mentoring support

Whatever you're struggling through, you don't need to do this alone any longer. I can offer Christian-based support through ongoing discovery and accountability, or a single coaching session that directly targets your need and issue with immediate feedback.Specialties include:
• overcoming addiction
• discovering purpose or calling
• discerning Kingdom assignments
• sexuality and identity issues
• marriage and relationships
• career planningWe can also discern together what God is saying and where He may be leading. You decide how or if you want to continue with mentoring.One-hour sessions conclude with a next steps plan and include prayer time.SPECIAL: for a limited time, all one-hour sessions are CHOOSE YOUR OWN RATE. Details on payment page.

• free intro session
• one hour
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how to answer your calling

by Todd Norman Ringness, MBTI® Certified Coach
10 hours, 1 to 1 coaching
Clarify your God-given Kingdom assignment through five unique modules, to help fulfill God's plans for your life!Full program includes MBTI® assessment and interpretive report ($125+ value).You can also choose some individual modules by clicking the graphics below.

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recovery & relapse prevention

The Genesis Process™ addiction relapse prevention program is one of the most successful Christ-centred options available to those struggling with life-controlling addictions who want FREEDOM! The Genesis Process™ boasts a remarkably high 70%+ success rate with motivated participants who successfully complete the requirements of the program.Relapse Prevention Coaching is provided by Todd Norman Ringness, Certified Genesis Process™ Coach. Todd's recovery ministry began 7+ years ago, with 3+ years of Genesis Process™ case work, directly serving 25+ clients in a Christian residential recovery and addiction treatment centre.Choose from two program options below, offered 1 to 1 only:

long-term intensive

The Genesis Process™ program is an intensive, Christ-centred, proven program delivered over 20 weeks. Upon completing this program, you will have:+ increased awareness of addiction triggers/sources
+ a highly effective personalized relapse prevention plan
+ a reliable support/accountability team
+ and numerous recovery resources and tools to ensure long-term sobriety to thrive in your Calling.This coaching program is based on the Relapse Prevention Workbook for Addictive and Compulsive Behaviours (3rd Edition) by Michael Dye, CADC, NCAC. In order to maximize your success and protect the integrity in this program, it is strongly recommended that you have at least 90 days sobriety and life stability before beginning this program; contact us for more info. To view the Genesis Process™ 20-week Program curriculum, click here.This Genesis™ Intensive Program is facilitated by Todd Norman Ringness.

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short-term refresher

Maintaining sobriety is extremely difficult without an effective and easy to follow plan. This is 1 to 1 personalized coaching package delivered over five sessions that fit your schedule, i.e. 1 hour/day, 1 hour/week, etc.We will create your highly personalized and very practical Relapse Prevention Plan that you can implement right away. This life-changing work is based on the Relapse Prevention Workbook for Addictive and Compulsive Behaviours (3rd Edition) by Michael Dye, CADC, NCAC.Session Topics
1. Assessment
2. Life Management Skills
3. Support Teams
4. Triggers & FASTER Scale
5. Accountability

companion journal

NOW ACCEPTING PRE-ORDERS"Discover firsthand how our journeys might be different, but our struggles are often similar and ready to teach us." — Todd Norman RingnessReaders of Not Like All the Other Boys have told us the stories of the author's early life caused them to reflect upon their own experiences. Some expressed a desire for a journal to record those reflections and thoughts while reading through the book. And we've answered!This is a 28-day companion journal for readers of Not Like All the Other Boys. Reading at a pace of about 15 minutes per day, you can complete one chapter daily with corresponding reflections and journal entries.Each chapter will feature poignant questions to help you consider applicable themes in your own life. Additional help is provided by way of suggested reading or further clarification opportunities. All designed to help you get the most out of your reading experience so you can also experience personal breakthroughs and growth!LIMITED OFFER: The special pre-order price is only $7.95, for this 100+ page, 8" x 10" journal. Regular pricing applies after the journal is released. Please allow four or more weeks for delivery.

