The Living Room with Joanna Weaver

Feelings are important, but navigating difficult ones is hard. What do we do with the complicated emotions that often arise in life? Feelings that we've been taught we shouldn't feel as Christians? A lot of us push them down and pretend they don't matter. Others of us get stuck in the pain. But the Bible suggest a better way: "Pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge" (Psalm 62:8). How do we do that? I'm so glad you asked! Anjuli's Paschall's book, Feel: A Collection of Liturgies Offering Hope for Every Complicated Emotion, has been such a gift to me. And I absolutely LOVE our tender and raw conversation. We were both in tears as we talked about the disappointments and hurts that we've faced. Anjuli assures us that rather than tidying up our emotions, we can be real and raw with God as well. Her book helps us Key Takeaways: Emotions aren't good or bad - they're simply part of being human. Rather than denying our emotions, they can be an indicator light for the places God wants to heal. God gives us permission to feel - for we serve an emotional God! We have a Savior who not only understands our feelings, He invites us to bring them to Him. We can be honest with God and ourselves - rather than being overwhelmed by emotions, we can curious as we process them with Jesus. For they often reveal what God wants to heal. This is such an important conversation, you guys. And this book could literally change your life. Stuffing and denying our emotions only makes them come out sideways in anxiety, depression and issues with our health. How much better to bring them all to Jesus. Anjuli's book helps us do just that! Links from Show Anjuli's Book: Feel: A Collection of Liturgies Offering Hope for Every Complicated Emotion Anjuli's Other Books: Awake: Paying Attention to What Matters Most in a World That's Pulling You Apart Stay: Discovering Grace, Freedom, and Wholeness Where You Never Imagined Looking Joanna's Latest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Anjuli Website | Instagram

It's easy to feel alarmed when we read the headlines... Especially when it comes to the immigration crisis. Current estimates suggest over 100 million people have been forcibly displaced from their homes. Many of them desperate to enter the United States - legally or illegally - which causes many people a lot of concern. But what if we could balance the need for secure borders with compassion? What if we could engage with the crisis in a way that reflects the Christian values we cherish? In this episode of The Living Room, author and human dignity advocate, Bri Stensrud shares from her book, Start With Welcome: the Journey Toward a Confident and Compassionate Immigration Conversation. She gives practical tips on how to align your heart with God's heart for hurting people yet still advocate for secure and safe borders. Key Takeaways: Find Out What God Says: Let Scripture shape your view on immigrants and refugees. From Genesis to Revelation, God cares for all, including the vulnerable and outcast. Seek Connection Over Fear: We often fear people different than us. Get to know immigrants' personal stories, and discover the humanity that headlines often miss. Start Small, Start with Welcome: Making a difference doesn't require grand gestures; it begins with small, intentional acts of kindness that demonstrate God's love. Rather than getting caught up in politics and safeguarding "The American Way," let's open our eyes to the opportunities to love those around us. It was the tangible, yet practical love of God shown by Christians that changed the world 2000 years ago. And I believe that's how God wants to change the world today. Links from Show Bri's Book: Start With Welcome: the Journey Toward a Confident and Compassionate Immigration Conversation Bri's Ministry: Women of Welcome Bri's Facebook Pages: Women of Welcome & Private Facebook Group Joanna's Latest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Bri Website | Instagram  | Facebook

What if there's more to life than you're currently experiencing? In this episode of The Living Room, Hannah Brencher and I talk about her new book, The Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World. She shares tips for a digital detox, showing us how to unplug from distractions so we fully engage with the people we love and the God we need. This is such an important conversation! I hope you'll share it with a friend... Key Takeaways: Constant connectivity drains us emotionally and spiritually. God can do in rest what can't be done in busyness and distraction Feeling agitated or restless is part of the process of digital detox Start small, but begin - having a clear plan and purpose helps maintain consistency Disconnecting requires trust—trust that the world won't fall apart without us If you're ready to experience the freedom and peace of an unplugged life, check out the links below. Start today—and see discover the gift of quiet. Links from Show Hannah's Book: The Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World Hannah's 1000-Hour Challenge Joanna's Latest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Hannah Website | Instagram  | Facebook

Do you feel a gap between who you are and who you feel called to be? You're not alone. Many of us find ourselves caught in cycles of self-improvement and frustration, longing for transformation but feeling stuck. In this conversation with Christian psychologist, Dr. Merry Lin, she shares insights from Re-Becoming: Come Out of Hiding to Live as Your God-Given Essential Self offer a fresh perspective on breaking free from the patterns that hold us back. Key Takeaways: Transformation is a process: Lasting change isn't about quick fixes or external improvements but about allowing God to work a deep, inner healing. Self-awareness leads to freedom: Understanding the triggers and lies shaping our behavior is crucial for growth. We can't change what we don't recognize. Faith and psychology align: True science and scripture both reveal God's design for us, offering practical tools for emotional and spiritual healing. This journey may be slow, but it's one worth taking—and Jesus will be faithful to lead us every step of the way!   Links from Show Dr. Merry's Book: Rebecoming: Come Out of Hiding to Live as Your God-Given Essential Self Dr. Merry's Podcast: The Fully Lived Life Joanna's Latest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Dr. Merry Website | Instagram  | Facebook

We only have one life - shouldn't we make the most of it? Of course, that's often easier said than done. But even when life is hard, we are all surrounded by blessings. We just need the Lord's help to see them. In this episode of The Living Room podcast, my very wise and wonderful guest, Sally Clarkson, shares the lessons she's learned along the way. Especially during her time living in Oxford, England. Her new book, Well Lived, documents her journey in beautiful pictures and moving text. I can't wait for you to hear Sally's rich wisdom and reminders that the life we've been given is more beautiful than we know. Links from Show Sally's Book: Well-Lived: Shaping a Legacy of Gratitude and Grace Sally's Other Books on Amazon Sally's Podcast: At Home with Sally Joanna's Latest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Sally Website | Instagram  | Facebook

