In this episode, Jonathan shares about living a life of wholehearted worship and becoming a lover of God for the long-haul. King David cultivated a well-worn path of honest worship with the Lord throughout His whole life. Our dream is that you would be 80 years old, still clinging to Jesus, astonished at who He is. This podcast is full of stories and reflections from Jonathan about being steadfast, honest, and passionate in the lifelong pursuit of God’s presence. The introduction to this podcast was recorded at David’s Tent in the United Kingdom, where our team leads worship every single August. To learn more about David’s Tent UK and get tickets for 2025, you can head to: www.davidstent.net The 18 Inch Journey: Phase One is our 65-day discipleship school of the heart dedicated to helping adults ages 20-30 have a thriving relationship with Jesus in every area of life. Male applications for Phase One are still open! To learn more and apply, you can visit: www.18inchjourney.com To support our 18 Inch Journey Campus Campaign, go to: www.cagelessbirds.com/donate  To learn more about our ministry: www.cagelessbirds.com www.jonathanhelser.com www.18inchjourney.com

In this episode, Jonathan sits down with his longtime friend, Adam Cox. They reflect on their decades of friendship, and how Adam's passion for helping people encounter the unfailing love of God has impacted our community, and schools (The 18 Inch Journey). Adam's first book, "The God Story," (co-authored by Alain Emerson) is a compelling and creative retelling of the biblical story to help you move from familiar to fascinated. It is out now and available wherever books are sold! Get "The God Story" here: https://www.24-7prayer.com/resource/the-god-story/?utm_source=cagelessbirds&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=the-god-story If you'd like to learn more about our ministry, go to:  https://www.18inchjourney.com   https://cagelessbirds.com https://jonathanhelser.com 

This episode was captured live at a recent 18 Inch Journey Fundraiser where Jonathan and Melissa shared on our vision for discipleship, the history and mission of the 18 Inch Journey, and how discipleship can transform the hearts of men and women. Learn more at: https://www.18inchjourney.com  If you’d like to be a part of what the Lord is doing through our ministry, go to https://www.cagelessbirds.com/donate  Thank you!

This episode is a special conversation between Melissa Helser and Chris Miller. Melissa shares about her song, Beautiful Jesus, and a worship moment from the 2023 18 Inch Journey that was recently shared on the Cageless Birds YouTube channel. She reflects on the season of her life during which that song was first written as well as what it’s like to lead worship within the context of our discipleship schools. At the end of this podcast, we play the full worship moment that Melissa is referencing, so please stick around to the end and enjoy this song and spontaneous worship moment! You can also watch the moment on our YouTube channel at: https://youtu.be/ScIzMcvCdQc?si=FsjrZH3qqjji8EgZ To learn more about our ministry, go to www.jonathanhelser.com, www.18inchjourney.com, or www.cagelessbirds.com.

What kind of worshiper do you want to be in 40 years? In this episode, Jonathan unpacks the life of King Saul and King David, and what it means to live a life of radical worship before the Father. One of the most important things about David’s story is how he pursues honesty with God in the midst of the pressures of his life. This message was originally recorded in 2021 at Bethel Music Worship School. We have exciting news to share with you – we have completed our Audio Upgrade Campaign! Thanks to your generosity and financial support, we were able to overhaul the entire sound system on our campus, upgrading the tools that empower us to continue to grow in the way that we capture and share the sound of the Cageless Birds with the world.  Your investment has filled us with courage for the season to come. We are eager to share new songs and worship moments from Jonathan & Melissa Helser and the Cageless Birds in 2024! To learn more about our ministry, go to www.jonathanhelser.com, www.18inchjourney.com, or www.cagelessbirds.com.

This episode features an excerpt from a conversation Jonathan and Melissa recently had with our friend, Morgan Snyder. In it, the Helsers share song stories from their most recent album: The Land I’m Livin’ In. This episode features the stories behind the songs I Believe, and We Make Space! Morgan Snyder is an entrepreneur, teacher, writer, speaker, and friend of our community. His passion is to both be shaped by and shape the men and women who are shaping the kingdom of God. He is the creator of Become Good Soil and the author of the book “Becoming A King.” For more about Morgan, head to http://becomegoodsoil.com. To learn more about our ministry, go to www.jonathanhelser.com, www.18inchjourney.com, or www.cagelessbirds.com. To learn more about our Audio Upgrade Campaign, we invite you to visit http://cagelessbirds.com/donate. Thank you!

In our previous episode, Melissa taught from 2 Corinthians 9 on living generous lives without reluctance or compulsion. In this episode she opens up James 1, unpacking the way perseverance produces maturity in us, and how the discipline of the Lord brings us true wisdom and discernment as we walk with him. This message was originally recorded in 2022 at Bethel Music Worship School. Six years ago, we finished building the Art Barn, a space that become such a gift to our campus: the home of our video, design, and marketing departments, and a multi-purpose hub for so many things that happen in our schools, retreats, and summer camps.  Out of all that happens in this space, one of the most special things is the hours of worship we have poured out on Jesus in this place. It has truly become holy ground for our students to encounter the Lord. It has also become a sacred space for us to capture hours of worship on film that we have been able to share with people all over the world through YouTube and music streaming. Over these years we have been using a very basic audio system and it has been our dream to upgrade the sound and recording system. We are launching a campaign to raise $30,000 to upgrade all the audio in this space! If you are interested in partnering with us to reach this goal, we invite you to head to http://cagelessbirds.com/donate Thank you! To learn more about our ministry, go to www.jonathanhelser.com, www.18inchjourney.com, or www.cagelessbirds.com.  

