WORDS OF LIFE is a 15-minute, weekly show from The Salvation Army. It features interviews and powerful testimonies, engaging conversations about topics impacting the church today, and deep dive Bible studies. The show is available on your favorite podcast store and is airing on more than 200 radio stations around the world.
What does it cost to care for others in the middle of crisis? In this powerful episode of Words of Life, we hear from Bobbi Geery of The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services as he shares the unseen emotional, physical, and spiritual weight carried by disaster relief workers. As our upcoming Biblical Justice roundtable series approaches, this conversation sets the stage by asking an important question: Who cares for the caretakers? Bobbi gives listeners a behind the scenes look at disaster response operations during major hurricanes and emergencies, coordinating personnel, deploying canteens, troubleshooting nonstop crises, and supporting teams working around the clock. But beyond the logistics, this episode explores the human side of disaster ministry: exhaustion, adrenaline, decision fatigue, missed family moments, and the emotional toll of constantly serving others in times of devastation. If you would like to learn more about The Salvation Army's Emergency Disaster Services, check out these previous Words of Life episodes:The History of Disaster Response Recent Disaster Responses How Does The Salvation Army Respond to a Disaster? Survivors and Recovery https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
What happens when the Church chooses to see people not by their worst mistake, but through the lens of grace? In this episode of Words of Life, we continue our conversation with Barry Brown, Divisional Director of Correctional Ministries for Texas with The Salvation Army. Barry challenges common misconceptions surrounding incarceration and shares how authentic Christian presence can bring hope, dignity, and transformation to people both inside correctional facilities and beyond. Barry speaks candidly about the assumptions many people make about incarcerated individuals, that everyone is beyond redemption, guilty without question, or spiritually disconnected. Through years of ministry experience, he offers a different perspective rooted in compassion, humility, and the Gospel. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Misconceptions we often have about incarcerated individuals Why “guilt by association” and quick judgment can be dangerous The growing impact of digital discipleship and prison outreach through the Edovo platform How Words of Life and Salvation Army resources are reaching people inside correctional facilities Powerful stories of transformation through consistent Bible reading and pastoral care One of the most moving moments in this conversation is Barry’s story of a man on death row whose simple act of reading Scripture with another inmate created a ripple effect of faith and discipleship that continues years later, even leading to Bible study conversations over the phone with his elderly mother. This episode is a reminder that no life is beyond God’s reach and no person is without value. Whether someone is incarcerated, serving as correctional staff, or trying to rebuild life after prison, the Church has an opportunity to reflect the love and hope of Christ. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
In this powerful episode of Words of Life, we sit down with Barry Brown, the Divisional Director of Correctional Ministries for Texas with The Salvation Army. Drawing from nearly three decades of ministry inside correctional facilities, Barry shares how God transformed his own life and called him to serve incarcerated individuals, correctional staff, and families impacted by incarceration. Barry opens up about his personal faith journey from walking away from church as a teenager to rediscovering God’s purpose for his life after the death of his father. He explains how that experience ignited a passion to bring hope into some of the darkest places in society. Throughout this conversation, we explore: Why prison ministry is one of the most overlooked mission fields today The importance of ministering not only to inmates, but also to correctional officers and prison staff Biblical foundations for prison ministry found in Matthew 25, Hebrews 13, Isaiah, and the life of Jesus The power of “the ministry of presence” through consistency, authenticity, and compassion How churches can help formerly incarcerated individuals successfully reintegrate into their communities Why acceptance, second chances, and genuine relationships matter in Christian ministry Barry reminds us that no one is forgotten by God, not those behind bars, not their families, and not those working within the correctional system every day. If you’ve ever wondered how the Church can better love its neighbors and reflect the heart of Christ, this episode will challenge and inspire you. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
