This week, we have the privilege of hearing from Dr. Alan Weissenbacher, the managing editor of the journal Theology and Science and a teaching pastor in Berkeley, California. Deriving from his work with those who struggle with addiction, he illustrates how we can harness the power of neuroscience to change our habits, emphasizing the importance of replacing negative thoughts with positive ones, and how our focus can reshape our brain's pathways, which includes the disciplines of prayer and studying Scripture.

Later in the episode, we'll hear from Carolyn Weber, an acclaimed author, speaker, and professor who experienced a profound spiritual awakening during her time at Oxford University. Initially an agnostic, Carolyn's encounters with diverse Christian communities and her thorough reading of the Bible led her to embrace Christianity. Her memoir and its subsequent film adaptation chronicle her journey from skepticism to faith.

Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:

Jesus Calling Podcast

Jesus Calling

Jesus Always

Jesus Listens

Past interview: Tom Rudelius

Upcoming interview: Tahj Mowry

Not That Fancy

Dr. Alan Weissenbacher

Theology and Science 

Denver Rescue Mission

www.brainchangeprogram.com

The Brain Change Program

Carolyn Weber

Oxford University

The Wizard of Oz

Genesis 

Michael W. Smith

www.carolynweber.com

Surprised by Oxford

Interview Quotes:

“If I didn't have those years at the Denver Rescue Mission, I wouldn't have been inspired to research the brain and how God designed that brain to learn and grow. And then by knowing that, how I could improve rehabilitation programs and help people improve their spiritual lives in the church as a whole.” - Dr. Alan Weissenbacher 

“Replacing unhealthy thoughts with healthy ones impacts the brain's structure and function. Replace the problem thoughts with good ones, turning yourself in that direction.” - Dr. Alan Weissenbacher 

“Don't pray to the problem. Pray to get the solution.” - Dr. Alan Weissenbacher 

“In a way, I didn't realize how much that template of my earthly father influenced any concept of a heavenly one.” - Carolyn Weber

“I think that those earlier life experiences in which I had felt very cherished and loved—but that the rug had been pulled out from under me—shaped my earlier initial views of faith in that it was very difficult to trust anyone but myself. I think sometimes we don't want to admit the things that hurt the most.” - Carolyn Weber 

“I began to realize that faith and intellect are not opposites. They're not incompatible.” - Carolyn Weber 

“Our souls are restless, our hearts are restless, until they find their home in God, and I identified with that longing.” - Carolyn Weber

“His love for us, it just endures. And that's still incredibly mind-blowing and soul-filling.” - Carolyn Weber 

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