Podcast appearances and mentions of faith tested

SummaryIn this podcast episode, Mandy Wilson shares her transformative journey from Canada to Guatemala, detailing her family's decision to embark on a mission trip instead of a vacation. The conversation explores the challenges and triumphs of fostering children, the emotional struggles of leaving a child behind, and the eventual transition to working with the James Project. Mandy reflects on her faith journey, the support from her community, and the lessons learned through trials and obedience to God's calling. In this conversation, Mandy shares her profound journey of faith, adoption, and the challenges faced while living in Guatemala. She discusses the importance of relying on God during trials, the growth that comes from perseverance, and the significance of looking back with gratitude. The conversation also delves into the complexities of the adoption process, the emotional struggles of transitioning back to Canada, and the ongoing mission work with the James Project. Mandy emphasizes the importance of community, support, and the transformative power of serving others.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:16 The Call to Guatemala06:25 First Mission Trip Experience10:25 The Second Yes: Returning to Guatemala15:18 Moving to Guatemala: A New Chapter20:31 Challenges of Missionary Life25:25 Fostering and Caring for Children30:35 The Heartbreak of Letting Go35:23 Reflections and Future Plans37:39 The Journey to the James Project40:41 Navigating Loss and New Beginnings43:06 Transitioning to the James Project44:24 Comparing Care: The James Project vs. Previous Homes47:52 The Process of Moving Lily55:19 Faith Tested in Dark Times01:02:05 Looking Back: Gratitude and Growth01:04:24 The Adoption Journey Begins01:10:17 Fighting for Lily's Future01:16:14 Lily: A Gift to the Family01:18:09 Faith and Adoption: A Journey of Hope01:20:12 Transitioning Back: Challenges of Returning Home01:21:33 Identity Crisis: Finding Purpose After Mission Work01:25:20 God's Presence in the Mundane: Seeking Him in Daily Life01:27:52 The James Project: Continuing the Mission01:31:42 Who Before Do: Solidifying Identity in Christ01:34:13 Reflections on Trials: Embracing the Journey01:39:42 Inviting Others: The Impact of Short-Term Missions01:46:30 pod out.mp4KeywordsGuatemala, missions, family, faith, adoption, challenges, community, service, James Project, fostering, faith, adoption, perseverance, reliance on God, mission work, Guatemala, family, trials, growth, gratitude

