The Soul Care Podcast

Season 3: Episode 11 - Gift, Not Problem: Breaking Free from Body Shame - Alisa Keeton

Episode #11 Show Notes
Host: Warren Lamb
Guest Host: Connie Lamb
Guest: Alisa Keeton
 
Summary
In this episode of The Soul Care Podcast, Warren and special Guest Host Connie Lamb welcome Alisa Keeton, founder of Revelation Wellness, to discuss the transformative power of viewing our bodies as gifts rather than problems. Alisa shares her personal journey from a life entrenched in diet culture to one that embraces faith and wellness. The conversation delves into the harmful effects of body shame, the importance of community in healing, and the distinction between valuing our bodies for their abilities rather than vanity. Alisa emphasizes the need for compassion and curiosity in our relationship with our bodies, encouraging listeners to embrace their identity as God's creations.
 
Takeaways
Alisa Keeton emphasizes that our bodies are gifts to be stewarded, not problems to be solved.
The journey to wellness involves breaking free from toxic shame and diet culture.
Community plays a crucial role in healing and self-acceptance.
Curiosity about our bodies can lead to compassion and understanding.
Fitness should focus on the ability of the body rather than vanity.
The church has a responsibility to address body image issues and promote healthy perspectives.
Perfect love from God casts out fear and shame associated with body image.
Healing cannot occur in isolation; we need each other.
Understanding the nervous system is one key to achieving wellness.
Our identity in Christ is foundational to how we view our bodies.
 
Relevant Links
Mentioned Resources
The Body Revelation: Physical and Spiritual Practices to Metabolize Pain, Banish Shame, and Connect to God with Your Whole Self (Alisa Keeton)
Revelation Wellness (Alisa Keeton’s website)
Revelation Wellness (YouTube Channel)
Healthy & Whole Podcast (Apple Podcast link, but found on most podcast platforms)
Heir to the Crown: A Mind-Body Devotional for the Daughters of God (Alisa Keeton)
What Do You Think of Me? Why Do I Care?: Answers to the Big Questions of Life (Ed Welch)
 
Other Links
Truth in Love Biblical Counseling
Warren’s Blog
 
Warrenism of the Week: “You can’t heal what you hate. Hatred closes the door to transformation and leaves us in a pool of toxic shame.”

Season 3: Episode 10 - Unpacking 'Happy Lies' with Melissa Daugherty

Episode #10 Show Notes
Hosts: Kimberly Willess, Warren Lamb
Guest: Melissa Daugherty
 
Summary
In this episode of The Soul Care Podcast, Kimberly and Warren talk with Melissa Dougherty, an author and apologist, about her book 'Happy Lies' and the New Thought movement. Melissa shares her spiritual journey from New Thought to Christianity, exploring how seductive New Thought beliefs can be and how they appear in modern Christianity. The conversation explores the meaning of suffering, the importance of surrender in the Gospel, and the false idea of human goodness. They also examine how consumerism affects spirituality and why true healing comes through Christ. Melissa mentions her future research plans, including a detailed examination of influential figures in the New Thought movement and their impact on Christianity.
 
Takeaways
Melissa Dougherty's book 'Happy Lies' explores the New Thought movement.
She shares her journey from New Thought to Christianity.
New Thought beliefs are often mistaken for Christian teachings.
The seductive nature of New Thought makes it difficult to identify.
Suffering is viewed differently in New Thought compared to Christianity.
The need for surrender to God's will is emphasized in the Gospel.
Human goodness is an illusion in the context of sin.
Consumerism influences modern spirituality and instant gratification.
True healing comes through a relationship with Christ.
Melissa plans to research influential figures in the New Thought movement.
 
Relevant Links
Mentioned Resources
Happy Lies: How a Movement You (Probably) Never Heard Of Shaped Our Self-Obsessed World (Melissa Daugherty)
Melissa Daugherty YouTube Channel
Blessed: A History of the American Prosperity Gospel (Kate Bowler)
The Story of Reality: How the World Began, How It Ends, and Everything Important that Happens in Between (Greg Koukl)
The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self: Cultural Amnesia, Expressive Individualism, and the Road to Sexual Revolution (Carl R. Trueman)
Biblical Counseling and Mental Disorder Diagnosis (Jenn Chen)
Science Fictions: How Fraud, Bias, Negligence, and Hype Undermine the Search for Truth (Stewart Ritchie)
Brainwashed: The Seductive Appeal of Mindless Neuroscience (Sally Satel and Scott O. Linienfeld)
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma (Michael Scheeringa)
 
Other Links
Truth in Love Biblical Counseling
Warren’s Blog
 
Warrenism of the Week: “Surrender isn't giving up; it's finally letting the right Person be in charge.”