In this episode Melissa unpacks the difference between growth and maturity, and how living a life of generosity is an integral part of maturing in friendship with God. This message was originally recorded in 2022 at Bethel Music Worship School. Our podcast is made possible by the generous support of people all over the world. If you were impacted by this episode, we’d like to invite you to partner with us to disciple a generation into wholehearted living! To support our non-profit ministry, head to http://cagelessbirds.com/donate. You can donate to the general fund, support one of our Cageless Birds staff, or sponsor a project. Thank you! To learn more about our ministry, go to www.jonathanhelser.com, www.18inchjourney.com, or www.cagelessbirds.com.

We need the perspective of the Lord to overcome the lies that we face and realign us with the truth. In this episode, Jonathan teaches on living defined by the Father’s voice. He shares practical examples from his own life, and ends with a journaling exercise. This message was originally recorded in 2021 at Bethel Music Worship School. Our podcast is made possible by the generous support of people all over the world. If you were impacted by this episode, we’d like to invite you to partner with us to disciple a generation into wholehearted living! To support our non-profit ministry, head to http://cagelessbirds.com/donate. You can donate to the general fund, support one of our Cageless Birds staff, or sponsor a project. Thank you! To learn more about our ministry, go to www.jonathanhelser.com, www.18inchjourney.com, or www.cagelessbirds.com.

In this episode, Melissa unpacks the maturity that comes through letting God reframe our understanding of pressure, especially in seasons of suffering.   This message was originally recorded in 2021 at Bethel Music Worship School.  Our podcast is made possible by the generous support of people all over the world. If you were impacted by this episode, we’d like to invite you to partner with us to disciple a generation into wholehearted living! To support our non-profit ministry, head to http://cagelessbirds.com/donate. You can donate to the general fund, support one of our Cageless Birds staff, or sponsor a project. Thank you!  To learn more about our ministry, go to www.jonathanhelser.com, www.18inchjourney.com, or www.cagelessbirds.com. 

In this episode, Jonathan Helser and Jason Vallotton continue their conversation about living as powerful, healthy men. “Where are you?” This was the first question God asked in the Bible to Adam and Eve after they sinned and were hiding. It is so important for us all to grow in understanding our stories so that we can confess to God and others where we actually are and ask for help. This is where discipleship happens. Jason Vallotton is a pastor and counselor in Redding, CA. He is a longtime friend of Jonathan and Melissa who has made a significant impact on our community and our discipleship schools. (Learn more about Jason’s ministry and the BraveCo podcast here: https://braveco.org) To listen to the “Dates, Mates and Babies with the Vallottons” Podcast, click here. Our 18 Inch Journey discipleship school exists to close the gap between what we know about God in our heads and who we believe Him to be in our hearts. Our vision is to see sons and daughters who are yielded to Jesus, tending to their inner life, and thriving in their relationships. If you are interested in learning more about the 18 Inch Journey, head over to http://18inchjourney.com. We have created resources for discipleship and tools for stewarding your life with the Lord at https://engagingcultivate.com.  You can also watch this podcast on the Cageless Birds YouTube channel.  

In this episode, Jonathan Helser and Jason Vallotton dialogue about the work of living as a healthy man in today’s culture. Taking a season to slow down and strengthen our roots is a courageous and necessary step in the process of becoming who we were made to be.  Jason Vallotton is a pastor and counselor in Redding, CA. He is a longtime friend of Jonathan and Melissa who has made a significant impact on our community and our discipleship schools. (Learn more about Jason’s ministry and the BraveCo podcast here: https://braveco.org) To listen to the “Dates, Mates and Babies with the Vallottons” Podcast, click here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dates-mates-and-babies-with-the-vallottons/id1664279770 Our 18 Inch Journey discipleship school exists to close the gap between what we know about God in our heads and who we believe Him to be in our hearts. Our vision is to see sons and daughters who are yielded to Jesus, tending to their inner life, and thriving in their relationships. If you are interested in learning more about the 18 Inch Journey, head over to http://18inchjourney.com. We have created resources for discipleship and tools for stewarding your life with the Lord at https://engagingcultivate.com.  You can also watch this podcast on the Cageless Birds YouTube channel. Thank you for listening!

This podcast episode continues the conversation between Melissa Helser, Justina Stevens, Jessie Miller & Phyllis Unkefer about living as rooted and empowered women in this day and age. This part of the conversation focuses on the work of being a powerful woman and what that work requires for the long haul of life. Through stories and examples from their own lives, they unpack what it means to walk in wholeness by growing in self-awareness and yielding to their neediness for the Lord. Our discipleship programs are centered around learning and receiving the rest and companionship that Jesus offers in everyday life. If you are interested in learning more about the Cageless Birds, please go to https://cagelessbirds.com! We have also created resources for discipleship and tools for stewarding your life with the Lord at https://engagingcultivate.com. You can also watch this podcast on the Cageless Birds YouTube channel HERE.  

