Become New with John Ortberg

Why is self-control so hard? You’re not alone. Research shows that among all character strengths, self-control ranks dead last in how people rate themselves. But what if the problem isn’t just your willpower… what if it’s how you’re using it?

In this teaching, we explore the deeper truth behind self-control—why willpower gets depleted, how habits shape your life, and why “white-knuckling it” isn’t the solution. Drawing from Scripture, psychology, and spiritual wisdom, you’ll discover a surprising secret:
The key to self-control isn’t trying harder… it’s learning to surrender your will to something greater.

If you feel stuck in cycles of frustration, temptation, or burnout, this message offers a better way forward.

📚 Today's Resources:
Willpower by Roy Baumeister
Insights from Allan Willes 
Commentary from Ezra Sullivan

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Music Credits:
Beyond by Waes Hael MB01C7DBTWRVYUQ

Most of us think we’re pretty good at reading people. Research says… we’re not.
In today’s teaching, we explore the powerful and often overlooked skill of social intelligence, the ability to understand your own emotions and accurately read what’s happening in others. 

From facial expressions to tone of voice to body language, this skill shapes every relationship you have. Through biblical insight (including the story of Joseph), practical exercises, and a powerful reflection practice, you’ll learn how to grow in awareness, ask better questions, and become someone who truly sees people.

Because when you learn to read faces…you learn to love people better.

📚 Today's Resources:
The Opposite of Depression by David M. Carreon MD
Spiritual practice of the Examen Prayer, from Ignatius of Loyola
Research from Martin Seligman

ORIGINAL AIR DATE: 8.15.23

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Music Credits:
Beyond by Waes Hael MB01C7DBTWRVYUQ

Life doesn’t always give you the path you would choose...

There’s a race set before you, shaped by your circumstances, your story, and the challenges you didn’t ask for. The question isn’t whether you chose it… the question is: will you run it with perseverance?

In this powerful teaching, we explore what it really means to persevere—not just through willpower, but through purpose. Drawing from Scripture, philosophy, and real-life stories of suffering and resilience, this message shows how perseverance is fueled by hope, vision, and a deep sense that your life matters.

If you’re tired, discouraged, or wondering if it’s worth it to keep going… this is for you.
Because sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do is just to take the next step.

📚 Today's Resources:
The Strengths of a Christian — Robert C. Roberts
Writings of Søren Kierkegaard (commitment, maturity)
Reflections on Bertrand Russell (contrast in perseverance and commitment)

Original Air Date: 8/10/23

🙌 New episodes every weekday.
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Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time.
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Music Credits:
Beyond by Waes Hael MB01C7DBTWRVYUQ

What if the key to real character growth isn’t fixing your weaknesses… but fully living into your strengths?

In today’s teaching, Dr. John Ortberg explores the idea of signature character strengths — those unique qualities God has wired into you that, when used intentionally, can transform your life and the lives of others. Drawing from research in positive psychology and the example of Barnabas, the “son of encouragement,” this message invites you to discover how you’re uniquely designed to grow and make an impact.

You’ll hear a powerful story of quiet encouragement, learn how your daily choices shape who you are becoming, and be challenged to take one simple step: start using your God-given strengths on purpose today.
Because change doesn’t happen someday. Change starts today.

ORIGINAL AIR DATE: July 24, 2023

📚 Today's Resources:
VIA Character Strengths Survey (via VIA Institute on Character)
https://www.viacharacter.org/survey
Work of Martin Seligman
Mention of C. S. Lewis (idea of becoming something glorious or monstrous)

🙌 New episodes every weekday.
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Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time.
TEXT us at 51504
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Music Credits:
Beyond by Waes Hael MB01C7DBTWRVYUQ

Tell us what you thought of NO CONDEMNATION:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NYQZHPD

Here's what's coming up... 👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼

- We have a new phone number! 51504
If you subscribe to our texts you'll start hearing from us at 51504 soon
- FormationPodcast.com launches April 22nd
We will continue with the daily 10 minute teachings here - Formation Newsletter and Podcast are a new offering.
- New Study Guides coming your way...stay tuned
No Condemnation, Character, Home, Forgiveness...in the works
- New series will begin May 4th - The Psalms
John will walk through some of the Psalms as a guide for prayer