CCEF Podcast: Where Life & Scripture Meet

When work feels repetitive, fruitless, or disconnected from our gifts, it's easy to wonder whether it really matters. In this episode, Gunner Gundersen talks with CCEF colleagues Lauren Whitman, Darby Strickland, and Todd Stryd about why even good work can feel meaningless. They explore how the brokenness of work, cultural expectations, and the temptation to find our identity in our jobs can shape our experience of our daily responsibilities.

Scripture offers a different perspective: Work is a good gift from God, an opportunity to love our neighbors, and a place to serve the Lord—even when our ef...

Comparison and envy are such ordinary parts of human experience that we often barely notice them. But what do they reveal about our hearts, and how do they affect our relationships with God and others? In this episode, Gunner Gundersen is joined by Ed Welch and Aaron Sironi to explore how envy takes root in the things we value, from recognition and influence to relationships and abilities. They consider how social media can fuel comparison, how envy undermines love and contentment, and how it can expose our doubts about God's generosity.

Rather than simply telling ourselves to...

How should biblical counselors engage secular psychology and the many other voices seeking to understand human desires and motivations? In this final episode of our seven-part series on CCEF's distinctives, Gunner Gundersen is joined by Jonathan Holmes, Dr. Mike Emlet, and Dr. Todd Stryd to explore CCEF's seventh distinctive: "Biblical counseling engages with the voices around us." They discuss how biblical counselors can neither simply embrace nor dismiss other perspectives, but instead engage them charitably and critically.

The conversation explores what it means to reframe, translate, and be provoked by observations from secular psychology and other sources...

What makes the local church the natural home for biblical counseling?

In part 6 of our 7-part series on CCEF's distinctives, Gunner Gundersen is joined by Jonathan Holmes and Ed Welch to discuss why care and counsel are pastoral and at home in the church. Together they explore the beauty of face-to-face ministry—the calling of every Christian, and the unique role of parachurch organizations in serving the local church.

Along the way, they reflect on stories of faithful ministry, the ordinary conversations God uses to bring change, and the vision of a church where every me...

In this fifth episode of our series exploring CCEF's seven distinctives, Gunner Gundersen is joined by Jonathan Holmes, Darby Strickland, and Lauren Whitman to discuss our fifth distinctive: "Help and change follow a path, but not a script." Together they explore the importance of dependence on the Lord and his work in the lives of those we help. They consider the importance of seeking input from others, the dangers of following a script, how to navigate our feelings of inadequacy, and why this distinctive matters for our local churches. Rather than fixing problems or changing others, our role is...

Our circumstances, emotions, and relationships all shape us, but they don't define us. At the center of who we are is something deeper: the heart.

In this fourth episode of our series exploring CCEF's seven distinctives, Gunner Gundersen is joined by Jonathan Holmes and Esther Liu to discuss what we mean when we say, "Our hearts are active." Together they explore how Scripture describes the heart as the center of our desires, fears, loves, worship, and choices. How does understanding the heart change the way we pursue personal growth, care for others, and participate in the life...

Our bodies, relationships, culture, suffering, work, spiritual battles, and life experiences all shape us in significant ways. Yet none of these influences alone defines who we are. As image bearers created by God, we are embodied souls who live before him, responding to both blessings and hardships in a world full of competing influences.

In this episode, Mike Emlet, Jonathan Holmes, and Gunner Gundersen continue CCEF's series on our seven distinctives by exploring the third distinctive:

We are embodied souls shaped by a world of influences.

Together they discuss:

CCEF's second distinctive states: "Scripture comes from the mouth of God." But what does that mean for everyday ministry, counseling, and relationships?

In this episode, Gunner Gundersen is joined by Jonathan Holmes and Aaron Sironi to discuss how God's Word does more than provide answers—it shapes the way we listen, care, pray, discern, and walk alongside others. Together they explore how Scripture forms our priorities in counseling, helps us understand people, and serves as the lens through which we interpret both life and the world around us.

The conversation also considers the richness of Sc...

In this first episode of a new seven-part series on CCEF's distinctives, Gunner Gundersen sits down with Ed Welch and Jonathan Holmes to discuss the first distinctive: "The personal God gets personal with us."

Together, they reflect on how Scripture presents a God who draws near to his people: from the garden of Eden to the incarnation of Christ to the promised future where God will dwell with his people forever. The conversation explores how the Trinity shapes our understanding of relationships, counseling, church life, and personal ministry. These truths help churches to embody a "culture of...

