Words of Life: Weekly Christian Podcast with Testimonies & Teachings from the Salvation Army

In this episode of Words of Life, we introduce you to the Salvationist Service Corps (SSC)—a powerful missions program from The Salvation Army’s Youth Department. SSC sends young adults across the world to partner with local Salvation Army communities and serve through ministry, outreach, and discipleship. You’ll hear from several young leaders before they embark on their summer assignments to places like Chile, Scotland, Alaska, and beyond. They share their excitement, fears, and hopes as they prepare to step outside their comfort zones, trusting God to use them in incredible ways. Whether you’re curious about missions, seeking encouragement in your own faith journey, or simply inspired by stories of young people boldly serving Christ, this episode will challenge and uplift you. 👉 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.

In this episode of Words of Life, we close out our special testimony series with a powerful mix of family stories, faith lessons, and exciting news about a brand-new Salvation Army podcast. First, we’re joined by Ashley Escobar, host of Open Air Podcast, a show inspired by Matthew 10:27 and the Salvation Army’s bold tradition of sharing the Gospel in the open air. Ashley shares how Open Air creates a space for authentic, unscripted conversations about faith, service, social justice, and God’s transformative work through His people. Then, we return to our testimony series, recorded during the Salvation Army Southern Territory’s 2025 Commissioning weekend. You’ll hear from the Hewitt Sisters, Captains Shemei Hewitt and Tamarique Hewitt Ellis, as they reflect on the faith, prayer life, and legacy passed down to them by their parents. Their stories highlight the lasting impact of intercessory prayer, evangelism, music, teaching, and godly wisdom—reminders of how parents and spiritual mentors shape generations for Christ. Whether you’re discovering the Open Air Podcast for the first time or being encouraged by these heartfelt testimonies, this episode is a beautiful reminder of how God continues to work in and through His people. 👉 Don’t forget to check out the Open Air Podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Subscribe to Open Air on Apple Podcasts here- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/open-air-podcast/id1822805395 Learn more about Words of Life at 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 continue our special series of testimonies recorded live at the Salvation Army’s Commissioning 2025 event. These powerful stories remind us how God works through ordinary people to bring hope, healing, and transformation. You’ll hear from Cadets Aaron and Heather Simpson as they share how God used their relationship and the ministry of the Salvation Army to break chains of addiction, restore faith, and draw them closer to Him. Their journey highlights the power of community, perseverance in faith, and God’s ability to redeem even the most broken situations. Key Takeaways: How God can use relationships and mentors to guide us back to Him The reality of addiction, brokenness, and the hope of freedom through Christ Why persistence in inviting others to church and prayerfully walking alongside them matters How personal testimonies can inspire faith and encourage others in their own journey If you’ve missed earlier stories in this series, be sure to subscribe to Words of Life or visit wordsoflifepodcast.org to listen. And if you have your own testimony about someone who has inspired you in your walk with God, we’d love to hear from you at hello@wordsoflifepodcast.org Learn more about Words of Life at 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, two powerful testimonies highlight what it really means to show up for others — in both everyday moments and life-and-death situations. Captain Kathy Michaels reflects on how a spiritual mother figure changed the trajectory of her life through consistent love and mentorship. Later, Major Gary Sturdivant shares his miraculous recovery from a near-fatal COVID diagnosis and how it radically changed his perspective on time, forgiveness, and what truly matters. Whether you’re mentoring someone, questioning your own calling, or wrestling with what to do with your “bonus” days, this episode is a heartfelt reminder of God’s personal, life-altering love. Key Takeaways for Listeners: Mentorship is about presence, not perfection. Kathy’s testimony shows how someone simply being there with love and consistency can lead others to faith, healing, and eventually ministry. Your calling doesn’t depend on credentials — it depends on your obedience. Kathy’s journey from stay-at-home mom to officer reveals how God equips the willing, not just the “qualified.” Surviving something life-threatening shifts your entire framework. Major Gary’s story challenges us to forgive quickly, love intentionally, and make each day count like it’s a gift — because it is. Even mentors need to be mentored. Burnout is real, and this episode opens up honest space to acknowledge the need for ongoing support, even when you're the one others look to for strength. Learn more about Words of Life at 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, two powerful testimonies highlight what it really means to show up for others — in both everyday moments and life-and-death situations. Captain Kathy Michaels reflects on how a spiritual mother figure changed the trajectory of her life through consistent love and mentorship. Later, Major Gary Sturdivant shares his miraculous recovery from a near-fatal COVID diagnosis and how it radically changed his perspective on time, forgiveness, and what truly matters. Whether you’re mentoring someone, questioning your own calling, or wrestling with what to do with your “bonus” days, this episode is a heartfelt reminder of God’s personal, life-altering love. Key Takeaways for Listeners: Mentorship is about presence, not perfection. Kathy’s testimony shows how someone simply being there with love and consistency can lead others to faith, healing, and eventually ministry. Your calling doesn’t depend on credentials — it depends on your obedience. Kathy’s journey from stay-at-home mom to officer reveals how God equips the willing, not just the “qualified.” Surviving something life-threatening shifts your entire framework. Major Gary’s story challenges us to forgive quickly, love intentionally, and make each day count like it’s a gift — because it is. Even mentors need to be mentored. Burnout is real, and this episode opens up honest space to acknowledge the need for ongoing support, even when you're the one others look to for strength. Learn more about Words of Life at 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 recorded live at the 2025 Salvation Army Commissioning event, we hear a heartfelt testimony from Gessica Pierre, a Salvation Army officer, and her spiritual mentor, Gloria