What does it mean to be a powerful woman? In this podcast episode, Melissa Helser dialogues with Justina Stevens, Jessie Miller, & Phyllis Unkefer (three core leaders in our community) about living as rooted, powerful women in this day and age. This conversation centers around personal stories from each of the women about the process and reward of tending to their hearts, minds, and souls with the Lord. Our discipleship programs are centered around learning and receiving the rest and companionship that Jesus offers in everyday life. If you are interested in learning more about the Cageless Birds, please go to https://cagelessbirds.com! We have also created resources for discipleship and tools for stewarding your life with the Lord at https://engagingcultivate.com. You can also watch this podcast on the Cageless Birds YouTube channel HERE. Connect with Cageless Birds:  Shop to support the Cageless Birds | https://shop.cagelessbirds.com Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/cagelessbirds/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/cagelessbirds/  

In this podcast episode, Jonathan Helser dialogues with Chris Miller, Jake Stevens & John David Gravitt (three leaders in our community) about living as wholehearted men in this day and age. This conversation centers around personal stories from each of the men about learning to press pause in the race of life, and reaching out with these simple yet challenging words: "I need help".  **This month, applications are open for our 18 Inch Journey Phase One discipleship school! Applications are open until 2/1.**  Our discipleship programs are centered around learning and receiving the rest and companionship that Jesus offers in everyday life. If you are interested in learning more or applying to one of our discipleship programs, go to http://18inchjourney.com! If you know someone who would be interested in our school or retreats, please share this podcast with them! You can also watch this podcast on the Cageless Birds YouTube channel.

This is the third episode in a brand new three-part series.  Featuring Jonathan and Melissa with Chris Miller and Phyllis Unkefer, this conversation focuses on doing the hard work of growing and maturing in community, through practicing honesty with the Lord and with others, and finding balance in the rhythms of life. **This month, applications are open for our 18 Inch Journey Phase One discipleship school and Becoming Wholehearted Men’s Retreat! Phase One Apps close 2/1, Men's Retreat Apps close 1/26, (or when our cap is reached).** Our discipleship programs are centered around learning and receiving the rest and companionship that Jesus offers in everyday life. If you are interested in learning more or applying to one of our discipleship programs, go to http://18inchjourney.com! If you know someone who would be interested in our school or retreats, please share this podcast with them! You can also watch this podcast on the Cageless Birds YouTube channel HERE.

This is the second episode in a brand new three-part series.  Featuring Jonathan and Melissa with Chris Miller and Phyllis Unkefer, this conversation centers around staying with God in the tension of life. They unpack why we teach creative rhythms in our discipleship schools and how discovering God in the ordinary is possible. He desires to offer us true rest in the valleys and mountains of life. **This month, applications are open for our 18 Inch Journey Phase One discipleship school and Becoming Wholehearted Men’s Retreat! Note: Our Women’s Retreat application has closed.** Our discipleship programs are centered around learning and receiving the rest and companionship that Jesus offers in everyday life. If you are interested in learning more or applying to one of our discipleship programs, go to http://18inchjourney.com! If you know someone who would be interested in our school or retreats, please share this podcast with them! You can also watch this podcast on the Cageless Birds YouTube channel HERE.

This is the first episode in a brand new three-part series. Featuring Jonathan and Melissa with Chris Miller and Phyllis Unkefer, this conversation centers around what it means to do the work of tending to your heart, and embrace the posture of a lifelong learner. ***This month, applications are open for our Men’s Retreat, Women’s Retreat, and our 18 Inch Journey discipleship school! All of our discipleship programs are centered around doing the good work of building friendship with Jesus, mentoring and learning, and stewarding your inner life.*** If you are interested in learning more or applying to one of our discipleship programs, go to http://18inchjourney.com! If you know someone who would be interested in our school or retreats, please share this podcast with them! You can also watch this podcast on the Cageless Birds YouTube channel HERE.

In this podcast, Jonathan shares a message about the way that Mary, the mother of Jesus, courageously prayed and changed history. This prayer of Mary: “Let it be unto me according to your word” is a prayer we can say in just a breath—yet, it’s one of those prayers we could explore the rest of our lives. We never come to the end of discovering more of God. This message is from our Cageless Birds community night—our weekly gathering where we worship and fellowship together as a group of friends.  To listen to the “Cageless Birds” worship set that happened before Jonathan shared go to: https://youtu.be/YtX30Pzw0rs  The book Jonathan read from, “Walking on Water” by Madeleine L'Engle is one of our favorite books on faith and creativity. We highly recommend it.  Get it here: https://a.co/d/0FtVmOr 

This podcast episode features a recent conversation between Jonathan Helser and Kris Vallotton about fathering, discipleship, and pouring into the next generation.   To learn more about Kris and his ministry, go to www.krisvallotton.com, and make sure to check out his new book, "Uprising: The Epic Battle for the Most Fatherless Generation in History” https://theuprisingbook.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kvministries/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kvministries/   Twitter: https://twitter.com/kvministries   Additional Resources by Kris Vallotton: https://shop.bethel.com/collections/kris-vallotton   For more information on our discipleship school and retreats, go to www.18inchjourney.com  www.jonathanhelser.com  www.cagelessbirds.com 

