What makes spiritual roots healthy enough to withstand life's droughts and storms?

In this episode of Called Beyond, Tim sits down with longtime Novo missionaries Steve Hoke and Myra Perrine to explore the powerful imagery of Jeremiah 17:7–8.

Drawing from decades of ministry experience, Steve and Myra reflect on the importance of trust, authenticity, vulnerability, and abiding in God's love as essential foundations for a life that bears lasting fruit.

Together, they share personal stories of hardship, healing, and spiritual formation, revealing how God often deepens our roots through seasons we would never choose for ourselves.

Whether you're walking through a difficult season or simply longing to grow deeper in your relationship with Jesus, this conversation offers wisdom and encouragement for cultivating healthy roots that endure.

Episode Highlights

Why drought seasons can deepen our trust in God
The connection between vulnerability and spiritual growth
Learning to process pain instead of hiding it
Trust as the "taproot" of faith
How abiding in God's love transforms us from the inside out
The role of authentic community in spiritual formation
What it means to cultivate healthy roots that produce lasting fruit

Key Scripture

Jeremiah 17:7–8 (NLT)

"But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water..."

Guest Bios

Steve Hoke has served with Novo for more than three decades, helping develop leaders, strengthen ministry teams, and equip disciple-makers around the world. A gifted teacher, mentor, and author, Steve is passionate about helping people experience the transforming grace of God and discover deeper levels of trust and dependence on Jesus.

Myra Perrine has served with Novo for more than 30 years, investing in the spiritual formation and development of ministry leaders around the world. Known for her wisdom, authenticity, and commitment to helping others experience God's love, Myra has spent decades mentoring, training, and encouraging people toward deeper intimacy with Christ.