We often divide the Bible into two Gods: the "angry" God of the Old Testament and the "loving" God of the New. Austin Gardner is here to bridge that gap. In this episode of the Grace series, we look at the Book of Exodus not as a list of demands, but as a monument to God’s patience and provision. Whether it’s bitter water turning sweet or a covenant renewed after a massive failure, Exodus proves that God has always chosen rescue over requirements.

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"When did grace begin?" If you said Calvary or Pentecost, you might be missing the most beautiful part of the story. Join Austin Gardner as he journeys through the Book of Genesis to uncover the "God of Grace" who has been pursuing humanity since the foundation of the world.

Through the stories of Adam, Noah, Abraham, and Joseph, Austin reveals that God wasn’t a distant judge who later "softened up" when Jesus arrived. He has always been the Seeker, the Provider, and the one who binds Himself to promises even when we fail. If you’ve ever felt like you weren't "good enough" for God, this episode will turn your theology upside down and give you a place to truly rest.

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The loudest voice in your life is usually the one inside your own head—but is it telling the truth? In this powerful message, Austin Gardner explores a fundamental reality: The story you believe determines the life you live.

Drawing on the account of the twelve spies in Numbers and the famous story of the Prodigal Son, Austin illustrates how pain, betrayal, and shame can lead us to rewrite our history in ways God never intended. Whether you see yourself as a "grasshopper" in a land of giants or a "day laborer" unworthy of sonship, those are versions written by pain, not by the Father.

The Gospel isn’t about trying to change God's mind about you; it’s about letting God change your mind about yourself.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The Grasshopper Complex: Why ten spies saw giants while two saw God—and how your perspective dictates your victory.
• "Who Told You That?": A look at Genesis 3 and why we believe lies about our own inadequacy.
• The Father’s Party: A fresh look at the Prodigal Son through the lens of the Father’s joy, rather than the son’s shame.
• New Identity vs. Improved Old Story: Why 2 Corinthians 5:17 means your "junk" hasn't just been fixed—it's been passed away.
• The Joseph Perspective: How to see the "evil intent" of others as the "good purpose" of God.

Scripture References:

• Numbers 13:33
• John 8:32
• Genesis 3:11
• Luke 15:11-32
• 2 Corinthians 5:17
• Ephesians 5:8
• Genesis 50:20
• Romans 12:2

waustingardner.com

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Most of us see Christianity as a journey to become something—to learn the rules, master the doctrine, and fix our behavior. But in Ephesians 4:20, Paul says something shocking: "You have not so learned Christ."

In this episode, Austin Gardner explores the difference between learning about Jesus and actually learning Him. Using the beautiful analogy of a 50-year marriage, Austin shares how our walk with God isn't about graduation; it’s about orientation. It’s a lifelong process of hearing His voice and discovering that eternal life isn’t just a destination—it’s the intimacy of knowing the Father right now, even in the middle of cancer, trials, and "the mess."

Key Takeaways:

• Past Tense Grace: You have already "learned Christ"—it’s a finished work you can rest in.
• Relationship > Ritual: Why knowing a person changes you more than studying a textbook ever could.
• The Abiding Life: How to "hang out" with God instead of gritting your teeth to be "better."

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Do you feel like God is an angry judge who only tolerates you because He’s looking through a "Jesus filter"?

In the final installment of this series, W. Austin Gardner and Steve McVey (author of Grace Walk) dismantle one of the most damaging lies in modern Christianity: the idea that the Father is a vengeful punisher while the Son is a merciful savior.

What you’ll discover in this session:

• The "Jesus Filter" Fallacy: Why the Father, Son, and Spirit were all in the rescue mission together—not at odds with each other.
• The Eternal Love Party: Why humanity wasn't a "Plan B" to fix sin, but an invitation to join the pre-existing love of the Trinity.
• Redefining Justice: Moving from "Judicial Justice" (retribution) to "Divine Justice" (restoration).
• The Cross wasn't for God’s Anger: Understanding that the Cross was God’s way of reconciling the world to Himself, not a way to "get it out of His system."

The Big Takeaway:
The Gospel didn't start with your sin; it started with God’s love. You were created not to be a project, but to be a participant in a love that has existed for all eternity.

Chapters:
0:00 - The "Jesus Filter" Problem
7:45 - Is Jesus Nicer Than God?
14:20 - The Eternal Love Party: Our True Origin
25:10 - Why the Cross wasn't Plan B
33:45 - Judicial vs. Divine Justice: Restoring the Broken
46:30 - Final Reflections on the Grace Walk

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Are you exhausted from trying to "achieve" a spiritual status you already possess?

In part two of this deep-dive series, W. Austin Gardner and Grace Walk author Steve McVey dismantle the "Original Lie" that keeps most Christians stuck in a cycle of religious performance. Austin shares a candid confession about his early years in ministry: he used to read the Bible like a "Chilton’s Repair Manual"—looking for instructions to fix himself instead of looking for the heart of his Father.

Key Themes in this Episode:

• The Chilton’s Manual Trap: Moving from "How do I fix this?" to "Who is my Father?"
• The First Act of Religion: Why Adam and Eve’s fig leaves were the birth of legalism.
• Doing vs. Being: Understanding that we don't "do to be" (servants/children); we "do because we are."
• The Idolatry of Guilt: Why wallowing in self-condemnation is actually a rejection of the finished work of Christ.

The Big Takeaway:
God doesn't need your service. He spoke the universe into existence—He’s doing just fine. But He wants you. He invites you into His work not because He needs an employee, but because He loves His child.

Chapters:
0:00 - Why God Doesn't Need You (But Wants You)
8:45 - Confessions of a "Bible Repair Manual" Reader
15:30 - The Original Sin: The Myth of Independence
24:10 - Fig Leaves: The Birth of Religion
32:50 - The Lie: Trying to Become What You Already Are
45:15 - Is Your Guilt Actually Idolatry?

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What happens when you’ve known someone longer than your own wife? You get the kind of raw, honest conversation that only 54 years of friendship can produce.

In this episode of Followed by Mercy, Austin Gardner sits down with his lifelong friend and mentor, Steve McVey—the best-selling author of Grace Walk. They take us back to the beginning in 1972, sharing hilarious stories of street preaching and "witnessing" in bars, before diving into a profound truth: the danger of asking God to know Him more deeply.

Inside the Episode:

• The Bumblebee Bar Story: Why Betty (Austin’s wife) caught him coming out of a bar at a Baptist college.
• The Performance Trap: How Steve went from a "successful" pastor at 19 to finding true intimacy with Christ.
• Defining Brokenness: Why Steve defines brokenness as "giving up confidence in our own ability to manage life."
• The "Dangerous Prayer": Why praying to know God more deeply often leads to chaos, but always leads to grace.

Whether you are struggling with the pressure to perform or navigating your own season of "chaos," this conversation is a roadmap to finding rest in the finished work of Jesus.

Connect with Austin Gardner:
🌐 Website: https://waustingardner.com
📩 Substack: https://waustingardner.substack.com
📘 Alignment Ministries: https://alignmentministries.com

About Steve McVey:
Steve is the author of Grace Walk and has spent decades helping people move from performance-based religion to the freedom of a relationship with Christ.

SEO & Ranking Keywords

• Primary Keyphrase: Grace vs Performance
• Secondary Keywords: Steve McVey Grace Walk, Austin Gardner Podcast, Christian Brokenness, Spiritual Growth through Chaos, Finding Peace in Christ, Grace-filled Leadership, Overcoming the Performance Trap.

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• "Evicting Shame and Embracing the Identity of the Beloved."

Podcast Show Notes / Description:
"Most of us are busy trying to 'fix' ourselves, but Mike Pennington suggests a different path: Spiritual Direction. Unlike coaching, which focuses on your next action step, Spiritual Direction asks: 'What is God’s invitation to you right now?'

Austin and Mike get 'down in the weeds' to talk about:

• Shame & Self-Rejection: Why the devil never takes a day off, and how to use Romans 8:1 as your defensive line.
• Living in the Present Tense: Why God is 'the God of the I AM,' not the God of your past trauma.
• The Power of Being Seen: Why every human needs to feel seen, soothed, safe, and secure in the arms of the Father.

Resources Mentioned:

• Mike Pennington’s Website: belovedlivingnow.com
• Christie Pennington’s Spiritual Direction: ChristiCoaching.com
• The REACH Forgiveness Tool (Google 'REACH Forgiveness' for the full path).

Connect with Austin:
Visit waustingardner.com for more resources on grace-filled leadership and marriage restoration."

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Are you living as God’s employee or His beloved child?

In this episode of Followed by Mercy, Austin Gardner sits down with his longtime friend and cousin, Mike Pennington, to discuss the radical shift from performance-based religion to the rest of "belovedness."

Mike shares his journey from the hills of Tennessee to the mission fields of Venezuela, revealing how even decades of successful ministry can hide an exhausted soul. If you’ve ever felt like your spiritual life is just a series of spinning plates, this conversation is your permission to let them drop.

In this episode, we dive into:

• The Iceberg Analogy: Why 90% of your spiritual life happens under the surface.
• Breaking the Chain: How Mike and his wife, Kristi, intentionally broke the cycle of anger in their family heritage.
• Practical Soul Care: Why you need to visit your "Beloved Tree" every morning.
• The Sabbath Shift: How to unplug from technology to plug back into God’s presence.
• The Power of Holy Imagination: Why Jesus wants to give you a hug before you start your "To-Do" list.

Resources Mentioned:

• Mike’s Website: belovedlivingnow.com
• Kristi’s Website: christycoaching.com
• Soul Care Institute: soulcareinstitute.com
• Austin Gardner’s Hub: waustingardner.com

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Why do we feel like we have to "perform" to be loved by God? In this third part of our series, I’m joined by my cousin Mike Pennington to tackle the heavy weights of trauma and shame.

Mike opens up about his own childhood trauma and how it created a cycle of shame that took years to break. We discuss why shame is a "slap in the face to God's grace" and how to return to the reality that you are already 100% attached to Him—not because of what you’ve done, but because of who He is.

In this episode, we cover:

• The "LOTSA" framework for a simple Christian life: Love, Obey, Trust, Seek, Adore.
• The three questions God asks us in our mess: Where are you? Who are you listening to? What are you hungry for?
• How to stop "auditioning" for God and start abiding in Him.
• Why your past trauma does not define your standing with the Father.

"You can't do anything to make Him love you more, and you can't do anything to make Him love you less."

Connect with us:

• Website: waustingardner.com
• Join the community: W. Austin Gardner on Substack

SEO Keywords & Tags

Austin Gardner, Mike Pennington, Followed by Mercy, Overcoming Shame, Healing from Trauma, Christian Identity, Grace vs Performance, Biblical Counseling, Abiding in Christ, John 17:23, Romans 8, Inner Healing, Spiritual Growth.

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Why is it so much easier to believe God loves us in our heads than it is to feel it in our hearts?

In today’s episode of Followed by Mercy, Austin Gardner continues his conversation with missionary and SoulCare coach Mike Pennington. Together, they dive deep into the "blockages" that keep us from resting in our identity as God’s beloved.

If you’ve ever felt like your spiritual life is just a "check-box" of performance, or if you struggle with a voice in your head telling you that you’re a mistake, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we discuss the 4 major enemies of belovedness:

1. Self-Rejection: Breaking the habit of negative self-talk.
2. Performance: Why the "exhausted life" is NOT the abundant life.
3. Perfectionism: The lie that you have to "fix yourself" before God can use you.
4. Shame: Moving from "I did something wrong" to "I am loved anyway."

Mike also shares the life-changing advice from Dallas Willard: "You must ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your life."

Challenge for you today:
Try a "40-day fast" from self-rejection. Stop the negative self-talk and start listening for the voice of the Father saying, "Where are you? I miss you."