November 9, 2024

Confession of a Change Agent

by Todd Norman RingnessYou know what's funny? I'm the type of person who embraces change faster than most—including my underwear! I've earned a reputation as being flexible and something of a "change agent" among colleagues and loved ones.In fact, Coca-Cola and RBC awarded me the distinction of being an "everyday champion of change" that accompanied the honor of carrying the Olympic Flame in the torch relay for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games."See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." —Isaiah 43:19This verse pulses through my veins because, like God's continuous work of renewal, I find myself naturally drawn to transformation and growth. I'm that person in meetings who enthusiastically declares, "Sure, let's shake things up!" while others clutch their coffee mugs with terror in their eyes, knuckles turning white with resistance.But here's my delightful paradox: despite my passion for change, I cherish my morning routine with the devotion of a monk. For years, nearly every day unfolds in the same sacred sequence: walking Daisy under the morning sky, brewing that perfect cup of coffee, launching my Bible app, diving deep into the Word, and settling into intimate prayer. The earthy scent of fresh coffee mingles with the crisp morning air, while the familiar embrace of my recliner and the quiet hum of an awakening neighborhood create an anchor that, surprisingly, fuels my appetite for change elsewhere.It's as if God, with His divine sense of humor, designed me to be a walking contradiction: a creature of habit who's simultaneously hooked on transformation. Perhaps that's why I've naturally gravitated toward roles helping others navigate change. There's something beautifully humbling about being used as God's instrument of transformation, even if I sometimes feel like a spiritual socket wrench in His divine toolkit.So how do we embrace change while honoring our need for routine?1. Start with a foundation of trust in God's unchanging nature. When everything's shifting, He remains constant. Always.2. Recognize that stability and change can coexist, like my unchanging morning routine that powers my changeable days.3. View change as an adventure with God rather than a threat to stability.4. Keep some sacred routines that feed your soul while remaining open to new paths.The sweet aroma of possibility doesn't have to compete with the comfort of familiarity; they can dance together in beautiful harmony. Perhaps that's why God gave us both sunrise and seasons: to show us that consistency and change aren't enemies but partners in our growth.As I sit here in my gloriously chaotic desk space (which I'll probably reorganize just before my next holiday), I'm reminded that we can live in contradiction while God uses both our love for routine and our openness to change for His purposes. He's funny that way... using our quirks and contradictions to help others navigate their own transformations.So, what change is He whispering about in your heart today? Listen closely—it might just be the beginning of your next beautiful adventure.For more encouragement in adapting, check out my other blog article.

October 19, 2024

It's Time to Surface

by Todd Norman RingnessAs the warm Hawaiian morning sun danced across the surface of the Pacific, its rays pierced the azure depths, creating a mesmerizing interplay of light and shadow. Air bubbles, like glassy messengers, rose past our masked faces as we descended into the underwater realm off Waikiki Beach. Mere days after Sandra Gaye and I had pledged our lives to each other before God and our cherished community, we were now submerged in this alien world. The weight of the ocean muffled all but the sound of deliberate breathing and our own heartbeats.The regulations kept us at a depth of twenty-five feet or less, but let me tell you, that was plenty deep for this landlubber. I’m normally a calm and collected guy, but something about breathing underwater had my guts doing the hula. It felt about as natural as a penguin in a sauna. Meanwhile, my radiant new bride was in her element, her smile so wide behind her mask I half expected fish to swim right in!As we posed for the underwater photographer ("Hold your breath!") and marveled at the kaleidoscope of marine life, I couldn't shake this niggling discomfort. When the signal finally came to surface, it felt like I shot up like a cork from a champagne bottle, ready to gulp down some good old-fashioned air.You know, looking back, I can't help but draw a parallel between that dive and my decades-long struggle with pornography addiction. Much like being submerged in those murky depths, sin has a way of clouding our vision, making us feel trapped and disconnected from the world above."People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy." —Proverbs 28:13Our adversary, slick as an eel, whispers that we “deserve” these indulgences or that no one will ever know. Before we know it, we're sinking deeper into the quagmire of forbidden pleasures, each descent making the surface seem further away. It's a bit like deep-sea diving—the deeper you go, the higher the danger. Only in this case, it's not just the bends we're risking, but our very connection to the source of love and life itself.About six years ago, the Lord brought a new level of healing into my life that I didn't fully grasp at the time—He delivered me from my pornography addiction. There I was, discipling men battling life-controlling addictions, boldly proclaiming that Jesus offered everything needed for freedom. Yet, behind closed doors, I remained shackled by lustful bondage. The stench of my hypocrisy was suffocating, like the fetid high-noon smell of seaweed at low tide.One day, the weight of conviction became too heavy to bear. I felt like I was drowning in a sea of shame, my lungs burning for spiritual oxygen. In that moment of desperation, I made a decision that would change the course of my life: to put away that childish thing and fully embrace the freedom Christ offered. It was like breaking through the surface after being submerged for far too long, gasping for air and blinking in the sudden brightness of unexpected grace. Since that day, I've been gulping in His sweet forgiveness like a drowning man rescued from the depths.Friend, if you find yourself treading in the muck of sin, convincing yourself you're okay when your heart knows you're not, consider this your personal lifeguard whistle. It's time to leave the underwater escapades to the fish and surface. Jesus is waiting, standing on the waves, His arms outstretched and ready to welcome you. Trust me, His embrace is warmer than any ocean sun and more refreshing than any tropical drink. A cleansing tide awaits to bring hope and transformation!