Some of the most formative marriage counsel isn't found in a book, a technique, or a counseling session, but rather it comes from watching another couple walk faithfully with Jesus over time. 

In part two of this conversation, CCEF's Gunner Gundersen and Aaron Sironi explore Paul's surprising strategy in Philippians: imitation. Paul doesn't point to marriage principles but instead insists we keep our eyes on people who imitate Christ. 

Aaron also shares the rest of his story: how an honest "I don't know" in a conversation with a church elder launched him into biblical counseling, an...

What if some of the most important biblical passages for your marriage don't explicitly talk about husbands and wives?

In this episode, Gunner Gundersen and Aaron Sironi explore how the book of Philippians offers a powerful framework for navigating conflict and cultivating unity in marriage. They uncover how the gospel itself shapes the way husbands and wives relate to one another.

Aaron shares how lasting change in marriage doesn't come primarily through techniques but through adopting the mind of Christ: a posture of humility, sacrificial love, and deep attentiveness to one another's burdens.

...

What does it mean to mentor someone well? In this episode, Gunner Gundersen sits down with CCEF faculty member Todd Stryd to explore mentoring as a long-term, relational investment that shapes both the mentee and the mentor. Together, they discuss how mentoring provides clarity, fosters growth through both encouragement and critique, and ultimately becomes a place of deep dependence on God.

Mentioned in this episode: Registration for our June courses is now open! One key course that features opportunities to grow in mentoring skills is Helping Relationships by Ed Welch. You can learn more and register at...

"We're excited to announce Jonathan Holmes as our new Executive Director! In this episode, Gunner interviews Jonathan about his journey into biblical counseling, his background, and his vision for CCEF. They discuss the importance of counseling in the church, the founding of Fieldstone Counseling, and the future direction of CCEF.

Read the latest announcement from CCEF's Board of Trustees regarding Jonathan Holmes's recent appointment to the role of Executive Director.

Mentioned in this episode: Becoming a Refuge is an on-demand teaching series that helps churches respond to domestic abuse. Learn more here.

In...

In this episode of Where Life and Scripture Meet, host Gunner Gundersen continues his conversation with CCEF faculty member Mike Emlet about caring for aging parents. Building on the previous episode, Mike reflects on the blessings and burdens of caring for his mother during her final season of life.

Mike shares how he and his wife navigated difficult caregiving decisions, wrestled with their own limitations, and sought wisdom as his mother's needs increased. Along the way, he reflects on anxiety, fatigue, grief, and the steady presence of God's grace in the midst of weakness.

This...

In this episode of Where Life and Scripture Meet, host Gunner Gundersen sits down with Dr. Mike Emlet to reflect on his recent experience caring for his aging mother during the final years of her life.

Mike shares about his mom, "Mim" — her vibrant faith, her lifelong commitment to the local church, her sense of humor, and her remarkable ministry of handwritten letters. He also opens up about the gradual onset of cognitive decline, the impact of dementia and stroke, and the practical and emotional realities of caregiving.

Mike and Gunner discuss the weight and th...

What does it mean to be united to Christ—and how does that shape the way we relate to others?

In this episode, Gunner Gundersen, Esther Liu, and Darby Strickland explore the doctrine of union with Christ and its deeply practical impact on everyday relationships. If our truest relationship is already secure in Jesus, how might that free us to love others differently?

Together, they discuss how union with Christ

In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the often overlooked issue of stagnant marriages, exploring the subtle signs of disconnection and the importance of intentionality and spiritual friendship in marriage. They emphasize the need for curiosity and community support, as well as the difference between a covenant and a contract in marriage. They highlight practical steps couples can take to revitalize their relationships, including small gestures of love.

Mentioned in this episode: If you've been encouraged by our podcast this year, would you consider giving a gift to CCEF today? Your support would go to immediate use today...

In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the complex nature of lingering grief, exploring how it manifests in various ways. They share personal stories and insights on how grief can resurface during life milestones. They emphasize the importance of community support in navigating grief, as well as the need for patience and understanding in the grieving process. Ultimately, listeners will be reminded of God's presence and care during times of grief.

In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the topic of life transitions, sharing personal stories and insights on common struggles, temptations, and opportunities that arise during these changes. They discuss the importance of recognizing God's presence and providence through both big and small changes, and they share some encouragements they've found in Scripture.

