Returning To Joy

Welcome back to the final episode of Returning to Joy Season 4! The past several weeks have been so rich with reflections and new insights around the rest that Jesus offers, and the ways it can both heal us and empower us. In this final episode, we'll consider that simply knowing what Jesus says about rest is often not enough to keep us from being swayed by the demands and pace of the world around us. An active resilience is required, and is the kind of rest that Jesus modeled for us in the midst of everything that was set before him.We hope you enjoyed this series, and we will see you in March for Season 5! Stay in the loop by following us on social media and signing up for our newsletters at www.returningtojoy.com.Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show

Thanks for listening to the Returning to Joy podcast. This week's episode is an invitation to have faith again, and not just a belief in Jesus but also in his authority and his power. True rest requires a faith like the Centurion in Luke 7. One that chips away at our belief that we must always try harder and do more to accomplish anything, and one that continues to trust that at his very word, it will be done. New episodes on Wednesdays! Bi-weekly!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show

Welcome to this episode of Returning to Joy. This week is both an encouragement and a challenge to not only let in the light of Jesus in your life but to also bring forth that light to the darkest places. It is not only about the decision to receive the light but also a participation that God invites us into, to bring that light into the darkness of the world around us. You will hear about several impactful moments from Gabrielle's sabbatical, and the truth that the Lord put on her heart about the light that shines in the darkness, and the darkness that does not overcome it. New episodes on Wednesdays! Bi-weekly!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show

Drawing from the work of Old Testament theologian Walter Brueggemann, Gabrielle  discusses the concept of orientation, disorientation, and new orientation as seen in the Psalms and in Jesus's life. These movements symbolize the human experience of comfort, crisis, and resolution. Brueggemann's perspective emphasizes the realness and authenticity of the Psalms, which capture raw human emotions during moments of disorientation. In this episode, Gabrielle  creates a space for listeners to sit with and confront their feelings of disorientation, whether they stem from personal challenges or external sources like news headlines. She then guides listeners through Psalms 13, offering prayers and reflections between verses, encouraging those in the midst of hardship to lean on God and trust in His presence. New episodes on Wednesdays! Bi-weekly!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4god Support the show

Thanks for tuning into this week's podcast! This episode we are continuing in our series, Sabbath Stories: Embracing Rest in a Restless World. Each episode we will unpack the sacred call to rest and renewal, as well as a practical practice to help you integrate rest rhythms into your life. This episode we'll continue to look deeper at the pilgrimage that the Israelites made, and unpack the parts of the journey that reveal something beautiful about our own journey with God. We'll touch on the idea of entering in to rest rather than receiving it, as well as consider the ways that God has intended for rest to be communal, and something we experience and share with others on our journey. New episodes on Wednesdays! Bi-weekly!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show

Welcome back to Season 4 of the Returning to Joy Podcast! This week we continue in our new series, Sabbath Stories: Embracing Rest in a Restless World. Each episode we will unpack the sacred call to rest and renewal, as well as a practical practice to help you integrate rest rhythms into your life. This episode we'll dive into the kind of rest that we find in Jesus, and the freedom in it that He calls us and those around us to enter into. New episodes on Wednesdays! Bi-weekly!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show

Welcome to Season 4 of the Returning to Joy Podcast! This week we continue with our   new series, Sabbath Stories: Embracing Rest in a Restless World. Each episode we will unpack the sacred call to rest and renewal, as well as a practical practice to help you integrate rest rhythms into your life. This episode's key concept: Rest is Resistance. New episodes on Wednesdays! Bi-weekly!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4god Support the show

Welcome to Season 4 of the Returning to Joy Podcast! This week we are kicking off a new series, Sabbath Stories: Embracing Rest in a Restless World. Each episode will unpack the sacred call to rest and renewal, as well as a practical practice to help you integrate these rest rhythms into your life. This episode we sit down with Rosalind Hervey - a friend, mentor, and a spiritual mother to many in our community. She will help us unpack what it means to embrace our identity as children of God, and the ways that God can meet us in seasons of fear, confusion or distress. She will also share some practices that can help open our hearts to the ways God may want to shape our perspective on the world and how we engage it. New episodes on Wednesdays! Bi-weekly!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show

Thank you for tuning in to Part 2 of our conversation with Taylor Rogers, Executive Director of Wildfire Network. Wildfire Network is a community that exists to help the dreams of Jesus come true— in and through His people.In this episode, we'll continue our conversation about reimagining the church as we know it. We'll begin to dive into not only alternative metaphors and ways of understanding the church we are striving to be, but why it's important to have these conversations in order to connect with one another and with Christ. It's in those spaces of unity and connection with the body of Christ, that we really experience healing, justice, and restoration.This episode wraps up Season 3 of the Returning to Joy podcast. Thank you for journeying with us, and stay tuned for our comeback in August with some exciting episodes in Season 4.Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show

In our world today, "church" has become synonymous with a building, an institution, or a religious gathering. However, as we delve into the origins of the word "Ekklesia", that has often been translated to the word "church", we uncover a much more profound and transformative concept. Taylor Rogers is the executive director of Wildfire Network, a community that exists to spark and sustain the calling of God in the lives of believers by providing free services to help the new dreams that JESUS was planting to take flight. In this episode, Taylor will share some of what he has learned about being the kind of church modeled by Jesus and being able to see miracles of all kinds when we do so.Tune in for our next episode to hear Part 2 of this conversation with Taylor around reimagining the church as we know it. New episodes on Wednesdays! Bi-weekly!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show

