Stephanie converses with the ever-engaging Bob Goff today. Known for his ability to intertwine whimsy with profound spiritual truths, Bob challenges us to take active, heartfelt actions instead of merely understanding faith on an intellectual level. Bob’s message is simple: live an actionable, authentic faith filled with whimsy and boundless love. His new book "Catching Whimsy" encapsulates this dynamic approach, prompting us to explore faith with fresh eyes and a vibrant spirit.

Quiet, modest acts of service hold immense power, says Bob. In a world often driven by recognition, he reminds us that God appreciates small beginnings and gradual growth. This applies to everything - our faith, relationships, and professional commitments. His emphasis on gentleness and patience serves as a reminder that impactful change often starts with unassuming, everyday actions.

"Catching Whimsy," the title of Goff’s new book, suggests that whimsy surpasses mere superficial happiness. It is a strategic, intentional approach towards life and faith that echoes childlike simplicity and wonder. Bob illustrates whimsy using metaphors like catching bubbles, tying it back to a pure form of faith that urges us to perceive the world uniquely.

Bob Goff advocates for the practice of transitioning from "Bible study" to "Bible doing," urging us to embody our faith through deliberate actions. Central to his message are calls for service to others, such as feeding the hungry and welcoming strangers. Sharing experiences from teaching at San Quentin penitentiary, Bob also reflects on the deep humility demonstrated by the inmates—a quality that influences his own faith journey. His stories underscore the value of surrounding oneself with individuals who truly embody empathy and authentic faith. This principle extends to difficult situations where empathetic communication is key. Bob emphasizes the importance of steering clear from clichéd responses, replacing them with deeper, meaningful connections.

Bob reframes suffering by mentioning the teachings of Paul and James, highlighting that through adversity, endurance and character are built, eventually leading to hope. This perspective encourages a focus on personal growth rather than dwelling in arguments or seeking validation.

Authenticity is paramount in our relationship with God. He encourages believers to present their true selves, inclusive of doubts and questions. This authenticity is also about running our own race and allowing others to do the same, all while fostering genuine conversations with God - simple, everyday conversations flavored with the "salt" of prayer.

For those inspired by his words, the challenge is set—embrace whimsy, embark on a journey of authentic living, and become the "convincing proof" of a lively, active faith.

MORE ABOUT BOB GOFF

BOB GOFF is the New York Times bestselling author of Love Does; Everybody, Always;

Dream Big; Undistracted; Live in Grace, Walk in Love; and Love Does for Kids. He’s a lover of balloons, cake pops, and helping people pursue their big dreams. Bob’s greatest ambitions in life are to love others, do stuff, and most importantly, to hold hands with his wife, Sweet Maria, and spend time with their amazing family. For more, check out BobGoff.com and LoveDoes.org.

MORE ABOUT “CATCHING WHIMSY”

DISCOVER JOY AND INSPIRATION FROM NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR BOB GOFF

EMBRACE THE ADVENTURE OF LIFE AND FAITH IN CATCHING WHIMSY—A 365-DAY JOURNEY TO CURIOSITY AND DELIGHT

Dive into the enchanting world of Catching Whimsy: 365 Days of Possibility, where beloved bestselling author Bob Goff invites readers on a 365-day adventure that reawakens curiosity and joy in everyday life. With his signature charm and captivating anecdotes, Goff artfully combines faith with whimsy, offering daily reflections that inspire and uplift readers. Each entry is designed to be a gentle tap on the shoulder, inviting you not only to recognize God’s immense love for you but also to embrace the thrilling possibilities life has to offer.

In Catching Whimsy, Goff leads you away from the mundane cycles of planning and uncertainty into a space brimming with delight and spontaneity. Whether you’re grappling with life’s uncertainties or simply seeking a spark of joy, this devotional serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to a more engaged and meaningful existence. Goff’s delightful storytelling is interwoven with profound insights, making spiritual growth accessible and relatable, a true gift for anyone seeking a deeper connection with God.

