Podcasts about sometimes god

When the Transit Agency of Central Kentucky (TACK) renovated its headquarters, it wanted to make sure people noticed. Instead of a subtle sign or announcement, it installed a massive, nearly twenty-two feet tall thumbtack at its entrance. The thumbtack, a world record, is an undeniable marker that no passersby can miss. In Daniel 6, God used something undeniable to get people’s attention: He miraculously rescued Daniel after he’d been placed in a lion’s den for choosing to defy King Darius’ decree and continuing to pray to God (vv. 10-23). The prophet survived because he’d “trusted in . . . God” (v. 23). Darius then declared that—unlike the dead idols of the Medes and Persians—Daniel’s God was “the living God [who] endures forever” (v.26). He alone “rescues and . . . saves [and] performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth” (v. 27). It’s remarkable that even a pagan king acknowledged God’s power and sovereignty. Like a giant, divine “thumbtack,” God’s act of power couldn’t be overlooked. Sometimes God gets our attention as He does something significant and undeniable (v. 27)—supernatural rescues, right-on-time provisions, and heart transformations. Other times, He works quietly as we watch and wait. Let’s stand in awe of what He’s doing in and around us today—trusting in Him and His great power (v. 23).

There are seasons in life when no matter how hard you try, nothing seems to move. You push forward, but the door won’t budge. You try to step back, but the path is blocked. You pray, plan, adjust, and strive—yet you still feel stuck. Psalm 40 reminds us that David knew this feeling well. He described being lifted from a “slimy pit” and set on solid ground. But later, when trouble surrounded him again, he didn’t pretend everything was fine. He cried out honestly, even urgently: “Come quickly, Lord, to help me.” Feeling stuck can bring frustration, fear, and even desperation. We may question why God hasn’t changed our situation yet. But Scripture shows us that waiting seasons are not wasted seasons. God is not absent in the delay. He remains present in the confinement. Sometimes God rescues immediately. Other times, He strengthens us within the waiting. Either way, He is our help and deliverer. He welcomes our honest prayers. He is not offended by our tears or our pleas for Him to hurry. If you feel wedged between circumstances you cannot control, remember: you are not trapped alone. The Lord is near. He hears you. He sustains you. And in time, He will place your feet on steady ground again. Main Takeaways Feeling stuck is a common and deeply human experience. David modeled honest, urgent prayer when he needed rescue. God is present in both deliverance and delay. Waiting seasons can strengthen faith and deepen reliance on God. The Lord remains our constant help, even when circumstances don’t immediately change. Today’s Bible Verse “As for me, I am afflicted and needy, May the Lord think of me. You are my help and the One who rescues me; Do not delay, O my God” (Psalm 40:17, LSB). Your Daily Prayer Prayer excerpt for listeners: “Help me to want You more than the relief, and to find hope in Your presence while I wait.” Listen to the full prayer here. To view the prayer in written format, visit the links below. Want More? Relevant Links & Resources Continue growing in faith and encouragement: LifeAudio.com – Christian podcasts and devotionals Crosswalk.com – Daily prayers, articles, and Bible study resources This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.orgTrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. https://trinitycredit.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Mary, a varsity college swimmer, shares her Near-Death Experience -- the moment she slipped beneath the pool water during a competition, saw the face of her grandmother, and heard the unmistakable voice of God behind her. ---------- We open with that powerful encounter. But the story doesn't end in the pool. Years later, after attending one of my talks at a local parish, and initially brushing off the podcast, Mary tuned back in -- and suddenly the message wasn't just interesting. It was personal. And Convicting. Sometimes God lets you drift for a season. And sometimes He brings you back to face the one thing standing between you and freedom. ---------- Share Your Story If you have a Touched by Heaven moment that you would like to share with Trapper, please leave us a note at https://touchedbyheaven.net/contact Our listeners look forward to hearing about life-changing encounters and miraculous stories every week. Stay Informed Trapper sends out a weekly email. If you're not receiving it, and would like to stay in touch to get the bonus stories and other interesting content that will further fortify your faith. Join our email family by subscribing on https://trapperjackspeaks.com  Become a Patron We pray that our listeners and followers benefit from our podcasts and programs and develop a deeper personal relationship with God. We thank you for your prayers and for supporting our efforts by helping to cover the costs. Become a Patron and getting lots of fun extras. Please go to https://patreon.com/bfl to check out the details. More About Trapper Jack Visit Our Website: https://TrapperJackSpeaks.com Patreon Donation Link: https://www.patreon.com/bfl Purchase our Products ·       Talk Downloads: https://www.patreon.com/bfl/shop ·       CD Sales: https://trapperjackspeaks.com/cds/  Join us on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/TouchedByHeaven.TrapperJack Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trapperjack/ Join us on X/Twitter: https://x.com/TrapperJack1 