Thanks for joining us for this special episode of Returning to Joy. In this episode, we'll sit down with Gabrielle's mother, Denise Leonard. In a season that has felt tumultuous and challenging for Gabrielle and her family, Denise has shared a word from the Lord that we want to share with the listeners today. When God is preparing us for a new thing He is bringing into our lives, and when we transition into a new season with the birth of something new in front of us, it often doesn't feel good. It can sometimes be painful, confusing, intense, difficult… But God is graceful, and there is wisdom to be gleaned from looking at the actual process of childbirth. Denise will walk us through this and more, and will send us with a mother's prayer.New episodes on Wednesdays! Bi-weekly!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show

Thanks for tuning into this week's podcast. In this episode, we'll hear from Mashaun Hirschler, Mission Leader of T.H.U.G.G.I.N for Christ - a ministry that is aimed at serving those who are stuck on the streets. While mindful of the complicated psychological and sociological factors that contribute to addiction and homelessness, they seek to address the 'whole person' in Jesus' Name. You will hear some of Mashaun's story, and his radical transformation because of Jesus. He was called out of the street, and now has been called back to serve those who are still trapped. He also shares some invaluable wisdom about modeling the way of Jesus by meeting and loving people where they are at, no matter what their situation may look like. New episodes on Wednesdays! Bi-weekly!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show

This episode is a continued conversation with John Garland, pastor of the San Antonio Mennonite Church and Chaplain of the Interfaith Welcome Coalition. As you heard in the previous episode, much of his work and mission is dedicated to displaced and marginalized families in his area. As a result, he often has to confront questions that we would do well to consider for ourselves - questions of justice, division, action - and how can we be sure we're doing the right thing?Together we'll wrestle with some of these questions, and learn about ways that we can be aligned with God's heart for those in need, and also how we can sustain in this work by recognizing our participation in God's miracles around us. To learn more about Pastor John Garland, visit his page on the SAMC website: https://www.sanantoniomennonite.org/our-pastorsSupport the show

John Garland is the pastor of the San Antonio Mennonite Church and Chaplain of the Interfaith Welcome Coalition. John pastors from the discipline of “no action without prayer, no prayer without action.” His applied theology interprets Christianity as a trauma-transforming faith movement, he reads Scripture as divinely inspired through and for traumatized communities, and he understands hospitality, story, and prayer-centered community as the most powerful tools of healing.In this episode, we'll hear about why it's important to consider scripture from a lens other than our own, as well as how we can practice hospitality and why it's crucial to the mission of God. You'll hear stories, encouragements, and meaningful lessons from Pastor John's journey walking alongside the displaced and asylum seeking communities around him. To learn more about Pastor John Garland, visit his page on the SAMC website: https://www.sanantoniomennonite.org/our-pastors-New episodes on Wednesdays! Bi-weekly!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show

Often in our culture and especially in the Western church, we tend to describe God in abstract terms and with intangible qualities, and can even find ourselves desiring information about God rather than a testimony about our relationship with Him. But the Lord is real and moving around us in ways we can know with our senses. He is speaking and revealing Himself to you in a unique way, and there are concrete truths about God that you have a personal witness to. So today, ask yourself, who has God been to you? What concrete descriptions about God are true and tangible to you? It's these qualities and truths that unlock the potential for firm foundations in your journey with Jesus and your identity in Him. New episodes on Wednesdays! Bi-weekly!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show!Support the show

Welcome to Season 3, friends! Thanks for tuning in. Our gaze should always be toward Jesus, but we must ask ourselves what version of Jesus are we trying to focus on? Are we worshipping the fullness of who He is, or are we trying to push attention towards a comfortable version of Him while ignoring the very brokenness He was sent to restore in the world? This is what we'll be diving into in today's episode.New episodes on Wednesdays! Bi-weekly!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the showSupport the show

Beloveds, I've got good news! God's power isn't limited by your capability to anticipate or perceive His goodness. When you can't even imagine better, and your eyes can't see God's faithfulness on the horizon. You can rest assured in the truth that He is still able to do exceedingly more.  In this episode, let's dive into this truth together. Scriptures Mentioned:  Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,Ephesians 3:20 NIV I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Psalm 27:13 NIV Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.Psalm 23:6 ESV (That word Mercy is talking about the Steadfast Love of God) Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. Colossians 3:16 Let the sunrise of your love end our dark night. Break through our clouded dawn again! Only you can satisfy our hearts, filling us with songs of joy to the end of our days. We've been overwhelmed with grief; come now and overwhelm us with gladness. Replace our years of trouble with decades of delight.Psalm 90:14-15 TPTThe grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.”Isaiah 40:8 NIVFor he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things.Psalm 107:9 ESVI lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord , the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip— he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord watches over you— the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.Psalms 121:1-8 NIVLetter from the host:Dear Beloveds, Reflecting on and responding to the faithful and intelligent love of God has been therapeutic to my mind, heart, and body! I vulnerably share because I want you to experience the joy of authentic connection with Jesus, yourself, and others. Growth happens at the point of connection. Thank you for trusting me with this connection! I'm glad to be with you! With joy, Gabrielle Michelle New episodes Bi-weekly! On Wednesdays! Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends. Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4god  Support the show

