# Episode 06: Your Father's Presence, Approval, and Power

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/walking-close-living-changed-7686529/episode-06-your-father-s-presence-approval-and-power
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/walking-close-living-changed-7686529/episode-06-your-father-s-presence-approval-and-power.md
Podcast: [Walking Close, Living Changed](https://stenobird.com/podcast/walking-close-living-changed-7686529)
Published: 2026-03-10T12:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://3f646272-fc00-405a-a19a-b31d9b58720d.libsyn.com/episode-06-your-fathers-presence-approval-and-power
Audio file: https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/3f646272-fc00-405a-a19a-b31d9b58720d/Episode_6_-_Your_Fathers_Presence_Approval_and_Power_-_Walking_Close_Living_Changed.mp3?dest-id=5247770
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/walking-close-living-changed-7686529/episodes/episode-06-your-father-s-presence-approval-and-power
Duration seconds: 2056

## Resource

Brian opens with a memory from 1998 when he was walking and praying in the woods. That day, a simple prayer came to his heart: "Father, I need Your presence, Your approval, and Your power." That prayer has stayed with him ever since and has become a foundational cry in his journey with God. He unpacks each word: Presence: More than goosebumps or feelings, God's presence means knowing He is with you always. Brian compares this to the powerful emotional impact of an earthly father simply being in the stands at a game—how it gives confidence and peace. He references Psalm 139 and redefines "the joy of the Lord is your strength" as the strength that comes from knowing the Father delights in you. Approval: Brian explores our deep desire to know we are seen, known, and approved by our Father. He tells a vulnerable story from childhood about wearing an unfashionable haircut to win his dad's approval, drawing parallels to how we crave affirmation from God. He also tells the story of Solomon, whose prayer for wisdom was likely rooted in the ache for his own father David's approval. Power: Brian shifts to why God's power matters—not for self-glory, but because God wants us to partner with Him to love and reach the world. He critiques how many earthly fathers withhold power from their children, contrasting this with a father who entrusts and empowers. Using examples from the life of Jesus, Brian shows that even Jesus had a moment of baptism where He received His Father's presence, approval, and power—before stepping into ministry. The episode ends with a heartfelt prayer for the listener to experience these same three things, and to live out their calling filled with God's Spirit. Key Topics Discussed The original 1998 prayer: Presence, Approval, Power Longing for God's presence…

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## Transcript

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