Voices In My Head (the Official Podcast Of Rick Lee James)

Episode 542 - Nancy A. French - Ghosted Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast)     Bestselling Author Pens Compelling Memoir of a Life of Poverty, Success and the Rise and Fall of Political Influence in ‘Ghosted’ Nancy French chronicles her journey from the foothills of Appalachia to the Halls of the White House Five-time New York Times bestselling ghostwriter Nancy French crafts the story of a journey of hardship,heartbreak and healing in Ghosted: An American Story, releasing April 16, 2024. Nancy’s family was born in the foothills of Appalachia into a life dominated by coal mining, violence, and poverty. Some of her family were proud members of the Ku Klux Klan who lived on the mountain. “The mountain was a playground of mischief, with its coal mines, ubiquitous guns, and plentiful dynamite. My dad described his twenty-five cousins as ‘rednecks, rough and ready,’ and they drank, fought, and stole their way honestly onto wanted posters,” writes Nancy. “Compared to how my parents grew up, we were w

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 541 Praying with Patrick - Matt Mikalatos and Aaron Burns        Learn to pray with Saint Patrick of Ireland―and to find your story in his own One of Ireland’s most beloved figures, St. Patrick was a man who lived a life soaked in prayer. A risk-taker in the service of others―particularly women, slaves, and the poor―Patrick spent years enslaved, in which he found himself praying all the time―praying for freedom, for a warm place to sleep, or to return home. He never stopped. It was something he did with great intentionality, but also in the breath between one task and the next. Praying with Saint Patrick takes us on a journey through Patrick's life, allowing us to pray alongside him using his story and his actual prayers to deepen and enrich our own prayer lives. Each reading features a quote from Patrick, a scripture, a devotion, and a prayer such as: A Prayer for Times of Trouble A Prayer for When We Feel Helpless A Prayer for Hope A Prayer

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 540 Brian Zahnd: The Wood Between the Worlds     Everything about the gospel message leads to the cross, and proceeds from the cross. In fact, within the narrative of Scripture, the crucifixion of Jesus is literally the crux of the story―the axis upon which the biblical story turns. But it would be a mistake to think we could sum up the significance of the crucifixion in a tidy sentence or two. That kind of thinking only insulates us from the magnificence of what God has done. In our ongoing quest to make meaning of the cross, we need to recognize that this conversation will never conclude―that there is always something more to be said. Brian Zahnd reminds us that the meaning of the cross is multifaceted and should touch every aspect of our lives. Just as gazing through the eyepiece of a kaleidoscope reveals a new geometric image with every turn, Zahnd helps us see that there are infinite ways to behold the cross of Christ as the beautiful form that s

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 539 God Gave Rock and Roll to You - Dr. Leah Payne     https://global.oup.com/academic/product/god-gave-rock-and-roll-to-you-9780197555248?cc=us&lang=en Leah Payne is Associate Professor of American Religious History at Portland Seminary and a 2023–2024 Public Fellow at the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI). She holds a Ph.D. from Vanderbilt University and her research explores the intersection of religion, politics, and popular culture. Payne is author of God Gave Rock & Roll to You: a History of Contemporary Christian Music (Oxford University Press, 2024), and co-host of Rock That Doesn’t Roll, a Public Radio Exchange (PRX) podcast about Christian rock and its listeners and Weird Religion, a religion and pop culture podcast. Her writing and research has appeared in The Washington Post, NBC News, Religion News Service, and Christianity Today. Web Site: https://www.drleahpayne.com/ VINYL SALE THUNDER by Rick Lee James ONLY $9.99. (Plu

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 538 - Benjamin Cremer Bio: Benjamin Cremer has worked as a pastor since 2005. His academic work is in the fields of theology, church history, and spiritual formation. He is deeply passionate about writing and creating space for others to process difficult theological and political questions in today's world. He lives in Boise, Idaho, with his wife and son. They are expecting a baby girl at the end of March.   Find Ben's new Lenten Devotional Here: https://benjamin-cremer.ck.page/products/when-love-gets-the-last-word-a-lent-devo  NOT JUST A BLACK FRIDAY SALE THUNDER by Rick Lee James on VINYL ONLY $9.99. (Plus you get a free digital download of the album)     “KEEP WATCH, DEAR LORD” BY RICK LEE JAMES

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 537 - Jason Gray Returns This week we welcome Jason Gray back to the Podcast. Known in the CCM community for his ability to craft thoughtful lyrics of praise with rhythmic pop melodies, Jason Gray has been providing listeners with inspiring and uplifting music for over a decade. Through his willingness to offer compassionate honesty and authenticity, Gray has produced compelling songs that have climbed the charts and impacted global audiences.  He has toured with Michael W. Smith, Steven Curtis Chapman, Third Day, TobyMac, and numerous others, in addition to headlining tours of his own. Audiences are able to experience not only Gray’s musical talent, but the heartfelt way he shares his gifts to support others. CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Centricity Music recording artist 4 ASCAP Performance Awards for songs, "More Like Falling In Love", "Remind Me Who I Am", "Every Act of Love", and "Good To Be Alive" Five Top 5 radio singles Single "With Every Act of Love" was

