What if the key to spiritual growth isn’t trying harder—but admitting you can’t do it alone?

In this powerful episode of the Live Faith First podcast, Elliot Sands sits down with John Ortberg to unpack his newest book, Steps—a transformative journey that fuses the honesty of the 12-step recovery model with the heart of Christian discipleship.

They dive headfirst into the messiness of real life—addictions, control issues, emotional baggage—and talk about why surrender is actually the starting line for spiritual growth. Together, they explore how the 12 steps offer a radical framework for transformation through grace, not grit.

You’ll hear wisdom on:

• Why admitting powerlessness might be the most powerful thing you do

• How to do a fearless moral inventory (and why you'd want to)

• The connection between forgiveness, humility, and healing

• And how self-forgiveness is not weakness—but a pathway to freedom

John Ortberg is a pastor, speaker, and bestselling author passionate about spiritual formation and helping people grow in their walk with Jesus. His latest book, Steps, blends ancient spiritual wisdom with the transformational principles of the 12-step model, offering readers a clear and honest path toward emotional and spiritual wholeness. John also leads Become New, a daily video devotional designed to help people grow spiritually—one step at a time.

Elliot Sands is the host of the Live Faith First podcast—a dynamic space where faith meets real-world challenges. With a rich background as a pastor, school principal, health-tech co-founder, and now Executive Director of Live Faith First, Elliot brings deep wisdom and practical insight to every conversation. As a husband, father, and grandfather, he weaves personal experience with thoughtful discussion, tackling tough topics with clarity and compassion. Live Faith First is all about bridging divides—whether in society or the church—encouraging listeners to step beyond echo chambers and build real, meaningful relationships across the aisle, the street, or the table.

This conversation is raw, hopeful, and incredibly practical for anyone who’s tired of faking it and ready for a more honest walk with Jesus.

Let’s All Live Faith First!!!

John Ortberg Resources

📘 Steps by John Ortberg Buy the book

🎧 Become New – John Ortberg’s daily devotional podcast & spiritual growth platform

📺 Become New on YouTube

🌐 JohnOrtberg.com

📷 Instagram: @johnortberg

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