanding your true identity in Christ be the key to breaking free from the struggles that bind you? Join us as we welcome Dustin to the Death to Life podcast, who shares his transformative journey of faith, starting from a small-town upbringing with strong Christian roots. Through Dustin's powerful story, we challenge the idea of being merely a "sinner saved by grace" and explore how recognizing our identity in Christ can lead to true liberation and transformation. We discuss Dustin’s early spiritual moments, his father’s resistance and eventual acceptance of faith, and how these experiences shaped their paths toward deeper spiritual enlightenment.As we navigate through the complexities of addiction, Dustin's personal battles with pornography and alcohol reveal the profound role of faith in overcoming these challenges. Through candid conversations, we examine the societal impacts of addiction and how technology today exacerbates exposure, while also highlighting the fulfillment that comes from meaningful relationships and a stronger spiritual connection. Dustin’s story acts as a testament to the power of divine intervention and the significance of faith in leading a more enriching and purposeful life.Listeners are invited to explore the liberating transformation that comes with understanding one's identity in Christ. By embracing the belief that we are created in God's image, we discuss how this realization can impact daily life and help break free from limiting mindsets. Through biblical teachings and personal anecdotes, there's a focus on the power of words and speaking life into one's circumstances. We conclude by announcing an exciting opportunity to deepen one's faith through a new Bible study group exploring the book of Ephesians, offering a chance to connect and grow spiritually with others on the same journey.Chapters:0:00 - Journey of Transformation Through the Gospel12:40 - Freedom From Addiction Through Faith22:56 - Power of Words in Transformation29:21 - Understanding Identity in Christ39:37 - Discovering Identity in Christ46:37 - The Transformational Power of Faith56:12 - Transformation Through Faith Stories1:03:36 - Made New Bible Study Announcement💰 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.orgDreams made a reality by you. Donate at www.lovereality.org/give

Join us as Ruth shares her incredible journey through the trials of COVID-19 and long COVID, which became a catalyst for her profound spiritual transformation. Throughout this episode, Ruth opens up about discovering her true identity in Christ and the freedom that comes with understanding perpetual forgiveness through His mercy. Her narrative is a powerful testament to the idea that divine assurance can replace our need for human validation, leading to a deeper, more authentic relationship with God.Ruth's story isn't just about personal spiritual growth; it's also about the pivotal role that community plays in our journeys. As she navigates life with a newfound sense of freedom and purpose, Ruth emphasizes the importance of supportive relationships, spontaneous adventures, and environments that foster spiritual growth.  Ruth candidly discusses her own aspirations, the challenges of staying focused amid emotional struggles, and the importance of resilience and consistency in pursuing dreams. This episode is an invitation to embrace change, seek guidance from the Spirit, and celebrate the fullness of life and spiritual fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Whether it's through running a 5K or starting a community in Australia, Ruth's journey inspires us all to find gratitude and purpose in every step of our spiritual paths.Chapters:0:00 - Transformation Stories6:09 - The Freedom of Forgiveness19:00 - Freedom From Double-Mindedness29:50 - Choosing Truth Over Circumstances45:52 - Trusting Community and Personal Growth1:01:07 - Navigating Life's Multifaceted Dreams1:10:02 - Discovering Fullness in Jesus💰 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.orgDreams made a reality by you. Donate at www.lovereality.org/give