In this episode of Words of Life, we conclude our series on Community Engagement with a special focus on church leadership and community engagement. Joined by Major Paul Ryerson, Area Commander for The Salvation Army in Central Oklahoma, this conversation is a practical and inspiring guide for pastors, ministry leaders, and church teams who want to make a real difference beyond the walls of their church. Major Ryerson shares what it means to be a “shepherd to shepherds,” equipping pastors to lead with vision, purpose, and outward focus. He challenges leaders to rethink how ministries are formed, not based on assumptions, but on real community needs discovered through relationships and data. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Church leaders set the tone: A community-focused pastor cultivates a mission-minded congregation. Don’t guess, engage: Effective ministry begins by listening to your community, not brainstorming in isolation. Go where people already are: Build relationships through local organizations like civic groups, chambers of commerce, and leadership programs. Start with listening: Meet with church leaders, learn the existing vision, and identify opportunities to serve both inside and outside the church. Collaboration creates impact: Partnerships with local leaders, law enforcement, and public services can uncover and meet real needs. Real-world example: Hear how a simple connection led to a mobile food program and ultimately helped children access vaccinations and return to school. It’s never too late to start: Whether you’re new in leadership or rethinking your approach, meaningful community engagement can begin today. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
In Part 2 of our powerful conversation with author Preston Fiddler ( 1000 Cups of Tea ), we continue exploring what it means to share the gospel through authentic relationships, not agendas. Too often, Christians can unintentionally treat people like projects. But what if evangelism started with genuine love instead? In this episode, we unpack a transformational mindset: we don’t love people to convert them, we love people because we’ve been converted. Preston shares practical wisdom on how to build meaningful, cross-cultural relationships rooted in compassion, listening, and patience. You’ll hear how simple moments like sharing your personal testimony or offering to pray for someone can open doors for God to move in powerful ways. Whether you’re an introvert, new to sharing your faith, or someone longing to connect more deeply with your neighbors, this episode will encourage and equip you to take simple, faithful steps. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife https://www.language180.com/books Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
What if sharing the gospel wasn’t about having all the right words, but about building real relationships? In this episode of Words of Life, we’re joined by author and missionary Preston Fidler, whose book 1000 Cups of Tea has helped inspire this series on community engagement and neighboring well. Drawing from decades of cross-cultural ministry experience, Preston shares how meaningful relationships, not methods, are at the heart of effective, Christ-centered outreach. Preston’s journey began with a simple but profound realization: the gospel is best shared through conversation, not scripts. From a memorable moment struggling to communicate in a taxi overseas to years of ministry in Asia and Central Asia, he discovered that true connection happens when we listen, engage, and meet people where they are. This episode also challenges a common misconception about evangelism. Sharing your faith isn’t just for pastors or missionaries, it’s for every believer. You don’t need to travel across the world to live on mission. It starts right where you are, with your neighbors, your community, and the people you encounter every day. https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife Learn more about Preston's ministry here https://www.language180.com/books Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
What does it truly mean to love your neighbor as a follower of Christ? In this episode of Words of Life, Bernie Dake continues his powerful conversation with Major Sandra Pawar, exploring a refreshing and deeply authentic approach to evangelism and community. Together, they unpack the idea that “we don’t love our neighbors to convert them, we love our neighbors because we are converted.” It’s a shift in perspective that moves us from seeing people as projects to embracing them as genuine relationships shaped by grace, humility, and love. Later in the episode, Jalane Rolader from The Salvation Army’s Bible Correspondence Program offers a moving glimpse into the lives of those often overlooked, men and women who are incarcerated. Through heartfelt prayer requests, we hear real stories of redemption, struggle, and hope behind bars. These testimonies serve as a reminder that no one is beyond God’s reach and that compassion must extend beyond our immediate circles. Plus, learn about an exciting new initiative bringing Words of Life directly into correctional facilities through secure tablets, creating new pathways for encouragement, discipleship, and transformation. If you would like to write encouragement to inmates see the following addresses to be a part of these ministries; Christian Pen Pals P O Box 11296 Hickory, NC 28603 Evangel Prison Ministries P O Box 19229 Louisville, KY 40259 Romans Chapter 8 Ministries P O Box 8771 Endwell, NY 13762-8771 WriteAPrisoner.com, Inc. P O Box 10 Edgewater, FL 32132-0010 Prison Fellowship Box 17500 Washington, DC 20041 https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Is busyness keeping you from being the neighbor God has called you to be? In week three of our Words of Life series on neighboring, Bernie Dake and Major Sandra Pawar tackle one of the biggest barriers we all face: a busy life. Between work, family, responsibilities, and constant distractions, it can feel nearly impossible to slow down and engage with the people right outside our door. Looking at the story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10, this episode challenges us to examine our priorities. Are we truly too busy, or have we allowed busyness to become