Holy revival, Batman! It’s a week from Thanksgiving and a perfect time to consider how many of us struggle to give thanks. Nami’s actions when fighting Arlong in One Piece set the stage for Mike’s thought on how easily it is to miss the spirit of gratitude when things aren’t going well, when our blessings are relatively minor, and in the face of ob…

How do you react when someone expresses some incredible gift or talent? Does it motivate you to grow your own skills? And does it matter if that motivation is out of pure intent or something less savory? On episode ten of The Power of God and Anime podcast, Mike looks to Naruto and his impact on those around him, including Sasuke, and then to scrip…

It’s been well documented (and you’ve probably experienced the same) that we live in a now culture, where we not only desire instant gratification but become upset if we have to wait. This idea can extend to God, whom we treat as our servant or a genie, becoming little Umaru-chans, expecting our desires to be fulfilled this instant. Scripture expre…

Contrary to scripture, a lot of Christian arguments conversations these days—including among believers—totally lack in humility. What’s the answer? Examples from the life of the Old Testament King Uzziah and everyone’s favorite demon slayer, Tanjirou, show us the way. Come listen in as Mike explains and also talks about his recent major live events…

Do you sometimes feel discouraged, as if you’re not good enough to accomplish the big things you’d like to? Mike’s been there. So have some of the heroes of the Bible, including Moses and Gideon. And…maybe Sailor Moon’s Usagi Tsukino, too? Well, she at least serves as an example of someone who does incredible things despite her shortcomings—and God…

We all struggle with temptation. But the rub isn’t simply in being tempted, but in how we react to temptation. Mike looks to Konosuba and Beast Tamer for very different reactions to sexual temptation, and then to the Bible to see how we should respond in any tempting situation. Plus, he gives his real anime origin story (it involves being a Soul Re…

Look, it’s not easy to ask others for help. Shame, pride, and all manner of obstacles get in the way. Deku and Vegeta know this intimately as major arcs for them and even their inmost character reveal a desire to go it on their own and not involve others. But what does scripture have to tell us about finding help in our struggles? Mike digs into th…

Do you feel influenced by the culture to act like those around you? Are you being persuaded to put away your faith and engage the world on its terms? You’re not alone—it’s a day and age where the culture around us speaks as strongly as ever. But Mike’s got you covered. He looks to Shirou Emiya and his stance during the Holy Grail War in Fate/stay n…

Welcome to episode three of The Power of God and Anime Podcast! Listen as Mike gives a third version of his story that sounds like Sailor Mo—no, it couldn’t be; discusses the cult episode of A Salad Bowl of Eccentrics; and shares his experience sharing the love of Christ with a co-worker rather than a false image of God that he had encountered. Com…

Welcome to episode two of The Power of God and Anime Podcast! Listen as Mike gives his second, truer (?) origin story, sings a praise song you may never have previously heard, asks you this episode’s Anime Trivia question, and talks about second chances and Doctor Elise: The Royal Lady with the Lamp. Anime Trivia! In That Time I Was Reincarnated As…