Are you feeling stuck? Is there a lack of clarity on how to move forward? Does it seem like there are impenetrable barriers between where you are and what God has promised for you? You are not alone! So many people who trust the Lord are uncertain right now. They feel like they are wandering aimlessly with no direction and no leader. Yet, Christ has not abandoned you. In this episode, Gabrielle is preaching on why the moment you're in right now feels so intense and why it feels like you're shut in with no pathway forward.  Scriptures Mentioned: "When Pharaoh let the people go, God did not lead them by way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near. For God said, “Lest the people change their minds when they see war and return to Egypt.” But God led the people around by the way of the wilderness toward the Red Sea. And the people of Israel went up out of the land of Egypt equipped for battle."Exodus 13:17-18 ESV"Then the Lord said to Moses, “Tell the people of Israel to turn back and encamp in front of Pi-hahiroth, between Migdol and the sea, in front of Baal-zephon; you shall encamp facing it, by the sea. For Pharaoh will say of the people of Israel, ‘They are wandering in the land; the wilderness has shut them in.' And I will harden Pharaoh's heart, and he will pursue them, and I will get glory over Pharaoh and all his host, and the Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord.” And they did so."Exodus 14:1-4 ESVLetter from the host:Dear Beloveds, Reflecting on and responding to the faithful and intelligent love of God has been therapeutic to my mind, heart, and body! I vulnerably share because I want you to experience the joy of authentic connection with Jesus, yourself, and others. Growth happens at the point of connection. Thank you for trusting me with this connection! I'm glad you're here! With joy, Gabrielle Michelle New episodes on Wednesdays! Bi-weekly! Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends. Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4god  Support the show

We've got a special guest! Taylor Rogers from Wildfire Network steps behind the mic to interview Gabrielle. In this episode you're hear the heart behind Returning to Joy Ministry.  Letter from the host:Dear Beloveds, Reflecting on and responding to the faithful and intelligent love of God has been therapeutic to my mind, heart, and body! I vulnerably share because I want you to experience the joy of authentic connection with Jesus, yourself, and others. Growth happens at the point of connection. Thank you for trusting me with this connection! I'm glad you're here! With joy, Gabrielle Michelle New episodes onWednesdays! Bi-weekly! Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends. Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4god  Support the show

In this episode Gabrielle has the pleasure of sitting down with Chandler Merritt for a conversation on vulnerability. Chandler is an administrative genius but more importantly she is an incredible human who has uniquely learned the role vulnerability plays in strengthening and securing her. You don't want to miss the visual picture she paints for how the process of being vulnerable fortifies the truth about our past and helps us move forward with new perspective and healing. Letter from the host:Dear Beloveds, Reflecting on and responding to the faithful and intelligent love of God has been therapeutic to my mind, heart, and body! I vulnerably share because I want you to experience the joy of authentic connection with Jesus, yourself, and others. Growth happens at the point of connection. Thank you for trusting me with this connection! I'm glad to be with you! With joy, Gabrielle Michelle New episodes onWednesdays! Bi-weekly! Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends. Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4god Support the show Support the show (https://rock.wildfire.church/page/694)

The Lord will make room for you. This episode is a overview of Genesis 26. Observing what we notice to be true about God and His children as they respond to His command to dwell in the land.   Scripture:  Genesis Chapter 26 Letter from the host:Dear Beloveds, Reflecting on and responding to the faithful and intelligent love of God has been therapeutic to my mind, heart, and body! I vulnerably share because I want you to experience the joy of authentic connection with Jesus, yourself, and others. Growth happens at the point of connection. Thank you for trusting me with this connection! I'm glad to be with you! With joy, Gabrielle Michelle New episodes onWednesdays! Bi-weekly! Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends. Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4god Support the showSupport the show (https://rock.wildfire.church/page/694)Letter from the host:Dear Beloveds, Reflecting on and responding to the faithful and intelligent love of God has been therapeutic to my mind, heart, and body! I vulnerably share because I want you to experience the joy of authentic connection with Jesus, yourself, and others. Growth happens at the point of connection. Thank you for trusting me with this connection! I'm glad to be with you! With joy, Gabrielle Michelle New episodes onWednesdays! Bi-weekly! Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends. Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4god Support the show (https://rock.wildfire.church/page/694) Support the show (https://rock.wildfire.church/page/694)

This episode is uniquely for those who are grieving. It's for those who know they are carrying pain but don't have the words or the strength to vocalize it yet. It's for those who know their heart is broken and their mind is confused. I get it. I'm there too. So in this episode I'm spending time praying for you...for us. I invite you to just receive. Prayer will then lead into some guided time for you to vocalize what you need to Christ. It's okay if you don't have words: often we don't know what we need. Even your silent groanings are enough before the Lord - that's a beautiful gift. He knows what you need and is attuning to you. He is with you. It it His strength that will sustain and guide you.  Scripture:  Psalms 13How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?    How long will you hide your face from me?How long must I take counsel in my soul    and have sorrow in my heart all the day?How long shall my enemy be exalted over me?Consider and answer me, O Lord my God;    light up my eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death,lest my enemy say, “I have prevailed over him,”    lest my foes rejoice because I am shaken.But I have trusted in your steadfast love;    my heart shall rejoice in your salvation.I will sing to the Lord,    because he has dealt bountifully with me.Letter from the host:Dear Beloveds, Reflecting on and responding to the faithful and intelligent love of God has been therapeutic to my mind, heart, and body! I vulnerably share because I want you to experience the joy of authentic connection with Jesus, yourself, and others. Growth happens at the point of connection. Thank you for trusting me with this connection! I'm glad to be with you! With joy, Gabrielle Michelle New episodes onWednesdays! Bi-weekly! Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends. Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4god Support the show Support the show (https://rock.wildfire.church/page/694)