Thanks for joining us for a weekly message from DuBois Light & Life Church. Today you will hear encouraging words, worship, and a message. Our goal is that you would find Hope, Healing, and Purpose in Jesus Christ. DuBois Light and Life Church.128 S 8th Street,DuBois PA 15801Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and our Website at DuBoisfmc.org, or download our app!Guardrails Release the Favor of God: Daniel 1:8–21 | Proverbs 11:3Most of our regrets could have been avoided if we had guardrails — boundaries in our lives that protect us from drifting off course.The good news? Future regrets can be avoided if we choose to put those guardrails in place now.Why We Often Don't Have GuardrailsWe avoid setting personal guardrails because we think they'll limit our freedom. But the truth is, no guardrails doesn't mean no tension — it means chaos, destruction, complications, and deeper consequences. Culture isn't going to help us here. It won't encourage you to stay on track. Culture will bait you toward the edge and then mock you when you fall off.We have to decide ahead of time where our lines are — make up our minds before we know the end of our story.Daniel's Guardrails Invited God's FavorDaniel and his friends were exiles in Babylon, living in a godless culture. When offered the royal food and wine, Daniel “made up his mind” not to defile himself. This was his guardrail.Daniel's response initiated God's response.“But Daniel…” became “Now God…”While Daniel didn't know it, God was already moving on his behalf behind the scenes.Verse 9 says:“Now God had given the chief of staff both respect and affection for Daniel.”God was actively working to bring Daniel and his three friends favor with the king's officials. Daniel's obedience activated the supernatural.He didn't see immediate results in verse 10 — and neither do we always see instant miracles — but God was still working the entire time.Whether the miracle comes now or not until eternity, God is always moving on behalf of those who trust Him.Faith Tested and ProvenDaniel respectfully asked to be tested for ten days on only vegetables and water. At the end of the test, Daniel and his friends were healthier and stronger than all the others.Because they kept their guardrails, God gave them unusual wisdom and understanding — and gave Daniel the special ability to interpret dreams.King Nebuchadnezzar found none equal to them. He placed them in royal service, and this favor launched a chain of miraculous events: fiery furnaces, lion's dens, and the power of God displayed to entire nations — and it all started with one decision.Guardrails Release the Favor of GodIf you don't actively look for the hand of God, you'll miss it. You'll only see the chaos and evil around you. But guardrails release the favor of God.“The integrity of the upright guides them,but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.”— Proverbs 11:3Daniel's integrity guided him. He refused to compromise.And God responded with supernatural movement and lasting influence.The Challenge for UsLike Daniel, we have to decide.We must put guardrails in place before the temptation comes.If we refuse, it won't remove tension — it will only weaken our ability to say no.God will honor your decisions.God will react with favor.God will respond with supernatural movement.But you have to reject the lie that life without guardrails is freedom.In reality, no guardrails means:chaosdestructionmore complicationsdeeper consequencesDaniel still faced the lions' den — which shows us something vital:Sometimes when it feels like God is breaking you, He's actually building you.Final WordYou will never know what God wants to do through you until you do what Daniel did:Make up your mind.Choose your guardrails now.God will use them not just to protect you — but to direct you.Your decisions today can shape the future of kingdoms, nations, and hearts.It only takes one choice of obedience to start the ripple.

"Faith Of Our Fathers" sermon series by Pastor Peter Kek. Hebrews 11:17-19

Sunday, August 24, 2025 Rev. Kevin Houser: Genesis 22

One of the most well-known stories in the Old Testament–God commanding Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac–is also one of the most infamous. My husband says that this passage haunts him. During law school, his classmates would reference Genesis 22:1-19 as evidence of the destability of God. How could a good God possibly command something so vile? Atheist Richard Dawkins calls it a “disgraceful story.” But when we look at this story in light of God's plan to save his people through the death of his son, I think we will find that it isn't a “disgraceful story” at all. Instead, it is a grace-filled one.Genesis 22:1-19 is about fully trusting in the character, promises, and power of God even when we don't understand what He is doing. It's an account of faith and obedience, even when it requires belief in the miraculous. 

Most people have the idea that we are going to answer to God some day for how much we have done. Nothing could be further from the truth. Some have the idea that we are going to answer to God for what we have done. That may be a little closer to the truth, but it is still not the answer. We are going to answer to God for what we have done with what God has given us and for what we could have done.

