Denying the Self Life: Walking by the Spirit, Not the Flesh Lori and Joe discuss recent events—Joe attending Momentum, a staff training for True North camp leaders, and Lori receiving allergy test results showing she's allergic to many things except her dog—which leads into a conversation about the "self life." They explore how attention can easily shift from worshiping God to focusing on self, using examples like looking for oneself first in group photos, the cultural rise of the selfie, and even identifying with suffering as "my cross." The episode contrasts self-preservation with self-gratification, warns that chasing "happy" based on circumstances creates fear and enslavement, and emphasizes choosing to walk in the Spirit rather than the flesh. They reference Luke 9:23, Romans 8:12–13, Galatians 5:16–17, 1 Corinthians 10:31, Colossians 3, and Romans 7:14–20, and connect their points to the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15), including the older brother's self-focused resentment. They conclude that surrendering the self life is a daily practice that leads to greater joy and freedom in Jesus.

In this episode of 'My Mornings with Jesus and Joe,' Lori and Joe delve into the profound story of Corrie Ten Boom and her family's role in the Dutch resistance during WWII. They discuss the limitations of physical hiding places and emphasize the unrivaled refuge found in God's presence. They recount the hardships faced by Corrie and her sister Betsie in concentration camps and how their unwavering faith provided true safety. The episode highlights Psalm 73:28 and offers practical steps to make God our refuge through acknowledgment, prayer, turning to Him for help, and intentional time spent in His presence.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:10 The Watchmaker's Daughter: A Story of Refuge

03:03 Corey Tin Boom's Faith and Trials

06:03 The True Meaning of Refuge in God

08:22 Steps to Make God Your Refuge

13:07 Staying Close to God

19:14 Conclusion and Encouragement

New Year, New Hope: Scanning the Horizon with Jesus and JoeLori and Joe reflect on the passage of time, the blessings of Christmas, and the anticipation of a new year. They discuss their avoidance of New Year's resolutions and instead focus on biblical readiness for the second coming of Jesus Christ. Sharing a humorous family memory, they draw parallels to how we should live in constant expectation of Jesus's return. They delve into theological insights about the rapture and the second coming, encouraging viewers to be actively engaged in their faith. Lori and Joe urge listeners to let go of worldly attachments, resolve any spiritual hindrances, and share the gospel boldly. They conclude by emphasizing the excitement of the promise of 'all things made new' in Revelation 21:5, encouraging viewers to begin 2026 with a hopeful and anticipatory mindset.

00:00 Welcome to 2026!

00:38 Reflecting on Christmas and New Year

03:03 The Importance of Actively Waiting for the Second Coming

04:18 Understanding the Rapture and the Second Coming

07:11 Encouragement for Actively Sharing the Gospel

09:56 Overcoming Hesitations and Embracing the Second Coming

20:09 The Promise of All Things Made New

22:29 Wishing You a Blessed New Year

In this episode of 'Mornings with Jesus and Joe', Lori and Joe discuss their month aimed at rest and restoration, which turned unexpectedly busy due to various life challenges. They recount stories of deep struggles, grief, and unexpected events, including a family accident and the hardships faced by friends and loved ones. The discussion navigates through the themes of brokenness, forgiveness, and the humanity in everyone. They delve into historical examples of peace during wartime, such as the Christmas truces in World War I and the American Civil War, highlighting the temporary reprieve and fellowship among enemies. They reflect on the deeper spiritual implications of these events and discuss the Advent narrative and its connection to the Christmas message of hope and restoration. Finally, they share a poem-prayer by Robert Louis Stevenson as a closing reflection.