What do we do when happily-ever-after isn't so happy? When John and I married more than forty years ago - (wow, time goes fast!) - I was pretty sure everything would be smooth sailing. We both loved the Lord and had so much in common, how could it be anything but heaven-on-earth? In this episode of The Living Room podcast, Chelsea Damon, the author of the new book, I Thought This Would Make Me Happy: How to Fight Less, Forgive Faster, and Cultivate Joy in Marriage, and I talk about our own marital journeys and the incredible wisdom she shares in the book about building a strong, joy-filled marriage that's grounded in God and the beautiful refining that comes when we let God get His hands on us. Key Takeaways:  The inspiration behind Chelsea's book and her personal experiences with marriage Practical advice on overcoming common marital challenges and fostering joy The importance of shifting focus from self-fulfillment to serving your spouse Insights on the metaphor of marriage as a garden – weeding out sin, planting the right seeds, and allowing God's grace to grow Real-life stories and testimonies that highlight the power of love, forgiveness, and faith Whether you're married or not, I promise you'll benefit from this conversation! Discover how to navigate expectations, communicate effectively, and keep Christ at the center of all your relationships. Links from Show Chelsea's Book: I Thought This Would Make Me Happy: How to Fight Less, Forgive Faster, and Cultivate Joy in Marriage Chelsea's Ministry: Living the Sweet Wife Joanna's Latest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Chelsea Website | Instagram  | Facebook

In a world that seems intent on pulling families apart... Chris and Julie Bennett stand firm on the importance of family as designed by God. We talk about so many things in this episode of The Living Room, because family is more than the people that live in your house. It extends to the family of God and the love we are to demonstrate to the world around us. Chris and Julie share truths from their book, Fighting for Family: The Relentless Pursuit of Building Belonging, including: The importance of the concept of belonging Their journey from pastoring in Oklahoma to moving to Los Angeles with their family Overcoming personal challenges, including a cancer diagnosis and starting a new life in the middle of COVID-19 The importance of creating a family mission statement and fostering a sense of belonging in church as well as at home How God provided and supported them through their trials Insights on building a community and the significance of family in today's culture I love Chris and Julie's honesty as they share God's faithfulness in the difficult times and the important part each of us play in the Family of God. Let's keep pressing on together! Links from Show Chris & Julie's Book: Fighting for Family: The Relentless Pursuit of Building Belonging Chris & Julie's Podcast: Finding Family Podcast Joanna's Latest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Chris & Julie Website | Instagram  | Facebook | YouTube

Between the expectations and demands of ministry... It's easy to lose yourself in trying to be everything people need you to be. But that isn't what God intended. When He called you to serve His people, He called you to be YOU! In this episode of The Living Room, I dive deep with the amazing women behind a popular ministry podcast as we talk about their new book - Pastor's Wives Tell All: Navigating Real Church Life with Honesty. Stephanie, Jessica, Jenna and I talk about the realities of being a pastor's wife as we explore topics like: Overcoming the pressure to be perfect Balancing personal identity with ministry roles Navigating church hurt and supporting your spouse The importance of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership Encouraging every member of the church to find their place and serve Whether you're a pastor's wife or want to know how to love and support the ministry women in your life - this interview is for you! Links from Show The Book: Pastor's Wives Tell All: Navigating Real Church Life with Honesty The Podcast: Pastor's Wives Tell All Facebook Group: Pastor's Wives Tell All Community Joanna's Latest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Pastor's Wives Tell All Website | Instagram | Facebook  

What do you do when everything falls apart? In this episode of The Living Room podcast, Courtney Joseph Fallick shares the painful yet profound journey she experienced when her seemingly perfect life was dismantled by her husband's unfaithfulness. Her book, Still Standing: How to Live in God's Light While Wrestling with the Dark, offers hope and encouragement to anyone grappling with unexpected challenges. Topics discussed include: Courtney's early ministry, including her blog and book "Women Living Well" The sudden and painful end of her 19-year marriage Navigating single motherhood and the spiritual warfare that ensued The importance of forgiveness, community, and maintaining faith amidst trials Practical tips for finding God's presence in everyday life and overcoming loneliness How Courtney's ministry evolved and flourished through her trials No matter what you're going through, Courtney's story is a reminder that even when life takes unexpected turns, God walks with us every step of the way. Links from Show Courtney's Book: Still Standing: How to Live in God's Light While Wrestling with the Dark Courtney's Ministry: Women Living Well & Good Morning Girls Joanna's Latest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Courtney Website | Instagram  | Facebook | YouTube

It's easy to miss the Good News if we don't understand God's heart toward us. Even as Christians, we can spend so much time trying to please God, we miss the joy of simply being His child. In this episode of The Living Room, Caroline Saunders and I have a delightful discussion about the God and His heart toward us. We share our own journey to a deeper friendship with Jesus and offer advice like: Practical tips for studying the Bible The impact of themes in Scripture Encouragement for those struggling in their faith The beautiful belonging that is ours in Christ Hope you enjoy the interview like I did! Links from Show Caroline's Study: Come Home - Bible Study with Video Access Children's Book: Kids in the Bible: A Storybook Bible About God's Children Joanna's Latest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Caroline Website | Instagram | Facebook

In a busy, noisy world...it can be hard to hear God. Surrounded by distractions, it can be difficult to find the stillness needed to renew and restore our soul. In this episode of The Living Room with Joanna Weaver, Sarah Clarkson talk about her book, Reclaiming Quiet: Cultivating a Life of Holy Attention (coming November 2024). She gives practical tips for reclaiming quiet. But most of all, she shares the tender love God has for us. Wooing and calling us away from noise to a deeper friendship with Him. Links from Show Sarah's Book: Reclaiming Quiet: Cultivating a Life of Holy Attention Previous Book: This Beautiful Truth: How God's Goodness Breaks into Our Darkness Previous Episode: TLR 074: God's Goodness in the Dark with Sarah Clarkson Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Sarah Website | Instagram | Facebook

If you were to take the pulse of your life, what would you find? Does it feel like you're in "a-fib" - ping-ponging off one responsibility to another? Or have you flat-lined and feel a little dead? Dr. Saundra Dalton Smith has been where you've been and in this episode of The Living Room Podcast, she's shares lessons from her book, Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity. You were not made to go full tilt and burn out for Jesus. He created you for an abundant life. And that includes cultivating a rest that renews and restores your soul. Check out Dr. Saundra's "Rest Quiz." It will help you gauge where you fall in seven specific areas. (And be sure to tune in to next week's YouTube video where I'll unpack how I'm going to apply the "7 Types of Rest" this summer!) Links from Show Dr Saundra's Book: Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity Dr Saundra's Quiz: The Rest Quiz Dr Saundra's Other Book: Set Free to Live Free Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Sarah Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

Life offers lots of reasons to be anxious... But God invites us to calm our hearts and still our soul by learning to rest in Him. No matter what we face. In this episode of The Living Room with Joanna Weaver, best-selling author Linda Dillow shares how God has taught her to trust Him more - and the beautiful ministry He's opened to her in war-torn countries like Ukraine. This interview had me in tears - it's just that good. Hope you'll share it with a friend. Links from Show Linda's Book: Calm My Anxious Heart Other Books: What's It Like to Be Married to Me? Creative Counterpart [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]    