Season 3: Episode 9 - Mental Health, Prayer, and God's Word - Pastor Trey Richardson

Episode #9 Show Notes
Host: Warren Lamb
Guest: Pastor Trey Richardson
 
Summary
In this episode of The Soul Care Podcast, Warren interviews Pastor Trey Richardson, who shares his journey in pastoral ministry, emphasizing the importance of trusting in the sufficiency of Scripture for biblical counseling and soul-care, especially for those with a serious mental health diagnosis. He discusses the challenges faced by individuals with mental health issues and how God's Word can bring healing and transformation. The conversation highlights the significance of community support, the power of prayer, and the role of family life in shaping one's ministry. Pastor Trey encourages ordinary believers and pastors alike to trust in the sufficiency of Scripture and to approach mental health care with confidence and compassion.
 
Takeaways
God's Word is sufficient for healing and transformation.
Prayer is a powerful tool in soul care.
Church community support is essential for those with “mental health” struggles.
Pastoral care ought to focus on applying Scripture to real-life situations.
Family life often shapes one's approach to ministry and counseling.
Confidence in God's Word can empower pastors to help others.
Diagnosed mental illness does not limit God's ability to bring change.
Ordinary believers can play a role in soul-care without formal training.
Taking thoughts captive is crucial for those with mental health challenges.
The journey of healing often requires patience and consistent care.
 
Relevant Links
Mentioned Resources
Christian Counseling & Education Fellowship (CCEF)
Descriptions and Prescriptions: A Biblical Perspective on Psychiatric Diagnoses and Medications (Michael R. Emlet)
 
Other Links
Unbound: Growing Ever-freer in Christ (Truth in Love curriculum)
Truth in Love Biblical Counseling
Warren’s Blog
 
Warrenism of the Week: “Transformation in Christ is a process, not an event. We didn’t get ‘messed up’ overnight, and we don’t experience healing and growth overnight. Neither do the people we help.”

Season 3:Episode 8 - Healing Through Conflict - Kelli Russell

Episode #8 Show Notes
Hosts: Kimberly Willess, Warren Lamb
Guest: Kelli Russell
 
Summary
In this episode of The Soul Care Podcast, Kimberly and Warren interview Kelli Russell, a leader in Christian conciliation and biblical counseling. They discuss Kelli's journey into this field, the importance of understanding trauma in conflict resolution, and the role of forgiveness in reconciliation. The conversation emphasizes the need for safety, building rapport, and training believers in biblical peacemaking. Kelli shares her vision for Grace Matters, the ministry she leads, and the impact of community education on conflict resolution.
 
Takeaways
Kelli Russell is a leader in Christian conciliation and biblical counseling.
Understanding trauma is crucial in conflict resolution.
Building rapport takes time and is essential for effective reconciliation.
Safety is paramount when dealing with abuse in reconciliation processes.
Christian conciliation aims to restore relationships, not just resolve conflicts.
Training believers in biblical peacemaking is vital for community health.
Forgiveness does not mean enabling harmful behavior.
Every reconciliation case is unique and requires a tailored approach.
The goal of reconciliation is to achieve peace and understanding.
Love and compassion are key components in resolving conflicts.
 
Relevant Links
Mentioned Resources
The Peacemaker: A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict (Ken Sande)
Help! I'm in a Conflict (Life-Line Mini-Book) (Ernie Baker)
Grace Matters (Kelli’s ministry organization)
RW360: Relational Wisdom 360
Institute for Christian Conciliation
Ambassadors of Reconciliation
Unbound: Growing Ever-freer in Christ (Truth in Love curriculum)
Forgiveness: It May Not Work the Way You Think It Does (Warren Lamb)
 
Other Links
Truth in Love Biblical Counseling
Warren’s Blog
 
Warrenism of the Week: “Peacemaking is an ending of hostilities; pacifying is a pausing of hostilities.”