In this episode, Ken returns to the topic of the distinction between order - or law - and justice, and how for God order is important but justice for everyone is what is paramount. Ken shared the story of Jesus healing the man born blind in John chapter 9 , which he thinks depicts well this difference between people's emphasis on the law and God's emphasis on justice and ensuring the well being of everyone. In this story the Pharisees, who maintained religious order, insisted God couldn't be behind this miracle because he broke the Sabbath laws to heal the man. Their mental model was that anything of God must be based on the laws they'd created - on their order. But sometimes God breaks the order to bring justice. Ken invites us to think about this question, "How resistant are we to God changing our assumptions and beliefs and about how things work? Do we have enough humility to say, "I have a set of beliefs and assumptions about how things are supposed to go, and they don't always go that way. Sometimes God blows up my beliefs and assumptions, and sometimes God breaks the order in order to bring justice."The Pharisees in the story lacked humility and the capacity to have eyes to see what God was doing in their midst. What Ken invites us to think about is whether we allow God to have any room to be bigger than our rules. When people are taken advantage of because of the rules, God will intervene, because God always stands on the side of justice.This episode was recorded on February 20th, 2026.

Sometimes God will ask us to press the restart button and start over. Often times we look at that as a failure, so instead of starting over we try and patch up the holes. Sometimes and most times we need that fresh start to look at what we did in the past and make the changes we need to go forward. We can't let our pride and ego stop us from understanding that we are human and we will always fall short at some point in our lives.

(This podcast was previously published on April 21, 2021)   Jesus Ministries, Joan Boney  ...   When we are born again, changed by God, we are very different from the way we had been before.  Often we no longer enjoy the people or things we once enjoyed.  Usually we want to read the Bible and go to church to hear about God.   Now we seek God and His righteousness, what is right in the sight of God.   And this is our interest as long as God chooses to leave us on this present earth.   Here is a promise from God:   Psalm 84:11   For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will HE withhold from them that walk uprightly.   We go forward renewing our mind to the Bible, seeing the way God chooses for us to live, and we do those scriptures, growing in the image of Christ the Word.   God is our "sun" by HIS Spirit who brings to our mind the way to go.  God is also a shield, keeping us from things that would harm us.   And we find, in time, God has placed around us those good things which we can enjoy.   All we do is keep following various scriptures as they are given to us by the Holy Spirit, thus staying on God's highway.   *****   One of the things I enjoy most in this life is my sound system.  I love the sound effects of hearing a door open on the right of the TV.  Or hearing the clang of the old time elevator doors when they are closed.  I seem to hear all the sound effects in movies.  I like the sound of musical instruments to duplicate the clarity of the real instrument.   Along the way, some very good quality sound equipment came into my life.  God just enabled me to meet people who could help me develop a system.   I very much wanted to marry.  But to marry would not fit in with that which God planned for me to do on this earth.  Eventually I saw "that" and agreed with God.   Recently I saw an old 1948 movie, "The egg and I".  I thought it was a terrible movie but I was also helped immensely by seeing that movie.  I saw how terrible it would have been if I had actually married Buddy.  He is a farm and ranch person.   God is a shield for us.  Sometimes God keeps us from getting that which we want, and like a little child we have temper tantrums because God, The Father, did not let us have that. Later we rejoice that we didn't get what we wanted.  And we thank God for keeping us from getting that.   But when it is good for us to have that thing, God will see that it comes to us.   We just continue in HIS Word.   It is not that we are trying to get things by doing God's commandments.  We do God's word because we have a respect for God and know HIS way is right and best for us.  