Resources Mentioned:
📖 John 17:23, Isaiah 43, Romans 5:6-8
🌐 Mike’s Website: [Beloved Living]
📩 Austin’s Substack: https://waustingardner.substack.com

Connect with Austin Gardner:
Website: https://waustingardner.com
Alignment Ministries: https://alignmentministries.com

#AustinGardner #FollowedByMercy #Belovedness #ChristianPodcast #OvercomingShame #GraceOverWorks #SoulCare #FaithWalk #DallasWillard

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Are you tired of trying to prove you deserve God’s love?

In this episode, Austin Gardner sits down with his cousin, Mike Pennington—a former missionary and pastor—for a deeply personal conversation about the "bedrock of a healthy soul": Belovedness.

For decades, both Austin and Mike lived under the heavy weight of legalism, relating to God through performance rather than relationship. Mike shares the transformative moment in the Colorado mountains where he finally heard the Father say, "Yes, you are my beloved child."

Inside this episode:

• Why we treat salvation like a gift but live like we have to pay it back.
• How childhood traumas of shame, fear, and anger color our view of God.
• The "Trifecta" of blockages that keep us from resting in grace.
• The life-changing truth of John 17:23: God loves you just as much as He loves Jesus.

If you’ve ever felt like you were on the "trash heap" of ministry or life, this episode is your invitation to stop striving and start being held.

Connect with us:
Visit waustingardner.com for more resources on grace and leadership.

https://belovedlivingnow.com

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"As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you." — Isaiah 66:13

We often focus on the "Fatherhood" of God, but on this Mother’s Day episode, Austin Gardner explores the deep, nurturing, and protective "Motherly" love of our Creator. Using his own childhood memories of his grandmother’s house and the profound imagery of Scripture, Austin reframes our relationship with God.

If you’ve ever felt like you were "auditioning" for God’s approval, listen to this. Austin explains how the Hebrew word for compassion is tied directly to the word for "womb," showing us that God’s love isn't a reaction to our behavior—it’s His very nature.

Key Takeaways:

• Love didn't start with Mamas; it started with God.
• The difference between "Daddy’s discipline" and "Mama’s comfort" in the eyes of God.
• Why God's love is a source of restoration, not a reward for performance.
• The Prodigal Son: A story of a Father who runs like a Mother toward His child.

Stop striving and start resting. You are not an employee; you are a beloved child held in the palms of a God who will never forget you.

Subscribe & Review:
If this message encouraged you, please leave a review and share it with someone who needs to know they are loved today!

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"Have you ever felt like you were auditioning for God instead of serving Him?

After 50 years in ministry—preaching thousands of sermons and traveling to 50 countries—I found myself exhausted. Not from the work, but from a deeper, invisible pressure: the Performance Trap.

In this video, I want to talk to the 'tired' people. The ones who know the verses about grace but secretly believe God is mostly disappointed with them. I share my own journey of hitting rock bottom in a hospital bed, where 21 days on a ventilator finally broke my addiction to 'proving my worth.'

We’ll explore:

• The Accounting Game: Why we try to pay for a gift Jesus already paid in full.
• Employer vs. Father: How to stop treating God like a boss who might fire you.
• The Prodigal Son’s Speech: Why the Father interrupts our apologies to give us a party.
• Rest as the Starting Line: Moving from 'fighting for love' to 'living from love.'

If you are tired of the scorecard and the spiritual ledgers, this is your invitation to exhale. The cross was not a down payment; it was the full payment. It is finished.

Key Scriptures: John 19:30, Luke 15, Colossians 2:14, Romans 8:15.

About Austin Gardner:
W. Austin Gardner is an author, speaker, and mentor who has spent five decades leading international ministries. After surviving Stage 4 cancer and a severe battle with COVID-19, he now focuses on helping leaders and believers move from performance-driven religion to a life followed by mercy.

🔗 Stay Connected:
Website: https://waustingardner.com
Substack: https://waustingardner.substack.com
Facebook: Alignment Ministries by Austin Gardner"

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Is your view of God missing the "Sweetest Comfort"?

In this special Mother's Day message, W. Austin Gardner dives into the profound mystery of God’s nature, revealing that while we often focus on God as Father, He explicitly describes His affection for us through the lens of a mother’s tenderness.

Drawing from Isaiah 66:13 ("As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you") and Isaiah 49:15, Austin explores why motherhood is one of God’s chosen windows into His own heart.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• The Origin of Love: Why a mother’s love isn't the beginning of the story, but a reflection of a God who is love.
• The "Womb" Connection: A fascinating look at the Hebrew link between "compassion" and the "womb."
• Grace vs. Performance: Why God’s love isn't a reward for your production, but a sanctuary for your restoration.
• Personal Reflections: Austin shares sweet stories of his grandmother’s sugar-dipped biscuits and his 52 years of watching "Bible-kind" grace play out in his own family.

Whether you are a mother needing encouragement, someone struggling with the loss of a parent, or a leader feeling the weight of performance, this episode is a reminder that you are not just tolerated—you are desired. God’s love is not a reaction to your behavior; it is His very nature.

"A mother might forget, but I will never forget you."

Stop striving for a seat at the table. You’re already there.

Connect with Austin:
🔗 Website: waustingardner.com
📖 Substack: W. Austin Gardner | Substack
💡 Learn more about grace-based leadership at Alignment Ministries.

#MothersDay #BibleStudy #Isaiah66 #GodsLove #Grace #PastoralWisdom #AustinGardner #MinistryLeadership #FollowedByMercy

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If you’ve spent any time in church, you’ve probably heard the word "lost" used as a label for people who are "wicked" or "wrong." But in this powerful mission's message, Austin Gardner reframes the word "lost" through the eyes of Jesus.

[The Core Message]
"You don't lose a pen that has no value to you. You lose things that belong to you." Drawing from the parables in Luke 15—the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost sons—Austin explores why God is more of a "Search Party" than a "Social Club."

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• The Rebrand of "Lost": Why being lost means you are missing from where you belong, not that you are worthless.
• The Shepherd’s Shoulders: Why the Shepherd doesn't discipline the runaway sheep, but carries it home rejoicing.
• The Prodigal Father: A look at the extravagant, "crazy" love of a Father who runs toward the mess instead of waiting for an apology.
• The Older Brother Trap: How long-time believers can accidentally become "gatekeepers" instead of "door-openers."

[The Missions Call]
This isn't just a Bible study; it's a call to the "uttermost." Austin challenges us to see missions as a global search for the treasures God misses most. Whether it’s in Russia, China, or your own neighborhood, the message is the same: You are the reason He came.

[Call to Action]
Stop trying to perform and start resting in the mercy that is already pursuing you.

📖 Get more resources on grace and leadership: https://waustingardner.com
🌱 Partner with us in missions: https://alignmentministries.com
📲 Follow Austin on Substack: https://waustingardner.substack.com

#FollowedByMercy #Missions #Luke15 #RadicalGrace #WAustinGardner #BibleStudy #ProdigalSon #ChurchLeadership

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Are our children truly safe? Join Austin Gardner as he sits down with Navy veteran Hayley Thomas and former missionary Stephen Underwood from Black Flag International to discuss the heavy reality of child trafficking and the mission to stop it.

In this episode, we cover:

• The Mission of Black Flag: How elite veterans are using military skill sets to "kick in doors" and rescue children through the Black Flag Innocence Foundation.
• Hayley Thomas’s Story: From Navy K9 handler to the front lines of child protection.
• Practical Child Safety: Why "no sleepovers" is a rule you should consider and how to vet daycare providers effectively.
• Vigilance vs. Fear: How to stay alert without living in terror, grounded in the truth of Ephesians 6.
• A Call to Action: How you can support the high-cost "stings" and rescue operations that save lives.

Support the Mission:
https://bfi-foundation.org
https://waustingardner.com/

#ChildSafety #BlackFlagInternational #FollowedByMercy #AustinGardner #EndTrafficking #ParentingTips #FaithAndSafety

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In this vital conversation, Austin Gardner joins security experts Stephen Underwood and Haley Thomas to discuss the reality of child safety in today's world. This isn't just about "stranger danger"; it's about a pastoral commitment to the integrity of the home and the protection of the next generation.

The Reality of Vigilance:
Haley and Stephen pull back the curtain on the "backyard" reality—the hard truth that most harm happens within circles of trust. Drawing from 1 Peter 5:8, they frame child protection as a spiritual battle that requires us to be "sober and vigilant."

Practical Wisdom for Parents:

• The "No Sleepover" Rule: Why controlling the security parameters of your child's environment is an act of love, not restriction.
• Daycare Vetting: Crucial questions to ask about SOPs and staff background checks to ensure your "safe spaces" are truly safe.
• Living in Spite of Fear: How preparation and awareness allow families to live in freedom and grace rather than constant anxiety.

Austin’s Pastoral Note:
As a father, grandfather, and pastor with over 50 years of experience, Austin emphasizes that our role as leaders is to create safe harbors. God’s mercy follows us, and part of that mercy is the wisdom He gives us to protect the little ones He has placed in our care.

Resources:

• For more on grace and family restoration: waustingardner.com
• Connect with the mission: @waustingardner
• https://bfi-foundation.org

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

In this episode, Austin Gardner sits down with Stephen Underwood and Haley Thomas to discuss the vital work of Black Flag International and the Black Flag Innocence Foundation. Haley shares her journey from 7.5 years in the Navy as a K9 handler in Bahrain and San Diego to her transition into the civilian sector through the SkillBridge program.

The Mission:
The conversation dives deep into the mission of the Black Flag Innocence Foundation: combating child trafficking. We explore how professional expertise in high-end security is being used to bring light into the darkest corners of the world.

The Spiritual Takeaway:
Beyond the tactics and the missions, this episode is a testimony to the fact that we are "followed by mercy." Whether in the heat of a deployment or the transition to a new career, God’s goodness and grace pursue us. It’s a reminder that we don’t have to perform to be loved; we are held by a Father who calls us to be His children first.

Links & Resources:

• Learn more about the mission: waustingardner.com
• Support the Black Flag Innocence Foundation: https://bfi-foundation.org/about
• Follow Austin for more stories of grace: @waustingardner

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

"I grew up stirring the mash... that kid grew up and is getting to preach the gospel today."

In this concluding session of Followed by Mercy, Austin Gardner and Pastor Rickey Howard dive deep into what it means to truly "change your story." Rickey opens up about his heritage—from a moonshining family to a life of legalism and "goofball" mistakes—to the radical freedom of living under the "umbrella of grace."

If you’ve ever felt like you’ve wasted too much time or that your past is too "broken" to be useful, this conversation will challenge you to stop seeing yourself as a victim and start seeing the Giants through the eyes of the two spies who knew God was bigger.

In this episode, we cover:

• The Plane Crash Metaphor: Why the worst thing that can happen (death) is actually the best thing for a believer.
• Victim vs. Victorious: How to stop lying to yourself about your past and start redeeming your story.
• Redeeming the Time: Moving from "wasting time" on overtime and sports to "investing time" in eternal outcomes.
• The "Get To" Mindset: Why serving God isn't a chore we "have" to do, but a privilege we "get" to do.
• The Storefront Miracle: How God put a diverse group of people together in a storefront church behind a Taco Bell to do something eternal.

Connect with us:

• Alignment Ministries: https://alignmentministries.com
• Austin Gardner's Writings: https://waustingardner.com
• Followed by Mercy Substack: https://waustingardner.substack.com

#Testimony #RickeyHoward #FollowedByMercy #AustinGardner #Grace #GospelTransformation #Ministry #FromMoonshineToMinistry

Updated Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Intro: A legacy of moonshining and prison.
• 04:42 – Moving out of the "rubbish" of your past.
• 07:59 – Is brokenness an excuse or a platform?
• 14:37 – The first step to getting out: Stop making excuses.
• 23:33 – Can you be free, or are you just managing the pain?
• 25:31 – Can God really redeem your story?
• 30:13 – The Plane Crash: Why we don't have to fear the "worst-case scenario."
• 31:38 – Changing the Story: Why Rickey isn't a victim anymore.
• 33:12 – Redeeming the Time: Learning from wasted years and misplaced priorities.
• 35:04 – "Get To" vs. "Have To": The love of Christ as our constraint.
• 36:31 – The Moonshiner’s Grandkid: From stirring the mash to preaching the Gospel.
• 37:21 – The Storefront Church: God’s grace behind a Taco Bell.