Season 3: Episode 7 - Biblically Navigating Abuse, Abandonment, and Divorce - Dr. Steve Swartz

Episode #7 Show Notes
Host: Warren Lamb
Guest: Dr. Steve Swartz
 
Summary
In this episode of The Soul Care Podcast, Warren is joined by Dr. Steve Swartz who presents his carefully researched biblical case that verbal/emotional abuse (reviling) can constitute abandonment under 1 Corinthians 7, potentially providing biblical grounds for divorce. Drawing from 25+ years of pastoral ministry and rigorous hermeneutical study, Dr. Swartz challenges the church to recognize that protecting the vulnerable takes precedence over preserving marriages at all costs. His work represents a significant development within Reformed theology, maintaining fidelity to Scripture while expanding the understanding of how God's Word addresses domestic oppression. This conversation challenges pastors, counselors, and church leaders to examine whether their theology truly protects the oppressed or inadvertently enables oppressors. Dr. Swartz's work represents courageous scholarship that maintains biblical authority while advocating for those trapped in covenant betrayal.
 
Takeaways
Biblical fidelity doesn't require rigidity - Careful hermeneutics can expand our understanding without abandoning core principles
The vulnerable matter more than institutions - Jesus came to set captives free, not preserve marriages at any cost
Abuse is a gospel issue - Persistent, unrepentant abuse reveals an unregenerate heart
Churches need reformation - Many inadvertently protect abusers while further traumatizing victims
Courage is required - Confronting influential abusers may cost churches financially, but purifies them spiritually.
Churches often commit "secondary abuse" by mishandling initial disclosures
Women often fear disclosure because of widespread church failures in handling abuse
Successful, influential men who are revilers often receive protection rather than discipline
One hour of counseling barely scratches the surface - pastoral humility is essential
 
Relevant Links
Dr. Swartz Resources
Abuse, Abandonment, and Divorce: Confronting the Reality of Marital Abuse with Foundational Issues, Biblical Compassion, and Exegetical Objectivity (Steve Swartz)
Shattered Shepherds: Finding Hope in the Midst of Ministry Disaster (Steve Swartz)
Sermon Series “Steadfast in the Faith” (Listen in reverse order)
 
Other Books Mentioned
Narcissism (Volume 1): Unmasking the Avatar (Biblically) (Warren Lamb)
Behind the Veil: Exposing the Evil of Domestic Oppression and Providing Hope (Warren Lamb)
Not Under Bondage: Biblical Divorce for Abuse, Adultery and Desertion (Barbra Roberts)
Called to Be Holy: The Discipline of the Church (Jeremy Walker)
 
Other Links
Truth in Love Biblical Counseling
Warren’s Blog
Unbound: Growing Ever-freer in Christ (Truth in Love curriculum)
 
Warrenism of the Week: “All abuse is evil; all abuse is destructive; NO abuse is permissible by God.”

Season 3: Episode 6 - Living With Chronic Pain - Connie Lamb

Episode #6 Show Notes
Host: Jinda Reinig
Guest: Connie Lamb
 
Summary
In this episode of The Soul Care Podcast, Jinda interviews her mom, Connie Lamb, as she shares her profound journey living with a degenerative disease (Charcot-Marie-Tooth) and chronic pain. She discusses the challenges of maintaining faith in the midst of suffering, the importance of understanding one's identity in Christ, and how understanding God's sovereignty plays a role in her life. Connie emphasizes the significance of community support, the impact of scripture, and the necessity of grieving the loss of life that has been lived. Her insights offer hope and encouragement to those facing similar struggles, reminding listeners that they are not alone in their pain.
 
Takeaways
Connie shares her journey with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.
Understanding one's identity in Christ is crucial during suffering.
God's sovereignty means He is aware of our struggles.
God’s sovereignty means He has a plan for our struggles.
Scripture can provide strength and comfort in the battle with pain.
Sowing and reaping is a continuous process in life.
It's important to seek joy for strength in difficult times.
Community support is vital for those with chronic illness.
Labels do not define our identity in Christ.
False theology can harm those suffering from illness.
Grieving the loss of a former life is a necessary process.
 