He is God of the generations. His goodness goes beyond are daily experiences. His goodness stretches back beyond our timeline.  Christ has the authority to say on the cross "It is finished" because of who He's been, who He is, and who He forever will be. When we position ourselves under the truth that God's goodness isn't dependent upon our experiences we can find security and rest for souls. Scriptures:  After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), “I thirst.” A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth. When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. John 19:29-30 ESV The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, because he was before me.' I myself did not know him, but for this purpose I came baptizing with water, that he might be revealed to Israel.” John 1:29-31 ESVLetter from the host:Dear Beloveds, Reflecting on and responding to the faithful and intelligent love of God has been therapeutic to my mind, heart, and body! I vulnerably share because I want you to experience the joy of authentic connection with Jesus, yourself, and others. Growth happens at the point of connection. Thank you for trusting me with this connection! I'm glad to be with you! With joy, Gabrielle Michelle New episodes onWednesdays! Bi-weekly! Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends. Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4god Support the showSupport the show (https://rock.wildfire.church/page/694) Support the show (https://rock.wildfire.church/page/694)

Are you feeling stuck? Paralyzed and weighed down by your dreams and hopes for the future? Maybe you're longing to birth something beautiful, but you're hitting a wall? If so, this episode is for you: The achiever. The one longing to build something significant but feeling shut down in the process. It may surprise you, but you're not creating treasure; however, you are created to reveal treasure. Understanding the difference between those two statements is crucial for freedom in creativity. Give this episode a listen to discover why. In this episode: Let's unlearn pressure and discover freedom together! Scriptures:  The entire universe is standing on tiptoe,  yearning to see the unveiling of God's glorious Romans 8:19 TPT The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.Matthew 13:44 ESV Letter from the host: Dear Beloveds, Reflecting on and responding to the faithful and intelligent love of God has been therapeutic to my mind, heart, and body! I vulnerably share because I want you to experience the joy of authentic connection with Jesus, yourself, and others. Growth happens at the point of connection. Thank you for trusting me with this connection! I'm glad to be with you! With joy, Gabrielle Michelle New episodes onWednesdays! Bi-weekly! Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends. Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4god Support the showSupport the show (https://rock.wildfire.church/page/694)

Scriptures mentioned: Psalms 46: 1 - 7 TPT God, you’re such a safe and powerful place to find refuge!You’re a proven help in time of trouble—more than enough and always available whenever I need you.So we will never feareven if every structure of support were to crumble away.We will not fear even when the earthquakes and shakes,moving mountains and casting them into the sea.For the raging roar of stormy winds and crashing wavescannot erode our faith in you.Pause in his presenceGod has a constantly flowing river whose sparkling streamsbring joy and delight to his people.His river flows right through the city of God Most High,into his holy dwelling places.God is in the midst of his city,secure and never shaken.At daybreak his help will be seen with the appearing of the dawn.When the nations are in uproar with their tottering kingdoms,God simply raises his voiceand the earth begins to disintegrate before him.Here he comes!The Commander!The mighty Lord of Angel Armies is on our side.The God of Jacob fights for us!Pause in his presenceNew episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends. Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode.https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4god Support the showSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

Ashley Rogers, founder and director of Created Art Ministry, joins Gabrielle Leonard this week to discuss anxiety and her experience with increased panic attacks in 2020. She gives wisdom on how to move past the shame and what it looks like to connect with Jesus amid anxiety practically. The amount of insight provided in this conversation is unreal. You’ll be encouraged!Special Guest: Ashley Rogers https://www.createdministry.com/Scriptures mentioned: Philippines 4:6-7 NKJVBe anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.Acts 1:21-26 TPT“So then, we must choose his replacement from among those who have been with us from the very beginning, from John’s baptism until Jesus’ ascension. And, like us, he must be a witness of his resurrection.”They proposed two candidates: Joseph, who is also called Barsabbas the Just, and Matthias. They all prayed, “Lord Yahweh, you know the heart of every man. Please give us clear revelation to know which of these two men you have chosen to be an apostle and take Judas’ place because he renounced his apostleship to go where he belonged.” They cast lots and determined that Matthias was the Lord’s choice, so he was added to the eleven apostles.New episodes every Wednesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)Support the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