It’s natural to wonder what God’s will is for your life—especially when you’re facing uncertainty, hardship, or a season that feels confusing. We often ask, “What is my purpose?” or “Why am I here?” But one truth remains steady: God’s will is always connected to His glory and our transformation. Romans 12:2 reminds us that we discover God’s will not by following the world’s patterns, but by renewing our minds through Him. That means God’s will isn’t always something we “figure out” like a puzzle—it’s something we grow into as we surrender our hearts, our plans, and our desires to Him. This prayer points us back to Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane. Even Jesus, overwhelmed by what lay ahead, prayed for another way—yet He ultimately surrendered with the words that changed history: “Not my will, but Yours be done.” That same posture is what God invites us into. Sometimes God’s will includes paths we didn’t expect: waiting, sacrifice, singleness, illness, loss, or deep stretching. But God never wastes suffering. Even what looks like delay or disappointment can become a platform for His glory and a testimony that strengthens others. Today’s reminder is simple but powerful: God’s will is good—even when it’s hard to understand. And the safest place you can be is in the center of His plans, trusting that He sees the full story from beginning to end. Main Takeaways God’s will is always good, even when it’s difficult or unclear. Renewing your mind through Christ helps you recognize God’s direction. Jesus modeled surrender when He prayed, “Not my will, but Yours be done.” God may use hard seasons to glorify Himself and strengthen others through you. Living in God’s will means putting Christ at the center of every decision. Today’s Bible Verse And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. – Romans 12:2 Your Daily Prayer Prayer excerpt for listeners: “Make me more like Christ so that I would long to remain in Your will.” Listen to the full prayer here. To view the prayer in written format, visit the links below. Want More? Relevant Links & Resources LifeAudio.com – Christian podcasts, devotionals, and faith-based encouragement Crosswalk.com – Daily prayers, devotionals, and Bible resources This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.orgTrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments, Trinity has the knowledge and resources to make a difference. https://trinitycredit.org Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Winter eventually gives way to spring. The sun always returns — even if it takes longer than we’d like. Life works the same way. In this episode, we talk about walking through spiritual winters — the long seasons of hardship, disappointment, or discouragement where change feels painfully slow. What do we do when prayers seem unanswered? When circumstances don’t shift? When the valley stretches on? Psalm 23 reminds us of something powerful: even in the darkest valley, we are not alone. The sun may feel hidden — but God is not absent. What We Discuss Why difficult seasons are part of the Christian life The danger of obsessing over our problems How self-focus can unintentionally magnify hardship Practical ways to stay encouraged during long valleys Learning contentment when God says “not yet” Paul’s example of trusting grace in weakness Preparing spiritually before the next hard season arrives This episode is sponsored by Trinity Debt Management. If you are struggling with debt call Trinity today. Trinity's counselors have the knowledge and resources to make a difference. Our intention is to help people become debt-free, and most importantly, remain debt-free for keeps!" If your debt has you down, we should talk. Call us at 1-800-793-8548 | https://trinitycredit.org TrinityCredit – Call us at 1-800-793-8548. Whether we're helping people pay off their unsecured debt or offering assistance to those behind in their mortgage payments. https://trinitycredit.org Full Transcript Below: Waiting for the Sun to Shine Again By: Aaron D’Anthony BrownBible Reading: “Even when I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger, for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4, CSB) I was one of the many waiting for the sun to shine again after a long, cold winter. Eventually it does return, albeit more slowly than we might wish. Life can be like that sometimes, where tough situations are slow to change and improve. When you find yourself feeling down and out, how do you respond? Do you turn to God and patiently wait for the bad times to pass? Do you develop a bad attitude to match the circumstances? Or do you just go with the flow? As Christians, we pray to God with anticipation and hope for the good times of life. There are many of them. However, again, as Christians, we also know that God doesn’t solely promise us good times. The bad times are, in fact, a part of this miracle we call life. And they’re just as important. In effect, life is an alternating sequence of seasons in which we experience highs and lows. Those upbeat moments are much easier to handle and appreciate. The difficulties, on the other hand, can leave us scratching our heads, wondering when God will step in to rescue us. If this sounds like you, you’re not alone. Everyone at some point will be waiting for the sun to shine again. Don’t focus on your problems. One major mistake people often make when struggling in life is harping on their misfortunes. They pray about it, think about it, and talk about it a lot. Not only that, but our culture promotes ideas such as self-love and affirmation so often that people think good vibes will cast away their problems. Life’s not so simple. In fact, focusing on yourself often makes the problem seem bigger than it is. So, what’s the solution? Think less about yourself and more about others. Rather than dwell on the bad things happening, spend some time thinking about the good. Go out and do good in the world. What you will discover is that sometimes the problems go away, and even if they don’t, when your mind is set on other things, the problems were never as bad as you originally thought. Find ways to stay encouraged. Choosing not to focus on your problems doesn’t magically make you feel better. Hard times can still leave us feeling sad, angry, and worse, suicidal. That’s why it’s important that we know how to find encouragement. Your specific ways may look different from mine, but what’s important is that we have a reliable game plan. The bad times will come. That’s a certainty. And when they do, wisdom calls for us to be prepared. Take some time to consider where you currently find encouragement and where else you ought to go. Some helpful solutions include prayer, church, loved ones, a gratitude journal, exercise, producing art, and so much more. Learn contentment. Sometimes God says yes, sometimes no, and sometimes not yet. The latter can be difficult to understand, especially when you feel so justified in your pleas to the Lord. However, God is God. He’s not going to change a circumstance every time we ask. There could be a lesson for us to learn, or maybe we’re feeling the effects of sin, or both. As Paul learned to be satisfied with God’s grace as he struggled with a thorn in the flesh, so too must we. Based on how he lived, the formula for contentment is probably something like faith plus patience plus gratitude. Obviously, that’s contrary to our human nature and won’t come naturally. Yet, God is able to supply all of our needs and desires to see us grow. We have to do our part to seek that growth. The valleys of life will come and come again. That’s a fact. Yet, we can also be well-prepared to handle. Waiting for the sun to shine again is not easy, but you know that it’s coming. Take hope today. Further Reading (and Listening): Psalm 13 Romans 8:18 John 16:33 “I Smile” by Kirk Franklin “NO LONGER BOUND” by Forrest Frank & Hulvey Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Strength doesn't always come from comfort or full stomachs. Sometimes God meets us in the quiet spaces and reminds us where real strength comes from.