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"Our God is I AM... and the I AM lives today and helps you right where you are."

Pastor Ricky Howard joins Austin Gardner for the second installment of his incredible journey from trauma to trust. In this episode, Ricky gets honest about the anger and bitterness that grew from his past and how it began to poison his relationships.

We often hold onto our pain so long that it starts to feel like our name. Austin and Ricky explore how to let go of that false identity and embrace a restoration that is only possible through unconditional mercy.

Highlights include:

• Identifying the "Lies" that keep us in bondage.
• The story of how Ricky met his wife, April, and the grace that built their home.
• Moving from "who I was" to who God says "I AM."
• A message for those who feel they have held onto their pain for too long.

If you are exhausted from trying to "fix" your past, listen in. There is a path to peace that doesn’t depend on your performance, but on His goodness.

Links Mentioned:

• Alignment Ministries: https://alignmentministries.com
• Followed by Mercy Hub: https://waustingardner.com

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

How do you break a cycle of trauma that has claimed the lives and freedom of so many your age? Pastor Ricky Howard joins Austin Gardner to discuss the "survivor's guilt" and the overwhelming mercy that pulled him out of a life of instability.

Ricky shares how he lost his entire freshman year of high school because he lacked the family structure to stay afloat. But in the midst of that "lost year," God was using "regular people"—not war heroes or wealthy businessmen, but simple church volunteers—to show him a different path.

In this episode, Austin and Ricky discuss:

• The danger of letting "current circumstances" define your future.
• Why the "Loved Love": How our own healing allows us to reach the next generation.
• The pursuit of God: How mercy chases us even when we aren’t looking for it.

Closing Thought: "The moment we stop defining ourselves on ourselves and start looking to Him... that’s when we truly find out who we are."

Links Mentioned:

• waustingardner.com
• Alignment Ministries: https://alignmentministries.com
• Followed by Mercy Daily: https://followedbymercy.beehiiv.com

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Shifting your focus to serve others is the most powerful way to break free from the trap of self-pity and find the "mercy that follows you." In this final installment of our five-day series, I sit down with Stephen Underwood of the Black Flag Innocence Foundation to discuss how a life centered on others: specifically the protection of the most vulnerable: changes your perspective and your purpose.

When we are consumed by our own insecurities, we often miss the vital work God is doing around us. By shifting your focus to serve others, you begin to see that your own problems aren't nearly as big as you once thought. Stephen shares his journey from a "dead dream" of traditional missions to a new, urgent calling: fighting the grooming and trafficking of children in our modern world.

The Silent War for Our Children

We live in a time where the threats to our children have moved from the baseball field to the screens in their pockets. Stephen warns that children as young as six are being exposed to things that lead down a dark path toward exploitation. As Christians, we must move past self-absorption and become vigilant protectors. This isn't just about awareness; it's about the Gospel meeting where the rubber meets the road to rescue those who cannot rescue themselves.

Biblical Foundation for Service

The Word of God is clear that our lives find meaning when we look outward.

• Philippians 2:4 — "Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others."
• Galatians 6:2 — "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ."

Key Takeaways from the Conversation:

• The Pit of Self-Absorption: Why thinking only of yourself leads to a deeper emotional pit.
• The Black Flag Mission: How Stephen and his team are confronting grooming and child exploitation.
• Vigilance as Ministry: Learning to recognize the signs of grooming and intervening before a life is destroyed.
• Mercy in Action: Understanding that mercy follows us when we are busy helping someone else.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I stop feeling self-pity?
The fastest way to overcome self-pity is by shifting your focus to serve others. When you get busy meeting someone else’s needs, your own problems find their proper, smaller place in God's grand design.

2. What is the Black Flag Innocence Foundation?
It is an organization led by Stephen Underwood dedicated to fighting child trafficking and grooming through awareness, education, and intervention.

3. What can parents do about online grooming?
Vigilance is key. Understand that predators use online platforms to entrap children. Be aware of what your children are seeing and who they are talking to.

4. Is it ever too late to find a new purpose?
Never. Stephen’s original dream of being a missionary changed, but God gave him a new one. Your past pain or "dead dreams" can be the foundation for a new mission of mercy.

Connect with us:
For more resources on leadership, grace, and finding your purpose, visit my home on the web:
👉 waustingardner.com

Learn more about Alignment Ministries and our coaching programs:

• Ministry Leadership Coaching
• Followed by Mercy Podcast

God bless you, and remember: Mercy is following you today!

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

"Ignoring it will not make it go away."

In this powerful episode of Followed by Mercy, Austin Gardner sits down with Stephen Underwood of the Black Flag Innocence Foundation to discuss the dark reality of child sex trafficking happening right in our own communities.

This isn't just a global issue; it’s a "backyard" issue. Stephen shares the tactical and heart-wrenching work his team of veterans and former law enforcement officers do to investigate, rescue, and provide after-action resources for victims.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The Tactical Front: How "decoys" and veterans work with law enforcement to catch predators before they reach your doorstep.
• The Legislative Wall: Why our political system often fails to prosecute and how Black Flag is lobbying for change.
• A Father’s Wake-Up Call: Stephen shares a personal story about finding explicit content sent to his own 13-year-old son and why no family is "immune."
• The "Sound of Freedom" Reality: Why the fight against trafficking is a lifelong marathon, not just a movie plot.
• The Gospel in Action: Why real restoration for victims and justice for the world only happens through the radical grace of Jesus Christ.

About Black Flag Innocence Foundation:
BFI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to fighting the battle many are unwilling to fight. Led by special operators and veterans, they provide a voice for the voiceless through rescue and education.

Support the Mission:
Everything is 100% tax-deductible. Help provide the equipment and training needed to keep these "Guardians of the Innocent" on the front lines.

Connect with Austin:
🔗 Website: https://waustingardner.com
🔗 Mentorship: Alignment Ministries
🔗 Listen to more: Followed by Mercy Podcast

#ChildTrafficking #BlackFlagInnocence #FollowedByMercy #AustinGardner #ProtectOurChildren #FaithInAction

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"What does a suicide bombing in Tal Afar, Iraq, have to do with the safety of your grandchildren in Georgia? Everything.

Join Austin Gardner and special guest Stephen Underwood (Black Flag Innocence Foundation) for a raw look at the reality of child sex trafficking in America. This isn’t just about statistics; it’s about the spiritual and physical mandate to be ‘sheepdogs’ for those who cannot protect themselves.

Key Highlights:

• The PTSD Cure: Why ‘getting outside of ourselves’ and focusing on others is the ultimate path to healing for veterans.
• Vigilance vs. Paranoia: Practical advice on probing questions to ask your children and the importance of digital accountability.
• The Gideon Strategy: A biblical deep-dive into how God looks past our fear and sees the ‘mighty man of valor’ inside of us.
• The Reality Check: Why ‘denial’ is the greatest weapon predators have against our families.

Stephen reminds us that God doesn’t see us for who we are, but for who we can become. Whether you are a veteran struggling with your past or a parent worried about the future, this episode offers a roadmap for turning mercy into action.

Support the Work: https://bfi-foundation.org/about https://waustingardner.com/blog/

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Podcast Show Notes:
"Freedom is hard. Freedom is heavy. It is the essence of 'you eat what you kill.'" — Alyssa Deltorre.

Today on "Followed by Mercy," we are joined by Stephen Underwood and special guest Alyssa Deltorre, Secretary of the Black Flag Innocence Foundation. Alyssa, a former Miss United States and a master of business psychology, shares how she is using her platform to expose the traumas and blocks that allow the trafficking industry to thrive.

This conversation moves beyond the headlines and into the tactical reality of how we can safeguard our families. We talk about the "grooming" process, the importance of community, and the spiritual mandate to be guardians of the innocent.

Key Quote:
"If a man knoweth to do good and doeth it not, to him it is sin." We are now aware of the problem—now is the time to act.

Resources Mentioned:

• Black Flag Innocence Foundation
• https://waustingardner.com/

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What happens when a missionary kid becomes a Special Operations soldier—and then uses those skills to rescue children from the darkest places on earth?

In this powerful episode of Followed by Mercy, Austin Gardner is joined by long-time friend and mentee, Stephen Underwood. Stephen’s journey is nothing short of miraculous: from the mission fields of Peru to long-range surveillance in the Iraq War, and now to the helm of the Black Flag Innocence Foundation.

In this episode, Austin and Stephen discuss:

• The Transition: How serving in the military prepared Stephen for a life-or-death ministry.
• The Mission: The work of Black Flag International in executive protection and the high-stakes rescue of child sex trafficking victims.
• Eternal vs. Temporal: Why saving a child from harm is only the first step—and why the Gospel is the ultimate rescue.
• The Veteran’s Battle: A raw look at PTSD, the tragedy of veteran suicide, and why "adapting and overcoming" requires the grace of God.
• Legacy and Family: Stephen’s story of marriage, fatherhood, and the "Tennessee Volunteer" spirit that drives his life.

This isn’t just an interview; it’s a call to action for every believer to realize that mercy isn’t passive—it’s a pursuit.

• Learn more about Stephen’s work: BFI-Innocence.com
• Private Security Services: BlackFlagInternational.com
• Connect with Austin: waustingardner.com
• Leadership Mentorship: Alignment Ministries

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

In this episode, Austin Gardner welcomes Pastor Rickey Howard to "chew the fat" and share a story that will change your perspective on what God can do. Rickey is the pastor of Solid Rock Baptist Church in St. George, Utah, but his life hasn't always looked this way.

From the oil fields to the pulpit, Rickey and Austin discuss the "complete 180" that happens when grace takes root. They dive into the importance of family in the ministry, the challenges of starting a church from scratch, and why Rickey says his wife, April, is the "mortar" holding it all together.

Whether you're a ministry leader or someone looking for hope in your own "180" journey, this conversation is a reminder that God’s goodness is meant to be seen, not just talked about.

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction to Pastor Rickey Howard
2:24 - The "Complete 180" Story
3:18 - Family, Marriage, and the Mortar of Ministry
7:10 - The First Three Years of Solid Rock Baptist

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Have you ever been surrounded by people and still felt completely alone? Have you ever been loved by others, yet still felt unlovable?

In this deep-dive session, Austin Gardner (50+ years of pastoral experience) tackles the root cause of why marriages, friendships, and even our relationship with God can feel so unstable. The problem isn’t a lack of effort—it’s a misunderstanding of what Love actually is.

The "Empty Cup" vs. The "Fountain"
Most human love is transactional: "I love you if you make me feel secure." We enter relationships like empty cups, begging others to fill us. When they stop, we pull away. But Austin explains that God doesn’t have love—God IS love. His love is a fountain that overflows regardless of our performance.

In this video, you will learn:

• Son vs. Servant: Why serving God out of duty leads to burnout, while serving as a son leads to life.
• The "Lack" Paradigm: How living from a place of "I’m not okay" ruins your peace and your relationships.
• The Sun and the Clouds: Why your feelings about God’s love are like shifting clouds, while His love remains as constant as the sun.
• Love without Withdrawal: How Jesus’ encounters with Zacchaeus and the adulterous woman prove that love comes before transformation, not after.

Stop trying to manufacture love through your own strength. The fruit of the Spirit is love, which means it is HIS life living through you.

Key Scriptures:

• 1 John 4:8 (God is Love)
• Romans 5:6-8 (Loved while we were yet sinners)
• Romans 8:15 (The Spirit of Adoption)
• Galatians 5:22 (Fruit of the Spirit)

Connect with Austin:
🌍 Website: https://waustingardner.com

#AustinGardner #GodsLove #IdentityInChrist #Grace #ChristianRelationships #BiblicalTeaching #MarriageAdvice #SpiritualGrowth

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Are you tired of trying to "become" a better Christian? What if the biggest struggle in your life isn't your lack of discipline or your battle with sin, but your effort to achieve an identity you already have?