“Our emotions are the language that our hearts speak. I believe that they are a gift from God that help us understand what is going on inside of us.” In this episode, Jonathan teaches on The Head to Heart Journey. This teaching is from the first lesson of Engaging Sound—an online workshop by the Helsers and Cageless Birds on connecting with God through instrumental music. Jonathan will lead you in a prompt to make your own journey from your head to your heart. Jonathan and Melissa also dialogue about why they expanded and revised Cultivate Volume I: The Head to the Heart Journey, almost 10 years after its first print. With 17 new writings, the updated Volume I is full of the spiritual disciplines and stories that Jonathan and Melissa teach in their 18 Inch Journey school and live out daily in community.  The Head to Heart Journey is a value that we’re invited to live out as children of God—to move from the facts we know about God in our heads into trusting and believing Him deeply in our hearts. To learn more about Cultivate and Engaging Sound, you can visit www.jonathanhelser.com, www.cagelessbirds.com, or engagingcultivate.com. 

“God has been writing our story, and it is a miracle that we’re in the room right now. One day when we get to heaven we’re going to read this story, and be absolutely astonished at how He's been writing it all along.” In this episode, Jonathan shares stories from his life and Scripture that illustrate this truth, that Jesus is the most wonderful Author of our stories in the big, and all of the inbetween moments. Click HERE to learn more about Hydrating Humanity, an organization that exists to provide clean water to those in need, and help improve the physical, financial and spiritual lives of those they reach. www.jonathanhelser.com www.cagelessbirds.com

DAY ONE of “The Land I’m Livin’ In” is now available everywhere you stream and download music! In celebration of the first installment of this release, we are continuing our series of album-focused episodes with Jonathan & Melissa Helser. The two of them sat down with Chris Miller of Cageless Birds to unpack the stories connected to the first tracks from the DAY ONE release. This episode features “We Make Space” and “Father of Jesus.” Recorded in three days and releasing in three installments, this 14 track album is comprised of more than 2 hours of new music. DAY ONE is available everywhere now: https://BethelMusic.lnk.to/TLILIDayOne For a video version of this episode, visit our Youtube page: https://youtu.be/SbawINBlJAI  To learn more about Jonathan & Melissa and their ministry, go to http://jonathanhelser.com and http://cagelessbirds.com

DAY ONE of “The Land I’m Livin’ In” is now available everywhere you stream and download music! In celebration of the first installment of this release, we are continuing our series of album-focused episodes with Jonathan & Melissa Helser. The two of them sat down with Chris Miller of Cageless Birds to unpack the stories connected to the first tracks from the DAY ONE release. This episode features "I Am Your Beloved" "Running Back Home (Spontaneous)" and "I Lose My Ability." Recorded in three days and releasing in three installments, this 14 track album is comprised of more than 2 hours of new music. DAY ONE is available everywhere now: https://BethelMusic.lnk.to/TLILIDayOne  For a video version of this episode, visit our Youtube page: https://youtu.be/Go6BOs3sDIE  To learn more about Jonathan & Melissa and their ministry, go to jonathanhelser.com and cagelessbirds.com

Join us at the table with Jonathan & Melissa Helser as they sit down with Chris Miller of Cageless Birds to reflect on the year and share exciting news about their forthcoming album - 'The Land I'm Livin' In'.  Recorded in three days and releasing in three installments, this 14 track album is comprised of more than 2 hours of new music. Day 1 will drop on January 21, 2022!  To celebrate its release and explore the stories behind this album, we are kicking off a new audio AND video Podcast series that can be viewed right here and listened to wherever you stream Podcasts. In this introductory episode, Jonathan & Melissa give a sneak peak at three songs from the new album and share their heart for the project. To watch this episode on Youtube, click HERE

“We often have more faith that fear and shame want to define us, than we have faith that God wants to speak to us. God wants to speak to us more than we want to hear Him! He is longing to define us with his voice.” In this episode Jonathan concludes his message from last month, landing in this journaling prompt: “Father, what do You think about my worship?" Episode Links: Generosity, Bethel Worship School To learn more about Jonathan & Melissa and their ministry, go to jonathanhelser.com or cagelessbirds.com

“The voice that you listen to is the voice that will define you. The battle is whose voice we will listen to.” This episode is part one of a message Jonathan recently shared on being defined by the Father’s voice. Not just for worship leaders and musicians, this is for anyone who wants to learn to hear God’s voice and draw closer to His heart. https://bethelmusic.com/worshipschool/ To learn more about Jonathan & Melissa and their ministry, go to jonathanhelser.com or cagelessbirds.com

In this episode Melissa shares from over two decades of leadership experience and gives keys for loving and leading your team well, and navigating through conflict. Styles Of Relating Handout (click here) This message was recorded at Bethel Music Worship School, an annual gathering for worship leaders, musicians, and creatives hosted in Redding, CA. Go to https://bethelmusic.com/worshipschool/ to find out more. To learn more about Jonathan & Melissa and their ministry, go to jonathanhelser.com or cagelessbirds.com. 