Mentioned in this episode: We're excited about the recent release of a handful of books from CCEF faculty:

In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the profound doctrine of adoption into God's family, discussing its theological significance and personal implications. Our hosts reflect on their own experiences and the relational significance of understanding God as a loving Father. They discuss how we often struggle with an orphan mentality, emphasizing the importance of recognizing one's identity as a beloved child of God. Finally, they highlight the future inheritance that comes with being adopted into God's family.

Mentioned in this episode: The audio from our 2025 National Conference is available for purchase! All 27 sessions included. Learn more at ccef...

In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the importance of self-examination. They explore how self-examination is not merely a self-focused endeavor but a process that involves God and others. The conversation highlights the benefits of self-examination, including personal growth, awareness of one's weaknesses, and the recognition of God's grace. They also address common pitfalls, such as self-shaming and misguided approaches, and emphasize the need to also look for the good as part of the biblical self-examination process.

Mentioned in this episode: Registration for courses is now open for the January 2026 term! This term we'll be offering Helping Relationships...

In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the multifaceted nature of patience. From personal anecdotes to biblical insights, listen as they delve into why patience is challenging, how it can lead to profound personal growth, and practical ways to develop patience in challenging situations. They discuss how patience shapes our relationships, our understanding of God's timing, and our ability to trust in his plans.

Mentioned in this episode: We're just a couple weeks out from the 2025 CCEF National Conference! We'll be taking a look at the life and ministry of the apostle Paul to see how we can...

In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the complexity of forgiveness. They address common misconceptions, the true meaning of forgiveness, the challenges we all face, and how to cultivate a forgiving spirit. They also emphasize the importance of understanding forgiveness as Christians, highlighting the balance between justice and mercy.

Mentioned in this episode: Our ministry is fueled by the generous support of our donors. If this podcast has been an encouragement to you, would you consider giving to CCEF today? Your gift would help us continue to produce free resources like this for the good of God's people...

In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the topic of cultivating gratitude as a Christian. They discuss practical ways to foster gratitude in daily life, the challenges posed by a discontented culture, and the importance of perspective. They emphasize the coexistence of gratitude and sorrow, the transformative power of gratitude, and the need for humility in recognizing God's gifts.

Mentioned in this episode: The price increases for our conference after August 4, so register soon! Learn more at ccef.org/2025.

Related resources:

In this episode, Gunner Gundersen, Darby Strickland, and Esther Liu discuss the process of progressive sanctification. They explore its meaning and implications, and how it plays out in the lives of believers. How does our union and relationship with Christ serve as the foundation for our sanctification? How does growing in our understanding of this help us become more like Jesus? While sanctification can be a messy process, there is hope and encouragement in recognizing that our growth in Christ is a journey, not a destination, and that God is committed to us throughout this process.

Mentioned...

In this episode, CCEF faculty Gunner Gundersen, Esther Liu, and Darby Strickland discuss the often painful experience of feeling that God is silent. They explore the emotional turmoil and spiritual distress that accompanies this silence, particularly during prolonged suffering, and how it can lead to feelings of abandonment and doubt. Gunner, Esther, and Darby talk about how Scripture provides a framework for understanding and processing this experience of silence, and they discuss the commonality of this struggle among Christians. Ultimately, we hope this episode encourages you to trust in God's faithfulness, even when his presence feels distant, and to...

In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the pervasive issue of busyness. They explore how busyness can often be a form of suffering, how our misguided desires can exacerbate the experience, and how the Lord's compassion makes a difference. They discuss why it's hard to say no to good things and the costs of busyness, and they highlight the freedom that comes from the reality of God's sovereignty and his presence in our busy world.

Mentioned in this episode: Read an important update from CCEF's Board of Trustees here.

Related resources:

In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the different ways we can experience loneliness, particularly within church community. They explore the importance of recognizing and addressing these emotions, as well as finding ways to move toward those on the margins. They consider some helpful practices and insights on how to navigate loneliness, such as viewing others as family, taking one step at a time, moving outward, and being honesty before the Lord.

Related resources:

In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the challenges and expectations that come with church relationships. They discuss the importance of clear communication, understanding different personalities, and the role of vulnerability in fostering meaningful connections. They emphasize how our future hope and the steadfast friendship of Jesus are a source of comfort and strength in navigating these relationships.

Related resources:
- Caring for One Another: 8 Ways to Cultivate Meaningful Relationships | Book by Ed Welch
- Community: A Struggle to Fit | Blog post by Darby Strickland
- Expecting Less from Church | Blog post by Ed Welch<...