Life often feels like a carefully planned play, where we prepare, strategize, and expect things to unfold according to our vision. Yet, just as a quarterback can call an audible and change the play at the last second, God sometimes redirects our lives in ways we never anticipated. My own journey as a planner—both in my career as a fire chief and in my personal life—was upended when my wife Deanna went home to be with the Lord. All my meticulous plans were suddenly irrelevant, and I was left to wrestle with the reality of whether I truly trusted God with all my heart, or if I had been relying on my own understanding all along.Proverbs 3:5-6 became a lifeline: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” These words are simple, but their depth is profound. It's easy to say we trust God, but when life's foundation is shaken, we discover the areas we've kept for ourselves, the places where we've asked God to bless our plans rather than seeking His will first. True faith means surrendering every area—family, work, finances, relationships, even our very purpose—to God's direction, making Him the center of our lives rather than just another part.A God-centered life is not about the absence of suffering or loss, but about trusting that God's purposes will prevail, even when we don't understand. We are called to seek Him in all things: through prayer, through the counsel of the Holy Spirit and the community of believers, and through obedience to His Word. God's will is not a mystery reserved for the few; it is revealed as we humble ourselves, relinquish control, and walk in daily dependence on Him. Even in our pain and confusion, God is working all things together for good, drawing us and others closer to Himself.Ultimately, our lives are not about our own achievements or plans, but about glorifying God, growing in Christ, and serving others. The gospel—the good news of Jesus' death and resurrection—is the centerpiece of God's plan, the ultimate expression of His love and purpose for us. We are invited to trust Him fully, to let go of the exhausting burden of trying to be in control, and to rest in the assurance that He is the perfect planner, guiding us every step of the way. Chapters[00:00] - Welcome[01:30] - Life's Audibles and Lost Control[02:34] - The Planner's Dilemma[06:46] - When God Changes the Plan[10:20] - Faith Tested in Loss[13:11] - Proverbs 3:5-6: Trusting God Fully[15:42] - Blind Spots and Complacency[18:10] - The Limits of Human Understanding[19:39] - God's Perspective vs. Ours[22:36] - Surrendering to God's Wisdom[25:23] - God-Centered vs. Self-Centered Life[27:07] - Living Out God's Will in Relationships[29:06] - Identity and Ministry in Christ[30:37] - Seeking God's Will: Practical Steps[34:18] - Daily Dependence and Obedience[36:20] - God's Strategic Plan and Our Suffering[38:13] - The Gospel: God's Ultimate Will[43:58] - Letting Go and Enjoying the Journey[45:21] - Created for Relationship and Love[47:48] - The Bible: God's Plan for Restoration[48:31] - The Cross: Centerpiece of God's Will[49:21] - Closing Prayer and Invitation

In this first of many sermons in the books of 1 and 2 Peter, Pastor Andrew emphasizes the important theme of Peter's first letter: Take Heart! Because of the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, those who persevere in Him can have true hope amidst their own suffering and hardships, knowing that God's saving promises will be delivered both now and forever. This message also introduces the historical background of the Apostle Peter—his identity, relationship with Jesus, role in the early church, and legacy. This first message also highlights the foundational truths of 1 Peter 1:1–25, including the identity of believers as elect exiles, the new birth into a living hope, and the refining purpose of trials. These themes set the stage for the rest of the letter, emphasizing God's grace, the believer's secure future, and the reality of trials in a fallen world. ________________________________________ Links to Sermon Notes & Answers: ➤Sermon Notes (Blank): https://www.sheridanhills.org/_files/ugd/30fec2_8ae84fa32c58492d9282875e9fd6f208.pdf ➤Sermon Notes (Answers): https://www.sheridanhills.org/_files/ugd/30fec2_07b9fd2f0068439689b8f6967063b052.pdf ________________________________________ In this video: Review of previous sermons in series Main Points Application ________________________________________ Subscribe to this channel to catch weekly expositional sermons from the Bible. ________________________________________ Explore more sermons and information: https://www.sheridanhills.org/watch-new ________________________________________ Follow us: ➤Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sheridanhills/ ➤Twitter: https://twitter.com/sheridanhills01 ➤Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sheridanhills/

James compels us toward steadfastness and maturity. Endurance is developed through patience in suffering. It is the tested faith that perseveres.

In this message from Hebrews 11 we learn that our faith must be tested to prove that it is genuine, and to make genuine faith stronger and more pure. Pastor Greg Barkman continues his exposition in the book of Hebrews.

Hebrews 11:17-19Keywords: Abraham, Genuine Faith, False Faith, Eternal Promise, Trails