During one of the final worship nights of our school, The 18 Inch Journey, we encountered the joy of the Lord and the heart of the Father in a profound way. In this episode we are sharing that moment with you! Our prayer is that you are lifted by the joy and affection of God as you listen. To watch this extended worship moment, go to our YouTube channel, or search "Cageless Birds Joy of the Lord"

This episode is the second half of an interview with Jonathan & Melissa Helser, celebrating 14 years of leading their school, the 18 Inch Journey! Originally recorded in 2019, our Art Director, Justina Stevens sat down with the Helsers to answer some commonly asked questions about our school, its history and our heart for discipleship.  In Part 2 you’ll hear about the pillars & values of our school, and how you can support what God is doing here. Go to www.18inchjourney.com to learn more & apply!

To celebrate 14 years of leading the 18 Inch Journey, we are re-releasing one of our favorite podcasts from 2019 when we sat down with Jonathan & Melissa to answer some commonly asked questions about our school, it’s history and our heart for discipleship. In Part 1, Justina Stevens hosts an interview to help dive into some of the biggest topics, including how the school began, our reason for it’s length, and why we focus on the age range of 20-30. Go to www.18inchjourney.com to learn more & apply!

Jonathan & Melissa have been pouring into discipleship and ministry for over two decades. Together, along with the Cageless Birds, they have led their school, The 18 Inch Journey for 14 years! In this episode, they share their passion for life on life discipleship and share 8 audio testimonies taken from alumni over the last 14 years. Videos of each of these testimonies can also be found at 18inchjourney.com  The 18 Inch Journey 2021 is open to those ages 20-30 who want to learn to cultivate their heart, establish firm foundations in their life and not burn out on gifting and talent.  Apps are OPEN. Go to 18inchjourney.com to learn more and apply! #18inchjourney  To give to our campus campaign, go to https://www.18inchjourney.com/campus-campaign 

“Burnout happens when our doing exceeds our being.” In this episode Jonathan shares on cultivating a life of overflow in friendship with God, and the importance of becoming a leader who is rooted in rest. This message was recorded at WorshipU, an online school and annual gathering hosted by Bethel Music in Redding, CA. Go to http://WorshipU.com to find out more. To learn more about Jonathan & Melissa and their ministry, go to jonathanhelser.com or cagelessbirds.com. 

"Instantly I felt the voice of the Lord speak in my heart. He said 'Jonathan, worry magnifies the problems, but worship magnifies My promises.'" In this episode we are sharing a recent spontaneous worship moment from our school, The 18 Inch Journey. Our prayer is that this moment would become a space for you to fix your eyes on God, where His promises become more real than the problems that surround you. www.jonathanhelser.com www.18inchjourney.com   

“As our community has entered into this beautiful season of Advent, we have been experiencing some remarkable times of worship. In the middle of the pressure, the presence of Jesus has been lifting us up to see the way that He sees.” - Jonathan Helser This is a followup worship moment to our last episode (“Yield”). You can watch a full length video of this moment on our Cageless Birds Youtube Channel, as well as listen on the Tribl Music app!

“On December 1 we had our weekly time of worship and prayer as a community. We were overcome with the beauty of the Advent Season and experienced a deep time of prayer and worship reflecting back on this last year, engaging the longing for the Christ. We hope you enjoy this RAW live spontaneous moment, wherever you find yourself in this season.” - Melissa Helser You can also listen to this extended worship moment on TRIBL, an app created for sharing live moments of worship. http://triblmusic.com/apple

“Great leaders in the Kingdom are great followers of the Presence of God.” In this episode Jonathan opens up his history of leading worship and shares keys to being a follower of the greatest leader, Jesus, as we lead others. This message was recorded at WorshipU, an online school and annual gathering hosted by Bethel Music in Redding, CA. Go to http://WorshipU.com to find out more. To learn more about Jonathan & Melissa and their ministry, go to jonathanhelser.com or cagelessbirds.com. 

In this podcast Jonathan shares about our new online workshop, The Honesty Tool. This episode includes the full audio from the Jonathan’s Honesty Tool teaching on Journaling the Voice of the Lord. Here, Jonathan unpacks the life-changing practice of journaling God’s voice and the common barriers we encounter in the process. Episode Prompt: www.cagelessbirds.com/prompt Go to www.engagingcultivate.com to learn more about the Honesty Tool and use the promo code “podcast” to get 10% off.

In this episode, Melissa sits down in an hour long candid conversation with one of her dear friends, and a leader in our ministry, Phyllis Unkefer, to talk about humility, vulnerability, trust, and letting the Lord speak to the deepest places in us on the issue of racism. You can watch the full video on our Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qTLvPKmg0hg  www.jonathanhelser.com www.cagelessbirds.com 

In this episode, recorded live at WorshipU in Redding, CA, Jonathan sits down at a piano and shares one song from each of the albums he has recorded over the last 14 years, detailing the story and process behind writing them. To learn more about Jonathan and Melissa, and their ministry, go to http://jonathanhelser.com and http://cagelessbirds.com.  For more information about WorshipU, go to http://WorshipU.com 

In this episode, we are releasing the extended audio from our night of spontaneous worship and prayer during the start of the Covid Crisis. In the previous episode you can hear Jonathan and Melissa talk about this time of worship, and what they are hearing from the Lord in this season. Link to the full length Youtube video of this worship time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-SR7Xc0yhM  www.jonathanhelser.com 

