Suffering in the Kingdom vs the Culture

Send us Fan MailWe often talk about being "in the world but not of it," but what does that actually look like in our daily lives? In this soul-stirring conversation, Ashley Potter welcomes her mother Shana back to continue their exploration of what it truly means to choose Kingdom over culture in regards to suffering.Starting with Romans 12:1-2, they unpack the radical idea that true worship isn't just what happens during a Sunday service—it's offering your everyday, ordinary life as a living sacrifice to God. "Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit in without even thinking," they quote from The Message translation, highlighting how easily believers can unconsciously adopt worldly values and mindsets.The mother-daughter duo tackles the often-neglected topic of sanctification—the ongoing process of becoming more like Christ after salvation. While many contemporary teachings focus heavily on grace and blessing, they boldly address the necessary work of putting off the old self and putting on the new. "There is work for us to do in Christ," Ashley emphasizes. "Jesus did a work. Now it's time for us to work."What makes this episode particularly powerful is the raw vulnerability shared between them. Shana opens up about her journey with kidney failure and how that suffering deepened her relationship with God in ways that comfort never could. "If He always took the pain away, I wouldn't have cried out to Him as much as I did," she reflects. Meanwhile, Ashley transparently discusses her recent struggle with God's direction to close her business, admitting her initial resistance but eventual surrender.Their conversation flows into practical discussions about modern idols—from social media and entertainment to careers—and how easily these good things can replace our devotion to God. They challenge listeners to examine their daily choices, priorities, and even small interactions with strangers as opportunities to reflect Kingdom values rather than cultural norms.Whether you're new to faith or have been walking with Christ for decades, this conversation will inspire you to reassess what truly guides your life decisions. Are you living according to the kingdom of this world or the Kingdom of God? Take a step toward intentional, Kingdom-focused living by diving into this thought-provoking episode today.