Bernice Benabe takes us on an unforgettable journey through her transformative life story on the Death to Life podcast. As the youngest daughter in a tightly-knit Seventh-day Adventist family in Puerto Rico, Bernice's world was shaped by the warmth of her community and the constraints of tradition. Yet, it was these very foundations that set the stage for her profound spiritual awakening. Through unexpected encounters and pivotal decisions, Bernice's narrative unfolds with moments of spiritual enlightenment and personal growth, encouraging us to embrace the unknown with open hearts.The tale of Bernice meeting Jose at a youth gathering is more than just a love story; it's a testament to faith overcoming the odds. Despite their cultural differences and the challenges of military life, their shared spiritual journey strengthened their bond and led to a new understanding of community and love. As Bernice's story evolves, it touches on broader themes, like questioning conservative beliefs and discovering new spiritual landscapes. From engaging with diverse church communities to forming deep-rooted friendships, her path was shaped by the embrace of unexpected spiritual opportunities. Highlighted by her time in Puerto Rico, where personal and family transformations took center stage, Bernice's experiences underscore the significance of community and spiritual connection. Her journey is a compelling reminder of the strength found in unity and the endless possibilities when one remains open to love and faith.Chapters:14:46 - Love Found in Unexpected Places19:36 - Navigating Early Marriage and Family Life29:38 - Navigating Lifestyle Changes and Family Dynamics41:06 - Navigating Church Controversies and Changes49:55 - Spiritual Growth Through Community and Study59:51 - Discovering New Spiritual Perspectives1:16:16 - Deepening Faith Through Community Engagement💰 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.orgDreams made a reality by you. Donate at www.lovereality.org/give

Stefany's story is one of resilience and transformation, taking us from the bustling culture of a Chinese-Indonesian upbringing to the vibrant landscapes of the Philippines. As a teenager, Stefany's pursuit of a quality Adventist education uprooted her from Indonesia and placed her in a new world with its own challenges. Her journey through language barriers, adjusting to a new education system, and navigating faith in a community unfamiliar with Adventism paints a vivid picture of personal growth and spiritual exploration. With courage, Stephanie opens up about her struggles and triumphs in finding a deeper connection with God, all while honoring her family's diverse religious history.Our conversation with Stefany also sheds light on the intricate family dynamics that influenced her spiritual journey. Raised by parents who transitioned from Buddhism to Adventism, Stefany offers a heartfelt reflection on her father's spiritual rediscovery amidst battling depression. She shares the poignant tale of her father's near-death experience before her birth and how it shaped her place as his favorite child. This episode weaves together the rich tapestry of cultural identity, familial expectations, and the pursuit of personal transformation, offering hope to anyone striving to carve out their own spiritual path. Join us for an episode that promises to inspire and resonate with listeners on many levels.💰 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.orgContinue growing with friends! Join a circle over at www.lovereality.org/circlesDreams made a reality by you. Donate at www.lovereality.org/give

Discover the profound journeys of transformation and resilience as Anne Marine takes us through her deeply moving story of faith. Growing up between the majestic Mount Shasta and Mount Lassen in Northern California, Anne Marine faced the tragedy of losing her father at a young age. Her candid reflections reveal how the trials of her childhood, including her mother's remarriage and the challenges of a blended family, shaped her path. Anne’s powerful testimony illustrates how her faith in Jesus Christ brought profound changes to her life, guiding her through adversity and sparking hope.As we see Anne Marine's life journey, we encounter the complexities she faced as a pastor's wife, from navigating denominational differences to moving across states. From Denver to Berkeley, and ultimately to Omaha, each city brought unique challenges and growth. Anne Marine shares how her husband's career as a concert pianist led their family on an unexpected path, filled with both joyous moments and struggles such as marital counseling and dealing with depression. Her story is a testament to the intertwining of faith, resilience, and the strength required to face life's unpredictable twists and turns.Chapters0:00 - The Death to Life Podcast16:56 - Life Changes and New Beginnings29:02 - Testimony, Prayer, and Spiritual Growth40:35 - Finding Freedom Through Faith46:56 - Encouraging Testimonies 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.orgContinue growing with friends! Join a circle over at www.lovereality.org/circlesDreams made a reality by you. Donate at www.lovereality.org/give