Well, I'd say it's about time! It's been weeks since I've posted a new podcast episode. In this episode I'm sharing the why. I've been wrestling a lot lately. But it's time to get back to sharing on this platform. I invite you to listen to this first episode back. You'll hear my heart and my confession and repentance. It's a raw episode. Not polished. But the goal, if there is one, is like always to spark in you a desire to be, live, and move with God. Seek His Face & Walk With HimScriptures mentioned: Genesis 3:4-6 TPTBut the snake said to her, “You certainly won’t die. God knows that the moment you eat it, you eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing both good and evil. When the woman saw that the tree produced delicious fruit, delightful to look upon, and desirable to give one insight, she took its fruit and ate it. She gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he also ate it. 2 Corinthians 5:21 For God made the only one who did not know sin to become sin for us, so that we who did not know righteousness might become the righteousness of God through our union with him.2 Corinthians 7:9-11 TPTNow I’m over-joyed—not because I made you sad, but because your grief led you to a deep repentance. You experienced godly sorrow, and as God intended, it brought about gain for you, not loss, so that no harm has been done by us. God designed us to feel remorse over sin in order to produce repentance that leads to victory. This leaves us with no regrets. But the sorrow of the world works death.Can’t you see the good fruit that has come, as God intended, because of your remorse over sin? Now you are eager to do what is right! Look at the indignation you experienced over what happened and how alarmed you became. What holy longing it awakened, what passion for God, and how ready you were to bring justice to the offender. Your response has proved that you are free of blame in this matter.2 Timothy 2:25 TPT Then with meekness you’ll be able to carefully enlighten those who argue with you so they can see God’s gracious gift of repentance and be brought to the truth.New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode.https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)Support the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

Contrary to popular belief, rest is not just pausing from activity. Biblical rest is an exchange. Jesus said, "I will give you rest." Rest is a gift. It's a symptom of someone who has been with Jesus. In today's show, I share how I recently practiced rest. I end the episode with an activation (guided prayer time) to help you connect with God and experience His rest.Scriptures mentioned: Matthew 11:28 NIV“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.Matthew 11:28 ESVCome to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.Matthew 11:28 TPT“Are you weary, carrying a heavy burden? Then come to me. I will refresh your life, for I am your oasis.Matthew 4:4 TPTHe answered, “The Scriptures say: Bread alone will not satisfy, but true life is found in every word, which constantly goes forth from God’s mouth.”New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)Support the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

You can count on God to be faithful to what He has promised. He is trustworthy. In this season, I am eagerly anticipating the fulfillment of His promises to me. I once heard someone say, "Your joy will mirror your hope", I get that now. These last few weeks, I've experienced a more resilient and consistent joy. In this episode, I'll share my source of hope and how I'm anchoring to the one who promised. Scriptures mentioned: Isaiah 45:3 NIVI will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel, who summons you by name. Hebrews 6:19 NLTThis hope is a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls. It leads us through the curtain into God's inner sanctuary. Isaiah 55:11 NKJVSo shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it. New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

In this episode, you'll hear a recording of a message I gave on March 4, 2020, at ONE's Awake women's gathering. As I prepped for this talk God promised me that each listener would experience a personal and intimate moment with Him. That's what I'm praying still for all who listen to this episode. He desires you. You are His delight and I pray that my story reminds you of that truth and invites you into an experience of it. Responses To This Message: "Such an impactful message by Gabrielle today and I loved when she had us ask Jesus what song He was singing over us. We can never get enough of being caught up in His melodies for us"- An Awake Attendee"Going to Awake has helped me understand that God’s love has always been there even when our eyes and hearts were not awake to see, feel, and hear Him. Gabrielle's message reminded me that His melody has always been in my heart and that I can trust and allow it to be fully received. I'm ready to receive Him in full and so is my heart. Bring on the melodies of love." - An Awake Attendee Scriptures Mentioned: Song of Songs 2:8-10 TPTListen! I hear my lover’s voice. I know it’s him coming to me— leaping with joy over mountains, skipping in love over the hills that separate us, to come to me.Let me describe him: he is graceful as a gazelle, swift as a wild stag. Now he comes closer, even to the places where I hide. He gazes into my soul, peering through the portal as he blossoms within my heart. The one I love calls to me: Arise, my dearest. Hurry, my darling. Come away with me! I have come as you have asked to draw you to my heart and lead you out. For now is the time, my beautiful one.Jeremiah 29:13 NKJV “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart” 2 Corinthians 3:18 NIVWe can all draw close to him with the veil removed from our faces. And with no veil we all become like mirrors who brightly reflect the glory of the Lord Jesus. We are being transfigured into his very image as we move from one brighter level of glory to another. And this glorious transfiguration comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit Song of Songs 2:14 TPT"Let me see your radiant face and hear your sweet voice"Genesis 16:13 NKJV Then she called the name of the LORD who spoke to her, You-Are- the-God-Who-Sees; for she said, “Have I also here seen Him who sees me?”John 17:13 TPT “But now I am returning to you so Father, I pray that they will experience and enter into my joyous delight in you so that it is fulfilled in them and overflows."Songs Mentioned: "The More I Seek You" by Kari Jobe New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

Okay, this is an overdue episode. In this episode, the simple and the sacred collide as I share a little bit more about myself and why I started the Returning To Joy Podcast. Scriptures mentioned: Jeremiah 29:11-14 NIVFor I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have banished you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile.”Matthew 7:6 NIV “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