an excuse? What would it look like to create space for people in the middle of our everyday routines? Major Sandra offers practical and refreshing insight. Neighboring does not require adding more to your schedule. It is about inviting others into what you are already doing. Whether it is a simple wave while taking out the trash, a quick conversation in the driveway, or opening your home in small ways, these moments can become meaningful opportunities for connection and witness. You will also hear a powerful story from Salvation Army officers in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, who stepped into a growing housing crisis in their community. Faced with rising rent and increasing poverty, they responded with compassion and action, helping dozens of families find stable housing. Their story is a reminder that loving your neighbor sometimes means meeting urgent, tangible needs and walking alongside people in difficult seasons. This episode will encourage you to rethink your schedule, reexamine your priorities, and rediscover how God can use your everyday life to impact others. 👉 Don’t forget: You can also download our free devotional, “Mind, Body & Soul,” designed to help strengthen your walk with God through Scripture, prayer, and practical habits. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP The book, THE ART OF NEIGHBORING on Amazon The book, 1,000 CUPS OF TEA on Amazon Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
What if being a good neighbor is simpler than we think? In this episode of Words of Life, Bernie Dake and Major Sandra Pawar continue our series on neighboring with a powerful reminder. Real change in our communities does not start with programs, policies, or platforms. It starts with us. Inspired by the book The Art of Neighboring, this conversation explores how everyday believers can take small, intentional steps to love the people around them. Major Sandra shares a deeply personal story about her family and how simple acts of connection with neighbors created a support system that showed up in one of life’s hardest moments. It is a moving picture of what it means to not only care for others, but to allow yourself to be cared for as well. Through practical ideas and honest reflection, this episode challenges us to rethink how we engage with those living right next door. Are we present? Are we open? Or have we made neighboring more complicated than it needs to be? You will also hear inspiring stories from Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services teams who are serving neighbors in crisis. From offering prayer and emotional support to first responders and survivors, to meeting physical needs in the aftermath of disaster, these teams embody the love of Christ in tangible ways. Their presence is a reminder that sometimes the most powerful ministry is simply showing up. This episode invites you to slow down, look around, and step into the opportunities God has already placed in your life. 👉 Don’t forget: You can also download our free devotional, “Mind, Body & Soul,” designed to help strengthen your walk with God through Scripture, prayer, and practical habits. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP The book, THE ART OF NEIGHBORING on Amazon The book, 1,000 CUPS OF TEA on Amazon Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
What does it really mean to be a good neighbor? In this episode of Words of Life, we kick off a brand new series focused on neighboring and how Christians can intentionally love the people around them. Whether you are a church leader looking to engage your community or simply someone wanting to live out your faith more authentically, this conversation offers both vision and practical encouragement. We hear from Bernie Dake and Major Sandra Pawar as they explore a simple but powerful truth. Our neighbor is not just the person next door. It is anyone we encounter in our daily lives. From coworkers to families in our neighborhoods, God is constantly placing people in our path for a reason. Drawing from Matthew 22, this episode reminds us that loving God and loving our neighbor are deeply connected. But what if neighboring is not about having all the right words or a perfect evangelism strategy? What if it is about presence, relationship, and being available to what God is already doing? Major Sandra shares a compelling story of building a genuine relationship with a family from a different culture and faith background. With no agenda, just consistent love and care, that relationship grew into something life changing. It is a picture of what it looks like to truly live out the Gospel. We also hear powerful stories from Salvation Army pastors in Daytona, Florida, who are bringing hope to their community in tangible ways. From serving children in underserved neighborhoods to creating spaces of belonging during major local events, their mission is clear. This is more than programs. It is about pointing people to Jesus and offering real hope in places that need it most. This episode will challenge you to rethink evangelism, embrace your everyday opportunities, and step into your role as a neighbor with purpose. The book, THE ART OF NEIGHBORING on Amazon The book, 1,000 CUPS OF TEA on Amazon 👉 Don’t forget: You can also download our free devotional, “Mind, Body & Soul,” designed to help strengthen your walk with God through Scripture, prayer, and practical habits. CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Bernie is a lifelong Salvationist and serves as the Territorial Director of Communications for The Salvation Army’s USA Southern Territory. He has been hosting Words of Life for the last 10 years.