In this episode, Jonathan and Melissa talk about the spontaneous time of worship we released during the start of the Covid Crisis, and share what we are hearing from the Lord during this time. Link to the full length Youtube video of this worship time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-SR7Xc0yhM  Link to the new Visual Journalling series that Melissa references: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ha9LGR2Hto  "Before our home state of NC issued a Stay at Home order, we felt the urgency to gather together - to worship, sing and pray over our nation and the nations of the world. Our only agenda was to get Heaven’s perspective and the mind of the Lord for this moment in time. We didn't come with a set list or a group of written songs to sing. We took a few hours in the Helser's living room and sang over homes, families, hearts and minds. We played and prophesied through our instruments - because as musicians, we believe that this changes the atmosphere. Our desire is that this FILLS your home with home, releases faith and propels you to contend for your communities and families as we all wait for breakthrough. These are spontaneous songs - our prayers and heart for this hour. We are praying for you and believing for Faith to RISE in these days."

In this episode Melissa tells the story behind the song, "Mountain High," and leads an extended time of worship at one of our recent Carolina Worship Nights. You can watch the full video of this live worship moment and many others on our Cageless Birds YouTube Channel! *DUE TO COVID19 we have had to cancel many of our upcoming dates and tours. For the most up to date information, go to www.jonathanhelser.com.

In this episode, Jonathan gives an inspiring message about living a life of honest connection and authentic worship with the Father. This message was recorded at WorshipU, an online school and annual gathering hosted by Bethel Music in Redding, CA. Go to http://WorshipU.com to find out more. To learn more about Jonathan and Melissa, and their ministry, go to http://jonathanhelser.com and http://cagelessbirds.com. 

In this episode Jonathan and Melissa share their values and wisdom on how to live healthy in family and ministry. www.jonathanhelser.com This message was recorded at a gathering called WorshipU, hosted by Bethel Music in Redding CA. For more information, go to https://worshipu.com/on-campus/

In this exclusive podcast episode, Jonathan and Melissa sit down to walk through the stories and songs found on part 2 of We Rise We Bow, the brand new Cageless Birds album releasing next week! Hear a special sneak peak of all five tracks in this podcast, and learn more about the artists and stories behind them! Go to all the places you get music to get “We Bow” on October 11. www.cagelessbirds.com www.jonathanhelser.com

"You can always hear the voice of the one who holds your heart." In this episode, Jonathan tells stories and shares on learning to listen to and be defined by the voice of the Father. This message was recorded at a gathering called WorshipU, hosted by Bethel Music in Redding CA. For more information, go to https://worshipu.com/on-campus/ www.jonathanhelser.com     

In this message Melissa opens the book of her life and candidly reflects on the past decade of growing with the Father, the Holy Spirit and Jesus. Melissa shares a compassionate invitation to embrace both our own humanity and the humanity of Jesus, with a promise that we will meet Him there every time. This message was recorded at a gathering called WorshipU, hosted by Bethel Music in Redding CA. For more information, go to https://worshipu.com/on-campus/ www.jonathanhelser.com 

In this episode Jonathan and Melissa share their hearts about the new Cageless Birds album releasing this week! Hear a sneak peak of the entire album in this podcast, as well as some of the stories behind the songs. Go to all the places you get music to get “We Rise” on June 21st. www.cagelessbirds.com www.jonathanhelser.com 

In this episode, Jonathan shares stories and keys from his journey that have significantly shaped who he is as a worship leader. This message was recorded at a gathering called WorshipU, hosted by Bethel Music in Redding CA. For more information, go to https://worshipu.com/on-campus/ www.jonathanhelser.com 

“Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the Lord.” (Psalm 102:18) In this episode, Melissa shares her thoughts on sustainability, the mindset of seeing beyond ourselves, and planting an orchard of the nature of God for the generations to come. *** We are currently raising funds to build a new Cabin for Staff & Student Housing! To learn more, and support this dream go to https://www.18inchjourney.com/campus-campaign Thank you for your support! *** This message was recorded at Bethel Music Worship School in Redding, CA. For more information, go to bethelmusic.com/worshipschool/

In this episode, Cageless Birds Art Director, Justina Stevens, continues her conversation from last month with Jonathan and Melissa Helser, focusing on commonly asked questions about their school, the 18 Inch Journey. To learn more about the 18 Inch Journey, and how to partner with us, go to https://www.18inchjourney.com/donate You can also support the 18 Inch Journey by shopping at https://shop.cagelessbirds.com 

In this episode, Cageless Birds Art Director, Justina Stevens, sits down with Jonathan and Melissa Helser to talk about the history and heart behind their school, the 18 Inch Journey. Make Applications are still open for the 2019 18 Inch Journey Phase One! Go to www.18inchjourney.com for more information, and to apply.