Let's be honest...building friendships with other women can be difficult! Even as Christians, fear of rejection, insecurity and the snare of compare often make us hold each other at a distance. In this episode, Jenn Schultz and I talk about her new study, She's Not Your Enemy: Conquering Our Insecurities So We Can Build God's Kingdom Together. Satan loves to divide and conquer, but God wants us to push back the obstacles and step into the sweet sisterhood He wants for His daughters. Links from Show Jenn's Book: She's Not Your Enemy: Conquering Our Insecurities So We Can Build God's Kingdom Together (Book Purchase Includes 10-session Video Bible Study) Jenn's Website Resources [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Jenn Website | Instagram | Facebook

Is God calling you to take a leap of faith? It's risky stepping out when God calls...but its even riskier not to obey. In this episode of The Living Room, Rachel G. Scott shares from her book, Taking the 5 Leaps of Faith: Experiencing God's Faithfulness as You Respond to His Call. She shares from her own journey and shows us how to prepare, plan and execute the leap God is asking us to take. "Taking leaps always includes risks and tons of unknowns," Rachel says, "but I want you to remember that the risk is worth Heaven's reward." Links from Show Rachel's Book: Taking the 5 Leaps of Faith: Experiencing God's Faithfulness as You Respond to His Call. Podcast: Taking the Leap with Rachel G. Scott Quiz: The 5 Leaps Quiz [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Rachel Website | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

Change can be exciting, but it can also be hard. But God promises to be with us every step of the way. In today's episode of The Living Room, Andi Andrew shares from her book, Braving Change: Release the Past, Welcome Growth, and Trust Where God is Leading You. Andi and I talk about the massive transitions the Lord has taken us through - and how we can fully engage in the journey. Whether it's moving across the country or navigating the loss of someone we loved, we can count on the Lord to help us brave change.   Links from Show Book: Braving Change: Release the Past, Welcome Growth, and Trust Where God is Leading You Previous Episode: TLR 076: Uncomplicating Friendship Previous Book: Friendship—It's Complicated: Avoid the Drama, Create Authentic Connection and Fulfill Your Purpose Together Podcast: Coffee With Andi [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Andi Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

As Christians, we know that Jesus is with us... But sometimes we live as though He's far away. A destination we have to reach rather than a Friend who lives within us. In this episode of The Living Room, Joni Eareckson Tada and I talk Brother Lawrences' classic book and how he practiced the presence of God in such a way it changed his life. Joni talks about practical ways we cultivate the Lord's presence in the midst of everyday life. Her new devotional, The Practice of the Presence of Jesus: Daily Meditations on the Nearness of Our Savior, has ministered to me deeply - but it's Joni herself that inspires me to go deeper with Jesus. Much like Brother Lawrence, Joni's books and life has blazed a trail to friendship with Jesus that generations will follow. Links from Show Joni's Book: The Practice of the Presence of Jesus: Daily Meditations on the Nearness of Our Savior Brother Lawrence Book: The Practice of the Presence of God Joni's Previous Interview: TLR 082: The Beautiful Faithfulness of God with Joni Eareckson Tada Joni's Ministry: Joni & Friends Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Joni Eareckson Tada Website | Facebook | Instagram    

Is your spiritual hunger where you want it to be? In a world filled with distractions, our appetite for God can be sedated with lesser things. But God is stirring a hunger in the heart of His people. Can you feel it? A holy dissatisfaction that's awakening a desire to pursue God in a deeper way than ever before. But how to do it? That is the question. In this episode of The Living Room with Joanna Weaver, Lisa Whittle shares how God used a similar desperation to take her on a journey that led to her book, I Want God: How to Love Him with All Your Heart and Revive Your Soul. We go so many beautiful places in this conversation - I hope you enjoy! Links from Show Lisa's Book: I Want God: How to Love Him with All Your Heart and Revive Your Soul Lisa's Previous Interview: TLR 043: Jesus Over Everything with Lisa Whittle Lisa's Ministry: Called Creatives Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Lisa Whittle Website | Instagram | Facebook    

His words have impacted millions of Christians... But Oswald Chambers' classic devotional might not have ever been written had it not been for his wife. What a loss that would have been! For through the sermons she compiled, Oswald Chambers has been my spiritual mentor for nearly forty years. In this episode of The Living Room, biographer Michelle Ule shares the incredible story behind this classic devotional and Biddy Chambers - the woman who captured her husband's words and shared them with the world. It is an inspiring episode in so many ways! I hope you are challenged like I was to use my giftings for God's glory - no matter the pain and sacrifice that might be involved. Links from Show Michelle's book: Mrs. Oswald Chambers: The Woman behind the World's Bestselling Devotional My Utmost for His Highest: Classic Edition / Updated Language Edition Michelle's Guest Post: Mrs. Oswald Chambers | Guest Michelle Ule Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Michelle Ule Website | Facebook | Instagram  

We're surrounded by messages from culture... Messages that tell us that beauty is the highest goal. That if we'd only wear the right clothes, but the right beauty products, then we'd feel fulfilled. But the world's definition of beauty is not only skewed...it can be downright dangerous. Not only to our mental health and physical bodies, but to our spiritual life as well. In this episode of The Living Room with Joanna Weaver, family therapist and author, Melissa Johnson, shares from her new book: Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless. I hope you share this episode with a friend! Links from Show Melissa's Book: Soul-Deep Beauty: Fighting for Our True Worth in a World Demanding Flawless. Melissa's Podcast: Impossible Beauty Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Melissa Johnson Website | Instagram  

End-of-year planning often focuses on what went wrong... But what if we focused on what went right? That's what I did last month, and what I discovered was amazing! Though I haven't experienced freedom in every area, the Lord has certainly taught me a lot this past year - and He's given me several victories. And I want to share them with you: Obedience over outcome Progress over perfection Patience over anxiety Hold things loosely Let God change your heart You can listen to the podcast or check out the video below or watch on YouTube @ https://youtu.be/_vpXYS2_1BQ I hope you are encouraged by this episode of the podcast, but I especially hope you'll take time to look back at the past year, and with the Holy Spirit's help, discover the life-changing things the Lord's been teaching you. If you missed the last episode, you might want to listen to "Looking Back & Moving Forward." It's available to watch on YouTube as well! LISTEN: "Looking Back & Moving Forward in 2024" WATCH: "How to Have a GREAT Year in 2024" WORKSHEET: "Four Powerful Questions" Links from Show Joanna's Best-selling Book: Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World: Finding Intimacy with God in the Busyness of Life Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Joanna Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube    