Relevant Links
Resources Mentioned
Tactics, 10th Anniversary Edition: A Game Plan for Discussing Your Christian Convictions (Greg Koukl)
Identity: Seeing Yourself Through God’s Eyes (Conrod Hilario)
Unbound: Growing Ever-freer in Christ (Truth in Love)
Shackles (Mary Mary)
 
Other Links
Truth in Love Biblical Counseling
Warren’s Blog
 
Warrenism of the Week: “Being content in our circumstances does not equal being content with our circumstances. Knowing that God has brought us through other circumstances and He will bring us through these helps us focus on God more than on our circumstances.”

Season 3: Episode 5 - The Effectiveness of Parenting By Faith, Not Formula - Julie Lowe

Episode #5 Show Notes
Hosts: Jinda Reinig, Warren Lamb
Guest: Julie Lowe
 
Summary
In this episode of The Soul Care Podcast, our hosts interview Julie Lowe, a biblical counselor, parenting expert, and author, as they discuss her journey into biblical counseling, the importance of play therapy, and the need for individualized parenting approaches. They explore the impact of technology on children, the necessity of involving parents in the counseling process, and the significance of understanding children's behavior. Julie emphasizes the importance of community support and biblical principles in parenting, while also addressing the challenges of structured parenting and the need for flexibility. The conversation concludes with encouragement for parents to seek wisdom and remain steadfast in their parenting journey.
 
Takeaways
Julie Lowe's journey into biblical counseling was driven by a desire to help children and families.
The importance of play therapy in making counseling a comfortable experience for children.
Blending licensed counseling with biblical counseling can enhance the effectiveness of therapy.
Personal experiences as a parent shape counseling practices and understanding of family dynamics.
Understanding children's behavior requires looking beyond surface actions to underlying motivations.
Changes in parenting approaches have been influenced by technology and cultural shifts.
Involving parents in the counseling process is crucial for effective outcomes.
Empowering parents to feel equipped in their parenting roles is essential.
The concept of fairness in parenting should be replaced with a focus on individual needs.
Biblical principles ought to guide parenting practices, emphasizing love and understanding
 
Relevant Links
Books by Julie Lowe
Child Proof: Parenting By Faith, Not Formula
Safeguards: Shielding Our Homes and Equipping Our Kids
Building Bridges: Biblical Counseling Activities for Children and Teens (Helping the Helper Series)
 
Other Links
Truth in Love Biblical Counseling
Warren’s Blog
 
Warrenism of the Week: “The goal isn't to raise perfect kids; it's to point our kids to a perfect Savior.”

Season 3: Episode 4 - Unmasking Narcissism: A Biblical Perspective - Warren Lamb

Episode #4 Show Notes
Host: Jinda Reinig, Kimberly Willess
Guest: Warren Lamb
 
Summary
In this episode of The Soul Care Podcast, the hosts discuss Warren's new book on narcissism, exploring its definitions, cultural influences, and the impact on relationships and the church. They delve into the roots of narcissism, the importance of biblical counseling, and how to recognize and respond to narcissistic behavior. The discussion emphasizes the need for healing and hope for victims of narcissism, highlighting the role of the church in addressing this issue.
 
Takeaways
Narcissism is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed.
Cultural influences contribute to the rise of narcissism.
Healthy parenting is crucial in preventing narcissistic traits.
Narcissism can manifest in various relationships, including within the church.
Biblical counseling provides a framework for healing from narcissistic abuse.
Victims of narcissism often feel responsible for the abuser's behavior.
Narcissists lack empathy and self-awareness.
Recognizing manipulation is key to protecting oneself from narcissists.
The church must address narcissism as a spiritual issue.
There is hope for recovery and healing from narcissistic relationships.
 
Relevant Links
Book Mentioned
Narcissism (Volume 1): Unmasking the Avatar (Biblically) (Warren Lamb)
Other Links
Truth in Love Biblical Counseling
Warren’s Blog
 
Warrenism of the Week: “Narcissism is a spiritual issue, not a personality disorder.”

