In this episode, I dive into a challenging topic with Alex Berner. Alex opens up about his journey with Christ, and how God started moving in his life in high school.

We explore a few mountains God has walked with him over - primarily around sexual addiction.

Alex’s struggle with sexual addiction crippled his old way of living, and he elaborates on the conflict he experienced with the church's teachings on sexuality. We dive into his experience in rehab and the importance community played in his recovery. Lastly, we discuss how coming out of rehab, Alex continues to see new areas God is refining in his life.

Takeaways

• Honesty and vulnerability are crucial in the journey of recovery from addiction.
• Breaking denial structures and seeking community support are essential for healing.
• Marriage is not a solution to sexual addiction, but open communication and trust are vital in a healthy relationship.
• Recovery is an ongoing process, and new challenges may arise, but with God's help, it is possible to find healing and freedom. Be honest in your marriage but do not burden your spouse with your struggles. Seek support from a group of safe individuals who can understand and guide you.
• Pure Desire offers resources and programs for those struggling with sexual addiction. They provide online groups and in-person groups led by trained leaders.
• Develop a spiritual practice of getting to know God as a loving father. Spend time with Him to understand His character and His love for you.

In this episode, Ben Sims interviews his parents, Dave and Traci Sims, who are counselors with Image Bearers Ministry. They discuss the role of medication in Christian counseling and the increase in medicated patients. They also explore different types of Christian ministry and the importance of understanding one's emotions and desires in the Christian life. The conversation highlights the need for deconstruction and rebuilding of faith, as well as the significance of spiritual habits and practices. The episode concludes with a prayer for guidance and growth in living a faithful life.

Chapters

00:00Introduction and Background

03:01Discipleship Counseling and Spiritual Direction

06:02Medication and Christian Counseling

09:08Increase in Medication and the Role of the Church

15:49Different Types of Christian Ministry

16:46Seeking Christian Counseling

17:04Different Approaches to Counseling

24:50Deconstruction and Rebuilding Faith

26:17Habits and Spiritual Practices

34:20Breaking Habits and Dependence on God

41:54Peace, Joy, Hope, and Meaning in the Christian Life

45:27Image Bearers Ministries and Contact Information

47:26Recommended Books and Spiritual Habits

53:58Closing Prayer

In this episode, I want to provide you with an outline of who we are at Revenant Living, what you can expect with the podcast, and elaborate on my testimony leading or inspiring me to establish Revenant Living.

For questions or reaching out to be a guest please email me at ben@revenantliving.com