"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." James 1:12  “Temptation is the fire that forges resolve; it reveals the purity of one's intentions and the resilience of one's spirit.” This quote encapsulates the essence of our spiritual journey, where each trial we face serves as a challenge and an opportunity for growth. In Matthew 4:1-11, Jesus exemplifies this truth when He confronts temptation in the wilderness. His faith and reliance on God's Word give us a powerful model to emulate in our struggles. As we navigate through life, we will inevitably encounter temptations that seek to divert us from our divine path. However, just as Jesus resisted the snares of the enemy by quoting Scripture, we too can fortify ourselves with God's promises. “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4). By immersing ourselves in His Word, we cultivate a strong foundation that enables us to stand firm against any allurements that may arise. Genesis 39:9 says, Joseph, resisting Potiphar's wife's advances, states, "He is not greater in this house than I am, nor has he kept back anything from me except you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?" Consider the story of Joseph, who faced immense temptation while serving in Potiphar's house. Despite the pressures and the potential for immediate gratification, Joseph chose integrity over indulgence, declaring, “How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9). His decision not only demonstrated his faith but also set the stage for God to elevate him to a position of great influence. This illustrates that resisting temptation often leads to greater blessings and purpose. Daily, we must remind ourselves that faith should always come first. When we prioritize our relationship with God and seek His guidance, the grip of temptation weakens. Let us embrace the divine principle from James 4:17; it will empower us to confront challenges confidently, knowing that we are never alone in our struggles. Amen.  James 4:7 says, "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Amen. Prayer for the Day!Heavenly Father, thank You for being our ever-present help in moments of trial. Grant us the wisdom to recognize temptations when they arise and the courage to resist them as Jesus did. Help us to rely on Your Word and walk steadfastly in Your ways. May our faith shine brightly as a testament to Your love and grace. In Jesus' name, Amen. 

2025 03 30 Marcos Faith tested by City Temple

#bible #biblestudysessions #biblestudy #bookofgenesis Josh Monday Christian and Conspiracy Podcast Ep. 230 If you want to donate to the Ministry or Buy the Mug Here is our CashAPP: https://cash.app/$Joshmondaymusic Flat Earth Books by Sakal Publishing Affiliate Link: https://booksonline.club/booksonlinec... Tiktok: Joshmonday_podcast Instagram: Joshmonday_podcast You tube: ⁠ @joshmondaymusicandpodcast ⁠ Tips for the show to Support our Ministry: ⁠https://www.buymeacoffee.com/joshmond... Coffee Mug Is Available email me your mailing address Joshmonday⁠@rocketmail.com ⁠ Please subscribe to our Spotify and You Tube Channel Joshmondaymusic and Podcast and help us grow so we can keep on spreading the good news. To all of our current and future subscribers thank you for your time, we appreciate you. Please do us a favor subscribe to our You Tube Channel, hit that bell, share, like and comment below on our You tube. Please leave us a 5-Star review on Apple and Spotify. Check out my new show Sunday Service and Wednesday Brought to you by Cult of Conspiracy Podcast. On Cult of Conspiracy Spotify, Patreon and Apple Podcast Channel. This is Sunday Service Episode 7 Series will be released one at a time here.

James: Life in TensionJames 1:1-27

Breacher shares his intense journey as a law enforcement officer balancing the demands of his job with a deep and evolving faith. Raised in a Christian home, he wrestled with his beliefs as a teenager, a struggle that carried into his time in the Marine Corps and later into the high-stakes world of policing in dangerous areas. The constant exposure to trauma and moral challenges pushed him to question his faith and himself. Through prayer, scripture, and the support of a brotherhood like Men's Alliance, he found the strength to endure and grow. With his wife's faith journey eventually aligning with his own, he learned to lead with humility, relying on God and his community to navigate life's darkest moments, like trauma that comes with being an officer, miscarriage and issues in the home, and much more. His story shows how faith and strong relationships can provide the courage to persevere and thrive in the face of life's toughest challenges. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-SIWZxGy7a8 Tribe Coffee: https://www.mensalliancetribe.com/shop/tribe-coffee Waterproof MA Bible - https://www.mensalliancetribe.com/shop/niv-waterproof-bible-new-test-psalms-prov-camouflage Another Gospel? A Lifelong Christian Seeks Truth in Response to Progressive Christianity: https://amzn.to/4iG1wEd Follow Men's Alliance Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mensalliancetribe/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mensalliancetribe Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@mensalliancetribe Website - https://www.mensalliancetribe.com/ Order the Book - Answer With Truth: The Ambassador's Field Manual for Leading Your Family Spiritually - https://amzn.to/3BmnuKV --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mensalliancetribe/support