September 7, 2024

Divine Auto-Correct

by Todd Norman RingnessWe've all been there: that mortifying moment when our phone's autocorrect betrays us with an embarrassingly inappropriate word substitution. Maybe you've accidentally recommended “children noodle soup” to a sick friend or wished a nervous colleague "good lick" before an interview. I know I have, much to my chagrin.The bizarre autocorrect guesses my phone comes up with often leave me scratching my head in bewilderment. Words and phrases I never use somehow make their way into its prediction algorithm. Though I'll admit, occasionally, it does manage to get it right; those small victories are appreciated. But wouldn't it be wonderful if our phones truly learned our communication styles and got it right every single time? (Then again, maybe that's a terrifying thought…)These autocorrect fails make me ponder how I live out my faith journey. So often, I stumble and veer off course, my actions and attitudes in dire need of spiritual correction. If only there were some sort of Divine Autocorrect to keep me on the righteous path! Alas, God's sacred gift of free will means the choice is mine alone.“So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves.” —Galatians 5:16 (NLT)Some say the indwelling Spirit gently tries to intervene and redirect us when we start down the wrong path. I believe that's true. It's that soft inner prompting—a moral nudge, if you will—compelling us to make amends or extend compassion. But like a stubborn child, I frequently ignore that still, small voice of conscience. The more I disregard it, the easier it becomes to tune out altogether and plow ahead in selfishness and sin.So I find myself praying, "Lord, keep nudging me. Don't let me become calloused to Your guidance. Help me mature in my walk with You." I invite you to offer a similar prayer. We could all use that flawless, ever-present Divine Autocorrect that gets it right every time.

August 24, 2024

Why Momentum Matters

by Todd Norman RingnessLast September, I amplified my daily walking habit from about 5,000 to aim for double or triple that amount. On occasion, my routine or inclination changed, and I walked less, putting on pressure to catch up the following day. That burden was often too much, resulting in a lower step count week by week. While I may not be as obsessive as some individuals I know, I am struck by the transformative power of consistency over extended periods.My outdoor exertions over the past year tally nearly four million steps, equivalent to around 1,700 miles (2700 km) based on my average stride. If I weren’t tethered to my hometown of Kelowna, my paces would have propelled me to Kansas City by now. However, irregular lapses would have caused me to fall short… somewhere around Boise.We’re all familiar with the tale of the tortoise and the hare, which underscores the importance of steady progress in achieving success. Another beloved reference is the enthusiastic Dory in the Nemo movies who echoes this sentiment.“Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” —Galatians 6:9 (KJV)To overcome obstacles and actualize our God-given potential, we must remember that not moving forward comes at a cost. As Aristotle observed, the difference between potentiality and actuality lies in motion. Perhaps we would all benefit from realigning the importance we place on pace and remember to just keep swimming.

August 10, 2024

You Had to Wear the White Shirt

by Todd Norman RingnessAs we approached a pack of owners and their pups at the dog park this morning, a friendly pooch suddenly darted towards us, leaping up to greet me with an enthusiastic lick on the face.“You had to wear the white shirt,” an owner exclaimed, a hint of shame in his voice. I merely smiled, basking in the dog’s affection as Daisy May looked on with rapt interest. We then continued our customary way, completing our requisite number of laps around the park.Why do we become so disconcerted when a white shirt becomes stained? Would a black shirt be any less soiled? Clearly not, so the difference lies in our perception.I've spent much of my life living in a black shirt, hiding emotional and other “stains” from others. Fear of rejection prompted me to conceal my vulnerabilities, pretending all was well when it wasn't. This charade had a profound impact, leading me to make countless harmful choices that prioritized protection and concealment over wisdom or appropriateness.“…for you are like whitewashed tombs—beautiful on the outside but filled on the inside with dead people’s bones and all sorts of impurity.”—Matthew 23:27 (NLT)One of the fastest paths into our full potential lies in overcoming the obstacle of our false selves. This begins with yielding to something greater than us (such as faith in God) and continues with small, courageous adjustments all throughout life.Perhaps it's something uncomplicated, like expressing our own genuine desires instead of deferring to others. My encouragement for you this week is to seize an opportunity to be true to your authentic self. See how it unfolds and how it feels. Who knows, a breakthrough might be as easy as trying on a different shirt.