In this final session of our series, Austin Gardner (50+ years of ministry experience) breaks down the theology of rest. Using Hebrews 4:10 and Ephesians 2:6, Austin explains that spiritual rest isn’t about doing nothing—it’s about stopping the attempt to earn God’s favor.

In this video, you’ll discover:

The "Finished House" Analogy: Why we keep trying to lay foundations for a home Jesus already built.
Sitting vs. Striving: What it means to be "seated in heavenly places" while the world tells you to keep climbing.
The 52-Year Marriage Secret: How resting in a relationship actually produces more fruit than working for it.
David & Goliath Reimagined: Why the victory was won for the whole army before they even moved a muscle.
Stop asking, "What do I need to do?" and start asking, "What is already true because I am in Christ?"

Connect with Austin https://waustingardner.com/

Key Verses Mentioned:

Hebrews 4:10
Ephesians 2:6
John 15:4
2 Corinthians 5:21
#Grace #RestInChrist #IdentityInChrist #AustinGardner #BiblicalTeaching #FinishedWork

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"Jesus became what you were, so you could become what He is."

Are you tired of waking up and feeling like you need to "fix" yourself before God can accept you? In this episode, Austin Gardner tackles the deepest trap in the Christian life: the belief that righteousness is something we achieve through our behavior.

Inside this conversation:

• The Bank Account Exchange: Why righteousness is a transfer of funds, not a paycheck you earned.
• The Distorted Mirror: Why your feelings are a terrible judge of your standing with God.
• The Jersey Principle: How to identify with the "Championship Team" regardless of your personal performance.
• Living From, Not For: Why a son acts like a son because he is one, not to become one.

It’s time to stop the "Accounting Game" and realize that the trial is over, and the verdict is in: You are made righteous.

Visit the Hub for more:https://waustingardner.com/
Watch the Canfield Series: [Link]

#AustinGardner #Righteousness #DNAofGrace #IdentityInChrist #Grace #Faith

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"Have you ever seen a branch sweating?"

In this incredibly personal message, Austin Gardner confesses how he spent years turning "abiding" into just another rule to follow. Now, after 50+ years of ministry and a battle with Stage 4 cancer, he’s seeing the simplicity of Jesus’ words in John 15:5 in a brand-new light.

What we’re digging into today:

• The Struggle Trap: Why we think we need to "help" God produce results.
• Abiding Defined: It’s not a work; it’s a connection. (Think: Phone to Wi-Fi).
• The Source vs. The Self: Moving from "I need to do better" to "He is already in me."
• The Fruit of the Spirit: Why love, joy, and peace are natural results, not forced disciplines.

If your faith feels heavy, you’re likely trying to be the Vine. It’s time to settle back into being the branch.

W. Austin Gardner 

#AustinGardner #Abiding #John15 #Grace #IdentityInChrist #DNAofGrace #Rest

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"What if the message of being 'In Christ' has been there the whole time?"

In this session, Austin Gardner (with 50+ years of ministry experience) walks us through the "One Includes the Many" principle. From the loins of Abraham to the blood on the doorposts in Egypt, God has always dealt with humanity through a representative.

Inside this episode:

• The Ark Logic: Why the question wasn't "Can you swim?" but "Are you in the boat?"
• The David Principle: Why Israel won a battle they never fought.
• The Passover Secret: Why the blood on the door mattered more than the "fussing" inside the house.
• The Great Relocation: How to stop "bootstrapping" your way to God and start resting in your location.

Austin also previews some incredible upcoming interviews with Ricky Howard, Clint Woodall, and Mike Pennington on what it means to be "The Beloved."

Stop trying harder. Start realizing where you are.

#AustinGardner #Grace #DNAofGrace #IdentityInChrist #BibleStudy #ChristianMentorship

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Have you ever felt like you’re walking the "Boulevard of Broken Dreams," entirely on your own?

In this session, Austin Gardner dives deep into one of the most beautiful truths in Scripture: Psalm 23:4—"Thou art with me."

Drawing from over 50 years of ministry, missionary work in Peru, and his personal battles with Stage 4 cancer and COVID, Austin explains why our relationship with God isn't a performance-based contract, but a blood-bought covenant.

What you’ll learn in this message:

• The Shepherd’s Perspective: Why being a "sheep" means you don't have to be smart or strong—you just have to belong.
• Covenant vs. Contract: Why God doesn't "walk off" when you mess up (and why David could trust God even when his life was a mess).
• The Rod and the Staff: Discover why these aren't tools for punishment, but for your protection and comfort in the dark.
• The "Together" Reality: Why you never have to ask God to "come be with you" ever again.

Stop striving to reach a God who is already holding you. Whether you’re in a season of joy or the valley of the shadow of death, the reality remains: Thou art with me.

Subscribe for more grace-filled encouragement: https://followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com
Check out Austin Gardner

Austin Gardner Story

#AustinGardner #Psalm23 #Grace #IdentityInChrist #NeverAlone #ChristianMentorship

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Have you ever felt like the Christian life is a treadmill you can’t keep up with? Like if you just tried a little harder, you’d finally "get it"?

In this episode, I’m sharing why your effort isn't the problem—it’s your starting point. Most of us are taught to "behave our way into becoming," but the Bible tells us to "believe where we already are."

What we cover:

• Why you aren't a servant earning a paycheck, but a child with a vital union.
• The "Car Engine" realization: Are you pushing a car that’s already running?
• My experience in the Dead Sea and what it taught me about resting in God’s strength.
• Understanding Galatians 2:20: "Not I, but Christ."

Stop trying to produce the life and start receiving the flow. You don't have a "Christian life" separate from Christ—He IS your life.

Join the Conversation:
📖 Read more about this on Medium: [Your Medium Link]
🌐 Visit the Hub: https://waustingardner.com
🎙️ Subscribe to the Followed By Mercy Podcast.

#IdentityInChrist #Grace #ChristianLiving #AustinGardner #FollowedByMercy #DNAofGrace

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Stop trying to improve something that God has already ended.

Most people think salvation is just a second chance or a clean slate. But in this episode, Austin Gardner reveals a much deeper, more shocking truth: You were included in Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection before you even knew it.

Using the metaphor of a bankrupt company, Austin explains that the cross isn't about "behavior management"—it’s about Identity Termination. The old you didn't just get a makeover; the old you died. Now, your life is "hid with Christ in God."

If you’ve spent years striving to "become" a better Christian, this teaching is your invitation to wake up to who you already are.

In this episode, we explore:

• Romans 6 & Colossians 3: The legal reality of your death in Christ.
• The Elevator Metaphor: Why resurrection isn't something you wait for, but something you're carried into.
• Seated in Heavenly Places: What it means to live from victory rather than for it.
• Levi in Abraham: How a great-grandson participated in an act decades before his birth—and how you did the same in Christ.

Connect with Austin:

• Blog/Hub: waustingardner.com (Read the full "DNA of Grace" series here).
• Substack/Email: Sign up for daily grace-filled encouragement.
• Podcast: Search "Followed by Mercy" on all major platforms.

#WArustinGardner #IdentityInChrist #Grace #GospelTruth #FollowedByMercy #ChristianMentorship #IdentityTermination

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Have you ever felt like something about you was broken before you even chose anything?

In this powerful teaching, Austin Gardner explores the two "planes" of humanity: Being In Adam and being In Christ. Drawing from his personal journey with a genetic cancer diagnosis and 50 years of global ministry, Austin explains that sin isn't just something you do—it's a condition you were born into.

But there is good news. Just as you didn't choose to be in Adam, you have been included in the victory of Christ.

Stop trying to "Fix Adam." You can't repair a failing plane while it's in mid-air. Instead, Austin shows you how to "switch planes" by realizing your new location in Jesus.

In this episode, you will learn:

• The Genetic Link: How our spiritual identity is inherited, not earned.
• The Team Principle: Why you win when your Head (Christ) wins, even if you’re on the bench.
• Top-Down Leadership: How a new "CEO" (Jesus) changes the entire company of your life.
• Identity vs. Effort: Why "In Christ" means you are a new creature, not just a repaired one.

Key Scripture References:

• 1 Corinthians 15:22 — "For as in Adam all die..."
• Romans 5:12-19 — The offense of one vs. the obedience of One.
• 2 Corinthians 5:17 — Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature.

Connect with Austin:
Visit waustingardner.com to read the companion articles on "The DNA of Grace."

#AustinGardner #IdentityInChrist #Grace #BiblicalLeadership #FollowedByMercy #InChrist #TheDNAofGrace

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Have you ever paid for something you didn't even know you were paying for?

In this episode, Austin Gardner dives into one of the "strangest" passages in the Bible—Hebrews 7—to reveal a life-changing truth: In Christ, you were there.

Using the "Airplane Principle" from his days as a missionary in Peru, Austin explains that your identity isn't something you achieve through behavior; it’s something you receive through location. Just as Levi was "in the loins of Abraham" when he paid tithes, you were "in Christ" when He died and rose again.

Stop asking: "Am I enough?" or "Am I accepted?"
Start realizing: If you are in the plane, you are going where the pilot is going.

In this teaching, you’ll discover:

• Why "trying harder" to be like Jesus isn't the Christian life.
• The mystery of Representative Identity (Adam vs. Christ).
• How to live from a posture of rest rather than a cycle of performance.
• Why God doesn't relate to you outside of His Son.

Resources mentioned:

• Read the full "DNA of Grace" series at waustingardner.com
• Subscribe to the "Followed by Mercy" Podcast for more daily encouragement.

#IdentityInChrist #Grace #WArustinGardner #FollowedByMercy #BibleTeaching #ChristianLeadership

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We spend our whole lives trying to be David—trying to be the hero of our own stories. But after 50 years of ministry and a battle with Stage 4 cancer, Austin Gardner has realized that the pressure is off.

In this episode of the DNA of Grace series, we look at 1 Samuel 17 and Romans 5 to see that Jesus is the real David who fought the battle we couldn't win. Learn why "Together" is the most important word in your Bible and how to finally rest in a victory that is already yours.

Key Takeaway: You don't have to measure up because He already did.

Resources mentioned:

• Visit the Hub: waustingardner.com
• Part 1-7 of the DNA of Grace series is available on the website.

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

In this "unplugged" episode, Austin Gardner invites you into his home during a quiet Easter break to discuss the heart of the New Covenant. If you’ve felt like you’re clocking in as an employee rather than resting as a child, this episode is your permission to stop the striving. From the "City of Refuge" to becoming "partakers of the divine nature," discover why your identity is a gift to be worn, not a goal to be reached.

Check out waustingardner.com 

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Names reveal nature, purpose, and function. Today, Austin Gardner explores the six cities of refuge to show that they aren't just geography—they are a promise. From "Shechem" (the shoulder that carries your burden) to "Golan" (the place where the outsider becomes family), see the Gospel in a whole new light.

Pre-order/Launch Info: "DNA of Grace" officially drops April 3rd!

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In the Hebrew language, names are never random. They reveal nature, purpose, and function. Today, Austin Gardner invites you to "flee for refuge" as we explore the six ancient cities established in Israel.

If you’ve been walking through life feeling like a "Mara" (bitterness), it’s time to discover the identity God has set apart for you. Austin walks through the Hebrew roots of the Cities of Refuge to show how God provides a holy place where burdens are lifted, unions are restored, and outsiders become family.

Key Scriptures: Hebrews 6:18, Psalm 46:1, Isaiah 53, John 10:28.

A Word for the Weary:
These cities weren't just for Israel; they were for the stranger too. They were always accessible, with wide roads and signs pointing the way. If you feel far off today, this episode is your signpost.