This is message 6 in The Twelve Disciples series John 1:43-46 Philip, known for his practical and cautious nature, demonstrated both strengths and struggles in his journey of faith. From responding to Jesus' call and inviting Nathaniel to “come and see,” to grappling with tests of faith during the feeding of the five thousand, Philip often leaned on logic rather than trust. He hesitated when approached by Greeks seeking Jesus and sought tangible evidence in his request to “show us the Father.” Through these moments, Jesus gently guided Philip to move beyond his reliance on reason and embrace a deeper faith, teaching him—and us—to trust in the sufficiency of Christ's revelation and provision. Don't forget to download our app for more from the Riverview Baptist Church. http://onelink.to/rbcapp Find more at https://riverviewbc.com/ Donate through Pushpay https://pushpay.com/pay/riverviewbc

Click Here for Sermon Notes

Join us as we consider the story of Abraham's faith from Hebrews 11. Discover how Abraham's faith was put to the ultimate test. In this, we track the theme of testing found throughout the Scriptures. Testing is not a one-time event but a daily opportunity to demonstrate our trust and confidence in God's word, something we all face.    Episode Links: simplyrevised.org: https://bit.ly/3K8EINi Contact Us: https://bit.ly/3V9yKlD Support SimplyRevised: https://bit.ly/48xIvOM Receive our newsletter: https://bit.ly/48S3E5L Follow us on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3O4a8qn Join us on Instagram: https://bit.ly/47yQv0t Music Provided by Eric Gwin: https://bit.ly/45uDiGO BibleProject: The Test: https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/the-test/ The Statler Brothers-Old Testament: https://music.apple.com/us/album/holy-bible-old-testament/1423415512   Chapters: (00:00) Welcome to SimplyRevised (01:13) Brenda's Day and Facebook (oh-my!) (05:32) In Hebrews chapter 11, we consider what does Faith look like (07:13) Abraham almost offers his son Isaac as a sacrifice, which is horrifying (08:28) God tested Abraham's faith when he offered Isaac as a sacrifice (11:15) There's a theme of testing in the Bible about trust and wisdom (19:11) Was Abraham faithful? Yes, Abraham was faithful. He was not perfect, but he was faithful (20:12) God leads Israel out of Egypt  (23:41) Do you think God still tests us today? (28:04) One person stands out (31:14) Faith looks like following the wisdom and the word of God

152 - A Faith Tested Is A Faith Strenghtened, Joshua 24, 6 - 7 by Pastor David Goodson

It's important to accept deeply that faith will be tested in this pilgrimage. When it is God wants us to trust him.

Wednesday Evening

Today we continue our look at James with pastor Lloyd Pulley.  If you had to describe your life, and what's going on right now, I think it's safe to say many of us would point to a trial or two that we're experiencing.  And maybe you feel like you're being steamrolled by a trial right now?  Today, we receive great encouragement from James, who went through suffering himself, and explains why we go through them. 

 Today we enter the New Testament book of James. You'll find James toward the back of the New Testament, right after Hebrews. James was the half brother of our Lord Jesus Christ, and as we'll see during this study, he was a preacher of extraordinary passion. The book of James is all about faith in Christ, and what a relationship with Him really means. 

Having someone turn their back on you is one thing. But having a loved one turn their back on you is a different kind of hurt. When some of my loved ones turned their backs on me, I did these three things to heal and move forward. If you've ever experienced a loved one turn their back on you, tune in to today's podcast episode and implement these three strategies. Remember, don't let anything stop you from your healing and freedom. 

Looking into Genesis 22, pastor Luke shared how Abraham trusted God's character and how the passage ultimately points us to Jesus' death on the Cross, the greatest act of love! ++++++++++++++ Download the Church App here: https://bit.ly/3vxVr8q  If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave a comment below

Today our guest speaker Pastor Larry Goss walks us through a testing of faith found at the end of Mark 6. For more information please visit us at www.ONEfellowship.church For Charleston and beyond!