In this episode, Jonathan shares from his heart about songwriting and the story behind No Longer Slaves. This message was captured at the Bethel Music Songwriting Retreat with a small gathering of songwriters and worship leaders. www.jonathanhelser.com https://bethelmusic.com/retreats/songwriting/ https://shop.cagelessbirds.com 

“Anyone who walks in true authority has had tremendous tension in their lives, where they made choice, after choice, after choice.” In this episode, Melissa shares on why she began singing, and reflects on walking with the Lord through seasons of suffering. www.jonathanhelser.com

“The Holy Spirit loves friendship with us. He never leaves, he never gets worn out. His capacity for our failures and our success is outrageous. We need to become more obsessed with the nature of God than anything else.” In this message, Melissa shares a beautiful invitation to take the time to learn what the Holy Spirit sounds like and grow in dependency on Him. This message was recorded at Bethel Music Worship School in Redding, CA. For more information, go to bethelmusic.com/worshipschool/ jonathanhelser.com  cagelessbirds.com   

"Burnout happens when our doing exceeds our being." In this message, Jonathan shares on the power of rest as a key for sustaining revival, and keeping our hearts and relationships healthy. This message was shared at Bethel Music Worship School in Redding, CA. For more information, go to bethelmusic.com/worshipschool/ To read the article Jonathan references in this episode, check out Cultivate Volume IV at shop.cagelessbirds.com

The Holy Spirit is the crescendo of the cross and the gift of the Father for our everyday life. In this message, Melissa shares personal stories about raising children and the value of leaning into the Holy Spirit and teaching them to do the same.  This message was recorded at Bethel Music Worship School in Redding, CA. For more information, go to bethelmusic.com/worshipschool/ For more content and resources on healthy and thriving relationships in marriage, parenting, dating and relating to your parents, check out Cultivate Volume V at shop.cagelessbirds.com

“One of the greatest battles over our identities is actually just becoming ourselves. But when we fix our eyes on the Author, and open up the book of our hearts in surrender, He begins to write His story in us.” In this message Jonathan shares on positioning ourselves before the Father to write our stories, in our lives as it is in Heaven. For more information on our ministry, scheduled dates, and resources, go to www.jonathanhelser.com This message was recently given at Bethel Music Worship Schoo in Redding, CA. For more information on how to attend, go to https://bethelmusic.com/worshipschool/ 

In this episode Justina, Art Director for The Cageless Birds, sat down with Melissa to ask her questions about working out healthy relationships with God and people, in light of the release of our fifth volume of Cultivate, “The Art of Connection.” To learn more about Cultivate, and to order our newest volume, go to shop.cagelessbirds.com, or www.cagelessbirds.com/cultivate/

"The Art of Connection" is the fifth volume in the Cultivate devotional book series that was written with your most significant relationships in mind. Volume V is designed to encourage and empower you to pursue healthy and thriving relationships in marriage, parenting, dating and relating to your parents. It is full of prompts and practical tools created to help you identify your need for connection and establish new ways of processing and pursuing family relationships.  Get it online at shop.cagelessbirds.com today Learn more about Cultivate at www.cagelessbirds.com

In this message shared at WorshipU, Jonathan gives a call to live and lead from our encounters with Jesus, and to measure success by how much love and family are produced. ... For more information about WorshipU, an annual gathering and online school of worship hosted by Bethel Music, go to www.worshipu.com. For more information about our ministry, scheduled dates, and resources, go to www.jonathanhelser.com Have a great day.

Creativity is our birthright as sons and daughters created in the image of God. It’s not just about the songs we write, or the art we create. It doesn’t only belong to artists. Being creative is about the everyday 98% of our lives we walk out in family, relationships, work, and rest. This message is an invitation to walk out our creative identity and create new worlds in every realm of life. For more information on WorshipU go to: http://WorshipU.com To learn more about Cultivate head over to: http://shop.cagelessbirds.com/collections/books

“There is a way to live above the storm — to stay connected to the Father, to the Person of Jesus, and to the beautiful friendship of the Holy Spirit. There’s a way to actually thrive in life, even when it’s crazy.” In this episode, Melissa shares a hope-filled message from her own story on the power of vulnerability and our need for connection. www.jonathanhelser.com www.18inchjourney.com www.cagelessbirds.com

Part 2 of Graham Cooke's recent message at our 18 Inch Journey school, "The Power of Instead", an Isaiah 61 invitation to live in the "Instead's" that God has for our lives. www.jonathanhelser.com www.brilliantperspectives.com www.brillianttv.com 

It’s our pleasure in this episode to introduce a dear friend of ours, Graham Cooke, as he shares a powerful message at our school, the 18 Inch Journey! This is an Isaiah 61 invitation for us to receive God's "Instead's" for our lives. Check out www.brilliantperspectives.com or www.brillianttv.com for more about Graham and his ministry. www.jonathanhelser.com  www.18inchjourney.com 

In this episode, Jonathan shares from his own story his thoughts on the power of generations carrying the presence of God together, and passing on the blessing. For more information about Bethel Music's "Heaven Come" conference, go to https://bethelmusic.com/heavencome/ For more information on our ministry, resources, and scheduled dates go to www.jonathanhelser.com or find us on Facebook.

In this episode we are sharing an extended live recording of Jonathan's song, "Abba" from a recent service at Bethel Church in Redding, CA. For more information on our ministry, resources, and scheduled dates, go to www.jonathanhelser.com or find us on Facebook.

Leading worship is about loving God and loving the people. It's not either/or, it's both and more. In this message Jonathan shares from his journey on the privilege of leading worship.

Being rooted in what the Father thinks about us is as key element to living in delight. Melissa shares from her testimony and life experience on the Father's delight in this powerful message from WorshipU at Bethel Church in Redding, California.