00:00 Introduction and Monthly Update

00:35 Unexpected Challenges and Reflections

03:35 Stories of Christmas Truces

04:06 The Story Behind 'Oh Holy Night'

05:37 Civil War Christmas Truce

12:31 World War I Christmas Truce

13:45 The Power of Jesus in Times of War

17:23 The Story Behind 'I Heard The Bells'

20:26 Advent Reflection: A Great Light

22:53 Closing Thoughts and Christmas Wishes

In this episode of 'My Mornings with Jesus and Joe,' Lori and Joe discuss the spiritual warfare against families and how the enemy targets relationships, children, and marriages. They emphasize the importance of understanding that the real adversary is not each other but spiritual forces. They share biblical insights on the significance of family to God and how Satan aims to destroy these sacred units. Lori and Joe offer encouragement to stand firm, seek forgiveness, and support one another in spiritual battles, especially during the holidays. They remind listeners that healing and redemption are always possible through Jesus Christ and stress the importance of prioritizing family as the primary mission field.

00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Recap

01:00 The Importance of Family

02:05 Biblical Foundations of Family

03:30 The Enemy's Attack on Families

04:32 The Struggle from the Beginning

07:22 The Enemy's Target: Children

13:43 Attacks on Marriage

15:40 The Battle Against Pornography

18:15 Financial and Extended Family Stress

18:45 Standing Together in Spiritual Warfare

26:17 The Greatest Gift: Commitment to Family

27:39 Conclusion and Encouragement

In this episode of 'My Mornings with Jesus and Joe,' Lori and Joe discuss the challenges families face during the holiday season and offer strategies to maintain a Christ-centered focus. They talk about the importance of pre-planning to avoid common pitfalls like busyness, comparison, and materialism. They emphasize the need for forgiveness, avoiding debt, and combating loneliness and depression. With practical advice and relevant scriptures, they guide listeners on how to navigate the holidays with joy and peace, ensuring that Christ remains at the center of their celebrations.

00:00 Introduction and Upcoming Events

00:56 The Importance of Family During the Holidays

02:12 Holiday Challenges and Situational Awareness

03:51 The Dangers of Busyness and Materialism

10:04 Comparison, Jealousy, and Forgiveness

23:20 Dealing with Loneliness and Depression

29:36 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of 'My Mornings with Jesus and Joe,' Lori and Joe discuss the significance of being made in the image of God, known as 'Imago Dei.' They begin with a prayer focusing on wisdom and understanding before delving into the uniqueness and inherent dignity of humans as God's creation. The hosts reflect on various Bible verses, including Genesis 1:27 and Psalm 139:14, to emphasize the special worth and purpose of humans. They also explore how recognizing our identity in God informs our worship and daily living. Throughout the discussion, the importance of understanding who we are and whose we are is highlighted as essential for a fulfilling spiritual life.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:21 Joe's Recent Experiences

00:47 Opening Prayer

01:51 Understanding Imago Dei

03:10 Human Worth and Dignity

05:05 Living in God's Will

08:12 Belonging to God

09:48 True Worship

11:54 Summary and Conclusion

Becoming Pillars of Truth in A World of Platforms

In this episode of 'My Mornings with Jesus and Joe,' Lori and Joe discuss the significant differences between platforms and pillars in the context of faith and community. They recount personal experiences, such as involvement in a successful fundraiser for their local pregnancy care center and spending time with grandchildren in the garden. The conversation pivots to a deep dive into the biblical concept of platforms—often seen as man-made and short-term—and pillars, which are long-lasting and rooted in serving God's truth. They share insights from the stories of Samson, Moses, Abraham, and Noah to illustrate the importance of being a pillar in faith. Concluding with actionable advice and encouragement, Lori and Joe emphasize the importance of truth and servitude in one's spiritual journey.

00:00 Introduction and Weekly Recap

01:13 Connecting with Nature and Its Importance

03:55 Building Little Kingdom Warriors

04:16 Understanding Platforms and Pillars

06:50 Dangers of Platforms

11:08 Biblical Examples of Pillars

17:53 Being a Pillar in the Church

29:05 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Resources:

https://youtu.be/um7Z6s8t5Hc?si=ufnki-w0a7fewMY8

https://lorialtebaumer.com/podcast/1128/ https://lorialtebaumer.com/podcast/what-it-means-to-be-a-dedicated-christian/

mymorningswithjesusandjoe@gmail.com