Why the Christian Life Isn’t “Up and to the Right”

In this episode, we’re diving into Matt’s new book Becoming Like Jesus: The Everyday Journey to Living a Life of Holiness. We talk about what it actually looks like to follow Jesus over the long haul—not the polished, “up and to the right” version, but the real story of highs, lows, doubt, growth, and grace. We unpack how sanctification isn’t a moment or a light switch—it’s a lifelong process. We share why so many of us get discouraged when suffering or struggle shows up, and how that might actually be part of God’s good work in us. We also talk through the Beatitudes as a framework for understanding what Jesus is forming in us over time. More than anything, we hope this conversation reminds you that you’re not behind, you’re not disqualified, and you’re not alone. If you don’t quit—if you keep bringing your whole self to Jesus—you’re actually right in the middle of the journey He’s using to make you more like Him. In This Episode [00:00] Becoming Is a Lifelong Journey [00:32] Book Launch & Dad Joke Energy [03:39] Introducing Becoming Like Jesus [06:25] Why Matt Wrote This Book [09:00] Victory vs. Process in Sanctification [12:00] The First Lie: Doubting God’s Goodness [14:00] Why Suffering Produces Resilience [15:36] Experiencing Jesus in Deep Suffering [21:19] What Is a Life of Holiness? [32:29] If You Don’t Quit, You Win ORDER MATT’S LATEST BOOK - https://www.thomasnelson.com/p/becomi... Becoming Like Jesus is a book about “progressive sanctification” that takes it beyond church words into the honest conversation so many Christians have navigated. Rooted in the Beatitudes, this book unpacks the lifelong series of highs and lows that the Holy Spirit uses to shape us into a person who looks like Jesus. If you Pre-Order the book now, you will get access to some bonus content, including access to a 2 hour long conversation we got to have with our friends, Ali Parsons, Philip Anthony Mitchell, Joel Muddamalle, and Jonathan Pokluda. You can Pre-Order here. - https://www.thomasnelson.com/p/becomi... FOLLOW and SUBSCRIBE: Follow Matt:   / mattchandler74   Follow Lauren:   / laurenchandler   Website: https://www.pastormattchandler.com Newsletter: https://www.pastormattchandler.com/ne... If you’ve enjoyed this episode, one of the best ways to support the show and make sure others find it, is to subscribe and leave a review. Thank You! Thank you to our Sponsors Global Christian Relief GCR comes alongside persecuted Christians with prayer, Bibles, and real help so the church can endure and shine as a light for the Gospel. Stand with the persecuted Church and be a lifeline of prayer and support. — visit https://bit.ly/GCRMatt to learn more. Cozy Earth Let this Mother’s Day be a reminder that she deserves care, too — discover how Cozy Earth turns everyday routines into moments of softness and ease. Head to cozyearth.com and use code BETWEEN for an exclusive 20% off. – Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. For sponsorship inquiries, email [email protected] #BetweenSundays, #TheChandlers #MattChandler, #LaurenChandler, #ChristianPodcast,