July 13, 2024

Harmless Pebbles and Dislodging Distractions

by Todd Norman RingnessMy daily treks with Daisy, our Mexican rescue dog, yield far more than regular exercise for both of us. The tranquil interludes that stretch well beyond an hour invite observations of all kinds, which I've previously shared.Last week, I discovered my current walking shoes have gaps near the ankles that call out to wayward pebbles along the path. When one little interloper invaded my private foot territory, its presence was suddenly announced with a sharp pinch to the nearby nerve endings.As the walk continued, slight pain repeated with every step, refusing to be ignored. Yet, I persisted, determined to exercise mind over matter and not let it bother me. Too late. The pebble had already wheedled itself into my focused attention, upon every left-footed contact with the walkway’s surface.Distraction persisted for about five minutes more before I relented, deciding to ignore the pebble no longer. Halting on the path’s side, I reeled in Daisy in to sit beside me as I balanced on my right foot, removed the left shoe, and shook out the tiny stone of trouble. Yet the actual effort to end discomfort was virtually no trouble at all.Our walk resumed as if nothing had transpired, almost as if the pebble had never existed at all. But I grant the possibility the inner sole of my shoe was a little more chafed after the encounter. I can’t help but wonder what other irritating pebbles steal my attention.What about you Charlie… anything chafing your inner sole?"I want you to do whatever will help you serve the Lord best, with as few distractions as possible." —1 Corinthians 7:35 (NLT)

April 20, 2024

Living Free from Social Pesticides

by Todd Norman RingnessI have to admit, when the term “organic” was being popularized, I was tempted to run the other way. It seemed like a giant scam to rake in more profit. But the principle of choosing food that is less harmful to our bodies is a sound one, extending well beyond fruits or vegetables grown without with detrimental chemicals.In our home, my wife and I (and our dog) have become accustomed to the improved flavour of organically grown carrots. So, I’ve become a believer of sorts, though there is plenty of room for improvement on multiple levels.Nourishing our bodies with wholesome, pesticide-free food translates well to nurturing our minds with wholesome, pesticide-free ideas. As spiritual beings, it is also essential to cultivate an organic faith, free from the toxic influences that can hinder our growth and ability to live a life of true fulfillment and purpose.In this article, we will explore the organic mindset and discuss three effective ways to reduce our exposure to toxic influences in our lives. By implementing these strategies, we can foster a more profound connection with ourselves, our community, and God.Cultivate positive relationships
Much like the choice of fertilizer can make or break the health of a garden or crop, the people we surround ourselves with impact our spiritual well-being. From the wisdom of Proverbs, we are reminded, "Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm." (Proverbs 13:20) Manure is common fertilizer, but it’s not so great for humans to spend much time in it or be around those who spew it.To cultivate an organic mind, it’s crucial to share company with others who embody positive values and uplift our spirits. Discerning our choice of friends creates an environment that supports our development and encourages us to thrive. This doesn't necessarily mean we should completely avoid those who are struggling, but rather, that we need to balance our time and energy between those who need our support and those who can offer us support.Cleanse your social media feed
Social media platforms have become breeding grounds for toxic influences masquerading as friendly discussions and innocent entertainment. Just like harmful insecticides, these noxious inputs can infiltrate our minds, corrupt our beliefs and undermine our faith. The Bible warns us about arguing with fools, so let’s resist that temptation!To protect ourselves from these digital toxins, it's important to regularly cleanse our social media feeds, unfollowing or muting sources that consistently promote negativity, gossip, or discord. By curating our digital environment with intention (something we often forsake as we mindlessly scroll for hours), we can focus our attention on positive, uplifting content that nourishes our spirits and strengthens our faith.Establish a healthy news diet
While staying informed has some advantages, consuming a constant barrage of negative news stories creates a distorted worldview and fuels anxiety, fear, and hopelessness. More than two years ago, I resolved to no longer consume news. Instead, I decide what I want to know about and do my own research from sources I trust, which happens about once a week. I’ve found that just as consuming healthier food promotes better physical health, a healthy news diet (or fast) promotes mental and spiritual well-being.Consider limiting your exposure to mainstream news outlets, seeking instead alternative sources that prioritize constructive, solution-oriented journalism. Make a conscious effort to seek out stories of hope, resilience, and positive change in the world. If I see or hear about something of interest, I choose to research the topic using sources I trust. This occurs about once a week and I’ve found others very eager to fill me in the blanks. For example, I’ve told my parents that we expect them to call us when the nukes are on their way so that we can rush over and can all go together.As we implement these or other strategies, it's important to remember that creating an organic mindset is an ongoing process. It requires patience, commitment, and grace for us and others as we learn to keep up with the speed of life and improve our spiritual ecosystem to support growth and well-being for everyone around us.Let’s be guided by the words of the Apostle Paul, who encourages us to "fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (2 Corinthians 4:18) By focusing on the eternal and nurturing our toxin-free mindset, we can better overcome life's obstacles and maximize our God-given potential.

