In this episode, Michael Easley sits down with Jon Gauger, author, radio personality, and lifelong lover of Scripture, to explore how the Psalms can transform the way we think and speak to ourselves. From anxiety and impatience to sleepless nights and moments of regret, Jon shares how memorizing and meditating on Psalms reshapes our self-talk, helps us navigate life’s challenges, and strengthens our relationship with God.
Jon shares his personal journey of replacing negative thoughts with Scripture, including practical examples from his daily life, work, and travels. Michael and Jon also discuss the life of David—the ultimate example of a man after God’s own heart—and how his Psalms provide guidance, encouragement, and hope for us today.
If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, worry, or mental fatigue, this episode will show you the power of Scripture to renew your mind and bring peace to your soul.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
-How to use the Psalms to combat negative self-talk and anxiety
-Practical steps for memorizing Scripture and making it a daily habit
-Ways Scripture can bring calm during sleepless nights and stressful days
-Lessons from the life of David on repentance, humility, and faith
-How to respond wisely and peacefully in moments of crisis
-Why worship, patience, and praise are choices that shape our thinking
-Real-life stories of mentors, travel experiences, and moments of faith in action
Timestamps & Topics Discussed:
0:00 – Opening prayer and welcome
0:29 – Michael’s love for the Psalms and teaching them
1:27 – Introduction of Jon Gauger and Powerful Self-Talk from the Psalms
3:12 – Why Jon wrote the book: transforming negative self-talk
7:31 – Understanding constant self-talk and what Scripture says about it
10:21 – Using Psalms for rest and sleep
13:19 – Waiting patiently and trusting God (Psalm 27)
18:12 – “Relax, He’s Doing the Doing” and committing your soul
19:41 – Choosing worship and praise in daily life
20:56 – How social media affects self-talk
25:36 – Pausing and trusting God in crises
28:46 – Brag on God: encouraging others through our response
33:58 – How Scripture memorization influences thought, speech, and action
35:16 – David’s life as a model for self-talk, repentance, and faith
38:16 – Psalm 51: turning to God in moments of sin and regret
39:15 – Closing reflections and encouragement to engage with Scripture
Links Mentioned:
Powerful Self-Talk From The Psalms by Jon Gauger
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