Hope is the joyful anticipation of Good. Hope is expectant and it remains regardless of the current conditions. We all know this to be true, yet when we're navigating unknown territory and can't see the road ahead clearly we sometimes default to our own speculations or reasonings that are devoid of hope. They're rooted in fear and past disappointments. In this episode, Gabrielle shares how she is practically and proactively anchoring herself in truth. Scriptures mentioned: Isaiah 26:2 NLTYou will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you!Isaiah 26:3 TPTPerfect, absolute peace surrounds those whose imaginations are consumed with you; they confidently trust in you.Resources mentioned: Chaim Bentorah Biblical Hebrew Study on Isaiah 26:3https://www.chaimbentorah.com/2017/10/word-study-comple-peace/New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

Two disciples were on the road to Emmaus discussing the events of the crucifixion. Jesus was on their lips yet they walked in despair. But why? In this episode, Gabrielle encourages us to recognize the difference between having a discussion about Jesus and having a conversation that includes Jesus. Scriptures mentioned: Luke 24:13-18 TPTLater that Sunday, two of Jesus’ disciples were walking from Jerusalem to Emmaus, a journey of about seventeen miles. They were in the midst of a discussion about all the events of the last few days when Jesus walked up and accompanied them in their journey. They were unaware that it was Jesus walking alongside them, for God prevented them from recognizing him.Jesus said to them, “You seem to be in a deep discussion about something. What are you talking about, so sad and gloomy?”Luke 24:36-45 TPTWhile they were still discussing all of this, Jesus suddenly manifested right in front of their eyes! Startled and terrified, the disciples were convinced they were seeing a ghost. Standing there among them he said, “Be at peace. I am the living God. Don’t be afraid. Why would you be so frightened? Don’t let doubt or fear enter your hearts, for I AM! Come and gaze upon my pierced hands and feet. See for yourselves, it is I, standing here alive. Touch me and know that my wounds are real. See that I have a body of flesh and bone.” He showed them his pierced hands and feet and let them touch his wounds.The disciples were ecstatic yet dumbfounded, unable to fully comprehend it.Knowing that they were still wondering if he was real, Jesus said, “Here, let me show you. Give me something to eat.”They handed him a piece of broiled fish and some honeycomb. And they watched him eat it.Then he said to them, “Don’t you remember the words that I spoke to you when I was still with you? I told you that everything written about me would be fulfilled, including all the prophecies from the law of Moses through the Psalms and the writings of the prophets—that they would all find their fulfillment.”He supernaturally unlocked their understanding to receive the revelation of the Scriptures,New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

I'm grateful for the incredible lengths The Father goes to demonstrate His love for us. Nothing can restrict it. He doesn't merely proclaim His love; He goes the distance to ensure we experience it uniquely directed towards us. In this episode, Gabrielle shares a story about how God used the children's book, "The Kissing Hand," written by Audrey Penn to assure her of His love. Scriptures mentioned: Song of Songs 1:2 NLTKiss me and kiss me again, for your love is sweeter than wineIsaiah 49:16 NASB"Behold, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; Your walls are continually before Me. Romans 8:16 NASBThe Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of GodNew episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

Thoughts come quickly to our minds throughout each day. Some are fleeting, gone just as swiftly as they came. Others linger, and if left unchecked, will take up residence in our mind. We're commanded in scripture to take captive every thought that stands against the knowledge of God. In this episode, Gabrielle shares her process for identifying her thoughts and ensuring they agree with the nature of God. Scriptures mentioned: John 3:16-17 TPTFor this is how much God loved the world—he gave his one and only, unique Son as a gift. So now everyone who believes in him will never perish but experience everlasting life. “God did not send his Son into the world to judge and condemn the world, but to be its Savior and rescue it!Romans 5:16 TPTAnd this free-flowing gift imparts to us much more than what was given to us through the one who sinned. For because of one transgression, we are all facing a death sentence with a verdict of “Guilty!” But this gracious gift leaves us free from our many failures and brings us into the perfect righteousness of God—acquitted with the words “Not guilty!”John 10:10 NIVThe thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.Psalms 139:17-18 NIVHow precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand—when I awake, I am still with you.New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

Our inheritance right now is that we are seated in heavenly places with Christ Jesus. Our world may be disrupted and in chaos due to the Coronavirus but we must be a people that are connected to and reflective of the atmosphere of heaven. In this episode, Gabrielle brings a powerful and practical word on how to become aware of and mirror the reality of heaven on earth.Scriptures mentioned: For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus. Ephesians 2:6 NLTHe raised us up with Christ the exalted One, and we ascended with him into the glorious perfection and authority of the heavenly realm, for we are now co-seated as one with Christ!Ephesians 2:6 TPTNew episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

God is constantly communicating with us. Through scripture, creation, His people, and directly to our own hearts. What takes practice is learning how to recognize His communication. In this episode, Gabrielle will share what she's learned from helping people connect with Jesus and will share a practical exercise for recognizing how you are ALREADY hearing from God. Scriptures mentioned: Romans 8:15-16 TPT [The Passion Translation]And you did not receive the “spirit of religious duty,” leading you back into the fear of never being good enough. But you have received the “Spirit of full acceptance,” enfolding you into the family of God. And you will never feel orphaned, for as he rises up within us, our spirits join him in saying the words of tender affection, “Beloved Father!” For the Holy Spirit makes God’s fatherhood real to us as he whispers into our innermost being, “You are God’s beloved child!”John 10:3-6 NRSVThe gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. They will not follow a stranger, but they will run from him because they do not know the voice of strangers.” Jesus used this figure of speech with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them.Psalms 139:17-18 NLTHow precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered!I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are still with me!New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