April 6, 2024

Facing Obstacles: Adapting Like Dogs

by Todd Norman RingnessEvery day, caring for our nine-year-old Mexican rescue named Daisy May, is a delight. Her arrival into our lives and how she has impacted us is a story for another time. But through her eyes, I’ve learned valuable life lessons, ever deepening my understanding and practice of Jesus’s teachings.Daisy’s routine includes three walks a day—a must since our condo lacks a backyard. It falls on me, “Papa,” to ensure this happens, though sometimes it turns into a family event when “Mama” joins us. Our special go-to is an off-leash park where Daisy indulges in two of her favourite activities: high-speed chasing after her ball, and joyously rolling over her ball in the deep grass (or snow.) Lord forgive us if we show up there without that ball!Our regular daily walks, which usually follow the same routes, constantly show me Daisy’s inspiring adaptability. We commonly follow the same routes, thanks to my inclination for rhythm and routine. Yet, when circumstances change, be it an obstacle or whimsy, there’s no resistance or questioning from her—not even a furry eyeball! A minor pull on the leash yields pure trust and readiness for whatever lies ahead.She could easily try to show Papa the right way—the way we always go that’s more familiar and comfortable. But instead, she readily complies, changes direction, and enthusiastically heads forth with her Papa to encounter new smells in whatever and whomever comes along the path before her.Sudden stops usually signal a whiff of something really good. And it’s Papa’s job to swiftly—and I mean very swiftly—determine if whatever she’s found is about to end up in her mouth. Despite being well-fed (each meal declared as her “favourite” by Mama) Daisy’s curiosity often wins, leading her to taste whatever new thing she discovers, nasty or not.Approaching other dogs always requires a quick assessment: friend or foe? Daisy’s better at calibrating than me, but I’ve learned to look out for how their owners react. Interestingly, female dogs often prove more challenging, particularly if they’re the dominant type. On the other hand, male dogs are usually friendly, often making for playful encounters that are a joy to watch. I am grateful for the early warning system of gender determination with a quick glance between the legs, of the dogs.Frequenting the same park has allowed us to become familiar with other regulars and their dogs, creating a community of sorts. Daisy especially appreciates some folks more than others with extra energy, a wagging tail, a wiggling butt, and sometimes excited whimpers. Without fail, smiles of appreciation take over their faces as they respond to her in kind with a friendly pat, or stooping to receive a sloppy wet kiss.Daisy’s greetings are like how my heavenly Papa greets me when I stop and say hello to Him amidst my busy life, lingering for a chat about whatever’s on my heart. And Daisy’s way also reminds me how to greet others, though I am a little stingy with the sloppy wet kisses, based on my lawyer’s advice.Daisy frequently disregards countless sticks along the path, but the moment her Papa picks one up and shows it to her, it transforms into her one and only desire. If I don’t urge her to keep going, she’ll lay down and start chewing on it within seconds. It’s Papa’s job to pull on the leash to get back on the path, and her immediate response is something I admire.Once Daisy’s grabbed onto the stick and is in motion, she becomes more focused and less distracted, moving forward with purpose. She won’t let that stick go until we’ve finished circling the park and arrive back at home, where she drops it in the pile by our front door. But it was Papa’s job to point out the stick in the first place, which would have otherwise been ignored.Papa God, help me to trust You more to lead the way and show me the sticks that deserve my focus (and those that don't) and help me to be more like Daisy, and more like You. Amen.