Visit the Hub: waustingardner.com for more on the DNA of Grace book launch.

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Are you a prisoner of your circumstances or a prisoner of Jesus Christ? In this study of Ephesians 4:1-6, W. Austin Gardner explores the "Therefore" of the Christian life. Learn why "walking worthy" isn't about earning your salvation, but living out the identity God has already given you. Discover how to protect biblical unity, trade insecurity for humility, and stop playing the victim card. It’s time to act like who you are: a child of the King.

Detailed Content Breakdown & Show Notes

The Big Idea:
Your identity comes before your behavior. Grace doesn't lower the standard; it raises it by giving you a new nature to live from.

Key Highlights:

• Don't Be a Victim: Paul didn't call himself a prisoner of Rome; he was a prisoner of the Lord. Stop being a prisoner of your past, your health, or your age.
• The "Therefore" Pivot: Chapters 1-3 are what God did for you. Chapters 4-6 are how you live because of it.
• The Marriage Reality: A bride doesn't hope she'll be married someday; she wakes up with a new name and a new life. We don't create unity; we protect the unity Christ already bought.
• Strength Under Control: True meekness isn't weakness—it’s "strength at rest," like a powerful horse yielding to its King.
• The Seven Ones: Why the "Seven Ones" (One Body, Spirit, Hope, Lord, Faith, Baptism, and God) make it impossible for us to remain divided.

Scripture Reference:
Ephesians 4:1-6

Call to Action 

Want to dive deeper into living out your faith?
Visit the hub for more resources on leadership, ministry, and grace-filled living:
👉 waustingardner.com

Join the Conversation:
If you’re ready to stop asking if you’re "enough" and start asking what God has declared you to be, leave a comment below!

Tags 

Austin Gardner, Ephesians 4, Walk Worthy, Identity in Christ, Biblical Unity, Grace vs Works, Christian Mentorship, Prisoner of Christ, Overcoming Victim Mentality, Bible Study.

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What do you do when the doctor uses the word "palliative" and your nights are filled with panic instead of peace? For W. Austin Gardner, the answer wasn't found in a performance-based religion, but in the first two words of a familiar Psalm.

In this moving and transparent session, Austin recounts his harrowing journey through Stage 4 cancer and a 21-day battle on a COVID ventilator. He reveals how the Lord replaced his "panic attacks with presence" by deconstructing the caricature of God many of us grew up with.

In this episode, Austin explores:

• The "Referee" vs. The Father: Why we often view God as a distant judge or a criticizer waiting for us to fail, and how that view keeps us in a state of spiritual groveling.
• The "I AM" in the Cave: A look at David’s life at 65—hiding in a cave, running from his own son, and dealing with a history of failure—yet starting his prayer with "The Lord is my shepherd" without an apology.
• The "Long-Nosed" God: A fascinating Hebrew breakdown of Exodus 34. Austin explains why God calls Himself "long-nosed" (long-suffering) and how He breathes slowly and patiently with us when we mess up.
• The Abba Shift: Moving from the "Sovereign Almighty" of the Old Testament to the "Daddy" (Abba) relationship Jesus invited us into.
• John 17:23 – The Ultimate Truth: The mind-blowing reality that God the Father loves you with the exact same intensity and affection that He loves Jesus.
• The "Indulgent" Grandpappa: A witty look at how God, like a grandfather with a bowl of M&Ms, actually likes being good to His children.

The Takeaway: You don’t have to "measure up" to be loved. Whether you're in a hospital bed or a cave of your own making, your Father isn't just watching you—He’s with you, He's patient, and He's the "lifter of your head."

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

What happens when your best friends stage an intervention at a Shoney’s to tell you that you’re being too mean to your fiancée? For W. Austin Gardner, that conversation 52 years ago was the start of a lifetime spent learning that "man-ing up" has everything to do with tenderness and nothing to do with toughness.

In this candid and soul-stirring session, Austin pulls back the curtain on his 52-year marriage to Betty, his ongoing battle with stage four cancer, and the hard-won wisdom of raising a family in the spotlight of ministry.

In this detailed episode, you will explore:

• The Shoney’s "Cry" Incident: The hilarious but humbling story of how Austin learned to stop treating his wife like a "project" and started treating her like a companion.
• The MRI of the Law vs. The Mercy Seat: Austin uses his own medical journey—the cold, loud 45-minute scans—to explain the Bible. The Law is the scan that identifies the "cancer" of sin, but only Grace can heal it. Discover why God doesn't speak to you from the "law book," but from the Mercy Seat.
• Love is Sacrifice, Not a Scorecard: Why keeping receipts in a marriage is the quickest way to kill intimacy. Austin breaks down why the strongest marriages are built on faithfulness, not "fairness."
• The "Johnson Grass" of Bitterness: A lesson from a Tennessee cornfield on why you can’t just "mow down" your anger—you have to pull it up by the roots and let the sun of God’s grace bake it.
• Raising Kids in Ministry (The 1-2-3-4 Rule): Austin shares his non-negotiable priority list for staying sane in leadership: 1. God, 2. Wife, 3. Kids, 4. The Church. Learn how he raised four children who still love the Lord and the local church today.
• The Lifter of Your Head: A moving reflection on Psalm 3:3. When life (or sin) makes you want to hang your head in shame, learn how God reaches under your chin to look you "eye-to-eye and cheek-to-cheek."
• Legacy & Mortality: Facing a "terminal" diagnosis with a witty heart, Austin reflects on the only thing that matters in the end: Will he be remembered as a "grumpy old man" or a "tender-hearted daddy"?

Key Verse: "But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head." (Psalm 3:3)

The Takeaway: You are a "walking house of Jesus." Your life is the primary place where the world sees how God loves His people. Stop making excuses, pull up the bitterness, and start chasing your spouse like Christ chased you.

waustingardner.com

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Description:
Most people think a good marriage is about being "fair," but Austin Gardner says fairness is the enemy of a great one. After 52 years of marriage, four kids, and a lifetime of ministry, Austin shares why the best marriages don’t keep receipts. In this episode, he breaks down why love is a sacrifice (not a scorecard), why you should always make the first move, and how to pull up bitterness by the roots before it kills the sweetness. It’s raw, it’s funny, and it’s a roadmap for moving from being "roommates" to true covenant partners.

waustingardner.com

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In today’s episode of Followed by Mercy, Austin Gardner explores the profound mystery of Ephesians 4:20: "But ye have not so learned Christ."

Most of us have learned doctrine, behavior, and religion, but have we "learned Christ"? Austin challenges the idea that we are "generators" of our own spiritual power. Instead, he invites us to see ourselves as vessels. Religion says, "Become like Christ." The Gospel says, "Christ is already your life. Discover Him."

Using the beautiful analogy of his 52-year marriage to his wife, Betty, Austin illustrates that knowing Jesus isn't about reading a book about Him—it's about the quiet, constant awareness of His presence.

If you are heavy-laden with the effort of "trying to be a good Christian," this episode is your invitation to rest.

Key Takeaways:

• Learning Christ is experiential, not just intellectual.
• Transformation happens when your mind catches up to the reality of your spirit.
• We don't live for God; we live from the God who lives in us.

Find more resources on grace and rest at waustingardner.com.

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"Death and life are in the power of the tongue."

In this episode, Austin Gardner explores the often-forgotten practice of speaking biblical blessings. Whether you are a parent tucking your children in at night, a leader heading into a boardroom, or a spouse looking to strengthen your marriage, your words have the ability to create environments of growth or fear. Austin shares how to use Scripture to speak identity and destiny into the lives of those around you.

Key Takeaways:

• The historical significance of the pastoral benediction.
• Why simple words like "I believe in you" carry spiritual weight.
• Practical ways to start blessing people today.
• Main Website (Essential Links): waustingardner.com
• Primary Pillar Article: The Big Leap of Faith: Believing God Loves You Exactly As You Are

• Daily Podcast: The Austin Gardner Podcast (where the "Prayer is a Relationship" episode will live)
• Followed By Mercy (Newsletter): followedbymercy.beehiiv.com
• Substack: waustingardner.substack.com
• YouTube Channel: W. Austin Gardner on YouTube
• X (Twitter): @waustingardner

• Alignment Ministries: alignmentministries.com
• Sociedad de Mentores: sociedaddementores.com

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

"Grace without truth lead to compromise. Truth without grace leads to harshness."

Today, Austin Gardner dives into one of the biggest tensions in ministry: the fear that grace makes us weak on sin. Austin shares personal stories and biblical insights on why blessing is actually the key to transformation. If you've ever felt like the church was more interested in punishing you than restoring you, this episode will provide a refreshing, gospel-centered perspective on how God actually views your struggles.

What you’ll hear:

• The difference between religious rebukes and Jesus’ approach.
• Why "restoration" is a medical term for mending what is broken.
• How to speak blessings even in the middle of correction.

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Throughout church history, the greatest struggle has been the tension between grace and performance. Today, Austin Gardner addresses the fear many of us have: If I tell people they are loved unconditionally, won't they stop doing right?

Austin shares his personal journey of moving away from a "steeped legalism" that crushed people under expectations, toward a biblical understanding of grace that actually empowers holiness. He contrasts the "coach who only criticizes" with the "Father who loves first," and explains why your position in Christ is more important than your performance for Him. If you’re tired of the religious treadmill, join Austin Gardner for a message of radical rest and restoration.

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What is the difference between a contract and a covenant? And why does it matter for your spiritual life? Today, Austin Gardner takes us through a deep dive into the types of blessings found in the Bible.

Austin shares honestly about his 71 years of life, his battle with cancer, and the unwavering support of his wife, Betty. He moves beyond "sins of omission" and performance-based religion to show how God has woven blessing into the very fabric of our relationship with Him. If you want to learn how to bless your children, your spouse, and your church according to who God is (rather than what they’ve done), this episode is a must-listen.

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Austin Gardner, 5 Forms of Blessing, Biblical Covenant, Grace vs. Performance, Christian Mentorship, Benediction, Priestly Blessing, Austin Gardner Podcast, Faith and Resilience.

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Is your spiritual language defined by Thanksgiving or "fussing"? Today, Austin Gardner dives into the power of biblical blessing. He shares a personal story from his youth about a woman named Gail who used the "language of blessing" to impact an entire youth group, and how that same grace is available to you today.

Austin walks through the entire arc of Scripture to prove that God is, and has always been, a "Blessing God." From the Garden of Eden to the New Jerusalem, discover how God is working to restore everything sin destroyed—and how He wants to use you as a channel for that blessing.

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Austin Gardner, Biblical Power of Blessing, Language of Life, Grace-filled Mentoring, Genesis 1:28, Priestly Blessing, Following Mercy, Christian Encouragement, Overcoming Legalism.

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Is God a distant judge or a Father who delights in you? Today, Austin Gardner challenges the idea that blessings are only about money or comfort. Instead, he points us to the profound, life-altering blessings of God’s guidance, courage, protection, and restoration.

Austin shares how his own heart was transformed from being "rigid and hard" to understanding the sweetness of the Father. If you’re feeling "beat up or whipped" by life’s circumstances, listen in to discover how the Shepherd doesn't just restore you—He leads you forward into paths you didn't even know how to tread.

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Austin Gardner, Biblical Blessings, Psalm 23, Trusting God, Overcoming Fear, Christian Mentorship, Grace vs Legalism, Daily Devotional, Healing and Restoration.

Full Article: The Big Leap of Faith ➡️ https://waustingardner.com/the-big-leap-of-faith-believing-god-loves-you-exactly-as-you-are/

Daily Podcast: https://waustingardner.com/podcast/
Weekly Newsletter: https://followedbymercy.beehiiv.com/
Deep Dives on Substack: https://waustingardner.substack.com/

Connect with me:
Website: https://waustingardner.com/
X/Twitter: https://x.com/waustingardner

Ministries:
Alignment Ministries: https://alignmentministries.com
Sociedad de Mentores: https://sociedaddementores.com

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

What comes to your mind when you think about God? If it’s a judge or a taskmaster, it’s going to shape your entire life. Today, Austin Gardner dives into Ephesians 3:16-19 to show us a different picture.