What do you do when the giant in front of you feels impossible to defeat? On Family Sunday at Family Church, we gathered kids and adults together to revisit one of the most powerful stories in Scripture — David and Goliath from 1 Samuel 17. Through a fun and unforgettable live illustration, we were reminded that: Giants don't disappear just because we ignore them. You can't fight spiritual battles with worldly methods. Preparation happens in private before victory happens in public. Sometimes God removes the giant… and sometimes He gives you strength to face it. Parents, kids, families — this message is for all of us. Whether your giant is fear, anxiety, finances, marriage struggles, parenting challenges, or something no one else sees, the battle belongs to the Lord. We are called to fight in the name of Jesus — not in our own strength. If this message encouraged you, share it with someone who needs strength to face their giant today. #FamilyChurch #DavidAndGoliath #FacingGiants #ChildlikeFaith #faithinaction 00:00 – Family Sunday Introduction 01:00 – Why Jesus Welcomes Children 02:00 – Setting Up the Story of David & Goliath 03:00 – The 40-Day Standoff 04:00 – David Arrives on the Scene 05:00 – Saul's Armor Doesn't Fit  07:30 – Five Smooth Stones 08:30 – Meet Goliath (Live Illustration) 11:00 – David's Bold Declaration 13:00 – The Battle in the Valley 14:30 – What Giants Look Like Today 15:30 – You Can't Fight Like the World 17:30 – Preparation in Private 19:30 – Pray From the Heart 20:00 – Family Prayer Time 21:00 – Sometimes God Removes the Giant 22:00 – Closing Prayer

In the last Talk of this Series, we sum up what we have thought about so far and the implications for our individual lives. Let Jesus wear His crown in your life! Don't quickly scamper out of times of testing. Sometimes God wants to bring you through times of heartache and sorrow so that you can be a blessing to others in the future. The River can be a positive place to be. Allow God to grip you, so that you'll be inspired, anointed and equipped for what He is calling you to do with Him in the coming weeks and months. Like the Apostle Paul we need to rely on God in our life. As we take a posture of humility and submission so we will live well in this current Land of Holiness and Promise.The script for the whole Service can be read here.