Tis the season of goal-setting and making plans for the new year...  But we often miss the most important part! In this episode of The Living Room with Joanna Weaver, I share four powerful questions to help us look back so we can move forward with confidence into 2024, knowing that God is with us every step of the way. To help you reflect on where you've been so you can get where you want to go, I've created a FREE pdf of the questions that provides space for your answers. Hope you enjoy! Also available at YouTube - https://linktw.in/XBPhQn Links from Show Download: Four Powerful Questions Worksheet Joanna's Best-selling Book: Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World: Finding Intimacy with God in the Busyness of Life Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Joanna Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Do you have a formula Christianity? The approach that, if I do a and I do b, then God has to do c? The problem with formula Christianity is that it doesn't work. Life tends to mess with it and God isn't bound by it. But worst of all, it tends to push us away from God rather than draw us near. In this episode of The Living Room with Joanna Weaver, Michele Cushatt shares how the dismantling of her religious formulas helped her find God in a deeper way as she shares from her new book,  A Faith That Will Not Fail: 10 Practices to Build Up Your Faith When Your World Is Falling Apart. "God didn't cause my cancer," Michele says, "but He certainly didn't waste it!" And He's not going to waste the painful things in your life, my friend. Though Satan intends it for evil, God is going to work it all together for good. Links from Show Michele's Book: A Faith That Will Not Fail: 10 Practices to Build Up Your Faith When Your World Is Falling Apart Michele's Other Episodes: TLR 018: The Relentless Presence of God and TLR 005: Finding Our Identity Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Michele Cushatt Website | Facebook | Instagram

If you've been a Christian very long, you've probably experienced some hurt... That hurt can come from the most unexpected place of all - the church. If we don't give that pain to Jesus, the enemy loves to twist that hurt into a weapon that turns our hearts away from ministry, from the Body of Christ and even God Himself. In this episode of The Living Room, author and pastor's kid, Natalie Runion shares her own journey to healing from her book, Raised to Stay: Persevering in Ministry When You Have a Million Reasons to Walk Away. Do you know someone who needs this message? Share it with a friend. Links from Show Natalie's Book: Raised to Stay: Persevering in Ministry When You Have a Million Reasons to Walk Away. Natalie's Book Trailer Natalie's Instagram & Facebook Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Natalie Runion Website | Facebook | Instagram

Sharing your faith doesn't come easy to most of us... We love Jesus with all of our heart, but we don't always know how to give words to our faith. Especially in a way that people around us can understand. In this episode of The Living Room podcast, author Shauna Pilgreen shares from her book, Translating Jesus: How to Share Your Faith in Language Today's Culture Can Understand. Co-pastoring a church in downtown San Francisco has given Shauna a unique perspective on the needs of people as well as strategies for bringing them Jesus. You are going to love Shauna's heart for the Lord - for it spills out in a heart for people! Links from Show Shauna's Book: Translating Jesus: How to Share Your Faith in Language Today's Culture Can Understand Other Book: Love Where You Live: How to Live Sent in the Place You Call Home Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Shauna Pilgreen Website | Facebook | Instagram  

It's one of the best-selling devotionals of all time... There's a good chance you've probably not heard of the author, but Lettie B. Cowman's compilations and writings have challenged and shaped millions of people over the years - including me! I remember picking up a special edition of Streams in the Desert and Springs in the Valley in my early 30s. It had been my grandma's favorite devotional and since it was on clearance, I bought it. Little did I know it would become a much-needed companion that I've returned to often throughout the years. In today's episode of The Living Room, biographer Michelle Ule and I talk about the remarkable woman behind these classic devotionals. And the many lessons we can learn from the extraordinary way she loved and served the Lord Links from Show Lettie B. Cowman Biography: Overflowing Faith: Lettie Cowman and Streams in the Desert Devotional. Biddy Chambers Biography - Mrs. Oswald Chambers: The Woman Behind the World's Best-selling Devotional Lettie's Devotionals: Streams in the Desert and Springs in the Valley Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's YouTube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Michelle Ule Website | Facebook | Instagram

You don't have to be fatherless to have a father wound... In this episode of The Living Room Podcast, author Kia Stephens shares her journey to healing and powerful tips from her book, Overcoming Father Wounds: Exchanging Your Pain for God's Perfect Love. Whether your father was absent when you were growing up, or emotionally unavailable, God wants to fill your "father hole" with His love. Be sure to listen to the end - Kia's prayer is so powerful! Links from Show Kia's Book: Overcoming Father Wounds: Exchanging Your Pain for God's Perfect Love. Kia's Podcast - Hope for Women with Father Wounds Kia's YouTube Channel Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's Youtube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Kia Stephens Website | Facebook | Instagram

Where are you, God? When you're walking through difficult times, it can be hard to feel God's presence. It can feel like your prayers are bouncing off the ceiling and that you're all alone. Popular radio show host and author, Susie Larson, knows what that feels like. In this episode of The Living Room podcast, she shares the powerful truths she's learned during her decades battle with chronic Lyme disease and God's nearness - even when we don't see Him or feel His presence in our lives. ' Don't miss this amazing discussion around her new book, Closer Than Your Next Breath: Where Is God When You Need Him Most? Links from Show Susie Larson's Book: Closer Than Your Next Breath: Where Is God When You Need Him Most? Susie's Radio Show: Susie Larson Live Other Living Room Episodes: TLR 001: Living Fully with Susie Larson TLR 050: Learning to Prevail with Susie Larson TLR 100: Soul Care for the Battle with Susie Larson Joanna's Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Susie Larson Website | Facebook | Instagram | Podcast

When we come to know ourselves better, we come to know God better. More than any other spiritual practice, journaling has helped me connect with God and get honest with myself. To really look below the surface of my life and see what I'm thinking...what I'm feeling...what I'm actually believing. But we don't always know how to do that. In this episode, Jennifer Dukes Lee gives us a power tool to help us explore deep places with the Holy Spirit as our guide. Even if you've never journaled, you're going to enjoy this conversation. And I know you'll enjoy the interactive prompts in her new book, Stuff I'd Only Tell God: A Guided Journal of Courageous Honest, Obsessive Truth-Telling, and Beautifully Ruthless Self-Discovery. For as we get honest with God and give Him access to our hidden places, the Holy Spirit is able to radically change our lives. All because we've followed David's advice in Psalm 62:8. "Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge." Links from Show Jennifer's Book: Stuff I'd Only Tell God: A Guided Journal of Courageous Honest, Obsessive Truth-Telling, and Beautifully Ruthless Self-Discovery Previous Book: Growing Slow: Lessons on Un-Hurrying Your Heart from an Accidental Farm Girl Previous Interview: "The Beauty of Growing Slow with Jennifer Dukes Lee" Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Watch This Interview on Joanna's Youtube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Jennifer Dukes Lee Website | Instagram | Facebook

