Beneath the Headlines
Each month, pastor Mike Woodruff sits down with a thoughtful guest to trace the quiet forces shaping tomorrow’s news.
No hot‑take sparring. Just brisk questions on birthrates, algorithms, ideas, and idols, all aimed at giving thoughtful Christians a clearer map of the moment and a steadier hope within it.
Expect solid data, memorable lines, and a nod toward grace.
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Beneath the Headlines
The Power of the 12 Steps for Spiritual Growth | John Ortberg on Beneath the Headlines
With over 40 years in ministry, best-selling author and pastor John Ortberg thought he'd seen it all. Then, he discovered the principles behind AA.
In his book Steps: A Guide to Transforming Your Life When Willpower Isn't Enough, John shares profound insights on how the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous can be transformative for everyone—whether struggling with addiction or simply seeking deeper spiritual growth.
In their conversation, Mike and John explore:
- The 12 Steps as a Spiritual Pathway for surrender, humility, and transformation.
- Addiction vs. Sin – Is addiction a disease, a moral failing, or something deeper?
- The Role of Willpower & Surrender – Why willpower alone fails and how surrendering to God’s will brings true freedom.
- Habits & Spiritual Formation – Practical ways to reshape daily habits to align with God’s vision for our lives.
- Confession & Community – The power of vulnerability and accountability in spiritual growth.
- Scripture & Renewing the Mind – How memorizing and meditating on Scripture reshapes our consciousness.
- Gratitude in Suffering – John reflects on finding God’s presence in life’s deepest challenges.
Beneath The Headlines is a Lakelight Institute production.
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Mike is the author of The Friday Update, a weekly newsletter that combines cultural insight with Biblical wisdom. Subscribe here.
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