Bro. Breaker takes a daily walk on Jan. 30th, and talks as he's walking in the woods. He also reads 1 Peter chapter 5 and talks about why sometimes God lets you go through some things.

Dr. Hansen introduces the idea that God-given gifts can become chains if one's heart drifts from Him. Sometimes God will even give you the things you keep asking for, a job, relationship, opportunity, money, but if your heart has already been drifting further from Him, those gifts from heaven can slowly turn into chains that binds you.

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Numbers 1-2; Acts 24 Click HERE to give! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on the Daily Radio Bible, a daily Bible‑in‑a‑year podcast with 20‑minute Scripture readings, Christ‑centered devotion, and guided prayer.This daily Bible reading and devotional invites you to live as a citizen of Jesus' kingdom, reconciled, renewed, and deeply loved. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! On this episode, your host Hunter invites listeners into a fresh section of Scripture, marking the 17th day of February and day 48 of the Bible journey. We begin exploring the book of Numbers, delving into the census of Israel's tribes and their careful organization as a community poised for movement and purpose. Alongside Numbers, Hunter guides us through Acts 24, where Paul's resilience and obedience are highlighted as he waits in prison, trusting God's plan even in times of stillness. Throughout the episode, Hunter reflects on the significance of being counted among God's people—whether marching forward or staying put—and connects these readings to our own growth, endurance, and awakening to Christ's life within us. To close, we join together in prayers rooted in scripture and tradition, seeking God's peace, guidance, and love in our daily lives. If you're ready for encouragement, perspective, and a reminder that you are loved, this episode sets the tone for another meaningful day in your Bible journey. TODAY'S DEVOTION: All are accounted for, all 603,550. These are all the troops of Israel listed by their family names. All are warriors ready for battle, ready to march out under the banner of their family name. They are ready to follow the Ark of God's covenant and go wherever God's Spirit leads them. And so it is with Paul too. Solitary Paul is accounted for every day for two years in his prison cell. Paul too is a kind of soldier, ready to go wherever the Spirit of God leads him. But sometimes God's leading is not to go anywhere at all. Sometimes God's calling you to march forward into new lands. Sometimes it's to stay put. For Paul, he was to stay put for two years in prison. For two years, he was brought before his captor and forced to present himself, only to be sent away. No changes to his status. Sometimes your orders are just to stay put, and when they are, it can be discouraging and hard. It's important to remember that waiting is a part of God's plan too. James 1:2-4 says, dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow. For when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. Sometimes God's doing a work on the soldier, and sometimes that means staying put. It might be two days, it might be two years, it might be two decades, but God's got a plan, and part of that plan is to work on us. He's making an opportunity for us to grow, and our growth comes from tested endurance. When that endurance is being tested, it's an opportunity for great joy. Remember that you are a soldier too, and remember that God has a plan. A big part of God's plan is awakening us to the transforming power of Christ's life in us. That's what gives us the strength to do those hard things like staying put or marching forward. It's only in the power of Christ in us that we can do any of the things he calls us to do. So allow the Spirit of God to wake you up to the life of Christ in you. It's his life now. All glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. And that's a prayer that I have for my own soul, that I'll wake up to the life of Christ in me. That's a prayer that I have for my family, for my wife, my daughters, my son. And that's a prayer that I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

