Be Encouraged with Bishop Julius C. Trimble

In this heartfelt holiday episode of the To Be Encouraged podcast, Rev. Dr. Brad Miller joins Bishop Julius C. Trimble to talk about reclaiming the true spirit of Christmas in a world saturated with commercialization and stress. As we approach Christmas 2025, the conversation explores how to focus on the deeper meaning of the season, building beloved community, and offering hope and encouragement to those who feel discouraged.Together, they share personal stories, practical tips for celebrating Christmas meaningfully, and gentle reminders to put faith, kindness, and connection at the heart of our holiday traditions. Whether you celebrate with candlelight services or simple walks with family, you’ll find inspiration to make this season more peaceful, joyful, and true to its sacred roots.Three Key Takeaways1. Reclaiming the Simple Joys of ChristmasRev. Dr. Brad Miller (Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble ) discuss how the commercialization of the holidays can easily overshadow the true meaning of Christmas. Instead, they encourage listeners to reclaim simpler, more meaningful traditions—like family meals, lighting a candle, taking a walk, or pausing each morning to take deep breaths and give thanks. These small practices help center the season on gratitude, presence, and spiritual reflection rather than stress or material gifts.2. Building Beloved Community At the heart of the episode is the idea of building a “beloved community,” where love, grace, and joyful connections extend beyond just family—to neighbors, acquaintances, and even strangers. Rev. Dr. Brad Miller shares how even small acts—like speaking words of affirmation to grocery store clerks or baking cookies with grandchildren—contribute to a more loving and inclusive world. They remind us that embracing diversity and intentionally forging relationships is core to the Christmas story and to faith itself.3. Finding Hope in the Christmas Story For those feeling discouraged, isolated, or unable to meet all the holiday expectations, the Christmas story is a message of hope and affirmation. Bishop Julius C. Trimble and Rev. Dr. Brad Miller remind listeners that Jesus’ birth was for everyone, in all circumstances—not just the wealthy or privileged. The message “do not be afraid, you are loved” is repeated as an antidote to the pressures of the season. Through stories from their own ministries, they highlight how simple moments of kindness and worship can be transformative for individuals and communities alike.Wishing you a blessed and peace-filled Christmas from the To Be snd Do podcast. Remember: you are loved, you are enough, and small acts of kindness can light up the world.

Finding Hope in the Holidays: How Advent Counters Loneliness – The holiday season is often painted as a time of unending joy, full of family gatherings, celebrations, and traditions. Yet, for many, Advent and Christmas can also magnify feelings of loneliness, loss, and disconnection. In episode of the "To Be Encouraged" podcast, Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble engage in a heartfelt conversation about the realities of the Christmas “blues” and, most importantly, how faith and community offer genuine antidotes to these struggles.Here are three key takeaways from their insightful dialogue:1. Advent Is a Time of Both Anticipation and VulnerabilityBishop Julius C. Trimble reminds listeners that, for Christians, Advent isn’t just about celebration—it’s a spiritual season of preparation and honest self-reflection. He notes that beyond the joyful traditions, many people experience grief and loneliness, especially as the absence of loved ones is keenly felt. “[Advent] is often a season of grief because you remember the people that have lost or people that are no longer with you,” he says. Recognizing these emotions rather than ignoring them is an authentic part of the Advent journey.2. Building Community and Serving Others Counteracts LonelinessA profound theme in this episode is the healing power of community. Both speakers recount personal stories—whether being stuck alone in a traffic jam on Christmas or receiving an unexpected invitation for a holiday meal. Bishop Julius C. Trimble emphasizes that isolation is a growing epidemic, but offers hope: “One of the greatest antidotes to loneliness is service.” Acts of outreach—inviting someone for a meal, serving together, or simply offering a tangible sign of care—create communal bonds. Both the “Bowling Alone” metaphor and stories from local ministries reinforce the life-changing difference genuine connection can make.3. Faith Calls Us to Welcome the Stranger and Break StigmaThe hosts explore the message at the heart of the Nativity: those on the margins—Mary, Joseph, shepherds, and wise men—are integral to the story. The Christmas narrative is an open invitation to embrace the “other,” whether that’s the lonely person on the city bus or those sitting in church on Christmas Eve for the first time. Bishop Julius C. Trimble and Rev. Dr. Brad Miller discuss the importance of being “ambassadors” for welcoming churches and call on faith communities to remove barriers for the lonely, including the stigma surrounding seeking help. “If you find yourself in a deeper ditch, you really need to get a therapist or a counselor...reach out for help,” Bishop Julius C. Trimble encourages.Conclusion: The Light We ShareThe episode closes with a beautiful reminder: just as candles illuminate the darkness during Advent, so can small acts of kindness, connection, and service bring warmth and hope to those struggling through the season. “God loves you in a very special way…You matter. You are enough,” Bishop Julius C. Trimble affirms.If the holidays bring you joy, remember to share that light with others. And if you’re struggling, know that you are not alone—community, faith, and hope are there to meet you, just as Advent promises.Find more encouragement by subscribing to “To Be and Do” or visiting tobeencouraged.com.