March 23, 2024

Facing Obstacles: Rewards vs. Risks

by Todd Norman RingnessLast time, we talked about how fears can prevent us from living our best life. Another common life obstacle are the obstacles themselves. Lord knows, I've encountered, banished, and embrace(d) many along my journey. I'm trying something new this time, so pull up a chair and allow me tell you a story!Once upon a time, in a small town nestled between rolling hills and a sparkling river, there lived a woman named Clara. Clara was a hardworking single mother who struggled to make ends meet while raising her two young children. She often felt overwhelmed and wondered if she could ever create a better life for her family.One sunny Saturday, Clara accompanied her kids on a garage sale excursion to scour for hidden gems, a favorite family pastime. As they wandered between the trinket-laden tables, Clara's eye was drawn to an unusual object partially hidden beneath a bench covered with old kitchen supplies. Looking closer, she saw it was about two feet tall and just over a foot wide, covered in intricate carvings, and appeared to be fashioned from an indigenous wood. Clara's curiosity intensified, so she asked the gray-haired woman running the sale about it.The woman explained that the object had been sitting in their cluttered attic for decades, and her late husband incessantly attempted to figure it out. She admitted to being oblivious about its actual purpose, but shared that her husband called it “Juke,” and it was finally time for it to go. Clara was intrigued, so she bought it and took it home.For weeks, Juke sat patiently in the garage until Clara’s son Sam unearthed it while digging around for the weed trimmer. Inspecting the heavy, solid object, he spun it around, scrutinizing every nook and cranny to find a clue about its purpose. Etched into the wood on its base, he discerned a faint diagram of the object itself, stationed on what appeared to be a set of steps. Heeding his hunch, Sam transported Juke indoors, positioning it carefully on the stairs. Upon doing so, an inexplicable magnetic force drew it downwards, lodging it firmly on the stairwell. Clara called out a second time for Sam to get his shoes on to head out for ice cream, causing Sam to reluctantly postpone his investigation.Upon their return, their home was imbued with a delightful fragrance of fresh forest air, punctuated by a soft symphony of nature sounds resonating through every room. Perplexed, Clara scoured the house in search of the source, eventually
encountering Juke on the stairs. Revealing its presence to her kids, Sam confessed his role in its placement. Clara instructed him to relocate the object to the garage, citing safety concerns. As dawn broke, the household returned to its previous, commonplace demeanor. Sam, however, remained captivated and resolved to unravel Juke’s secrets once more.During Clara’s absence, Sam reinstated Juke to its prior preferred position on the staircase. Within minutes, the house again transformed into a haven of natural allure, teeming with the sounds and smells of nature. Sam ran to tell his sister Amy about Juke’s magical power, not resisting the temptation to share it on social media. To their astonishment, they observed their devices exhibiting remarkable properties, unlimited power and extraordinary WIFI strength and speed. Could Juke be responsible for this too? Eager to unveil the truth, they burst forth to share their revelations with their mom.In the ensuing days, the family cherished Juke’s presence, delights abounding in their transformed home, and their electronics now imbued with uncanny capabilities. Laughing and jesting amongst themselves, they didn’t mind the slow maneuvering required to get past the immovable Juke on the stairs.Yet, as nightfall descended the next evening, Clara neglected to recall Juke’s presence on the dark stairs, suffering the consequences as her right foot collided with the solid object, tragically fracturing her toes. Not long after, Emily found herself pressed for time, dashing from her bedroom, hurtling down the stairs. Within seconds, she too succumbed to Juke’s immovable stature, tumbling down the steps, resulting in a broken arm and a week off from school. Regrettably, a series of similar incidents ensured, involving unsuspecting family guests as Juke’s hapless victims.Whenever they tried to banish Juke, its mystical powers ceased, leaving their devices bereft of uncommon strength and speed, and their home devoid of natural vibrancy and charm. Consequently, the very mention of Juke’s departure invariably evoked steadfast resistance and resolute opposition. At a family meeting, everyone agreed they just needed to try harder to be more careful to avoid running into Juke, because it wasn’t going anywhere. They all agreed that the mysterious benefits Juke bestowed upon their lives were invaluable, despite the probable perils. And they all did not live happily ever after.