God's Four-Handed Provision #RTTBROS #Nightlight"And my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." — Philippians 4:19You know, I've been thinking about something that keeps coming up when I talk with folks who are worried about their finances, their future, their needs. We live in uncertain times, and it's easy to look at our bank accounts or our circumstances and wonder if God's really going to come through. But here's what I've learned, and I'm too soon old and too late smart on this one: God has always been in the providing business, and He uses four different hands to meet our needs.Man's Hand Let me take you back to the book of Exodus for a minute. The children of Israel are about to leave Egypt after 400 years of slavery. Now, you'd think they'd be leaving with nothing but the clothes on their backs, right? But look what happens. God moves the hearts of the Egyptians, and they give the Israelites gold, silver, and clothing. The Bible says they "spoiled the Egyptians" (Exodus 12:36). That's provision through man's hand. Later, Nehemiah needed resources to rebuild Jerusalem's walls, and God moved the heart of King Cyrus to provide everything he needed. Sometimes God provides through the generosity of others, even when we least expect it.God's HandBut then there are times when man's hand isn't enough, when no human source can meet the need. That's when God provides directly from His hand. Think about those same Israelites wandering in the wilderness. Every morning, manna covered the ground like dew. Water flowed from a rock. God Himself provided supernaturally what no human could give. Now, we don't live on miracles day to day, but we need to remember they happen in the lives of believers when we need them most.Your HandThen comes the third way, and this is where most of us live most of the time. God provides by your hands. When the Israelites finally crossed into the Promised Land, the manna stopped. They had to plant crops, tend flocks, work the land. The psalmist writes, "thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee" (Psalm 128:2). God blesses the work of our hands. He doesn't call us to sit around waiting for miracles when He's given us the ability to work.Your Enemy's HandBut here's the one that really gets me, the fourth way God provides that we almost never think about. God provides by our enemies' hands. When Caleb was looking at the giants in the land, do you remember what he said? Those giants would be "bread for us" (Numbers 14:9). What looked like an obstacle was actually provision. Your greatest challenge might just be God's way of bringing you your greatest blessing.So when you're worried about how God's going to provide, remember He's got four hands working on your behalf. Sometimes it's through people's generosity. Sometimes it's a flat-out miracle. Sometimes it's through honest work. And sometimes, that very thing you think is going to destroy you is actually going to feed you.Let's pray: Father, help us trust that You know how to provide for Your children. Whether it's through man's hand, Your hand, our hands, or even through our enemies, we know You will supply all our needs. Give us eyes to see Your provision in every circumstance. In Jesus' name, Amen.#Faith #GodsProvision #Trust #ChristianLiving #DailyDevotion #BiblicalWisdom #SpiritualGrowth #RTTBROS #NightlightBe sure to Like, Share, Follow and subscribe it helps get the word out.https://linktr.ee/rttbros

Publius . . . welcomed us to his home and showed us generous hospitality for three days. — Acts 28:7 Paul was on a ship with 275 other men riding out a storm that they could have avoided. Nevertheless, God had a plan. They were shipwrecked on an island where people needed to hear the gospel story. When the travelers arrived, ragged and wet but all safe, the islanders showed kindness and generosity. They provided food and a warm fire for everyone. Then Publius, the chief official, welcomed Paul and his companions into his home. And with God's power Paul was able to heal Publius's father. The door to the gospel was now opened to many more people. As the island residents heard of this healing, their hope increased, and they began to bring all the other sick people to Paul, who healed them. A new chapter began for the people of the island of Malta. They were so thankful that they continued in their hospitality and provided the travelers with the supplies they needed when they were ready to sail again. What had looked like a disastrous situation became a God moment. Sometimes God calls us out of our safety and comfort for the sake of sharing his good news. Are you ready for what God may have in store for you?  Lord, thank you for your protection and faithfulness, even in the midst of storms. Lead us in the direction of people you are preparing to hear about you. Help us to become more like you. Amen.

Sometimes God gives His People or an individual a decision to make and delaying that decision is simply wrong. In Joshua 24, the Israelites are given a choice between wholeheartedly following God or to go back and worship idols that are powerless and are of no long-term value. We have similar choices today. Will you serve God with all your being or not?The script for the whole Service can be read here.

(This podcast was previously published on April 1, 2021)   Jesus Ministries, Joan Boney  ...   God gives us HIS Spirit so we can know what HE wants us to do in the issues of this life.   We pray.  But then how do we know what God wants us to do?   The Holy Spirit will bring ideas to our minds.  Often the Holy Spirit will remind us of a scripture and by that scripture we can understand what to do.  Sometimes God will communicate with us by a dream.  And sometimes God will cause HIS Minister to speak a word to us and we understand by that Word.   * The Holy Spirit teaches us all things. (secular & spiritual)  John 14:26   * The Holy Spirit reminds us of everything Jesus has said to us.  John 14:26   * The Holy Spirit guides us into all truth.  John 16:13   * The Holy Spirit shows us things to come.  John 16:13   The Holy Spirit searches the heart of God and reveals to us the will of God by bringing thoughts to our mind.   I Corinthians 2:9-10 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love HIM.   10 But God hath revealed them unto us by HIS Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.   God communicates with each of HIS children today by HIS Spirit who brings ideas and thoughts and concepts of God to our mind to show us what to do.   Romans 8:14   For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.   We can tell which ideas are from God by the following characteristics:   James 3:17   But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.    