To Be Encouraged PodcastShow NotesIn this heartfelt episode of the To Be Encouraged podcast, Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble dive deep into the struggles that so many face around worry and anxiety—especially given the real-life challenges in our world today, from economic uncertainty to social injustice. The conversation weaves together scripture, personal stories, and practical encouragement to help listeners shift from being paralyzed by worry to taking meaningful, hope-filled actions.Three Key Takeaways:Worry Isn’t Shameful—It’s Human, but Action is PossibleInstead of simply telling people “don’t worry,” Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble remind us that worry is a universal human experience, especially in times of hardship or uncertainty. However, the wisdom from Jesus and the Apostle Paul encourages us to lean into community, prayer, and storytelling. By sharing what we’re going through and asking deeper questions, we can find reassurance and actually mobilize help—for ourselves and others.Ask “What Do You Have?” and Focus on Abundance in CommunityThe episode highlights the power of one of Jesus’s most profound questions: “How many loaves do you have?” Instead of centering on scarcity or what is lacking, Bishop Julius C. Trimble urges listeners to take stock of their resources—both individually and as communities—and find ways to offer support. Whether it’s volunteering, sharing skills, or advocating for fair policies, even small gestures can be multiplied through collective action, and helping others often lessens our own stress and worry.The Transformative Power of Stories and QuestionsThroughout the episode, both hosts reflect on the importance of retelling stories—especially those about overcoming difficult times or showing generosity. Sharing family memories or stories from scripture not only builds resilience but also strengthens connections across generations. Likewise, embracing Jesus’s habit of asking questions opens up new perspectives and possibilities. When we focus on stories that make us laugh, inspire us, or reveal moments of love, we gain encouragement to move forward, even through discouragement.Final Thoughts:If you’re navigating a season of worry, this episode offers both practical steps and spiritual inspiration. Take time to listen in, reflect on what you have to offer, and seek out stories—both your own and those around you—that remind you of hope and the importance of serving others. As Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble remind us, “Jesus loves me, this I know”—and in loving and caring for others, we also care for ourselves.Catch new episodes and find encouragement at To Be Encouraged—and don’t forget to share with anyone who needs a word of hope today!