Austin shares his personal journey of moving from a "judging" view of God to experiencing a Father who strengthens us from the inside out. We talk about the "breath, length, depth, and height" of a love that passes knowledge, and why 1 Thessalonians 5:24 is the most encouraging verse for anyone feeling "not enough." God is faithful, and He is the one doing the work in you.

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Austin Gardner, Spiritual Strength, Ephesians 3 Prayer, Inner Man, God's Goodness, Christian Mentoring, Overcoming Legalism, Grace-Based Living, Faith Journey, 1 Thessalonians 5:24.

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We often think of God as a judge waiting for us to mess up, but the New Testament tells a different story. In today’s episode, Austin Gardner walks through the beautiful "benedictions" of the New Testament to reveal the heart of a Father who desires good for His children.

Austin shares personally about finding supernatural peace during his battle with cancer and how you can find that same "soldier-like" guard over your heart today. If your life feels like it’s "stinking" right now, this message of hope, resurrection, and final grace is for you.

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"The greatest blessing isn't material; it's the living God walking with you."

In today’s episode, Austin Gardner takes us into Numbers 6 to examine the "Priestly Blessing." For many, the idea of "blessing" feels like prosperity gospel talk—but Austin shows that God authorized His leaders to speak life, protection, and favor over His people.

Highlights from this episode:

• The King’s Face: In ancient times, the King’s look determined your life. Austin explains why God’s "shining face" is the ultimate security.
• Shalom in Chaos: Why biblical peace is about completeness, not just the absence of noise.
• A New Testament Connection: How Jesus is the fulfillment of every line of this Old Testament blessing.
• Practical Application: How to use these verses as a prayer for your children, your spouse, and your church.

Connect with Austin:
Visit waustingardner.com for more resources, books on marriage and leadership, and personal mentoring.

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

“God is not a boss watching your every mistake; He is a Father who loves to hear you talk.”

After five decades of missionary work and pastoral leadership, Austin Gardner found himself in the fight of his life against Stage 4 cancer. But the greatest miracle wasn't just physical survival—it was a radical change of mind about who God is.

In this episode, Austin pulls back the curtain on his health battles and his theological shift from "Performance-Driven Christianity" to "Rest-Driven Faith." He shares how the darkest days of his life led to the sweetest fellowship he’s ever known.

Key Takeaways:

• Why we preach a "man-centered" Christianity and how to stop.
• The difference between being a servant and being a friend of God.
• How to live from grace rather than working for it.
• A reminder that you are the "Beloved" of the Father.

Connect with Austin:
Visit waustingardner.com for more resources, books, and mentorship opportunities.

Full Article: The Big Leap of Faith ➡️ https://waustingardner.com/the-big-leap-of-faith-believing-god-loves-you-exactly-as-you-are/

Daily Podcast: https://waustingardner.com/podcast/
Weekly Newsletter: https://followedbymercy.beehiiv.com/
Deep Dives on Substack: https://waustingardner.substack.com/

Connect with me:
Website: https://waustingardner.com/
X/Twitter: https://x.com/waustingardner

Ministries:
Alignment Ministries: https://alignmentministries.com
Sociedad de Mentores: https://sociedaddementores.com

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

In this episode, Austin Gardner shares a personal revelation from his morning Bible study that challenged his 50+ years of ministry. Moving from the Old Testament priesthood to our role as a "royal priesthood," Austin explains why our words are the primary way God releases grace into the world today. If you’ve felt the weight of performance or the sting of religious criticism, this episode is a refreshing reminder that God is a Father of "sweet love" who wants to bless His people through you.

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Ever felt a little "weird" asking God for something He already knows you need? You’re not alone.

In this episode, W. Austin Gardner dives into a question that hits every believer: If God knows our thoughts before we speak (Psalm 139), why bother praying out loud?

Discover why prayer isn't about giving God information—it's about intimacy. From the "movement toward God" in the Greek language to Jesus’ own prayers, Austin explains how prayer is the natural expression of a Father who simply wants to share life with you.

Key Moments:

• 0:00 - The "weird" question: Why pray?
• 2:15 - What Psalm 139 says about God’s knowledge.
• 4:30 - Jesus and the "Intentional Tension" of prayer.
• 7:10 - Relationship vs. Religious Technique.
• 10:45 - How prayer transforms us, not God.

#Prayer #Faith #Jesus #WAustinGardner #RelationshipWithGod #BiblicalTeaching #Grace

If God is all-knowing, is prayer a waste of time? W. Austin Gardner challenges the idea of prayer as a "religious duty" and reframes it as a relational movement toward a Father who loves you. Learn how to stop informing God and start sharing life with Him.

• Purpose of prayer in the Bible
• Relationship with God vs religion
• W. Austin Gardner podcast
• Biblical meaning of prayer
• Psalm 139 prayer teaching
• Does prayer change God?

Why Pray If God Already Knows? | Biblical Prayer Tips | Austin Gardner

Why do we pray if God knows our needs? W. Austin Gardner explores the relational heart of prayer and why God wants to share life with you.

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"But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head." — Psalm 3:3

What do you do when you’ve lost it all? When your family, your reputation, and your sense of worth are gone? Today, Austin Gardner takes us to the wilderness where King David was running for his life. David wasn't just a victim; he was a man who knew his own failures intimately. Yet, in the middle of the shame, he found a God who refuses to let us grovel.

In this episode, Austin explores the incredible grace of a God who reaches down to the broken and lifts their heads to look Him eyeball-to-eyeball.

Key Takeaways:

• David's "cancel culture" experience and how he survived it.
• The reality that God's glory is our true identity, not our successes or failures.
• Why Christianity is about relationship, not rules.

If you’re hurting or feeling ashamed today, this episode is a reminder that you don't have to have your head down. God is ready to listen, and He loves you exactly where you are.

Subscribe & Listen:
Find more encouragement at followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com or visit waustingardner.com.

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Ever feel like God loves you because He has to, but you’re not sure He actually likes you?

In this episode, Austin Gardner breaks down Ephesians 3 in plain language—or what he calls "Tennessee hillbilly." We dive into why it’s so hard to believe we’re truly loved, especially when life gets messy or we feel like we haven't performed well enough.

Austin explores the two big words Paul uses: Rooted and Grounded.

• Rooted: Like a tree that doesn't "work" to get nutrients, we are called to simply live from the love already given to us.
• Grounded: Building your life on the solid foundation of Grace rather than the shifting sands of other people's opinions.

Stop fighting to get love and start living from it. It's time to realize that your identity comes from your Father, not your past.

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• God’s love
• Ephesians 3:14-19
• Grace vs Performance
• Rooted and Grounded in love
• Austin Gardner podcast
• Faith-based personal development

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Christianity, Grace, Forgiveness, Biblical Teaching, Ephesians, Spiritual Growth, Gospel, Prodigal Son, Mental Health and Faith, Austin Gardner, Alignment Ministries.

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"There’s not a moment I’m not aware I have Pompe." Kelly Canfield joins Austin Gardner one last time to share the raw reality of living with a terminal, progressive disease. From the "stack of books" feeling on her chest to the mental weight Robert carries as a husband and father, this episode is a masterclass in finding purpose when life doesn't look like you planned.

If you are a patient dealing with cancer, a rare disease, or chronic pain—or if you are the one holding the hand of someone who is—this episode was recorded specifically for you.

Key Takeaways:

• How to not let a diagnosis define your entire identity.
• The beauty of "un-transactional" love in marriage.
• Why Robert says "God turns horrific into glorious."
• How the Canfields are reaching the world through Taking the Light Ministries.

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

What is it like to be a parent when your body is failing and your children are facing the same diagnosis? Robert and Kelly Canfield join Austin Gardner for a powerful discussion on parenting through Pompe Disease.

Highlights:

• The Struggle of a Mama: Kelly shares the vulnerability of being unable to hold her babies like a "regular" mom and the mobility issues that changed her parenting style.
• The Duty of a Daddy: Robert discusses the "hot and heavy" moments of crisis and how he learned to take action—even taking on multiple jobs—to lead his family through the storm.
• The Theology of "Now": Understanding that God’s grace is sufficient for today and we aren't promised tomorrow.
• More Than Conquerors: How to keep your head in a crisis and ensure bitterness doesn't rob you of today's joy.

"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life."

Connect with Austin Gardner:
Website: https://waustingardner.com
Share this episode with a parent who needs a reminder that they aren't alone.

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

What do you do when your greatest fear becomes your daily reality? Robert and Kelly Canfield return to the podcast to share the next chapter of their journey with Pompe disease—the moment they realized their daughters would also face this lifelong battle.

In this episode, Austin Gardner talks with the Canfields about:

• The Physical Toll: The reality of muscle biopsies and ongoing infusions.
• The Emotional Struggle: Dealing with envy and "why them and not me?" when seeing others on the mission field.
• The Redirected Path: How God traded their dream of living overseas for a powerful ministry of "Taking the Light" to others in the midst of suffering.
• A Message for Caretakers: Robert shares a direct word of hope for those feeling the weight of caring for a sick spouse or child.

"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life"—even in the valley of the shadow of death.

Connect with us:
Website: https://waustingardner.com
Subscribe to the "Followed by Mercy" podcast for the rest of this 5-part series.

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The future can feel like a storm you can’t outdrive. We explore how daily trust carries us through diagnoses, deferred dreams, and the quiet griefs that come with chronic illness. Robert and Kelly share practical ways to fight self-pity, see grace in limits, and find good days in a world that is not yet whole.

We open a window into their world as they face Pompe disease, recalibrate long-held dreams about missions, and learn to live with a kind of courage that looks ordinary from the outside and extraordinary up close. The conversation is unvarnished—tears in a truck, honest doubts, and the quiet decision to keep moving—but it’s also threaded with unexpected joy and a deep conviction that God meets us in the exact size of today.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Choosing one-day faith over future fear
• Pompe disease reframing marriage and pace
• Gratitude as a daily discipline
• Grace as shaping power in suffering
• Practical tools for days heavy with sadness
• Family gifts and unexpected provision
• Hope for those living with long-term illness

You’ll hear how a single verse—"Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself" (Matthew 6:34)—shifted their rhythm from anxious forecasting to faithful presence. Kelly shares how prayer and a full, intentional schedule keep self-pity from taking the driver’s seat, while Robert reflects on how slowing down beside his wife reshaped his character, his marriage, and his view of grace.

If you’re carrying a diagnosis or the ambient weight of uncertainty, this story offers tools you can use today: pray without ceasing in small bursts, keep helpful obligations, and notice the gifts hidden in slower steps.

“Don’t miss the next one.”

Connect with Austin:
📖 My Story of Radical Grace: waustingardner.com/w-austin-gardner/
🎙️ Followed by Mercy Podcast: followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com
🎥 YouTube Hub: youtube.com/@waustingardner

#followedbymercy #chronicillness #graceinsuffering #faithinthestorm #pompedisease

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A slow climb up the stairs can tell a bigger story. When Kelli Canfield began struggling with simple movements after childbirth, the signs pointed to something more than fatigue. What followed was years of being dismissed by doctors, self-doubt, and a search for answers that finally led to a diagnosis: Pompe disease.

In this episode, Robert and Kelli sit down with W. Austin Gardner to open up about the moments most people don’t see—the embarrassment of public falls, the grief of surrendering a dream to serve overseas, and the surprising way purpose survives when plans do not. Robert shares his profound shift from being a “fixer” to practicing a truer form of care: presence. This isn't just a story about a rare muscular dystrophy; it’s a blueprint for hope and a reminder that your calling is never defined by your geography.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The long search for a diagnosis and being dismissed by tests.
• How Pompe disease affects breathing and mobility.
• The husband’s shift from "fixing" to "presence."
• How faith holds both lament and gratitude at the same time.