What happens when a young musician from Trinidad encounters a transformative spiritual awakening? Join us as we explore the captivating journey of David Hunte, whose life took a profound turn from his roots as the son of a charismatic Seventh-day Adventist pastor to becoming a devoted follower of Christ. Raised in the lively culture of Trinidad, David's experiences under the watchful eyes of his father and community painted a vibrant backdrop to his early years. Through candid reflections, he opens up about the pivotal moments that reshaped his faith and identity, offering a narrative of hope and resilience that's sure to resonate with anyone seeking deeper meaning in their spiritual journey.David's story is more than a personal transformation—it's an exploration of faith's evolution from a transactional practice to a genuine relationship with God. Growing up, scripture memorization and early baptism felt like routine, yet these seeds of faith took root during his challenging transition as a foreign student in Massachusetts. Facing harsh winters and financial struggles, David found solace in the warmth of a supportive church community. Listen as he shares how this experience strengthened his spiritual resolve and provided a sense of belonging, all while juggling the demands of multiple jobs to support his education. This episode is a rich tapestry of cultural exploration, personal growth, and spiritual insight, offering listeners a glimpse into the resilient spirit of David Hunte.💰 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.orgDreams made a reality by you. Donate at www.lovereality.org/give

What if the gospel could completely transform your life, breaking the chains of shame and guilt? Join us in this powerful episode of the Death to Life podcast as we dive into Eliana's incredible journey of faith and redemption. Born to a South African father and a German mother, Eliana's unique upbringing and the profound impact of her parents' faith take center stage as she shares how the gospel brought generational shifts and new hope to her family.Eliana opens up about her personal struggles, including the turbulence of her teaching career and the pain of isolation and emotional battles. She candidly discusses her journey through relationship challenges, exploring themes of sexuality, shame, and guilt. Be moved by her heartfelt recounting of how she found joy and healing in Jesus, highlighting the pivotal moments when God's truth and love became her refuge and strength.Experience the transformative power of faith as Eliana's story unfolds through various chapters of her life. From navigating heartbreak and discovering redemption to breaking free from shame and addiction, her testimony is a beacon of hope. Listen as she celebrates the freedom and abundance found in Christ, impacting not only her personal identity but also her professional life and relationships. This episode is a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness and the life-changing impact of the gospel, offering encouragement and inspiration to all who tune in.0:00 - Transformation Through the Gospel5:29 - Family, Beliefs, and Identity Discovery21:51 - Identity Through College and Diversity36:51 - Navigating Relationship Turmoil and Self-Discovery44:59 - Understanding Intimacy and God's Intentions49:34 - Navigating Heartbreak and Discovering Redemption1:06:55 - Breaking Free From Shame and Addiction1:16:36 - Freedom and Transformation Through the Gospel1:28:38 - Embracing Faith and Freedom💰 DONATE & SUPPORT our Ministry: lovereality.org/give📚 LEARN more at our site: lovereality.orgContinue growing with friends! Join a circle over at www.lovereality.org/circlesDreams made a reality by you. Donate at www.lovereality.org/give

Join us as we explore Brandon's incredible story, beginning from his early days in rural northwest Missouri. We uncover the duality of his childhood, marked by both outdoor adventures and the dark shadow of his father's anger and substance use. Despite these challenges, Brandon held a deep commitment to his family and strived to be a better man for his wife, Malia, and their children, showcasing the transformative power of faith and resilience.Brandon's adolescence is a rollercoaster of rebellion, love, and the search for identity. Transitioning to public school opened up new worlds of freedom and street racing, while a father-son car project brought unexpected bonding. We follow his journey through high school friendships, and personal struggles, and delve into his spiritual encounters that shaped his path. From battling substance abuse to experiencing a profound spiritual awakening, and facing the chaos of relationships and parenting challenges, Brandon’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Listen in as we explore his path to reconciliation with his wife, his transformative encounters with faith, and the profound realizations that led to a life marked by spiritual freedom and grace. Through Brandon’s heartfelt testimony, discover the profound impact of understanding God’s unconditional love and its power to heal and transform lives.Chapters:14:32 - Journey Through Adolescence and Love29:21 - Search for Purpose and Healing37:33 - Faith, Addiction, and Redemption49:37 - Struggles, Loss, and New Beginnings1:02:21 - Chaos and Struggle in Relationships1:12:09 - The Path to Reconciliation1:21:40 - Finding Freedom and Facing Challenges1:35:48 - Parenting Through Challenges and Listening1:46:16 - Living in Freedom and Grace1:50:52 - Discovering the Power of Love💰 DONATE & SUPPORT our Ministry: lovereality.org/give📷 FOLLOW us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riyoung31/📚 LEARN more at our site: lovereality.orgDreams made a reality by you. Donate at www.lovereality.org/give