Listen to an insightful conversation with Rick Lee James in the latest episode of 'Voices in My Head.' A renowned singer, songwriter, and worship leader, James shares profound insights drawn from his work as a full-time hospital chaplain. Join him as he investigates the influence of spirituality on songwriting, the creation of connections through music, and the importance of being truly present. He navigates key aspects of spirituality, sharing his practical experience of the profound role emotions play in our interactions and spiritual journey. Embark on an exploration of personal insecurities and cultural understanding, all aimed at helping creators and spiritual seekers. Get inspired as James emphasizes the importance of authenticity in songwriting and encourages musicians to use their unique voice to touch hearts. From exploring the mechanics of a well-rounded song to shining a light on the intimate journey of a chaplain, this episode is a treasure trove for anyone interested in the complex and rewarding

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 535 - Iconoclastic Sex:  Christian Sexual Ethics and Human Trafficking   Guest: Henry Walter Spaulding III   Christian sexual ethics operates from a place of privilege when it does not consider those impacted by its moral prescriptions. A large majority of publications on Christian sexual ethics consider choices and images abstracted from lived conditions of the people called to make these decisions. As such, it leaves out many for whom sex is neither welcome nor a choice. As such, these same texts present images of sexual subjects that marginalize those that do not fit. As the book presents, sexuality, both Christian and otherwise, prioritizes a language of purity that strangles the life of those imaged impure. The present book remedies this emphasis through the language of iconoclasm that blasphemes these images and opens theological reflection beyond the boundary of image-based approaches. Utilizing a qualitative study of survivors of trafficking

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 534 - Born In A Barn? - James F. McGrath’s The A to Z of the New Testament: Things Experts Know That Everyone Else Should Too With permission from the author, I am sharing a segment from the book, The A to Z of the New Testament: things Experts Know That Everyone Else Should Too” by by James F. McGrath. The Segment comes from Chapter B: Born In A Barn? Publisher’s Description: So you think you know the New Testament?      Did you know that Jesus made puns? Did you know that Paul never calls himself or the churches he writes to “Christian”? Did you know that we don’t know who wrote the Letter to the Hebrews, or if it’s even really a letter?      James F. McGrath sheds light on these and many other surprising facts in The A to Z of the New Testament. Cutting through common myths and misunderstandings of problematic Bible passages, McGrath opens up expert knowledge to laypeople in his friendly introduction to New Testament studies. Each chapter in this fre

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 533 - Karen Kingsbury "In a novel that is part romance, part historical text, and part Christian fiction, Kingsbury tells the story of two average people from Bloomington, Indiana, who do extraordinary things together and apart during an extraordinary time, supported by their families and their faith throughout their entire lives." —Booklist NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR KAREN KINGSBURY - JUST ONCE A Novel In her new book, Just Once, #1 New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury brings a sweeping and unforgettable World War II love story about a young female spy torn between two brothers. In 1941, beautiful Irvel Holland is too focused on her secret to take much notice of the war raging overseas.  She's dating Sam but in love with his younger brother, Hank—her longtime best friend—and Irvel has no idea how to break the news. Then, the unthinkable happens—Pearl Harbor is attacked. With their lives turned upside down overnight, Sam is dr

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 532 - Press Your Luck with JR. Forasteros   JR. Forasteros JR. Forasteros pastors Catalyst Church in Dallas, co-hosts the Fascinating Podcast, and wrote Empathy for the Devil. He's on the quest to smoke a perfect brisket. His wife, Amanda, skates for Assassination City Roller Derby as Mother Terrorista. They're always looking for a new adventure, and their board game collection has been described as 'excessive' and 'really fun'. JR. has bylines at Relevant, Think Christian, Reel World Theology and more.   He was also recently a contestant on the TV game show "Press Your Luck" with host Elizabeth Banks.   Web Site: https://jrforasteros.com/    Empathy For The Devil - JR’s Book https://jrforasteros.com/empathy-for-the-devil/ ----more---- STREAM NOW “KEEP WATCH, DEAR LORD” BY RICK LEE JAMES

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 531 - Pamela Cooper-White and the Psychology of Christian Nationalism   About the book: The Psychology of Christian Nationalism How do we overcome polarization in American society? How do we advocate for justice when one side won't listen to the other and cycles of outrage escalate? These questions have been pressing for years, but the emergence of a vocal, virulent Christian nationalism have made it even more urgent that we find a way forward. In her recent book, The Psychology of Christian Nationalism, our guest, Pamela Cooper-White uncovers the troubling extent of Christian nationalism, explores its deep psychological roots, and discusses ways in which advocates for justice can safely and effectively attempt to talk across the deep divides in our society.   GET THE BOOK at this link: https://a.co/d/2huknBH The Rev. Pamela Cooper-White, PhD, LCPC is the Christiane Brooks Johnson Professor Emerita of Psychology and Religion and Dean Emerita at U

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 530 - Justin Gambino   “Made New,” the second full-length studio recording from acclaimed singer/songwriter Justin Gambino, released on Aug. 25. Tracing his prodigal years and the abounding grace and mercy Gambino embraced when he finally returned to the father, “Made New” was produced by Nashville-based session player and producer Walter Halliwell.  An autobiographical collection of emotive pop anthems and vulnerable ballads, “Made New” features 13 selections all written or co-penned by Gambino. Lead single “Fighting On My Behalf,” a percolating, synth-infused pop track available now, is Gambino’s personal testimony to God’s steadfast love and care. “As an artist who desires to reach and encourage people in their own journey, it can be quite exhausting out on the road,” he said of the inspiration behind “Fighting On My Behalf.” “Touring will always come with opposition and setbacks, but it's so important to press on and remember who goes before me.

