Become New with John Ortberg

We live in a culture of condemnation: cancel culture, self-judgment, outrage, and quiet shame. Most of us are swimming in it without even realizing it.

But the good news of Jesus points to a radically different reality: “There is now no condemnation.”

In this episode, John Ortberg explores why condemnation feels so normal, how it shapes both our inner lives and our public conversations, and what it looks like to become a person of blessing instead of judgment. Along the way, we reflect on the remarkable true story of a six-year-old girl who responded to hatred not with fear or anger, but with prayer—and changed history in the process.

Today's Resources:
Robert Coles, The Story of Ruby Bridges
Dallas Willard, The Divine Conspiracy 

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Music Credits:
Believe Me by Glass Echoes - MB01UU8HNMQ8GT0
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Every person you encounter today is carrying a story you cannot see.

In this episode, John reflects on the unseen battles every human being fights and the surprising truth that healing often comes not from focusing on our own pain, but from learning to notice and care about the stories of others.

Drawing from the Book of Job, insights from Eleanor Stump, and lived experiences of suffering, forgiveness, and mercy, this teaching explores how God is at work in stories within stories. Like a fractal, each life reflects a larger pattern of divine care, love, and redemption.

This message invites us to slow down, to see the person in front of us, and to remember: when we step into someone else’s story with compassion, generosity, or forgiveness, we enter a reality much larger than our own—and God uses it in ways we may never fully understand.

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Music Credits:
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MB01IDTJ7Z0NIZ3

John reflects on Jesus’ teaching from the Sermon on the Mount regarding giving in secret. His words weren’t just spiritual advice. They were revolutionary. In a world built on reciprocity, status, and public recognition, Jesus offered a radically different way to live—one rooted in gratitude, freedom, and quiet goodness.

Drawing on insights from ancient history, lived experience, and wisdom from voices like Dietrich Bonhoeffer, this reflection shows how generosity can slowly retrain our hearts. When we practice giving without announcing it, something remarkable happens: we become less impressed with ourselves and less dependent on other people’s approval.

Over time, generosity becomes second nature. The left hand forgets what the right hand is doing. And goodness begins to feel free.

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Music Credits:
Forever and For Always feat. Ivywild and Roary by Marie Hines
MB01IDTJ7Z0NIZ3

Why do some habits change and others seem impossible to break?

In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked role of belief in transformation. Many of us confuse our habits with our identity. We say, “That’s just the way I am.” But Scripture, psychology, and lived experience all point to a deeper truth: habits feel natural, but they are not our nature.

Drawing on insights from Ezra Sullivan, Charles Duhigg, and the lived wisdom of communities like Alcoholics Anonymous, this reflection shows why change rarely lasts without faith. Not just belief that habits can change, but belief that you can change—with God’s help.

Transformation happens in community. We borrow belief from one another. We practice hope until it becomes real. And over time, love itself becomes habit-forming.

So the question for today is simple:
Who helps you believe that change is possible?

🙌 New episodes every weekday.
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Music Credits:
Forever and For Always feat. Ivywild and Roary by Marie Hines
MB01IDTJ7Z0NIZ3

Darkness won't have the last word.

Today’s reflection centers on a simple, powerful word: light. Scripture tells us that God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. That doesn’t mean we deny the reality of suffering, grief, or burden. It means those things are not ultimate.

Drawing from Scripture, everyday moments of joy, and insights from Dallas Willard, this episode invites us to see the world the way Jesus did—as a God-bathed, God-permeated reality. A world where light is always closer than we think. A world where God is “right upstairs,” friendly and near.

This message is for anyone feeling weighed down by life, anxious about the future, or unsure how to live faithfully in a dark moment. Jesus’ promise still stands: His burden is light. And His message—to both Israel and the Gentiles—was a message of light.

Pay attention today. Look for joy. Look for goodness. The light has already come.

🙌 New episodes every weekday.
📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time.

Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time.
TEXT US at 855-888-0444
EMAIL US at [email protected]

GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe
GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text BECOME to 855-888-0444
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Music Credits:
Forever and For Always feat. Ivywild and Roary by Marie Hines
MB01IDTJ7Z0NIZ3