#569: Soul Confidence: Uncomplicating Faith and Finding Meaning in Life

 Podcast #569SOUL CONFIDENCE: UNCOMPLICATING FAITH AND FINDING MEANING IN LIFEThose with unshakeable confidence have tapped into soul confidence. Soul confidence is different than confidence that is self-focused. It is God-focused, and it is strengthened by deepening one's relationship with God. This episode will help you find deep meaning and fulfillment through the deepening of your faith. It will also help you uncomplicate any challenging or painful past relationships with religion or faith that was imposed onto you.In this episode of The Confidence Podcast, we're talking about:* How faith creates the most unshakeable core foundation of confidence* Habits that Strengthen Your Faith* What God says about youANNOUNCEMENT:Ask Trish - Live Coaching SessionHappening Wednesday, October 25th at 12PM EST. www.trishblackwell.com/Q&AREVIEW OF THE WEEKMY FAITH STORY:Why Jesus is Different:He went against religion.He loved and prioritized women.He was a teacher that resonated with everyone.He honored and loved the little children.He never judged, always loved.Jesus of Nazareth is widely regarded as a counter-cultural leader due to several aspects of his teachings, actions, and the social context of his time that set him apart from the norms of society. Here are some key reasons that made Jesus a counter-cultural figure:Challenging Religious Authorities: Jesus often challenged the religious authorities of his time, including the Pharisees and Sadducees. He criticized their rigid interpretations of religious laws and emphasized a more personal and compassionate relationship with God. This challenged the established religious hierarchy and normsInclusivity: Jesus welcomed and associated with marginalized and outcast individuals, such as tax collectors, prostitutes, and the sick. In a society marked by strict social hierarchies, this was a radical departure from the norm. His message of love and inclusion went against the prevailing exclusivity of his era.Nonviolence: Jesus preached nonviolence and advocated turning the other cheek in response to aggression. In a world where power often rested on military might, his emphasis on nonviolent resistance was revolutionary and counter-cultural.Teaching Love and Forgiveness: Jesus emphasized love, compassion, and forgiveness as core principles. His teachings, including the Sermon on the Mount, promoted a radical ethic of loving one's enemies and forgiving those who wronged you, which contradicted the prevailing culture of revenge and retribution.Wealth and Materialism: Jesus spoke against the excessive pursuit of wealth and material possessions. His parables often depicted the dangers of wealth and the importance of sharing with the less fortunate, challenging the prevalent greed and materialism of his time.Equality of Women: While the cultural norms of Jesus' time often marginalized women, Jesus interacted with women openly, challenged sexist attitudes, and included them in his circle of followers. This was a significant departure from the social norms of the era.A New Kingdom: Jesus preached about the Kingdom of God, which was not a political or earthly kingdom but a spiritual one. This message went against the prevailing expectation of a messianic figure who would lead a political revolt.Sacrificial Love: Jesus' willingness to sacrifice himself for the sake of others, as symbolized by his crucifixion, demonstrated a radical form of love and selflessness that was counter-cultural and transformative.Focus on the Inner Life: Jesus emphasized the importance of the heart, inner purity, and genuine intentions over outward displays of religiosity.