Listen now and find out why mercy is always the final word.
https://waustingardner.com/w-austin-gardner/

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"Ever feel like an outsider? In this morning’s devotional, Austin Gardner dives into the surprising beauty of Leviticus 14.

Most people skip the rituals of the Old Testament, but the story of the 'Two Birds' reveals a profound truth about God's heart: He doesn't wait for the 'unclean' to come to Him—He moves toward the excluded. Austin breaks down how this ancient ritual is a perfect picture of Jesus, the sacrifice that brings total restoration, and the freedom that allows us to fly again.

In this episode:

• The significance of the priest leaving the camp.
• The mystery of the 'living water' and the two birds.
• What the number 7 tells us about your restoration.
• Moving from performance to radical grace.

Stay Connected:

• Read more about the Austin Gardner Story: https://waustingardner.com/w-austin-gardner/
• Subscribe for more stories of mercy and leadership.
• Don't miss tomorrow's special interview with Robert and Kelli Canfield!"

SEO Keywords (Tags):
Austin Gardner, Leviticus 14, Bible Study, Radical Grace, Followed by Mercy, The Austin Gardner Story, Gospel in the Old Testament, Biblical Restoration, Christian Devotional, Faith-based Leadership, Healing from Pain, Grace and Forgiveness.

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"I didn't realize how much I had fallen into performance-driven Christianity—doing things to earn God's favor when He already favored me."

In this episode, Austin Gardner takes us through the most "horrific" time of his life—recovering from a near-fatal bout of COVID only to be met with five new tumors and the abandonment of friends. Yet, in the middle of the chaos, he discovered a truth that changed everything: the absolute, unconditional love of Jesus Christ.

Key Themes:

• The Physical Battle: Moving from a walker to the pulpit.
• The Social Battle: Finding grace when people say things that aren't true.
• The Spiritual Breakthrough: Moving past "religion" to a relationship of rest.
• The Series Announcement: Preparing for the 5-day blitz of Robert and Kelly Canfield’s story starting Monday, March 9.

Connect with Austin:
Visit the ministry hub for articles, coaching, and updates: https://waustingardner.com
Share this episode with someone who needs to know they are followed by mercy today.

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

"I want to challenge you to think about how much God loves you today."

Before we begin our 5-day series on Monday, Austin Gardner shares a heart-to-heart message on the theology of suffering and the power of God's unconditional love. If you’ve ever felt broken by your circumstances or wondered if God has "accidents," this episode is for you.

Highlights:

• The Series Reveal: Everything you need to know about the Robert and Kelly Canfield story launching Monday, March 9.
• Affection vs. Attachment: Learning from King David (1 Chronicles 29) on where to place our heart's treasure.
• The Sinful World Reality: Addressing the misconception that God is the author of our pain.
• Resting in Grace: Why your relationship with Jesus isn't about "trying harder."

Join us Monday through Friday next week for the full "Followed by Mercy" series.

Connect with Austin:
Visit the website for over 100 articles and resources: https://waustingardner.com

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

Are you on a spiritual treadmill? For years, Austin Gardner has taught and led, yet he’s found himself struggling with the same question many of us face: Am I a son or a servant?

In this episode, Austin dives into the identity crisis that keeps many Christians in a state of burnout and resentment. Using the stories of Martha and Mary, the Prodigal Son’s older brother, and David’s peace in Psalm 23, Austin explains why God isn't looking for employees—He’s looking for children.

Learn how to shift your mindset from "earning merit" to "leading from rest," and discover why "Thank you" is the most important language you can speak.

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

What happens when you survive one miracle, only to be hit by a second disaster?

W. Austin Gardner shares the second chapter of his survival story. After the "rough" process of learning to stand and walk again following COVID-19, he was hit with a diagnosis of five tumors in his abdomen.

Austin doesn't hold back on the "TMI" details—the physical exhaustion, the side effects of immunotherapy, and the struggle to not "play the victim." If you’ve ever griped against God or felt like you were at the end of your rope, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The physical humiliations of recovery at 65 years old.
• Why Christian fellowship is the "sweetest thing" during a crisis.
• The emotional toll of being put on "palliative care."
• How being alone leads to finding that God is all you need.

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

"I hadn’t had a bath in 30 days. I stank to high heaven. I couldn't even stand up in the shower."

In this incredibly raw and unfiltered episode, W. Austin Gardner shares the "messy" side of his miraculous recovery from a medically induced coma and a 30-day hospital battle with COVID-19.

From his son’s emergency flight out of a locked-down Peru to the humbling moment he had to be physically lifted by his son-in-law, Austin doesn't hold back on the realities of physical brokenness. But this isn't a pity party. It’s a masterclass in the Attitude of Gratitude.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• The Peru Lockdown: The harrowing story of the Gardner family’s escape from one of the world's most affected countries.
• The Physical Cost: Dealing with the "stench" of a month in a hospital bed and the literal scars of survival.
• The "Two-Step" Secret: How Austin used a simple dream—getting back into the pulpit—to fuel his grueling physical therapy.
• Whining vs. Winning: Why nobody wants to attend your pity party, and how to shift your focus to being "God’s Beloved."

Whether you are battling COVID, cancer, or a season of deep discouragement, Austin’s story is a reminder: Don’t give up. Don’t quit. You are important to God.

Connect with W. Austin Gardner:
🌐 Website: waustingardner.com
📖 Books: Pain to Praise, The Ultimate Guide to a Healthy Marriage
🙌 Mentoring: Society of Mentors

Thanks for listening. Find us on YouTube, Substack, Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.

W. Austin Gardner shares the raw, unfiltered story of his COVID recovery—from a medically induced coma to the realization that "Home" isn't a place, but a person.

"Peace is not a place; it's a Person. Home is not a place; it's a Person."

In this raw and deeply personal episode, W. Austin Gardner shares the final chapter of his harrowing battle with COVID-19—a journey that included nearly a month in a medically induced coma. With his characteristic honesty and wit, Austin recounts the "humiliating but healing" process of learning to walk, talk, and even breathe again at Northside Hospital.

Austin doesn't shy away from the messy reality of recovery, including the "ICU delirium" that led to a shocking conversation with his wife, Betty, and the deep survivor's guilt he felt while mourning his missionary friend, Randy Sterwalt. He offers a powerful tribute to the caregivers who often suffer more than the patients themselves, and describes the sheer joy of that first "homecoming" peach milkshake.

More than just a survival story, this episode is an invitation to stop performing and start resting. Whether you are in a hospital bed or a spiritual wilderness, Austin reminds us that Jesus isn't calling you to a religion of performance, but to a relationship of rest.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• The reality of waking up after 30 days in a coma.
• The emotional and mental toll of recovery on a marriage and family.
• Why "hospital brain" is a real thing (and how grace covers the messy moments).
• The life-changing realization that Home is found in the person of Jesus Christ.

Connect with W. Austin Gardner:

• Website: waustingardner.com
• Mentoring: Alignment Ministries
• Social: Follow us for more stories of grace and honest hope.

If this story touched you, please like, share, and invite someone else to listen. God bless you!

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Are you tired of performance-based religion? Austin Gardner explores Ephesians 3, revealing how we have bold access to God as "Daddy." Learn how to stop trusting your own faith and start trusting the "faith of Him" to carry you across the street.

In this session, international keynote speaker Austin Gardner breaks down the revolutionary truth of Ephesians 3:12. Moving beyond performance-based religion, Austin discusses the "Pharaoh Principle" of being a prisoner to your circumstances versus a prisoner of Jesus Christ.

Whether you are a ministry leader facing "church hurt," or an individual struggling with a health crisis or past failure, this message provides a roadmap for finding rest. Learn why God doesn't want your groveling—He wants your trust. Austin explores the Hebrew roots of "Abba Father" and why understanding yourself as a son or daughter is the key to leadership development and personal growth.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Identity Shift: Why you are a son, not a servant.
• Faith of Him: Trusting God’s faithfulness over your own performance.
• The Joseph Story: How God turns what was meant for evil into a global ministry.
• Biblical Boldness: Having the confidence to "walk into the throne room like you own the place."

waustingardner.com

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After 52 years of marriage, Austin Gardner has learned one thing: you can't truly love your spouse until you understand how God loves you. In this episode, Austin breaks down why marriage isn't a contract, how to pull the "Johnson grass" of bitterness out of your home, and why God's love is never transactional.

• "You don't know how to love until you know how you're loved."
• In this candid talk, Austin Gardner shares lessons from five decades of marriage with his wife, Betty. He challenges the common "transactional" view of marriage, where we only love when our spouse performs. Instead, Austin points to the "Covenant" of the Bible—a promise that can't be broken.
• In this episode, you’ll hear about:
  • The First Move: Why waiting for your spouse to apologize first is a recipe for failure.
  • Contract vs. Covenant: Why "for better or worse" means more than just a legal agreement.
  • The Johnson Grass of Bitterness: How to pull up old grudges by the roots before they take over your life.
  • God’s "Scream" from Heaven: Understanding that God is well-pleased with you, not because of what you've done, but because of whose you are.
• Tags/Keywords: Christian Marriage, Ministry Leadership, Forgiveness, Marriage Restoration, W. Austin Gardner, Covenant Marriage, Spiritual Growth.

waustingardner.com

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"Austin Gardner shares a deeply personal account of his battle with COVID-19. It wasn’t just a battle for breath; it was a battle with his own mind and a crushing loss of dignity.

Austin recounts the 'humiliating' moments of hospital life—needing help with the simplest tasks and feeling the weight of total vulnerability. But in that weakness, he found a profound truth: God doesn't love us because we are strong; He loves us because we are His.

Tune in for a reminder that no matter how 'messy' your life feels right now, God is pursuing you with a love that never quits."

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"Why in the world is this happening?"

That was the question Austin Gardner was asking from a hospital bed after waking up from a three-week coma. Having lost 70 pounds and his sense of reality, Austin found himself in a battle not just for his physical health, but for his faith.

In this episode, Austin shares the raw details of his recovery from COVID and cancer. From the "funny" therapists who had to teach him how to think again to the surreal dreams of floating under continents, Austin describes the mental and spiritual fog of a drug-induced stupor. Most importantly, he recounts a life-changing encounter with a mysterious woman who challenged him to trade his anger for a testimony of grace.

Whether you are seeking restoration or just need to know you aren’t alone in your pain, this episode is a reminder that God’s love finds us even in our most desperate moments.

Followed By Mercy Podcast
Listen as we explore themes of real grace and honest hope.
Website: https://waustingardner.com
Books: https://waustingardner.com/book-page/

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In Episode 3 of The Austin Gardner Story, Austin shares the most intense part of his journey: being put on a ventilator, placed into a medically induced coma, and losing time he can’t remember. For 21 days, his family feared the worst, while Betty battled COVID at home.

Austin describes the terrifying delirium and nightmares, the confusion of waking up to masked faces and unfamiliar voices, and the physical cost of critical illness—losing strength, losing muscle, and having to rebuild from almost nothing.

This episode carries a simple message: you can live as a victim, or you can choose victory by trusting God in the valley. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow us all the days of our lives.

Full story hub (all parts): https://waustingardner.com/w-austin-gardner/

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Recovery is rarely a straight line. After beating cancer, Austin Gardner found himself in a new valley: COVID-19. Austin talks about the dangers of pride, the physical toll of low oxygen, and why even in our most "difficult" moments, God’s goodness never leaves our side. A must-listen for anyone struggling with a health crisis or family tension during hard times.

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"I woke up at a youth camp in Tennessee, and my life changed in a single moment."

In this first installment of a special series, W. Austin Gardner shares the raw, honest truth behind his first cancer diagnosis nearly 14 years ago. From the shock of the initial symptoms to the robotic surgery that saved his life, Austin reflects on the fear, the uncertainty, and the overwhelming mercy of God that has pursued him every step of the way.

