Mar 19, 2026

Episode 7: Learning to Lose

What this episode is about

At the core of the human experience is a desire for comfort and control.

 

We want to follow Jesus—but we also want our lives to make sense. We want things to work. We want to feel like we’re moving forward and that our faith is producing results we can see and measure.

 

But Jesus offers a very different framework.

 

In Matthew 16, He says that anyone who wants to follow Him must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow. Not as a call to self-rejection, but as an invitation to let go of control and trust Him with our lives.

 

This episode explores:

  • Why we instinctively try to control our lives—even while following Jesus

  • How we build “kingdoms within His Kingdom” to protect comfort and predictability

  • The difference between consuming faith and actually following Jesus

  • What Jesus means by denying ourselves and taking up our cross

  • Why trying to save our lives often leads to more anxiety, not less

  • How surrender becomes the pathway to real life

Key idea

Following Jesus is not about trying harder—it’s about surrendering control.

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Wilderness Way Resources

The Wilderness Way Book:
Finding freedom in life’s fractures

The Wilderness Way Workbook
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Music: Wilderness Worship Collective

My Heart Sings (New Single)

Available now on all streaming platforms.

 

Light & Love

The first single from the upcoming album

 

Song Stories / Devotionals

Articles about the heart and scriptures behind the songs.

 

Chord Charts

Available on the website for churches or musicians who want to use the songs.

Recent Podcast Appearances

Dustin has recently been a guest on several podcasts discussing ministry, leadership, and the themes behind The Wilderness Way.

FRESH HOPE FOR MENTAL HEALTH

MY DASH STORY

BLEEDING DAYLIGHT

LIFE AFTER MINISTRY PODCAST

CRUSHING STRONGHOLDS WITH MICKEY

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If something in this episode resonated with you, consider sharing it with someone who might need it. You can also reach out with feedback or part of your own story.

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Normal Pastor Co. 2026

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