Hebrews 11: 17-19

The Vineyard Church Peoria

The Vineyard Church Peoria

In this episode of 'Let's Talk', Pastor Webster and Sister Joyce discuss the Christian perspective on enduring hardships and suffering. They delve into passages from 1 Peter and reflect on biblical figures like Job and Joseph to illustrate the importance of faith that can be tested. Sister Joyce shares her personal experience with illness, emphasizing the role of rejoicing, prayer, and scripture in maintaining spiritual strength. The discussion highlights the idea that suffering can be a means for God to use believers for greater good, and encourages listeners to find joy and purpose in their trials. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 00:28 Sister Joyce's Testimony 00:44 Understanding Fiery Trials 02:08 Faith Tested and Trusted 03:13 Job's Unwavering Faith 04:03 Joseph's Journey and God's Plan 08:41 Rejoicing in Trials 11:23 Final Thoughts and Contact Information --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gnbc/message

Sermon By: Pastor Roman Folia (The Covenants, Part 10)

Message from Jason Ford on May 15, 2024

Genesis 22:1-24 ESV After these things God tested Abraham and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” He said, “Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.” So Abraham rose early in the morning, saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him, and his son Isaac. And he cut the wood for the burnt offering and arose and went to the place of which God had told him. On the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes and saw the place from afar. Then Abraham said to his young men, “Stay here with the donkey; I and the boy will go over there and worship and come again to you.” And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering and laid it on Isaac his son. And he took in his hand the fire and the knife. So they went both of them together. And Isaac said to his father Abraham, “My father!” And he said, “Here I am, my son.” He said, “Behold, the fire and the wood, but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?” Abraham said, “God will provide for himself the lamb for a burnt offering, my son.” So they went both of them together. When they came to the place of which God had told him, Abraham built the altar there and laid the wood in order and bound Isaac his son and laid him on the altar, on top of the wood. Then Abraham reached out his hand and took the knife to slaughter his son. But the angel of the LORD called to him from heaven and said, “Abraham, Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” He said, “Do not lay your hand on the boy or do anything to him, for now I know that you fear God, seeing you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me.” And Abraham lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him was a ram, caught in a thicket by his horns. And Abraham went and took the ram and offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his son. So Abraham called the name of that place, “The LORD will provide”; as it is said to this day, “On the mount of the LORD it shall be provided.” And the angel of the LORD called to Abraham a second time from heaven and said, “By myself I have sworn, declares the LORD, because you have done this and have not withheld your son, your only son, I will surely bless you, and I will surely multiply your offspring as the stars of heaven and as the sand that is on the seashore. And your offspring shall possess the gate of his enemies, and in your offspring shall all the nations of the earth be blessed, because you have obeyed my voice.” So Abraham returned to his young men, and they arose and went together to Beersheba. And Abraham lived at Beersheba. Now after these things it was told to Abraham, “Behold, Milcah also has borne children to your brother Nahor: Uz his firstborn, Buz his brother, Kemuel the father of Aram, Chesed, Hazo, Pildash, Jidlaph, and Bethuel.” (Bethuel fathered Rebekah.) These eight Milcah bore to Nahor, Abraham's brother. Moreover, his concubine, whose name was Reumah, bore Tebah, Gaham, Tahash, and Maacah.