Do you want a stronger, sweeter marriage? We've all heard that a good marriage takes work - and it certainly does. But I've found that great marriages are forged through the power of prayer. In this episode of The Living Room Podcast, author Jodie Berndt shares tips for Praying the Scriptures for Your Marriage: Trusting God with Your Most Important Relationship. But we also talk about our own marriages and I share the simple prayer literally changed the trajectory of our marriage forever. Links from Show Jodie's Book: Praying the Scriptures for Your Marriage: Trusting God with Your Most Important Relationship. Free Marriage Prayer Printables Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's Youtube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Jodie Berndt Website | Facebook | Instagram  

I think we'd all prefer a perfect life that's never messy… If given a choice, we'd choose a life that's never marred by our mistakes. But God isn't threatened by our junk. Instead, when we place it in His hands, He not only heals and restores us, He turns our mess into a message that brings hope to the world. In this episode of The Living Room podcast, pastor and author Ines Franklin shares her very personal story of moral failure that led to debilitating shame. But she also shares how God set her free and some of the lessons found in her new book, Uncharted: Navigating Your Unique Journey of Faith. I know you're going to be blessed by this conversation! Links from Show Ines' New Book: Uncharted: Navigating Your Unique Journey of Faith Ines' Book Trailer Ines' Podcasts Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's Youtube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Ines Franklin Website | Facebook | Instagram

Have you ever felt God calling you to step out for Him, but have been too afraid?  Lori Wilhite knows exactly how you feel. Though married to Jud Wilhite, pastor of one of the leading churches in America, for years Lori was paralyzed by fear that she might destroy their ministry. But out of that struggle came a powerful ministry to pastor wives and ministry women called Leading and Loving It. Whether you feel called to ministry or not, I know you're going to be blessed by this conversation! You've been set apart for a purpose my friend. Whether its in full-time ministry or ministry to your family and friends, your life matters to the Kingdom. So allow the Lord to help you shed anything that is holding you back from making yourself fully available to His Kingdom. Right where you are - starting today. Links from Show Lori's New Study: Chasing Happy: Study in Philippians Other Book: Leading and Loving It Lori's Ministry: Leading and Loving It Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's Youtube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Lori Wilhite Website |Facebook | Instagram

Does your spiritual life feel a bit half-hearted? Though we don't want it, there is often a disconnect between the person you are and the person you want to be. Especially when it comes to our walk with God. In this episode of The Living Room podcast, Kathryn Maack shares from her book, Whole: The Life-Changing Power of Relating to God with All of Yourself.  As we seek the Lord with all that we are, He hleps us heal the disconnect so we no longer live a segmented life but become the kind of whole-hearted Christians God wants us to be. For as we bring Him all that we are, He gives us all that He is! Links from Show Kathryn's Book: Whole: The Life-Changing Power of Relating to God with All of Yourself Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's Youtube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Kathryn Maack Website | Facebook | Instagram  

If you're like me…it's your thought-life that trips you up more often not. Even as a life-long Christian, too often, I allow my thoughts to dictate my peace. My fears to dismantle my joy. And the longer we allow our thoughts to run wild, the longer we'll live in emotional and mental chaos. But there's a better way, my friend. And in today's episode, you're going to learn how to manage your thought-life rather than being man-handled by it. Kelly Balarie is a dear friend of mine, and I know you'll be blessed by the insights she shares from her new book, Take Every Thought Captive: Exchange Lies of the Enemy for the Mind of Christ. WATCH our interview on YouTube... Links from Show Kelly's New Book: Take Every Thought Captive: Exchange Lies of the Enemy for the Mind of Christ Other Books: Rest Now / Battle Ready / Fear Fighting Other Episodes with Kelly: TLR 09 - Getting Battle Ready  / TLR 049 - Fear Fighting Joanna's New Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's Youtube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Kelly Balarie Website |Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Wherever you are...be there! That's the message of this episode with Heather MacFadyen, author of Right Where You Belong: How to Identify and Fully Occupy Your God-Given Space. But there is so much more to this interview! Heather shares the importance of connecting to God and tapping into the power He provides to become everything He wants us to be. Best of all, she shows us how to do it! Don't miss the powerful prayer time at the end. The Holy Spirit wants to minister to your heart and bring the inner healing you need to show up and FULLY OCCUPY your God-given space. I hope you'll share this interview with a friend - it's just that good. Links from Show Heather's New Book: Right Where You Belong: How to Identify and Fully Occupy Your God-Given Space Other Book: Don't Mom Alone Heather's Podcast: Don't Mom Alone Podcast Joanna's New Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's Youtube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Heather MacFadyen Website |Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Podcast    

"Prayer looks different for each one of us..." When it comes to prayer, It isn't the method that matters as much as connecting with God. In this episode of The Living Room, Suzie Eller talks about her latest book, Prayer Starters: Talking With God About Hard Times. Whether you've enjoyed a vibrant prayer life or don't know where to begin, Suzie offers tips on how to get honest with God despite what we might be feeling. For when we pour out our hearts to Him, He pours in the grace and peace we so desperately need. But more importantly, our relationship with Him deepens. All because we've taken time to connect with Him in prayer. Links from Show Suzie's Book: Prayer Starters: Talking With God About Hard Times. Suzie's Podcast: Prayer Starters Podcast Joanna's New Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's Youtube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Suzanne Eller Website |Facebook | Instagram | Podcast    

What if the unexpected is a pathway to becoming who you were always meant to be? Your unexpected circumstances may not "be" good, my friend. But God can make good come from them. In today's episode, Jillian Benfield shares from her book The Gift of the Unexpected: Discovering Who You Were Meant to Be When Life Goes Off Plan. A former TV journalist, Jillian learned the gifts found in having her plans derailed and her agenda dismantled when she found out she was pregnant with a son who had Downs Syndrome. This book - and conversation! - is for anyone whose life has taken a wide left turn and is looking to find meaning through it. Need a Deeper Trust in God? You could be five days away from a closer, deeper trust in God than ever before. The email challenge and companion videos can be done anytime and anywhere. GET THE CHALLENGE! Whether you do it in five days or over five weeks, as you take time to live in the truths of Proverbs 3:5-6, I believe they will transform your life! Links from Show Jillian's New Book: The Gift of the Unexpected: Discovering Who You Were Meant to Be When Life Goes Off Plan Joanna's New Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Jillian Benfield Website | Instagram | Facebook

