In this special episode of the Soul Friend Podcast, host Jodi Meiter welcomes her best friend and husband of almost 30 years — Pastor Bill Meiter, lead pastor of Arizona Community Church — for an honest conversation on shepherding souls.

How do you care for other people's souls while caring for your own? Pastor Bill shares why no pastor can be the perfect shepherd for everyone — and why the body of Christ is absolutely essential. Together, Jodi and Bill explore:

- Why "I don't need church, I have a personal relationship with Jesus" misses the point — and what Hebrews 10 says about gathering together.
- The danger of watching church online with a consumer mindset vs. showing up to give: to worship the Lord and bless His Church with your gifts.
- How your simple presence on a Sunday morning bears the spiritual fruit of encouragement — more than you know.
- Assurance of salvation: why you can't lose it, and how to know your faith is genuine (with wisdom from R.C. Sproul and John MacArthur).
- Bill's own story of coming to faith in 1987 — and the immediate fruit that proved his heart had changed.
- What to do if you discover your love for God is only sentimental: cry out for a new heart (Ezekiel 36:26).
- The idols that rival Christ in American life — from youth sports to physical fitness — and the daily battle to hold everything loosely.
- Why vulnerability from the pulpit disciples more deeply than perfection ever could.
- A pastoral word for those facing the end of life: your security rests in Christ's righteousness, not your own.

Whether you're in ministry, parenthood, marriage, singleness, joy, or hardship, this episode will challenge you to stop watching and start giving — and to run your race with Jesus in a way that leaves you arriving in heaven exhausted.

The Soul Friend Podcast is a space for honest conversations, spiritual encouragement, and deeper connection. It is for those who are seeking to grow in their faith, build meaningful friendships, and walk boldly in their purpose.

Connect with Jodi Meiter
Contact information:
Jodi.Meiter@gmail.com
9325 S Rural Rd
Tempe, AZ 85284
Ascension Hospice
Outreach Chaplain
www.ascensionhospice.com
www.az.church
IG @jodimeiter