Diavangama. What starts as a story about gratitude quickly unfolds into a practical masterclass on what authentic discipleship looks like — not in theory, but in real homes, real relationships, and real-life chaos. Whether you're leading teens, parenting, or just trying to live a more consistent faith, this conversation delivers raw, relatable wisdom that will both challenge and encourage you. Key Takeaways: Discipleship isn’t a program — it’s a presence. Gloria’s most impactful ministry didn’t happen at a pulpit; it happened in her home, her car, and through consistent presence in Jessica’s life. Authenticity is transformative. Jessica’s faith was reshaped when she saw that Christianity wasn’t a performance — it was something that could thrive even in the hard, messy parts of life. Teens don’t need a perfect example — they need a real one. From seeing a healthy marriage to being lovingly corrected, Jessica shares how being included in everyday life helped her internalize spiritual truths. Legacy leadership happens when we invest deeply in a few. Gloria’s intentional discipleship of Jessica eventually bore fruit not just in Jessica’s life, but in the lives Jessica now pours into as an officer, wife, and mom. Reflection Questions: Who invited you into their life in a way that shaped your faith? What are simple ways you can create “access points” in your daily life for younger believers? Are you modeling a faith that’s real enough for others to want to follow? Learn more about Words of Life at https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this powerful conclusion to our six-week series with Dr. Zach Clinton, we explore what it truly means for men to live with purpose, courage, and hope. Dr. Clinton reminds us that the cost of following Christ becomes easier when our purpose is clear—and that no past mistake can disqualify us from God’s calling. Through personal stories, biblical encouragement, and a moving illustration about a fork and the promise of “the best is yet to come,” this episode will leave you inspired to step boldly into God’s plan for your life. Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning of this series or are just joining now, this conversation is a call to men everywhere to embrace their God-given gifts, live with resilience, and cling to the hope found only in Jesus. If you know someone who needs encouragement, share this episode with them today. 👉 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 Click here to purchase Zach’s book, “EVEN IF” Learn about Light Counseling and find help here- https://lightcounseling.net/ Listen to the “Built Different” podcast on Apple- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-built-different-podcast-with-dr-zach-clinton/id1558251199 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 continue our series with counselor and speaker Dr. Zach Clinton, drawing from his latest book Even If. Zach reminds us that God often reveals Himself in our moments of pressure and pain, using trials to shape us into the likeness of Christ. Through powerful stories—including the survival of a Bible in the midst of a house fire—this conversation explores how hardship exposes our foundation, why consistency matters more than intensity, and the true cost of following Jesus. If you’ve ever wrestled with resilience, discipline, or trusting God through suffering, this episode will strengthen your faith and encourage you to keep pressing toward the mark. Subscribe to our Newsletter here! https://mailchi.mp/uss.salvationarmy.org/newsletter-english Learn more about Words of Life- https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife Click here to purchase Zach’s book, “EVEN IF” Learn about Light Counseling and find help here- https://lightcounseling.net/ Listen to the “Built Different” podcast on Apple- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-built-different-podcast-with-dr-zach-clinton/id1558251199 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’re joined by Dr. Zach Clinton to discuss the biblical story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—the inspiration behind his latest book, Even If. Their bold stand against King Nebuchadnezzar’s golden image reveals powerful lessons about unshakable faith, courage, and trusting God in the midst of trials. Dr. Clinton unpacks how this story reminds us that God may not remove the fire, but He always walks with us through it. Be encouraged to find strength in suffering, shift your perspective, and embrace a posture of praise no matter what season you’re in. Subscribe to our Newsletter here! https://mailchi.mp/uss.salvationarmy.org/newsletter-english Learn more about Words of Life- https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife https://zachclinton.com/ Click here to purchase Zach’s book, “EVEN IF” Learn about Light Counseling and find help here- https://lightcounseling.net/ Listen to the “Built Different” podcast on Apple- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-built-different-podcast-with-dr-zach-clinton/id1558251199 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Biblical masculinity, godly leadership, and spiritual formation take center stage in this powerful episode of Words of Life with Dr. Zach Clinton. Together we explore the unique calling of men as spiritual leaders in their homes, the impact fathers have on their families’ faith, and what it truly means to live with boldness, courage, and mission as followers of Christ. Zach also unpacks the importance of spiritual disciplines—like prayer, Scripture, and community—in shaping us into the likeness of Jesus. Plus, he shares the heart behind his book Even If, inspired by the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, encouraging listeners to stand firm in faith even in life’s fiercest trials. Learn more about Words of Life at https://salvationarmysoundcast.org/wordsoflife Subscribe to our newsletter and receive a free devotional e-book here Zach Clinton, M.A. (Clinical Mental Health Counseling) currently serves as the Vice President of the American Association of Christian Counselors, host of the renowned ‘Built Different Podcast’ and is President & Host of Ignite Men’s Impact Weekend that gathers nearly 10,000 men each year. A Licensed Resident Counselor and former Division 1 college baseball player, Zach is a recognized growing authority and voice on performance, motivational psychology and mental health for today’s generations. His mission is to remind people that they are never out of the fight! Zach is the proud husband to his lovely wife, Evelyn, and they make their home in Lynchburg, VA. – source zachclinton.com Click here to purchase Zach’s book, “EVEN IF” Learn about Light Counseling and find help here- https://lightcounseling.net/ Listen to the “Built Different” podcast on Apple- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-built-different-podcast-with-dr-zach-clinton/id1558251199 Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.