This is more than just a devotional; it’s a joyful celebration of life, spirituality, and the endless journeys of the heart. Each day presents a new opportunity to revel in the adventure of faith and to foster an expectant heart, ready to embrace the beautiful complexities of life. Let the world know about Catching Whimsy; it’s a not-to-be-missed read for anyone craving connection, inspiration, and a little sprinkle of whimsy in their lives!

We invite you to check out the first episode of each of our series, and decide which one you will want to start with.

Go to gospelspice.com for more, and go especially to gospelspice.com/podcast to enjoy our guests! Interested in our blog? Click here: gospelspice.com/blog

Identity in the battle | Ephesians

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/74762/link/

Centering on Christ | The Tabernacle experience

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/94182/link/

Shades of Red | Against human oppression

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/115017/link/

God's glory, our delight 

https://www.podcastics.com/episode/126051/link/

 

You are invited to join us on the Gospel Spice Prayer Bible Study, titled "The heart behind prayer" starting September 20, 2025! Details and registration here: https://www.gospelspice.com/prayer 

There are a few things in our Christian life that we know we should do more, or at least better – and prayer just might top the list. Prayer is a mystery. Why would a conversation with a human have any influence on God’s eternal, sovereign plan? It defies logic, and beckons love. How can God, the Almighty Lord of Hosts, be this close, this personal? It defies understanding, and beckons involvement.

But, lack of time, inspiration, and discipline, combined with the ruthless tyranny of our busy lives, push prayer to the periphery, to the “one day I’ll get to it” pile. And yet, we can excel at what we endeavor to undertake. So, why isn’t prayer more of a spiritual priority? Could we develop a mindset around prayer that made it attractive, inspiring, even maybe delightful? What if we attuned our spiritual ears to listen to God, and our spiritual eyes to see His provision?

As an unassuming student, I’m going to humbly offer to share the little I have learned from others about the joy of prayer. I will give us theology, practical tips, and useful resources, sharing what works for me as we, together, learn to pray.

If you find prayer intimidating, or if your lack of prayer makes you feel guilty or “less than,” then this is the place for you! If you have been a student of prayer for many years, this is the place for you too! If you have breath in your lungs, then prayer can become one of the deepest joys of your day. Don’t miss out!

A PERSPECTIVE ABOUT PRAYER

To pray is to believe that God not only hears, but that He responds. It is to stand in the gap for a broken world, wielding the authority of Christ, empowered by the Spirit, and trusting in the goodness of the Father. The question is not whether prayer works, but whether we are willing to pray the kinds of prayers that invite God’s Kingdom into the darkest places of the earth—and of our own hearts.

We may never fully understand the mechanics of prayer, or how it intersects with God's sovereignty, but we are not called to understand everything. We are called to be faithful. And faithfulness means showing up—in prayer, in persistence, in expectation.

So today, let us pray not only for the comfort of our hearts, but for the transformation of the world. Let us take our place as image-bearers, co-laborers, and co-heirs. Let us believe that God is still listening—and still acting. Because He is.

There’s only one way to find out what might happen when we truly pray like this.

Let’s begin.

THE MINDSET BEHIND THIS COURSE

Before we begin, let me tell you the obvious: I don’t really know how to pray. I’m a humble student and absolute beginner at the holy endeavor that is prayer. So, this course isn’t really about what I’ve learned, or any wisdom I might have gathered. But, I’ve sat at the feet of many prayer warriors over the decades, through books and teachings.

So, I’ll share what I learned from them. Humility is going to be our primary heart posture! With each lesson, I will offer a few thoughts, practices, and ideas – with much humility, and not taking myself too seriously. I will also share her favorite books and resources about prayer. FInally, I will introduce you to some of the most influential prayer warriors of our history as the Body of Christ.

Most importantly, I will invite YOU to pray! Learning to pray comes from praying. Our humble ambition is to inspire you to pray, and to give you a few tips on how to do that. Then, it’s up to you! Prayer is a lifelong endeavor. Let’s make it delightful together!

So, let’s get started.

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