In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss the common struggle of engaging with Scripture, especially during difficult seasons. They consider God's patience and gracious intent for our Scripture reading, what it means to engage with the Word even when we don't hunger for it, and creative ways to engage with Scripture, such as through art or memorization. The conversation emphasizes the long-term nature of engaging with the Bible and the significance of community in fostering a deeper connection with God's Word.

Related resources:

In this episode, CCEF faculty discuss discouragement and its various dimensions. They emphasize the importance of language in articulating discouragement and how honest expression can lead to deeper conversations with God. The conversation also delves into scriptural insights that provide hope and encouragement, highlighting the role of endurance and prayer.

Mentioned in this episode: Looking for biblical counseling training? Check out Westminster Theological Seminary's Master of Arts in Counseling, offered in collaboration with CCEF faculty. You can learn more at wts.edu/mac.

Related resources:
- "Blessed are those who are weary of the...

In this episode, CCEF faculty explore the interplay between anxiety and the body, discussing personal experiences and insights. They consider the impact of past experiences on anxiety responses, the significance of community, and practical strategies for navigating anxiety in the moment.

Mentioned in this episode: Learn more about our upcoming conference: To Live Is Christ: The Life & Ministry of Paul, where we'll consider not so much the content of Paul's theology, but rather how he did ministry. We'll ask the question, What does it look like when someone does ministry with Jesus at the center of everything...

In this episode, CCEF faculty share personal experiences of anxiety and consider how it manifests in many different ways. They share insights from Scripture and talk about how anxiety is a continual opportunity for conversation with the Lord.

Mentioned in this episode: Check out the CCEF Blogcast, where CCEF authors read their own blogs. Find it on your favorite podcast app: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcast | Amazon Podcast

Related resources:
- Free Audio for Anxiety
- A Small Book for the Anxious Heart | Book by Ed Welch
- Running Scared: Fear, Worry & the...

In this episode, CCEF faculty share personal experiences and insights on how psalms of lament provide a framework for expressing sorrow and confusion, emphasizing the importance of honesty in prayer. The conversation explores the difference between lamenting and grumbling, highlighting the relational aspect of lamenting to God, who is compassionate and welcomes us to bring our suffering to him.   Related resources: Become a Psalmist | Blog by Ed Welch Psalms 42 & 43 | Podcast episode by Mike Emlet & Alasdair Groves How Lament Leads to Rest | Conference session by Mark Vroegop Am I Doing This Right? What Lamentations Teaches Us about Rest | JBC article by T...

We're excited to be back with a new edition of the podcast! Join Alasdair Groves, Esther Liu, Gunner Gundersen, and Darby Strickland twice a month, on every 1st and 3rd Monday, as they discuss various topics, always seeking to bring the riches of Scripture to bear on the complexities of life.   In today's episode, "Navigating Conflict: Insights from Biblical Counseling," CCEF faculty discuss the complexities of conflict, exploring its emotional toll, the normalcy of it a broken world, and how the Lord speaks into and transforms our experience. They conclude with some practical ways we can move toward others and t...

"We have a God who loves, cares, and knows, and I can rest utterly in the hope that he will be with me, he will walk with me, and he will provide. He will care for every last moment of my day tomorrow as I am exhausted."

Do you ever have nights where you can't sleep? Whatever the reason may be, struggling to sleep is a form of suffering. In this rerun of an episode originally released in 2022, Alasdair Groves explores what it looks like to lean on the Lord when we can't sleep, assured that he...

Would you consider donating to CCEF to help us continue to provide the church with resources that mine the treasures of Scripture for the troubles of life? You can give at ccef.org/donate.

Today's episode is a session from our national conference a few years ago on anxiety. This session is by Ed Welch and is titled "Daily Bread: Today's Strength for Anxious People." Ed talks about God's invitation in anxiety to come to him and find strength for today.

Today's episode is a rerun of an episode we released a couple years ago titled "Seasonal Depression." We hope it's an encouragement to you as we enter the winter season.

Today's episode is a free session from the 2024 National Conference: Rest. The session is by Aaron Sironi and is titled "Created to Do Good Work." It considers the goodness of work and how it relates to rest in the cycle and rhythm of our lives. You can find more audio from our rest conference at ccef.org/2024.

Today's episode is a rerun of an episode we released a few years ago titled "Negative Emotions: Part 2." We re-released Part 1 last month, so you can go back and listen to that if you haven't yet. In this episode, we continue to consider how we should think biblically about negative emotions.