If you have ever received a diagnosis that scared you to death, or if you’re struggling to trust God in the middle of a valley, this episode is for you. Austin shares why you aren't a victim, how to avoid the "prison of bitterness," and how to cast your cares on the God who loves you.

Key Highlights:

• The morning everything changed at a youth camp.
• Navigating the "emergency room protocol" and a cancer diagnosis.
• Why "Rooting Down" in grace is the only way to survive the storm.
• A message of hope for those currently sitting where Austin once sat.

Connect with Austin:
Visit waustingardner.com for more biblical encouragement and to read the full "Austin Gardner Story."

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After 50 years in ministry, traveling to 50 countries, and planting churches on nearly every continent, Austin Gardner realized something profound: It is possible to serve God for decades and still completely misunderstand His heart towards you.

In this episode, Austin Gardner shares his personal journey from the "treadmill of faith" to the stillness of grace. For years, he lived under the crushing pressure of performance, driven by a fear of losing God's favor. It took a battle with stage four cancer and a ventilator during a severe COVID infection to finally hear the Holy Spirit’s message: The Father loves us exactly as He loves Jesus.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• The Bridge to Grace: Why "enough" is never defined in religious performance.
• Sonship over Service: How to stop trying to earn what the cross already gave you.
• Leading from Rest: Moving from being a "taskmaster" to leading with patience and presence.
• The Power of Stillness: Finding your true identity when you can no longer "produce."

If you are tired, weary, or afraid you aren't doing enough, this conversation is for you. God is not disappointed in you; He is inviting you to be close.

Connect with Austin Gardner:

• Read the full story: waustingardener.com/mystory

waustingardner.com

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Hey, it's Austin Gardner. In over 50 years of global ministry and training leaders, I’ve discovered that the most dangerous person I face isn’t an enemy across the world, it’s the man I see in the mirror every morning.

In this episode, we’re looking at Ruth chapter 4 to uncover a word that destroys more leaders and ministries than any scandal: "Mine."We often protect our resources, our reputations, and our legacies, but the story of the Kinsman Redeemer shows us a different path. While "Mr. So-and-so" was so focused on guarding his own inheritance that his name was forgotten by history, Boaz calculated the cost of doing nothing and ended up in the lineage of Jesus Christ.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The difference between stewardship and hoarding.
• Why biblical leadership requires builders of others' names, not our own.
• How to identify your "mine"—whether it’s your time, your platform, or your comfort.
• The path to real biblical contentment through open hands.

Stop calculating what it costs to give and start calculating what it costs to do nothing.Listen and subscribe for daily encouragement and honest hope:
www.waustingardner.com

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W. Austin Gardner shares a raw, personal look at facing cancer surgery and the discovery that true peace isn’t a feeling—it’s a Person.

When life knocks you down, and you’re struggling to catch your breath, where do you turn? In this episode, Austin walks through the "theatre of surgery" and the powerful truth found in Ephesians 2. We often treat peace like a contract or a destination, but the Gospel tells us that Jesus Himself is our peace. If you are feeling worn out, unseen, or unsure of how to move forward, this conversation is for you.

In this episode:

• The Story: A personal reflection on cancer, surgery, and the moment everything goes quiet.
• The Point: Why we stop striving for a "feeling" and start resting in a Relationship.
• The Scripture: A deep dive into Ephesians 2:14—"For He Himself is our peace."

About W. Austin Gardner:
Austin Gardner has spent over 50 years sharing the message of God’s relentless grace across 50+ countries. He is a husband, father, grandfather, and a voice for those who are tired of religious performance and ready for honest hope.

Connect & Support:

• Listen Daily: https://followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com
• Website: waustingardner.com (The Hub for all resources)
• Follow the Journey: Helping you experience God's unwavering love, one day at a time.

#FollowedByMercy #WAustinGardner #GraceOverPerformance #Ephesians2 #ChristianPodcast #PeaceIsAPerson

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Are you tired of performing for a God who already loves you?

In this episode, W. Austin Gardner shares a raw and transformative look at Ephesians 3. If you have ever felt like your relationship with God depends on your performance, your prayer life, or your "good behavior," this message will change your perspective.

W. Austin Gardner—international speaker, author, and mentor with over 50 years of ministry experience—breaks down the "paycheck mentality" that keeps believers stuck in spiritual exhaustion. Discover what it truly means to be "rooted and grounded" in a love that you don't have to earn.

In this episode, W. Austin Gardner discusses:

• The difference between "working for" love and "resting in" love.
• Why the foundation of your faith is a finished work, not a project.
• Practical ways to experience God’s love rather than just studying it.
• Lessons from 5 decades of missionary and pastoral leadership.

• Official Hub: https://waustingardner.com
• Watch the Video Version: [INSERT YOUR YOUTUBE LINK HERE]
• Join the Society of Mentors: https://sociedaddementores.com/
• Daily Inspiration: https://followedbymercy.com/

ABOUT W. AUSTIN GARDNER:
W. Austin Gardner is a keynote speaker, missionary leader, and author focused on faith-based personal development. Having traveled to over 50 countries and overcome significant personal health challenges, he offers biblical wisdom combined with practical, applicable insights for ministry leaders and families alike.

Follow W. Austin Gardner on Social Media:
Twitter: @waustingardner
Instagram: @austininside

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Power can look polished, prayerful, and even generous—until you notice every decision was made before the meeting. We take a hard look at church boss syndrome through the story of Diotrephes in 3 John and ask a pressing question: who really leads, the Spirit or the strongest personality? Drawing from pastoral experience, we reveal how quiet control grows: backchannel conversations, “concerned” phone calls, strategic lunches, and gifts that feel like blessings but function as leverage.

We unpack why control often springs from insecurity and how identity in Christ frees leaders from needing the spotlight. Then we contrast two paths: the boss who drives outcomes in the dark and the shepherd who empowers people in the light. Using 1 Peter 5 as our guide, we outline practical guardrails for healthy authority—transparent decision-making, shared leadership, documented processes, and financial policies that prevent any one giver from owning the ministry. We also name the subtle signals of manipulation: outcomes pre-set by a few, pressure on pastors to “fall in line,” and piety used to defend a seat at the table rather than to seek truth.

This conversation equips pastors, elders, deacons, and faithful members to protect the flock without becoming combative. You’ll learn how to address leverage with clarity, replace obligation with gratitude, and keep the mission central when personalities try to take the wheel. The bottom line is simple and non-negotiable: the church belongs to Christ. Authority is stewardship, not possession, and you cannot build the house of Jesus with the tools of control.

If this resonates, share it with your team, subscribe for more practical, biblical leadership insights, and leave a review to help other churches guard their hearts and keep Christ at the center.

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For many believers, the Lord’s Supper has become a quiet, heavy ritual. We bow our heads, think about how bad we are, and focus on how much Jesus suffered for us. But is that really what the table was meant to be?

In this episode, I invite you to revisit the Lord’s Supper through the lens of covenant, not performance. We walk from Abraham’s one-sided promise, through the Passover, and into the New Covenant table Jesus so deeply desired to share with His disciples. This is not about earning forgiveness. It is about sharing life.

Jesus said, “He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.” The table is about union. Christ in us. Us in Christ. Not reaching for God, but resting in the God who already reached for us.

I share honestly from my own journey out of performance-based religion and into grace. We look closely at what it really means to take the Lord’s Supper “unworthily,” and why Paul said, “examine yourself, and so let him eat.” The table is not a place of exclusion. It is a place of healing, renewal, and rest.

The Lord’s Supper is not about trying harder to be holy. It is about receiving the life of Jesus, like a spiritual IV, flowing through us as we abide in Him. It is a celebration, not a sentence. A covenant reminder, not a condemnation.

If you have ever felt unworthy, exhausted, or hesitant to come to the table, this episode is for you. The table is set. You are welcome. And you can finally stop performing and start resting in what Christ has already finished.

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What if the table you keep trying to earn is already set for you?

In this episode, we explore the Lord’s Supper through the lens of covenant, not performance. Jesus said, “With desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer.” On the eve of the cross, His heart was not focused on inspection, but on fellowship.

We trace the table back before the Upper Room to a dark field in Genesis 15, where God put Abraham to sleep and walked the covenant path alone. That one-sided promise, sealed in blood, shapes everything we celebrate at the Lord’s Supper. The bread and the cup are not a test of worthiness, but a witness to finished work.

We also walk through Exodus 12 and the Passover, where protection rested on seen blood, not felt holiness. “When I see the blood, I will pass over you.” Salvation, safety, and nourishment have always flowed from what God provides, not what we perform.

If you’ve ever approached communion feeling anxious, unworthy, or unsure, this episode invites you to rest. You are desired at the table. You are safe behind the blood. You are fed by His life.

Stop earning your seat. The King invited you.

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We all know the "Pharisee" characters in the Bible—the ones who stood on street corners and judged others. But the "Pharisee spirit" is more subtle than we think. It’s the inner voice that prioritizes rules over relationships and performance over presence.In this episode, Austin Gardner dives into the mirror of his own 50-year journey in leadership and missions. He discusses how legalism often starts as a desire for excellence but can end up as a shield that prevents us from being truly vulnerable with God and others.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• Why we use religious rules to hide our own insecurities.
• Three clear signs that "the Pharisee" is taking over your heart.
• How Austin’s battles with cancer and COVID shattered his own need to "perform" and led him to deeper grace.

If you’ve ever felt the exhaustion of trying to be "perfect" for God, this conversation is for you.

📘 Order "Pain to Praise" on Amazon
🚀 Leadership Training: Visit Alignment Ministries at https://www.alignmentministries.com/

🌐 More Resources: Visit https://waustingardner.com

Support the show: If this message helped you breathe a little easier today, please leave a review and share it with a friend who needs this reminder of grace.

Keywords/Tags:
Pharisee, Legalism, Grace, Faith, Personal Growth, Ministry Leadership, Spiritual Health, Austin Gardner, Alignment Ministries, Pain to Praise

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There are moments in life when we feel completely alone, as if no one truly understands the depth of our pain or the weight of our burdens. But Scripture reminds us of a powerful name for God: El Roi—The God Who Sees.In this second episode of our podcast, Austin Gardner shares from his own journey of overcoming health battles and deep personal loss to show how God’s presence is most real in the places we think are hidden.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The story of Hagar and the first time God is called "The God Who Sees."
• How to find comfort when you feel overlooked by others.
• Trusting God’s plan even when you can’t see the way out.

You are not forgotten, and you are not alone. God sees you exactly where you are today.

📘 Order "Pain to Praise" on Amazon: here
🚀 Leadership Training: Visit Alignment Ministries at https://www.alignmentministries.com/
🌐 More from Austin: https://waustingardner.com

Support the show: If this episode encouraged you, please share it with one person who needs to know they are seen today.

Keywords/Tags:
The God Who Sees, El Roi, Hope, Healing, Faith, Austin Gardner, Alignment Ministries, Christian Encouragement

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https://waustingardner.com/the-big-leap-of-faith-believing-god-loves-you-exactly-as-you-are/

W. Austin Gardner
Podcast: followedbymercy.buzzsprout.com
https://waustingardner.com/book-page/

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Are you waiting until your life is "perfect" before you finally approach God? In this episode, we talk about the "Internal Delay"—the feeling that we have to clean ourselves up before we are worthy of peace.

The truth is, the greatest leap of faith isn’t just believing God exists; it’s believing He loves you exactly as you are, right in the middle of your mess.

What we cover in this episode:

• The "Performance Trap" in our spiritual lives.
• Why Jesus spent His time with "messy" people.
• How to take the "Big Leap" into grace.

Read the full Hub Article here:
https://waustingardner.com/the-big-leap-of-faith-believing-god-loves-you-exactly-as-you-are/

#Faith #Grace #PersonalDevelopment #WAustinGardner #ChristianLeadership

My Books: https://waustingardner.com/book-page/
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/austin-gardner
Hub Article: https://waustingardner.com/the-big-leap-of-faith-believing-god-loves-you-exactly-as-you-are/

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