Would you ask your twelve-year-old to bravely live her faith, in a time of crisis? In part two of our conversation, Heather Cofer shares the story of her twelfth birthday in Mongolia and how—even when she was so afraid—her dad commissioned her to walk by faith. She also tells about the crisis her husband's family (also missionaries in Mongolia) faced.Heather's story is highlighted in my new Bible study, Shaped by God's Promises: Lessons from Sarah on Fear and Faith. Whether you're here because you're reading that book, or you're a regular listener, I hope you'll be inspired by this conversation.Guest: Heather CoferBible Passage: Genesis 12:1-4Freebies:The Live Like It's True WorkbookPraying the PromisesResound Media: Go to www.ResoundMedia.cc for more Gospel centered resources.Mentioned Resources:Purchase on Amazon: Shaped by God's Promises: Lessons from Sarah on Fear and FaithLearn More about my new study: Shaped by God's PromisesMusic: Cade PopkinHeather Cofer is a wife and mother of six living in northern Colorado with a passion for encouraging women to love Jesus. She is the author of Expectant: Cultivating a Vision for Christ-Centered Pregnancy, and has also written for Revive Our Hearts, Set Apart Ministries, Risen Motherhood, and Well-Watered Women. She enjoys fresh flowers, good coffee, and laughter with loved ones.Connect with Heather Cofer:Website: https://www.heathercofer.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heathercofer/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heather.a.coferShaped by God's Promises: Lessons from Sarah on Fear and Faith {buy now}Comparison Girl for Teens {buy now} Get our free "Pray God's Promises" prayer guide. Go to Shannonpopkin.com/PROMISES/ for more information on my neww Bible study, Shaped by God's Promises: Lessons from Sarah on Fear and Faith.

Text for today's message: Genesis 22:16-18; Mark 1:12-13

Text for today's message: Genesis 22:16-18; Mark 1:12-13

Text for today's message: Genesis 22:16-18; Mark 1:12-13

With the new season of Survivor premiering soon - one of the most popular TV programs and reality shows of all time - a former contestant from Alabama shares about how she got on the show and what it was really like on the island. On this Valentine's Day, this mom and ministry leader also very open about her 2nd chance love story with her now-husband...a recent cancer battle that made her question God...and why experiencing faith is so important. (5:15) Krista Klumpp Russell describes having to break her own heart with her high school sweetheart Blake, when he was on the path to destruction that eventually landed him behind bars for a decade. Getting out and 13 years after they broke up, they reunited and have now been married 6 years. How did their Christian walks help make that happen? (15:30) In the last few years, Krista was also diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer, at 37 years old. She breaks down the 18 weeks of chemo and all the other treatments, prayer that led her to being declared cancer free last Fall, with still more work to do. That cancer battle though made prayer and her faith difficult at times. She explains. And Krista says she no longer has a "boring testimony." (26:50) Krista (Klumpp) was on season 22 of Survivor, Rdemption island, lasting 15 days, but being the 4th person voted out. How did a random chance moment lead to her casting call for the show? How was she grilled about her faith and beliefs before being picked? And she has advice on how to get on a show like this. Krista details how tough it is, with cameras always on you, little food, other challenges on Survivor. She's also passionate about people (37:14) really experiencing faith, not just stating beliefs, but putting them into action beyond the church walls. That means getting out of our comfort zone. Krista and family did that for a full month in Africa. (45:49) As for fitness, this busy mom of 2 young kids doesn't enjoy working out, but enjoys the benefits, so she has a "use it or lose it" attitude. (52:57) She and husband Blake Russell are co-founders, leaders of 7M Ministries: https://www.7mministries.org/. He speaks at jails/prisons, schools, churches as an evangelist and former drug dealer who radically turned his life around through Jesus. Their goal or slogan is "Doing Our Part." How can you make a difference? Krista plans to step out more to share her testimony, including her cancer battle. As we do with all episodes, I close out in prayer. Thanks for listening to the #RunTheRace podcast, which I hope you'll subscribe to! Share it with your friends. Also, write a quick review about it, on Apple podcasts. For more info and listen to any previous episodes, go to www.wtvm.com/podcast/.

Being in seasons of suffering or hardships can really test our faith and makes it easy to forget the truths about who God is and what He wants to do for us.  In this episode, Andrea and Lizz walk through hardships they have been experiencing and share some thoughts on how to keep your eyes on Christ. In this Advent season, they hope you will reflect on the places of your heart where you have experienced or are experiencing suffering and let the Lord draw you more intimately to Himself  through kindness, continuing to show up, and looking for the ways He is constantly pursuing your heart.