"When we do our DOING out of the pleasure God has in our BEING, we will do much more than we could ever imagine." In this message, Jonathan shares about the importance of recognizing that the greatest gift we all possess is our hearts. For more information about our ministry, resources, and scheduled dates, go to www.jonathanhelser.com, or find us on Facebook.

The more heaven comes to earth, the more the earth looks like family. In this message, Jonathan shares on discovering the Father heart of God for his Kingdom family. www.jonathanhelser.com

God created and loves our humanity and emotions. In this message Melissa shares on the process of engaging hope during seasons of disappointment and grief. This message was recorded at WorshipU, an online school and annual gathering hosted by Bethel Music in Redding, CA. Go to http://WorshipU.com to find out more.

Jonathan shares powerful stories and revelation on the Father's presence bringing rest from pressure in our lives. ***Next month we will be switching to 1 Podcast episode per month, released every first Thursday*** For more information on our ministry, resources, and scheduled dates, go to www.jonathanhelser.com

Jonathan shares on the power of knowing, and living from your new name. Recorded in Dubai at the end of 2016. For more information on our ministry, music, and other resources, go to www.jonathanhelser.com 

Melissa shares on being rooted and grounded in life in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit For more information, go to www.jonathanhelser.com 

Melissa leads a spontaneous worship moment after her song "Catch the Wind" at the Carolina Theatre in Greensboro, NC. 

Jonathan & Melissa share from their journey on what they have learned about staying centered in life, marriage, and ministry.   For additional media and resources, go to jonathanhelser.com

Jonathan shares on the power of rest and choosing to cultivate rhythms of Sabbath. For additional media and resources, go to jonathanhelser.com

A powerful talk on “Sustainability” that Melissa originally shared at the 2016 Heaven Come Conference in Los Angeles, California.   For more information go to http://www.jonathanhelser.com/

In this message, Jonathan Helser shares from his heart on the power of worship on the earth, songs of deliverance, and what it looks like to become a ‘Fearless Worshipper’. This message was originally shared at WorshipU : an online school and an annual gathering that is hosted by Bethel Music. Go to http://WorshipU.com for more information.  For music, resources and information about our ministry go to jonathanhelser.com or find us on Facebook.

Melissa shares from her heart about the beauty and joy of family.

Melissa's shares from her heart about her journey and her testimony of the Father's goodness in the wilderness and the promise land.

We are very excited to announce the debut project “Live at Home” from the Cageless Birds. Here is a behind the scenes look at the week long recording process.The album releases January 24 & 25 in Asheboro, NC.Visit cagelessbirds.com for more.

Jonathan and Melissa share their hearts about enjoying marriage and ministry

This is a raw and unmixed take of a spontaneous moment during the tracking of "Abba."  Molly Skaggs on Piano, Jake Stevens on baritone electric with a violin bow in hand, Luke Skaggs on lap steel guitar and background vocals during intro and Jonathan David Helser on main vocals. 

A message from Jonathan captured at the 2012 Resound Conference in Boulder, Colorado.

"Endless Ocean, Bottomless Sea" - The Extended Versions of "On the Shores" by Jonathan David and Melissa Helser. Coming on March 2nd. For more information:http://jonathanhelser.com/jonathanhelser/endlessocean.html

Jonathan sharing on Abba’s Furious Love during the "18 Inch Journey". This is part three of a three-part podcast.

Jonathan sharing on Abba’s Furious Love during the "18 Inch Journey". This is part two of a three-part podcast.

Jonathan reading an excerpt from "The Furious Longing ofGod" by Brennan Manning during the "18 Inch Journey". This is part one of a three-part podcast.

Here's a quick glimpse into the 2012 18 Inch Journey. Hear from the students' perspective as they share the story of their two month school. We hope this video gives you clarity into the 18 Inch Journey and A Place for the Heart. aplacefortheheart.org18inchjourney.comjonathanhelser.com

Jonathan Helser and Molly Skaggs sing “You See” at the Heavy Rain Conference in Toronto, Canada. For more go to: catchthefire.tv

Jonathan & Melissa Helser share the heart of the 18 Inch Journey.

A new message from Jonathan David Helser

Jonathan David Helser on how to play his song “You’re Never Giving Up”.

A look inside the tracking of “Threshing Floor” by Jonathan David Helser at Threshing Floor studios in Lincolnton NC.

New Worship Albums from Jonathan David & Melissa Helser coming this winter!

In June 2011, Songs of Water came to A Place for the Heart to do a private House concert for the 18 Inch Journey. This is their song Bread & Circus.

Jonathan Helser speaks at Fire & Fragrance school in Kona Hawaii.

A Christmas song from Jonathan & Melissa Helser filmed in one take on their back porch.

Jonathan Helser teaches on prophetic worship.

Raw footage of a spontaneous moment in the tracking of "You're Never Giving Up" at "Threshing Floor Studios" in Lincolnton, North Carolina on Nov. 18, 2007.

One take on the Oregon shore.

One take in Dublin Ireland, with Luke Skaggs on the Fiddle

A moment of worship with Jonathan & Melissa in Winston-Salem NC

I wrote this song from a prayer of Brennan Manning. The prayer is five simple words....Abba I belong to you. In two short days in an old warehouse in Asheboro NC, we learned to pray like we belong.

Live worship with Jonathan & Melissa Helser on January 14th at Morningstar in Ft. Mill SC.