So when you hear the word “theology,” what comes to mind? Does it inspire mental images of dusty libraries filled with massive books about God? Perhaps it makes you thing of grey-haired scholars using big, multi-syllabled words as they tryt to describe the Almighty? Well, I believe my conversation with Jenny Randle is going to change all that! The best type of theology doesn't leave a mental fog - instead, it helps us gain a greater understand of who God really is. Rather than bringing God down to our level, theology opens our hearts and elevates our minds so we come up to His. Our discussion about Jenny's new book, Flash Theology is anything but dry, my friend! It's downright fire! PODCAST: Listen @ Apple or Spotify or any podcast player. YOUTUBE: This interview will air on YouTube Thursday, May 4 @ 11:30 am. If you subscribe to my channel and hit the notification bell, you'll be automatically notified each time a new video is posted. || WATCH JENNY & JOANNA || Links from Show Jenny Randle's Book: Flash Theology Jenny's Other Books: Amazon Jenny's Podcast: Shut the Should Up Jenny's Community: Freedom Creatives Joanna's Newest Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Jenny Randle Website | Instagram | Facebook

Are you feeling spiritually lethargic? You may need a diet change... Sadly, we can stuff ourselves so full of things of this world, we nearly starve to death when it comes to our spiritual life with God. But Amy Seiffert offers a new way to live in her new book, Starved: Why We Need a Spiritual Diet Change to Move Us from Tired, Anxious, and Overwhelmed to Fulfilled, Whole and Free. Our conversation covers so much ground, you guys! From the importance of silence and gratitude to our deep need to shed our shame so God can give us a new story. This is a powerful episode! I hope you'll share it with a friend. The Living Room on YouTube You can watch this episode with Amy on YouTube as well! You'll love her gentle heart and gracious beauty. If you'd like to automatically subscribe to my channel, just HIT THIS LINK! Links from Show Amy's New Book: Starved: Why We Need a Spiritual Diet Change to Move Us from Tired, Anxious, and Overwhelmed to Fulfilled, Whole and Free Amy's FREE Bible Study for Starved Amy's FREE Printables Joanna's New Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Joanna's Youtube Channel [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.]   Connect with Amy Seiffert Website | Instagram | YouTube

Do you feel inadequate when it comes to answering hard questions of faith? In this episode of The Living Room, I have the privilege of interviewing theology professor and author, Mary Jo Sharp about Dark Room Faith - a video curriculum designed to address the objections many young people have about the Christian faith. This free curriculum can be used by youth leaders but also parents to help them talk through the questions teens often face. But we also talk about how many millenials are leaving the faith because of hypocrisy in the church and her book, Why I Still Believe: A Former Atheist's Reckoning with the Bad Reptutation Christians Give a Good God. I hope you'll check out all of Mary Jo's excellent material - and share this episode with a friend. Watch on YouTube My interview with Mary Jo Sharp is also available on YouTube (Wednesday @ 3:00pm)! Subscribe and hit the notification bell to be notified each time a video goes live. https://youtu.be/YYNcvnTFnVM   Embracing Trust Challenge - Also on YouTube! I have so enjoyed hearing from people who are doing the Embracing Trust Challenge! And it's not too late to start because it can be done anytime and anywhere. All five days of the challenge have been uploaded to YouTube - but you definitely want to sign up to receive the FREE worksheets and daily emails before you start. Resist the impulse to watch all five days at once, because the best way to get the most out of the challenge, is to live in each truth for awhile. In fact, you may want to do it over five weeks rather than five days! Because each one of the truths from Proverbs 3:5-6 have the power to transform your life. GET THE CHALLENGE! Links from Show Mary Jo's Curriculum: Dark Room Faith Mary Jo's Book: Why I Still Believe: A Former Atheist's Reckoning with the Bad Reptutation Christians Give a Good God Joanna's New Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Mary Jo Sharp Website | Instagram | Facebook  

Are there things in your past that you'd like to forget? Do you struggle with lingering shame over things done to you or done by you? Regret over past mistakes or old wounds that just don't seem to heal? In this episode of The Living Room Podcast, author and teaching pastor, Alli Patterson, shares how God helped her break free of shame and invites us to do the same. For when we come to Jesus, He not only forgives our sin and heals our soul, He takes the worst parts of our story and turns it into a display case for God's glory! Check Out The Living Room on YouTube! It's seriously so fun to chat with my guests face to face! And even more fun to share that experience with you. Be sure to check out Alli's interview on YouTube! She is so passionate for Jesus that you can't help but have some of that passion rub off on you. Embracing Trust Challenge - Also on YouTube! I have so enjoyed hearing from people who are doing the Embracing Trust Challenge! And it's not too late to start because it can be done anytime and anywhere. All five days of the challenge have been uploaded to YouTube - but you definitely want to sign up to receive the FREE worksheets and daily emails before you start. Resist the impulse to watch all five days at once, because the best way to get the most out of the challenge, is to live in each truth for awhile. In fact, you may want to do it over five weeks rather than five days! Because each one of the truths from Proverbs 3:5-6 have the power to transform your life. GET THE CHALLENGE! Links from Show Alli's New Book: How to Stay Standing: 3 Essential Practices to Build a Faith That Lasts Joanna's New Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Alli Patterson Website | Instagram | Facebook

“Trust is the key that takes us back to the Garden - back to intimate friendship with God.” How can we lay down our fear and hold on in faith amidst the ups and downs of marriage and parenting? In this episode of the Moms in Prayer podcast, Joanna shares the journey God took her on while writing Embracing Trust: Letting Go and Holding on to a Forever Faithful God. Joanna and Stacy discuss laying down our control, insecurities and expectations in exchange for intimacy with God.   Important Takeaways from the Show When dealing with out "Flesh Woman", it's not a sin to doubt or be tempted, but what we do with doubt temptation that matters. Just as distrust led us out of the garden, key is the trust back into intimacy with God. As moms, we can easily hide from God using modern day "fig leaves" like our children, a beautiful home, the perfect marriage or worldly success. When we turn our convictions into criticism rather than intercession, we are harming rather than helping. It's easy to put our faith in an outcome rather than faith in our God. Childlike faith asks big things of God, and trusts Him with the outcome. We often forfeit God-given peace when we do not give our burdens to the Lord. We often have a problem with God's sovereignty because we have a problem with trust. God wants to show us His faithfulness, but we miss out on His blessings when we choose control over trust.   Links from Show The Life of Trust: Being a Narrative of the Lord's Dealings by George Mueller Joanna's New Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Moms in Prayer Website | Facebook | Instagram | Podcast