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 529 - Will Willimon on The Lord's Supper and Advent   Book Link: https://www.abingdonpress.com/product/9781791029036/ Will Willimon is a preacher and teacher of preachers. He is a United Methodist bishop (retired) and serves as Professor of the Practice of Christian Ministry and Director of the Doctor of Ministry program at Duke Divinity School, Durham, North Carolina. For twenty years he was Dean of the Chapel at Duke University. A 1996 Baylor University study named him among the Twelve Most Effective Preachers in the English speaking world. The Pew Research Center found that Will was one of the most widely read authors among Protestant clergy in 2005. His quarterly Pulpit Resource is used by thousands of pastors throughout North America, Canada, and Australia. In 2021 he gave the prestigious Lyman Beecher Lectures on Preaching at Yale Divinity School. Those lectures became the book, Preachers Dare: Speaking for Godwhich is the inspiration for his n

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 528 - Facing Grief with the Wheel of Emotions   PRE-SAVE “KEEP WATCH, DEAR LORD” BY RICK LEE JAMES

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 527 - Chopsticks Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 527 - Chopsticks This week I share a Japanese parable called Chopsticks. It’s a deep one. Thank you for listening. Blessings, Rick Lee James   PRE-SAVE “KEEP WATCH, DEAR LORD” BY RICK LEE JAMES

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 526 - Hang On or Let Go? This week, a short story about embracing God’s gift of limits, from the book, Emotionally Healthy Discipleship by Peter Scazzero.   PRE-SAVE “KEEP WATCH, DEAR LORD” BY RICK LEE JAMES

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 525 - Last Day of CPE       ----more----   10% Off Everything Rick Lee James on Band camp Instructions Visit https://rickleejames.bandcamp.com At checkout use code: 10off Advent Hymn (Watching, Waiting, Longing) This song appeared on over 80 Spotify playlists this Advent Season. I want to thank everyone for listening and sharing it this year.   Official Music Video:   Web Site: https://rickleejames.com   PURCHASE ALBUM: www.RickLeeJames.Bandcamp.com SongSelect: https://songselect.ccli.com/Songs/6152291/advent-hymn-watching-waiting-longing Downloadable Charts and More available from LIFEWAYWORSHIP.COM: https://worship.lifeway.com/findAndBuy/songPage/AdventHymn(Watching%2CWaiting%2CLonging)?versionId=93901&rowNum=0&searchString=Advent%20Hymn%20(watching,%20Waiting,%20Longing)#song-Parts Loop Community: https://loopcommunity.com/en-us/songs/advent-hymn-(watching%2C-waiting%2C-longing)-by-rick-lee-james-3892  Endorsements:

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) "Let God Love You" with Matt Sanders    Book Description: Reflections and Prayers to nurture a child-like trust in God's great love. Get the Book: https://amzn.to/44ySVLN   About the Author Matt Sanders has been a chaplain for 30 years. He started serving as a chaplain at a juvenile detention center, volunteered in two men's prisons along the way, and has been a hospital chaplain for about 20 years now.  His book, Chaplaincy: A Ministry of Presence, has been transformational for me as I have been working as a chaplain myself, so I find it a great honor to visit with Matt today. Matt just self-published a new book called, "Let God Love You," which is a message he finds so life-giving.    Get the Book: https://amzn.to/44ySVLN ----more----   10% Off Everything Rick Lee James on Band camp Instructions Visit https://rickleejames.bandcamp.com At checkout use code: 10off Advent Hymn (Watching, Waiting, Longing) This song appeared on over 80 Spotify playlists t

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) Matt K. Lewis and Filthy Rich Politicians     Book Description: From one of America's sharpest conservative journalists is this searing, thought-provoking and hilarious takedown of the ruling class running amok in Washington. These are your elected officials. Some are slyly taking advantage of the system. They are hoping no one is savvy enough to notice. But Matt Lewis has. And this is what he’s learned. Today’s politicians are an unsavory lot—a hybrid of plutocrats and hypocrites. And it’s worse (and more laughable) than you can imagine. Lewis will introduce you to a crop of latte liberals, ivy league populists, insider traders, trust-fund babies, and swamp creatures as he exposes how truly ludicrous money in politics has gotten. In Filthy Rich Politicians, Lewis embarks on an investigative deep dive into the ridiculous state of modern American democracy—a system where the rich get elected and the elected get rich. One of the brightest conservative writers of