Show Notes: “Don’t Ask Me To Preach If…” | Episode 139 of To Be Encouraged PodcastIn a passionate and timely episode of the To Be Encouraged podcast, host Rev. Dr. Brad Miller sits down with Bishop Julius C. Trimble to unpack the provocative article “Don’t Ask Me To Preach If…” and what it means to preach with authenticity and boldness in troubling times. Against the backdrop of Halloween—a fitting day to discuss what’s “scary” in our world and churches—Bishop Julius C. Trimble issues a heartfelt call for all preachers not to shy away from tough topics or water down the gospel.Here are three key takeaways from their inspiring conversation:1. Preaching the Full Gospel Means Embracing Diversity and JusticeBishop Julius C. Trimble insists that any call to preach must include a fearless telling of the Bible’s stories—stories where Jesus repeatedly crossed boundaries of gender, culture, and ethnicity and welcomed those who were marginalized and excluded. He challenges preachers not to relinquish their authority or press the “mute button” when it comes to topics that some may deem controversial, particularly those related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The gospel is about God’s love for the whole world.2. The Church Must Speak Out on Real-World Issues From political turmoil to government shutdowns and the struggles of immigrant families, Bishop Julius C. Trimble argues that the business of the church is deeply intertwined with the realities people face outside the sanctuary. He refuses to stay silent about policies and crises that hurt vulnerable people—calling for practical compassion, like feeding the hungry, supporting fair labor, and fighting racial injustice. The church’s legacy, especially through social principles of the United Methodist Church, is to act as a moral compass for society.3. Love Boldly, Serve Joyfully, Lead Courageously The episode closes with an energizing message to preachers: be faithful to your calling, wrap all preaching in love, and foster honest conversations in your communities. The “Kingdom” (or “Kin-dom”) of God is about inclusive kinship, and Bishop Julius C. Trimble urges spiritual leaders to not only comfort the afflicted but also challenge complacency. Amid discouraging times, the podcast reminds listeners—and all who preach—to encourage hope, speak truth, and model the courage needed for meaningful change.For the full article and more resources, visit umcjustice.org, and tune in for more uplifting conversations at To Be Encouraged.

Show Notes: Episode 138 — Words That Hurt, Words That Heal: How Language Shapes Encouragement and FearWelcome to another episode of To Be Encouraged with Bishop Julius C. Trimble and Rev. Dr. Brad Miller! This episode delves into the powerful influence of words in our daily lives, exploring how language can either build up or tear down individuals and communities. Bishop Trimble and Dr. Miller candidly discuss the challenges of living in a culture often dominated by negative or fearful dialogue, and offer practical, faith-rooted strategies for using words that heal rather than hurt.Three Major Takeaways from This Episode:Words Carry Tremendous Power — and Responsibility Both hosts emphasize how words are like seeds planted in fertile soil, especially for children. Bishop Trimble shares wisdom from a 91-year-old author, reminding us to be mindful of what we say around young people and throughout our lives. Early experiences with bullying and negativity can have long-lasting effects, but so do experiences with encouragement and affirmation. In our current world — saturated with harsh language, blame, and shame, especially on social media and in public discourse — it is vital to remember our responsibility to speak life-giving words.Overcoming Fear with Understanding and Loving Language The conversation pivots on the idea that negative words often stem from, and fuel, fear. Bishop Trimble references Marie Curie: “Now is the time to understand more so that we may fear less,” urging us to replace fear-driven rhetoric with words rooted in understanding and affirmation. The call is for intentionality: instead of contributing to a culture of fear, we’re challenged to use dialogue that seeks to bless, support, and bring peace to ourselves and others, echoing biblical principles of love for God, neighbor, and self.Practical Strategies to Speak Life and Encouragement The episode rounds out with real-world approaches anyone can adopt: expressing gratitude, offering words like “I appreciate you” or “Let’s work together,” and even intentionally choosing affirming names during everyday interactions (like having your Starbucks cup labeled “Joy”). Both hosts discuss the value of taking time-outs—not just for children, but for adults needing to reset in tense moments. They encourage listeners to write down words of affirmation for themselves and others, and to use these as daily practices of self-care and encouragement. Bishop Trimble closes with his personal mission: “To encourage all people with the love of Jesus Christ to rise to their highest potential.”Final Thoughts: In a world often marked by discouragement, this episode calls us to be intentional encouragers—offering words that heal, bless, and empower. Let’s all strive to speak life into a world that desperately needs it.Tune in next time for more inspiration and encouragement on To Be Encouraged!