“The goal of Christian fiction is to stir the reader's curiosity and send them to the Bible for more.” In this episode Mesu Andrew talks with us about bringing the Bible alive and truly loving the word of God. Mesu has written 13 Biblical novels, her newest being Miriam: A Treasures of the Nile Novel. In today's podcast we discuss the power of Christian fiction to sanctify our imagination and out us in the shoes of Biblical characters. Mesu shares her approach to writing Biblical fiction, the Biblical accounts that have impacted her the most while writing, and how the story of scripture changed her relationship with Jesus. Important Takeaways from the Show Mesu's three layered approach to Biblical fiction: combining the unchangeable truth of scripture, historical research (debatable facts), and fill in with fiction to create a novel that feels real and believable. Mesu's goal in Christian fiction is to stir the curiosity of the reader and have them end up delving into scripture for answers. It's important to have a "sanctified imagination". Biblical fiction helps us to approach the Bible with more imagination, and put ourselves in the Biblical figure's shoes. Mesu's battle with chronic pain - finding God in the journey. God welcomes our "why" questions, but He answers with "who" He is instead. When we know "who", the "why" doesn't matter. Scripture tells us we can receive the limits God puts on our life as a gift instead of a punishment. It is in our suffering that we become more accurate reflections of our Savior. Journalling can be a concrete, tangible reminder of our conversations with God that we can look back on as reminders of His faithfulness.   Links from Show Mesu Andrew's Christian Fiction Books ESV Illuminated Bible Journals Joanna's New Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Mesu Andrews Website | Facebook | Instagram  

“Spiritual depth and personal transformation are more important than impacting others.” In the age of YouTube stars and social media influencers, it's easy to find our identity in our online presence. You may find things that temporarily fill your spiritual buckets, but are left once again dry, anxious, and weary. In today's podcast, author Katelyn Beatty and Joanna talk about dangers to avoid surrounding celebrity, social media and public ministry. Katelyn shares common pitfalls that arise for church leaders in today's fame-obsessed culture.  Join us as we dive into a deeper understanding of the troubles the church is facing today and how we can navigate the current age by holding on to God's sovereignty. Important Takeaways from the Show We can get so wrapped up in our visibility that we abandon our real life relationships that are more authentic. Sometimes accountability can be a name-only thing. Leaders must be willing to ask those around them to comment on their character. Don't confuse numerical growth on social platforms with God's blessing or the validity of the message. It's easy for us to set up today's Christian leaders on pedestals and over-prioritize public gifts over more private ones like hospitality. All spiritual gifts are needed in the body of Christ. When a leader falls, it's an opportunity for us to examine our own hearts and uphold them in prayer. We must resist our negative impulses to become contentious and backbiting on online social platforms. We are living an a time of profound loss of trust in institutions. We can't solve the deep divides in our culture without viewing our neighbors as made in the image of God. How we do things is as important as what things we do. God is sovereign over our current cultural climate.   Links from Show Katelyn Beatty's New Book: Celebrities for Jesus: How Personas, Platforms and Profits Are Hurting the Church Joanna's New Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Katelyn Beatty Website | Instagram

“Trust God's future promises because of His past faithfulness” Do you find yourself in a routine of casting your cares upon the Lord, only to take them back again? You may find things that temporarily fill your spiritual buckets, but are left once again dry, anxious, and weary. In today's podcast, author and speaker, Amy Seiffert and Joanna talk about tips fo overcoming anxiety. Amy shares powerful tools to help to name our feelings, be honest with ourselves and God, and allow Him to align ourselves to His great plan for us. As we allow these things to draw us closer to Jesus, anxiety and worry can be replaced with peace and God's abundant goodness. Join us as we dive into a deeper understanding of true freedom, and find rest for your anxious souls. Important Takeaways from Show Our feet can be in one space, but our minds can be somewhere else. As we let go of what we try to control, giving it to Jesus, our minds can be realigned in the calling He has for us. As we journal our feelings, we find the root of where they came from and identify them by name. Trusting God with our children means parenting from our knees, and surrendering our treasures to Him. Journaling can help us connect our hearts and thoughts back onto Jesus. Being honest ties our feelings together and readies our hearts for a conversation with God. The same grace that saves us is the same grace that changes us. Make a set time in the day to take your worries to God, not allowing them to consume every part of the day. Remember the goodness of God, the faithful times, and the answered prayers. "Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7   Links from Show Amy Seiffert's New Pre-Order Book: Starved: Why We Need a Spiritual Diet Change to Move Us from Tired, Anxious, and Overwhelmed to Fulfilled, Whole, and Free Amy Seiffert's Starved Bible Study: Starved Bible Study: A Six-Week Guided Journey James Bryan Smith- The Good and Beautiful God: Falling in Love with the God Jesus Knows Joanna's New Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Amy Seiffert Website | Instagram | Facebook

"If you are not working on your recovery, you are working on your relapse." Do you feel the weight of shame pulling you down? Weaknesses that feel too deep and shameful to admit? In today's episode, author, speaker and life coach, Irene Rollins, shares from her newest book, Reframe Your Shame: Experience Freedom from What Holds You Back. With beautiful vulnerability, Irene shares her struggle with alcoholism, and how she overcame the battle of addiction and shame. If we'll be honest, do the work, and trust God and His unfailing love, we too can walk in freedom and light. This is such a rich episode, you won't want to miss it. Important Takeaways from Show Rock bottom can become the foundation that the rest of our lives are built on. God can reframe our shame- as our greatest pain turns into our greatest ministry. It is time to give ourselves permission to be honest and bring the things that are in the dark into the light. When we admit our weakness, we are a witness of the power of Christ in us. I am enough because God says I am enough. We are temples of the Holy Spirit and freedom is on the other side of denial. "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Romans 12:2 Let us know the goodness of God, not through the lens of shame, but for who He truly is and His reckless love for us. Admit it. Accept it. Apply it. "But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weakness, so that Christ's power may rest on me." 2 Corinthians 12:9 Links from Show Irene's New Book: Reframe Your Shame: Experience Freedom from What Holds You Back Sign-Up for Tool Kit: Reframe Your Shame ToolKit Jimmy and Irene Rollins Marriage Ministry: Two Equals One  Joanna's New Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Irene Rollins Website | Instagram | Facebook 

