Become New with John Ortberg

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The Secret to Spiritual Growth Apr 24, 2026

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Did you enjoy this teaching? We have a free study guide on this entire series if you'd like to walk through it with a friend or small group! Just download, print and go! Get it here... Becomenew.com/study-guides
Submission.
Just hearing that word can feel… uncomfortable.
In a culture that prizes independence, autonomy, and “doing life your way,” the idea of submitting to someone else can sound outdated—or even dangerous. But what if submission, rightly understood, is actually a pathway to freedom?
In today’s teaching, we explore the spiritual discipline of submission—not as control or coercion, but as a humble, intentional decision to learn from those who are further along in wisdom and character. Drawing from Scripture, the wisdom of Dallas Willard, and real-life examples, this message reframes submission as a powerful tool for growth, accountability, and transformation.
Because sometimes the fastest way forward…
is learning to follow.
Welcome home. Change starts today.
📚 Today's Resources:
The Spirit of the Disciplines — Dallas Willard
Story reference connected to The Sound of Music (Maria von Trapp)
Concept parallels with Alcoholics Anonymous (sponsor model)
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Music Credits:
Beyond by Waes Hael MB01C7DBTWRVYUQ

How Hidden Sin Hurts Us Apr 23, 2026

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What if the thing you most want to hide… is the very thing keeping you stuck?
In today’s teaching, we explore the powerful (and often avoided) spiritual practice of confession—the act of telling the truth about your life to God and to a trusted person. It may feel uncomfortable, even painful, but it might also be the key to real freedom.
Drawing from Scripture, the wisdom of Dallas Willard, and insights from recovery communities like AA, this message shows how confession breaks the cycle of shame, removes hidden burdens, and restores connection with God and others.
Because healing begins the moment you stop pretending.
Welcome home. Change starts today.
📚 Today's Resources:
The Spirit of the Disciplines — Dallas Willard
Alcoholics Anonymous (The Big Book) — Alcoholics Anonymous
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Music Credits:
Beyond by Waes Hael MB01C7DBTWRVYUQ

Is Worship More Than Music? Apr 22, 2026

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What if worship isn’t just something you do at church… but something that could transform your entire life?
In today’s teaching, we explore the true meaning of worship—not as music or a moment, but as a way of seeing and responding to the goodness, beauty, and greatness of God in everyday life.
Drawing from Scripture, the wisdom of Dallas Willard, and even the simple joy of things like coffee and nature, this message shows how worship awakens awe, restores your heart, and reconnects your life to what really matters.
📚 Today's Resources:
Dallas Willard, The Spirit of the Disciplines
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Music Credits:
Beyond by Waes Hael MB01C7DBTWRVYUQ

Breaking Approval-Addiction Apr 21, 2026

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What if the reason you feel anxious, exhausted, or constantly “on”… is because you’re living for other people’s approval?
In today’s teaching, we explore the powerful and often overlooked spiritual discipline of secrecy—doing good without anyone knowing. It sounds simple… but it might be one of the hardest things you’ll ever try.
Drawing from the teachings of Dallas Willard and the words of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, this message reveals how secrecy frees you from approval addiction, comparison, and the exhausting need to manage your image.
Because the goal isn’t to be seen as good…it’s to become good—quietly, deeply, and freely.
📚 Today's Resources:
Dallas Willard, The Spirit of the Disciplines
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Music Credits:
Beyond by Waes Hael MB01C7DBTWRVYUQ

We Need Silence Apr 20, 2026

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Silence might be the most uncomfortable… and most transformative… practice in your life.
In a world filled with constant noise, distraction, and the pressure to always say something, the discipline of silence feels almost impossible. But what if silence is actually the doorway to peace, trust, and deeper connection with God?
In this teaching, we explore why silence matters, how it reshapes your inner life, and why learning not to speak can bring surprising freedom. Drawing from the wisdom of Dallas Willard and the example of Jesus, you’ll discover how silence helps you let go of control, release the need for approval, and experience a deeper sense of being “at home” with God.
If your life feels noisy, anxious, or driven by the need to prove yourself… this might be exactly what you need.
ORIGINAL AIR DATE: 4.12.23
ORIGINAL SERIES: Home
📚 Today's Resources:
The Spirit of the Disciplines — Dallas Willard
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Music Credits:
Beyond by Waes Hael MB01C7DBTWRVYUQ

Is Life Fair? What the Bible Actually Says Apr 17, 2026

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Enjoying these teachings on CHARACTER? Get the Free Study Guide: BecomeNew.com/study-guides - Download, print, and go!
Is life actually fair? It’s a question we all wrestle with—at home, at work, in culture, and deep in our own stories. But what if fairness isn’t just something we demand… what if it’s something we’re called to become?
In today’s teaching, we explore the biblical vision of fairness and justice, tracing a powerful theme throughout Scripture: God does not show favoritism. From Cain and Abel to David to Jesus Himself, we see a God who consistently elevates the overlooked and challenges human systems of privilege and power.
This message will challenge you to examine your own biases, confront favoritism in your life, and ask one simple but profound question:
Who am I overlooking?
Because the way you treat people matters more than you think.
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Music Credits:
Beyond by Waes Hael MB01C7DBTWRVYUQ

How to Break the Cycle of Temptation Apr 16, 2026

Show notes

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

The Key to Better Relationships (We're worse at this than we think) Apr 15, 2026

Show notes

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

When Life Gets Hard - Keep Going Apr 14, 2026

Show notes

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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Music Credits:
Beyond by Waes Hael MB01C7DBTWRVYUQ

Play to Your Strengths Apr 13, 2026

Show notes

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.
📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time.
Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time.
TEXT us at 51504
EMAIL US at connect@becomenew.com
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Music Credits:
Beyond by Waes Hael MB01C7DBTWRVYUQ

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