Sometimes God orchestrates circumstances to uncover buried guilt or hidden sins and provide a second chance to repent. Explore the Bible's definition of genuine repentance, and learn why it's vital for salvation. Listen to Truth For Life with Alistair Begg. ----------------------------------------- • Click here and look for "FROM THE SERMON" to stream or read the full message. • This program is part of the series ‘The Hand of God, Volume 2' •Is death your greatest fear? Scripture teaches that it's not the end but a new beginning. Learn more and find comfort when you subscribe to a free 5-day email series on facing death with peace and hope by Alistair Begg. Request NOW • Learn more about our current resource, request your copy with a donation of any amount. Helpful Resources - Learn about God's salvation plan - Read our most recent articles - Subscribe to our daily devotional Follow Us YouTube | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter This listener-funded program features the clear, relevant Bible teaching of Alistair Begg. Today's program and nearly 3,000 messages can be streamed and shared for free at tfl.org thanks to the generous giving from monthly donors called Truthpartners. Learn more about this Gospel-sharing team or become one today. Thanks for listening to Truth For Life!

Sometimes God orchestrates circumstances to uncover buried guilt or hidden sins and provide a second chance to repent. Explore the Bible's definition of genuine repentance, and learn why it's vital for salvation. Listen to Truth For Life with Alistair Begg. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/163/29?v=20251111

Sometimes God orchestrates circumstances to uncover buried guilt or hidden sins and provide a second chance to repent. Explore the Bible's definition of genuine repentance, and learn why it's vital for salvation. Listen to Truth For Life with Alistair Begg. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/163/29?v=20251111

Life often throws unexpected challenges that feel overwhelming, but the story of Jonah reveals how God works through our darkest moments. When Jonah found himself in the belly of a great fish, he had reached rock bottom, yet this wasn't his end but the beginning of his transformation. God's storms aren't punishment but rescue missions in disguise, redirecting us toward His purpose. Sometimes God's provision doesn't look like what we expected, but it's always motivated by love. The key is learning to worship while we're buried, praising God despite our circumstances. When God delivers us from our storms, it's not for retirement but for mission—to help bring others with us.

Life doesn't always change through big, dramatic moments. Sometimes God meets us in the middle of a normal workday. In Ruth 2, we see how God works through ordinary obedience, quiet faithfulness, and unseen provision. If you're doing the next right thing and wondering where God is, He may already be at work.

What do you do when God's answer to your prayers is "no"?   In today's podcast, Ginny Reed, who shared at a live gathering in Memphis, Tennessee, invites us into her journey of walking through seasons of unanswered prayers. With honesty and vulnerability, Ginny reflects on the anger and bitterness she carried for years, the work of repentance and surrender God gently led her through, and the freedom that came from trusting His heart more than her hopes.   Her story is a powerful reminder that God's plans are always better, His wisdom is infinite, and even His "no" is an invitation to deeper faith and trust.   VERSE OF THE WEEK: "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 weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." 2 Cor 12:9   CHALLENGE OF THE WEEK: Is there any area of your life where you are harboring anger or bitterness towards God because he has said no to you? Can you sit in repentance, ask for forgiveness and trust His plan? ___________________________________________________________   "Even If" by Mercy Me   "Hard Fought Hallelujah" by Brandon Lake   Listen to a similar story:  Ep. 126- Alana Dawson: "Now Do I Have Your Attention?" Download a phone background of the weekly verse HERE!   Give to StoryTellers Live in honor of Ginny and any of our past storytellers!   Become a Patreon Insider to access more stories straight from our live gatherings around the country!   Click here for further details on our Stories of Hope luncheon on March 11th in Birmingham!   Shop for our When God Shows Up Bible Study series~ Stories of Hope, Stories of Freedom, Stories of Faith Are you interested in one-on-one coaching with our very own Robyn Kown!?  Click HERE!   Check out all of our live speaking engagement opportunities on our website.   Sign up to receive StoryTellers Live's weekly newsletter for updates and details on our live gatherings.