What happens when life throws you into a whirlwind of broken family ties, substance abuse, and rebellious teenage years? Join us as Jennifer Oliver shares her poignant journey from a chaotic childhood in Raytown, Kansas City, to a life of faith and resilience. This episode explores the profound impact of her parents' divorce, the normalization of alcohol in her family, and the subsequent struggles that shaped her formative years. Jennifer's raw and honest recounting of these early experiences sets the stage for a powerful narrative of survival and transformation.Throughout this episode, Jennifer candidly discusses her years of teenage rebellion, substance abuse, and the hardships of navigating college without a clear direction. She bravely opens up about her mental health struggles, unplanned pregnancies, and the heart-wrenching decisions she faced along the way. We follow her through the darkest moments of her life, including homelessness, betrayal, and the challenges of the family drug court system. Despite the chaos, Jennifer's story is one of unwavering resilience and the search for true fulfillment beyond temporary pleasures.Witness the transformative power of grace as Jennifer details her path from turmoil to redemption. From attending a Christian marriage conference that mended her relationship with her husband to finding strength and solace in the gospel, her journey underscores the importance of spiritual growth and forgiveness. This episode is a testament to the life-changing power of faith, showcasing how love and forgiveness can help overcome life's most challenging moments. Tune in to be inspired by Jennifer's remarkable story of hope and renewal.Chapters0:00 - From Death to Life6:50 - Life of Rebellion and Struggle16:35 - Journey of Struggles and Redemption30:58 - Struggles of Loss and Redemption47:59 - From Turmoil to Marriage1:03:07 - Marriage Struggles and Redemption1:16:36 - Journey of Transformation and Redemption1:24:26 - Family Struggles and Separation1:32:39 - Restoration Through Trials and Faith💰 DONATE & SUPPORT our Ministry: lovereality.org/give👍 LIKE us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alovereality📚 LEARN more at our site: lovereality.orgDreams made a reality by you. Donate at www.lovereality.org/give

Have you ever felt trapped by the crushing weight of legalism, yearning for the liberating embrace of grace? This episode chronicles Enoch's profound journey from a regimented upbringing in New York, shrouded in strict religious rules, to discovering the boundless freedom of the gospel. Enoch opens up about the intense pressures of forced obedience and the transformative power of genuine, love-filled faith that redefined his relationship with God and others.Enoch also shares the deeply personal impact of being diagnosed with ADD in childhood, a label that cast a long shadow over his self-esteem and worldview. You'll hear poignant stories of isolation, the search for solace in intellectual pursuits, and the emotional scars left by his mother's reactions. Through this narrative, we uncover the struggles of an intellectually advanced child navigating a conventional school system, the comfort found in his bond with his father, and the gradual journey towards emotional and spiritual healing.In a candid and raw discussion, we explore Enoch's battles with mental health, extreme legalism, and the eventual breaking point that led to surrender and healing through faith. Discover how a family's enduring process of reconciliation, the influence of scripture, and the importance of balancing logic with heart-driven desires can lead to a richer, more joyful Christian life. As Enoch steps into the light of grace, this episode underscores the transformative message of the gospel and the imperative to share its freedom and blessings with others.Chapters:0:00 - Journey From Legalism to Grace12:53Overcoming Trauma, Growing Spiritually and Intellectually28:27 - Discovering Balance Between Logic and Heart33:36 - Healing From Mental Health Challenges42:32 - A Journey Through Pain and Liberation56:23 - Promoting the Message of Freedom1:11:24 - Breaking Free From Legalism and Fear1:25:29 - Prayer and Invitation to Bible Study💰 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.orgDreams made a reality by you. Donate at www.lovereality.org/give