March 2, 2024

Facing Fear: Foe or Figment?

by Todd Norman RingnessOne of the most persistent obstacles in my life has been the fear of humiliation. This weapon was formed in elementary school when a classmate publicly shamed me by levelling a false accusation, based on a misconstrued incident involving my best friend and me. Although I knew the claim was bogus, I didn't know it had become a companion to my insecurities, embedding itself deep within my being, inflicting immense struggle and pain. Despite very few actual occurrences of humiliation, the risk of an occurrence felt just as real.This malicious virus secretly infiltrated my emotional operating system, negatively impacting my day-to-day decisions for decades. Typical opportunities to mature and progress into healthy interactions were thwarted, as fear repeatedly held sway. However, it wasn't all grim, as there were many instances where the more difficult choice yielded positive results.Variations of “Do not be afraid” persistently surface as some of the most recurrent phrases in the Bible. As one of our most primal emotions, fear may rival love in its prevalence within the human experience. Unquestionably, fear prompts appropriate applications, eliciting vital motivations and responses, such as flashing red lights on a roadway, a gleaming black fin slicing through the waves, or perhaps the tiny text that warns, “while supplies last.”However, fear has an ominous underbelly, as evidenced in the acrostic, False Evidence Appearing Real. My sister tumbles into terror at the sight of spiders, struck by irrational dread and hysteria with each encounter. She falsely believes the cute little spider will harm her, somehow from several feet away. However, the screaming reveals her fear is very real despite the lack of any imminent peril.Psychology says the opposite or antidote of fear is knowledge and understanding; I’ve found the presence of faith to be its most effective counter-agent. The blockbuster film, Raiders of the Lost Ark, memorably portrays the tension in trusting our eyes over faith. Indy faces an impassable chasm and can’t see the hidden stepping stones forming a bridge. It isn’t until our intrepid hero takes his first step of faith that the bridge materializes, paving the way to the Holy Grail.Fear lurks as an ever-present adversary, threatening to sabotage our God-given purpose and ambitions. With its malevolent grip, fear paralyzes our decision-making process, hindering our progress and stifling our potential. As believers, it is our sacred responsibility to confront and vanquish this formidable foe, allowing our true potential to thrive. By implementing these three following strategies and leveraging Kingdom wisdom, we can rise above the inhibiting confines of fear and embrace our true selves.1. Develop a robust support system: Surround yourself with a reliable network of friends, family, and mentors who share your faith and values. Engage in open and honest dialogue about your fears with these individuals, leaning on them for guidance, encouragement, and prayer. This supportive community can offer fresh perspectives, bolster your faith, and assist you in navigating daunting challenges.2. Identify and examine your fears: Pinpoint the specific fears that stymie your progress, such as public speaking, failure, or rejection. Next, critically examine these fears, questioning their validity and origin. This can be achieved through prayer, journaling, or conversation with a trusted friend or counsellor. By acknowledging your fears, you start dismantling their control over your life.3. Take small, intentional steps: Instead of striving to conquer your fears in a single, monumental leap, identify one and break it down into manageable tasks. Each small success will fortify your confidence and spur you to continue tackling larger challenges. By methodically building on your achievements, you progressively erode fear's influence and expand your comfort zone.Fear often immobilizes, paralyzing us in a state of indecision and inaction. Confronting this debilitating emotion demands bold, faithful strides, propelling us forward despite our apprehensions. Isaiah 41:10 (NLT) reassures us, "Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand." By taking courageous and intentional steps, fuelled by the presence of God and His unmatched desire and ability to empower and free us, we gradually dismantle fear's oppressive stronghold and forge a path towards the achievement of our calling.In my personal journey, the most profound revelation that facilitated healing was accepting that the sources of fear within me may never dissipate. A lot of time was wasted waiting for my fears to abate so that I could move forward. But fear resolutely held its ground. Most times, what actually evolved was my willingness to face it dead on, armed with loving support, humble awareness, and courageous intention.“Fear has two meanings: ‘Forget everything and run’ or ‘Face everything and rise.’ The choice is yours.” – Zig ZiglarAs believers, it is our solemn responsibility to confront and overcome the fear obstructing our path. We must wage war against this paralyzing adversary, ultimately emerging victorious and fulfilling our God-given destinies.My upcoming book, "Not Like All the Other Boys" reveals much more about the sorrowful impact of fear in my life, and how I was transformed through deliberate steps of faith. “Not Like All the Other Boys” is scheduled to be released in Spring 2024.