What a day we are living in! Whenever there is an occasion for fear there is an even greater occasion for faith. I'm so grateful that we are revisiting Psalms 91. I'm praying that at this time we will move from visiting with God to remaining in Him. Psalms 91 is a promise to the believer who "rests", "lives", or "sits" in the shelter of God Most High. In this episode, Gabrielle encourages us in this process of remaining that we may receive the promise of protection, security, and peace. Scriptures mentioned: Psalms 91:1 NIVWhoever dwells in the shelter of the Most Highwill rest in the shadow of the Almighty. Psalms 91:1 NETAs for you, the one who lives in the shelter of the Most High, and resides in the protective shadow of the Sovereign OnePsalms 91:1 TPTWhen you sit enthroned under the shadow of Shaddai,you are hidden in the strength of God Most High.Ephesians 2:6 NIVAnd God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus,New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

Join Gabrielle Leonard, Ashley Rogers, and Taylor Rogers in a special prayer and encouragement to the body in this time of sickness, uncertainty, and fear. Let us seek Immanuel, God with us, together. Scriptures mentioned: Habakkuk 3 NLTPhilippians 2:5-11 NIVSpecial Guests:Taylor Rogers - Director of Wildfire Network (http://wildfire.church/index.html)Ashley Rogers - Director of Created Art Ministry (https://www.createdministry.com/) New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

The Father will fight to no end to demonstrate His love for us. We are transformed when we receive this love. But receiving the love of the Father isn't a one and done encounter. Steadily receiving the love of God is necessary for continual healing and transformation. In this episode, Gabrielle shares how she practices noticing when she is struggling to receive love from God and others and provides a practical tip for stretching our receiver muscles. Resources mentioned: Life Model Works https://lifemodelworks.org/blog/Scriptures mentioned: Song of Songs 1:2 TPTLet him smother me with kisses—his Spirit-kiss divine. So kind are your caresses, I drink them in like the sweetest wine! Song of Songs 1:2 NIVLet him kiss me with the kisses of his mouthfor your love is more delightful than wine.New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

Are you living life feeling at a deficit? Always needing your cup refilled by approval, affirmation, and validation? Scripture has a solution for that. In this episode, Gabrielle shares how a mindset of lack has shown up in her life and discusses how to walk out in the fullness of Christ practically. Scriptures mentioned: "And now out of his fullness we are fulfilled! And from him we receive grace heaped upon more grace!" John 1:16 TPT Then you will be empowered to discover what every holy one experiences—the great magnitude of the astonishing love of Christ in all its dimensions. How deeply intimate and far-reaching is his love! How enduring and inclusive it is! Endless love beyond measurement that transcends our understanding—this extravagant love pours into you until you are filled to overflowing with the fullness of God! Ephesians 3:18-19 TPT"Now arise in the fullness of your union with the lord" Philippians 4:1 TPT"And our own completeness is now found in him. We are completely filled with God as Christ’s fullness overflows within us. He is the Head of every kingdom and authority in the universe!" Colossians 2:10 TPT"Fire is the way to test the purity of silver and gold, but the character of a man is tested by giving him a measure of fame." Proverbs 27:21 TPTNew episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

Risk is the possibility that something unpleasant or unwelcome will happen. Hope is the joyful anticipation of good. We can be so aware and responsive to what we're at risk of that we lose sight of our hope. In this episode, Gabrielle starts a discussion on what is hope. Scriptures mentioned: Hebrews 6:18 - 20 TPTSo it is impossible for God to lie for we know that his promise and his vow will never change! And now we have run into his heart to hide ourselves in his faithfulness. This is where we find his strength and comfort, for he empowers us to seize what has already been established ahead of time—an unshakeable hope! We have this certain hope like a strong, unbreakable anchor holding our souls to God himself. Our anchor of hope is fastened to the mercy seat which sits in the heavenly realm beyond the sacred threshold, and where Jesus, our forerunner, has gone in before us. He is now and forever our royal Priest like Melchizedek.New episodes every Tuesday morning!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Website: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

Fear is disruptive, sudden, and for some constant. We all experience it. But do you know how to overcome it? Deuteronomy 20:1 provides practical wisdom for the process of overcoming. Join me as I unpack this single yet powerful verse. Scriptures mentioned: “When you go out into war against your enemies, and see horses and chariots, and an army larger than your own, you shall not be afraid of them, for the Lord your God is with you, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.” Deuteronomy 20:1 ESV "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood," Ephesians 6:12a NIV"My Father, who has given them to me as his gift, is the mightiest of all, and no one has the power to snatch them from my Father's care." John 10:28 TPT"Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. They are brought to their knees and fall, but we rise up and stand firm. Psalm 20:7-8 NIV“See what the land is like and whether the people who live there are strong or weak, few or many.” Numbers 13:18 NIV“And they spread among the Israelites a bad report about the land they had explored. They said, “The land we explored devours those living in it. All the people we saw there are of great size.” Numbers 13:32 NIV “If the LORD is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us."Numbers 14:8 NIV“Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.” James 1:20 NIV New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