Season 3: Episode 3 - Dr. Jenn Chen - Navigating the Intersection of Faith and Science

Episode #3 Show Notes
Host: Jinda Reinig, Kimberly Willess, Warren Lamb
Guest: Dr. Jenn Chen
 
Summary
In this episode of The Soul Care Podcast, Dr. Jenn Chen returns for a follow-up interview and shares more of her journey from a clinical psychologist to a biblical counselor. Today, the discussion emphasizes the complexities of neuroscience and the limitations of scientific research in understanding mental health. She highlights the importance of questioning mainstream psychological claims, the role of trauma, and the need for a biblical approach to counseling. The discussion also touches on the intersection of faith and science, the significance of soul-care, and the challenges of navigating mental health diagnoses in a biblical context.
 
Takeaways
Dr. Jenn Chen emphasizes the evolving nature of science and the need to question its claims.
Mainstream psychology often overlooks the complexities of individual experiences.
Neuroscience provides insights but does not dictate counseling methods.
Labels in mental health can become identities, affecting self-perception.
Pain and suffering are integral parts of the human experience, not to be avoided.
Biblical counseling focuses on the heart, mind, and soul rather than just symptoms.
Trauma is often misunderstood and requires a compassionate approach.
The church must be equipped to provide effective soul-care.
Understanding the limitations of scientific research is crucial for Christians.
Faith and science can coexist, but caution is needed in their integration.
 
Relevant Links
Books Mentioned
Biblical Counseling and Mental Disorder Diagnosis (Dr. Jenn Chen)
Science Fictions: How Fraud, Bias, Negligence, and Hype Undermine the Search for Truth (Stewart Ritchie)
The Body Doesn’t Keep the Score: How Popular Beliefs About Trauma Are Wrong (Michael Scheeringa)
Brainwashed: The Seductive Appeal of Mindless Neuroscience (Sally Satel and Scott O. Linienfeld)
Spiritual Depression: Its Causes and Cure (D. Martin Lloyd-Jones)
“The serotonin theory of depression: a systematic umbrella review of the evidence” (Moncrieff, J., Cooper, R.E., Stockmann, T. et al.)
Rethinking Depression: Not a Sickness Not a Sin (Dr. Daniel R. Berger II)
The Chemical Imbalance Delusion (Dr. Daniel R. Berger II)
How Do You Help a “Psychologized” Counselee? (David Powlison)
How to Help Psychologized Counselees (Tim Pasma interview by Dale Johnson, ACBC)
Lies My Therapist Told Me: Why Christians Should Aim for More Than Just Treating Symptoms (Greg Gifford)
Discipling a Fool's Heart: The Discipline of Wise Parenting, Education, Counsel, and Discipleship (Dr. Daniel R. Berger II)
 
Other Links
Truth in Love Biblical Counseling
Warren’s Blog
 
Warrenism of the Week: “So often we hear what a person was saved from; too seldom do we hear what a person was saved to.”

Season 3 - Episode 2: Molly Bertles - A Journey of Healing and Hope

Episode #2 Show Notes
Host: Jinda Reinig, Kimberly Willess
Guest: Molly Bertles
 
Summary
In this episode of The Soul Care Podcast, hosts Jinda and Kimmy engage in a candid conversation with Molly Bertles about the often-avoided topic of female masturbation within the Christian community. Molly shares her personal journey of struggle, shame, and eventual healing through biblical counseling. The discussion emphasizes the need for open conversations in the church about women's sexuality, the impact of cultural narratives, and the importance of understanding God's design for sex. Listeners are encouraged to seek community, accountability, and spiritual disciplines as they navigate their own journeys toward purity and intimacy.
 
Takeaways
Molly struggled with masturbation from a young age, feeling shame and secrecy.
The church often avoids discussing female sexuality, leading to isolation for women.
Cultural narratives around sexuality can conflict with biblical teachings.
Understanding God's design for sex is crucial for women struggling with guilt.
Shame can significantly impact intimacy in marriage.
Masturbation can become a form of self-worship and idolatry.
Community and accountability are essential for overcoming struggles with sexuality.
Open conversations about sexuality can help break the stigma in the church.
Spiritual disciplines can aid in pursuing purity and understanding God's design.
Molly hopes her book will provide clarity and support for women facing similar struggles.
 
Relevant Links
Book Highlighted
You Are Not Alone (Molly Bertles)
Other Links
Truth in Love Biblical Counseling
Pastor Warren’s Blog
 
Warrenism of the Week: “What you focus on is what you hit. That's why God says 'put off' AND 'put on.' Stopping the wrong isn't enough; you have to replace it with what's right."