“If God can create His proudest creation from mud, what can He do with the mud in our lives?” Have you ever felt disqualified by your origin story? Or perhaps driven to prove that you're better than your past? In today's episode, Mary Marantz shares how God has helped her navigate the broken pieces of her story and to approach it with compassion rather than judgment or bitterness, resentment or regret. We dive into her memoir, Dirt: Growing Strong Roots in What Makes the Broken Beautiful, but also her newest book, Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots: Finding Grace, Freedom and Purpose in an Over-Achieving World. No matter what your story has been, God wants to redeem it for your good and His glory. There is so much good stuff in this episode. I hope you'll share it with a friend. Important Takeaways from Show In making peace with our pasts, we take the muddy, the hard, the broken, and the beautiful and ask God to help us see it through the lens of grace. We can stop holding our present prisoner to the things we think we must do in order to count. Generational chains can break without the severing of ties as we honor the roots, strengthen them, and grow new fruit. The things you thought were shattered are mere reflections of light, love, and beauty. Achieving can start to feel like oxygen, it is something we feel like we need in order to survive. If we try to rush the process that God is taking us through, we only produce shallow roots that easily break-the slower growth equals the strongest roots. Significance is not about us; it is simply taking the gifts God has given us to serve and love others. We often think, “if I don't work for it, I don't deserve it,” but God's love says “let it be easy, let it be light” “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 Links from Show Dirt: Growing Strong Roots in What Makes the Broken Beautiful Mary's Newest Book: Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots: Finding Grace, Freedom and Purpose in an Over-Achieving World Justin Kendrick - "The Spirit-Led Life" Joanna's New Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Mary Marantz Website | Instagram | Facebook

We've never been in control, but God always has... The tables have turned in this week's episode, and my friend, Kelly Balarie, interviews ME about my new book, Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God. It's easy to walk in our Christian faith thinking everything is okay, until it's not. When the hard comes, and people wound us, we slowly take a step backward out of trust and are left wondering why we feel empty. I share some of things I learned during the writing process, the incredible joy of deepening our understanding of who God really is and His heart toward us. As we surrender to His way and trust Him in all situations, joy and peace is the outcome.  So what's holding you back? Let's dive all-in and choose His way above our own. For when we embrace trust, we embrace God. Hope you enjoy!   Important Takeaways from Show When we embrace trust, we take a leap of “all in” and surrender our everything to God. Jesus may have our hearts, but do we take control of everything else? Give God all the pieces of our life, and let Him do something beautiful in the surrender. In the obstacle is the opportunity to go deeper with the Lord. There is a period of exponential growth that is being offered if we just begin. Let us not hold on to faith for an outcome, but believe our faithful God will do what is best. When the promise is delayed, are we going to trust the Lord? Our questions and demands of God can become a wedge, instead of something that draws us closer to Him. God wants to build an unshakable faith in His people for these times. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.  Proverbs 3:5-6 Links from Show Pre-Order Bonuses have been extended until Friday, August 19 - Learn more HERE! Joanna's Book: Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God Kelly's Book: Battle Ready: Train Your Mind to Conquer Challenges, Defeat Doubt, and Live Victoriously  Kelly's Book: Take Every Thought Captive: Exchange Lies of the Enemy for the Mind of Christ [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Joanna Weaver  Facebook | Instagram

Oh you guys... I've been waiting for five years for this moment! Next Tuesday - August 16, 2022 - my new book releases in the world. But my publisher was kind to let me give you a sneak peek of the introduction and first chapter. Embracing Trust: The Art of Letting Go and Holding On to a Forever-Faithful God is the message I've longed to write from the moment I finished Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World. For I am convinced there is no more important question than this... Will I trust God? I hope you enjoy listening to the introduction and first chapter of the book - I certainly enjoyed reading it to you!

Our identity is not found in external things, but in an internal God. In this week's episode, our very special guests, Brittany Maher and Cassandra Speer share from their newest book. Her True Worth: Breaking free from a Culture of Selfies, Side Hustles, and People Pleasing to Embrace Your True Identity in Christ. Brittany and Cassandra are leaders of the popular ministry, Her True Worth, which encourages women to find their true worth in Jesus Christ. After working in the beauty industry, Brittany and Cassandra's eyes were opened to the emptiness of trying to find approval in the world's view of what defines a woman's worth. Brittany and Cassandra share with us how to find our true worth and identity in Christ. As we accept our "acceptedness," we will learn how to live like true daughters of the King. You won't want to miss this one! Important Takeaways from Show You are seen, known, and dearly loved by God. The world's measuring stick cannot measure our worth, value, and identity. God's goodness is not reliant on our "enoughness". Salvation cannot be revoked and our daughterhood in the family of God cannot be earned. "No matter what I do, where I've been, or mistakes I've made, as long as I have a pulse His invitation to me never expires." You need to know who you are not, in order to accept who you truly are in Christ. Are we living our lives in a posture of worship unto God, or are we in a place of needing the worship? Let us not spend a life earning what is already ours. Instead, let us put our worth, identity, and trust back in the hands of Jesus. "For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother's womb. I will praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works." Psalm 139:13-14 Links from Show Join the Insider Club - Joanna's launch team! Brittany and Cassandra's Book: Her True Worth [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Brittany Maher and Cassandra Speer Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Let us embrace the ever-present presence of God In this episode, the incredible, Jeanne Stevens shares from her new book, What's here Now? How to Stop Rehashing the Past and Rehearsing the Future-- and Start Receiving the Present. Jeanne is an author, speaker, and the founding and co-lead pastor of Soul City Church in Chicago. After finding herself in burnout and weariness, Jeanne discovered that while she was rehashing the past and living for the future, she was missing the present. When we try to change something that cannot be changed or control something that God does not want us to control, peace feels distant and almost unavailable. God revealed to Jeanne the key to peace is in the present. Join us in the Living Room as we discuss ways to find freedom, allow God to draw us close, and embrace the ever-resent presence of God. Important Takeaways from Show We can rehash the past or control the future, but the present moments are where we find peace. We need to be living in the ever-present moments in order to receive the ever-present help. (Psalm 46:1) Be thoughtful about patterns of the past and plans for the future but find contentment in the now. Peace is not contingent on our understanding, it is contingent on us being present with God. Replace the question from, “why” with the question, “what's here now?” Grace means we start by knowing that we are accepted and loved just as we are, and our job is to connect people to the Good Shepherd. That is when we are living on purpose. Presence is an ongoing practice that will always need to be worked toward and focused on. As we cultivate God's presence in our lives, breath in and out, notice our emotions, and take captive every thought that is not from Him. The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Exodus 33:14 Links from Show Join the Insider Club - Joanna's launch team! Jeanne's Book: What's Here Now? [Disclosure: I make a small commission from affiliate links used in this post.] Connect with Jeanne Stevens Website | Facebook | Instagram