Valentine’s Day. A day that sparks joy and excitement in some and frustration and disillusionment in others. No matter where you find yourself on this spectrum. This episode is a word for you, for men and women to grab hold of and embrace. Full Spoken Word: "For My Husband" The world says you don’t exist. That a man clothed in righteousness won’t appear. There are only men who pretend. It’s impossible to be faithful, Impossible to be pure, Impossible to be gentle, a servant, humble, and strong. You won’t hear God's voice If you did; you won’t obey IT. You’ll serve Him from obligation; not overwhelming loveYou won’t KNOW Him. You won’t call attention to boys and menYou’ll still be a boy. But That’s what they say. But I say no!No, No You’re WON'T and will NEVER be the savior - But You will point others to Him. You'll be righteousYour eyes have caught His gaze. You’ll be perfect, as you’re being perfected by Him. Not to complete me, but to shine under the radiance of the Son. Everything darkness and those devoid of light have spoken over you,Your presence, or lack thereof - is now broken. It’s broken! No power does the world’s voice have over you. You’re pure! You’re a leader. You serve.Everyone under your influence is elevated You instill esteem and courage. You’re a man after God’s own heart raising up both boys and men. Given a Powerful voice by the Father. Strong because of His strength. The world, it’s burdens, aren’t on your shoulders, it's on HIS. Shine! Shine under His presence (baby). Shine! It’s the best way you can serve me. Run hard after Him. It’s the best way you can love me. You Hear His voice and obey it. He speaks I love you and you weep. He raises you up as a mighty warrior You fight from a place of victory for your family, your friends, your enemies, and the lost. I marvel at the love between the Father and a son. I see the heart of God, for me, all over againAnd I, am undone. I’m undone, by a God that would give up His SON for me. And now, by meeting you I’m undone by a God that provides His son to me. A God that would save such a sweet soul for me. Your salvation causes me to look up and thank God. It motivates me to continue to workout mines. Indeed you do exist. #Assurance #ForMyHusbandScriptures mentioned: “Now Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, a conviction of things not seen” Hebrews 11:1 ASVNew episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

Count it all Joy! A command in scripture that is often misunderstood. No, the burden is not on us to summon up joy. Praise God, that's Jesus' job! Our role is to introduce our trials to Jesus. Bring them before Him in dialogue. Journey with me today as I discuss how Jesus modeled this for us and how we can effectively "Count it all joy."Scriptures mentioned: Hebrews 12:2 ESV"Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." James [Jacob] 1:2-4 ESVCount it all joy, my brethren when you meet trials of various kindsJames [Jacob] 1:12 ESV"Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him."Nehemiah 8:10 ESV"... for the Joy of the Lord is your strength."John 10:4-5 NASBWhen he puts forth all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. A stranger they simply will not follow, but will flee from him, because they do not know the voice of strangers.”Practical Conversation with God Tips: Switching from a monologue to a dialogue in our time with Him. Get quiet. Settle into whatever space your in. Begin to acknowledge that Jesus is with you there, even if you don't feel His presence. Think about His character. What about Him brings you delight? From that place, start by asking Jesus this first question, you can ask it out loud or silently in your head, but it'll help you begin to locate where you hear His voice within. Ask, "Jesus, Am I a child of God?" Now, wait. Listen to where you hear the answer. You may notice that the thought that comes to you in response to that question is different from the thought that comes to you if asked a question like, what's your favorite ice cream flavor? It's because "The Spirit himself, testifies with our spirit that we are God's children." Romans 8:16 NIVRomans 8:16 TPT, "For the Holy Spirit makes God's fatherhood real to us as he whispers into our innermost being, "You are God's beloved child!"Continuing The Conversation: Jesus, who am I full of Joy? What do I look like?Jesus, how do I return to that place of joy, that expression of joy you've created me for?Jesus, When do I feel most joyful?Jesus, is there a particular emotion, thought, or situation from which I have difficulty returning to joy? What would help me?Jesus, what do you want to communicate from your heart to mines?Jesus, what situation in my life could use your encouragement?Enjoy the conversation with Jesus! New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

Got time for another story? Great! I’ve got time to share one. On this particular morning, my plan was simple, get my car’s oil changed and be productive while I waited. It turned out to be a more productive morning than anticipated, just in a different way. In this episode, I touch on feeling overwhelmed and what causes fear to take a back seat. Scriptures mentioned: Psalm 42:1 NIV As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. Psalm 42:1 [AMP]As the deer pants [longingly] for the water brooks, so my soul pants [longingly] for You, O God. Psalm 42:1 [TPT]I long to drink of you, O God, drinking deeply from the streams of pleasure flowing from your presence. My longings overwhelm me for more of you! New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)

You know those life-altering moments in the Bible when a person encounters the presence of Jesus. I've had a moment like that. I've had several. In this episode, I'll share one of my most significant moments of encounter with Jesus. New episodes every Tuesday!Thanks for subscribing and leaving a review! Please feel free to share with your family and friends.Record your question for the show, and I'll answer it on a future episode. https://www.speakpipe.com/returningtojoypodcastWebsite: https://www.returningtojoy.com/For more frequent encouragement follow us on social media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/returningtojoypodcast/Music by AG (Affirming Grace) @agmusic4godSupport the show (https://admin.wildfire.church/page/635)