In this episode of the I Am That Woman podcast, Felicia discusses the theme of restored joy, emphasizing the importance of emotional and spiritual renewal. She reflects on the challenges women face that can drain their joy and shares insights from Psalms 51 about seeking restoration from God. Through personal anecdotes and scriptural references, Felicia encourages listeners to pray for their joy and peace, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles. The episode concludes with a powerful message of hope and empowerment for women to reclaim their joy and live fully again.TakeawaysLife can drain your joy, but restoration is possible.You can believe in God and still feel empty.Joy is not based on circumstances but on salvation.Restoration means you once had joy before.You have to ask God for joy; it's not automatic.Real joy is rooted in being loved and chosen.Sometimes God restores you first before changing your situation.You don't have to stay in survival mode; you can thrive.God wants you healed, whole, and filled again.Your joy is waiting to be restored.

A Brutally Honest Take on the UncontrollablesWe live in a culture obsessed with control. Hustle harder. Plan smarter. Pray longer. If you do all the right things, life should cooperate. That's the promise of hustle culture—and it's incredibly seductive.But Ecclesiastes offers a brutally honest response.As we close our Ecclesiastes series, Qoheleth—the Teacher—pulls back the curtain on the illusion of control. Life “under the sun” is not a machine we operate; it's a mystery we inhabit. And the more we try to control it, the more frustrated and disillusioned we become.Earlier in the book, Qoheleth introduced us to two key ideas that shape everything else. First, his name—Qoheleth—means “Teacher,” the one who gathers people to tell the truth. Second, the word hevel—often translated “meaningless”—literally means vapor. Life is fleeting, unstable, and impossible to grasp.Pleasure is hevel.Wealth is hevel.They're not sins. They're not gods. They're gifts—but terrible masters.In this final message, Ecclesiastes confronts three unavoidable realities of life: the uncontrollables.1. You Can't Control the CreatorWe live under the illusion that we are in charge—especially in American culture. Ecclesiastes says otherwise.Ecclesiastes 7:13–14 (NLT) says, “Accept the way God does things, for who can straighten what he has made crooked?”The hardest truth for control-oriented people is this: God is God, and we are not.Scripture teaches that God is sovereign—not just aware of events, but actively holding the universe together and directing history toward His purposes. Sometimes God acts directly. Sometimes He allows human choices. But even when He permits something, He never loses control.God is the primary cause—the one with the plan and the power.Humans are secondary causes—we make real choices with real responsibility.The bottom line is humbling: you are not the scriptwriter of your life.2. You Can't Control the ConsequencesWe assume life is a meritocracy—that the fastest, smartest, and hardest-working people always win. Ecclesiastes dismantles that assumption.Ecclesiastes 9:11 (NLT) says, “The fastest runner doesn't always win the race… It is all decided by chance, by being in the right place at the right time.”Timing matters. Circumstances matter. Opportunity matters.This doesn't mean effort is pointless. In fact, Ecclesiastes affirms wisdom and preparation.Ecclesiastes 10:10 (NLT) says, “Using a dull ax requires great strength, so sharpen the blade.”Sharpen the blade. Work hard. Be wise.But even then, outcomes are never guaranteed.Ecclesiastes doesn't call us to quit trying—it calls us to stop pretending we're in control.3. You Can't Control the ClockSome people are better at predicting the future than others. Many of them are rich. But it's still a guess.Ecclesiastes is clear: the future is unknowable, and death is unavoidable.Ecclesiastes 8:7–8 (NLT) says, “No one really knows what is going to happen… None of us can hold back our spirit from departing.”No amount of money, innovation, or optimism can stop time—or death. The human mortality rate remains a steady 100%.That reality sounds dark until we realize what Ecclesiastes is doing: stripping away false hope so we can find real hope.The Only Thing You Can ControlIf we can't control the Creator, the consequences, or the clock—what can we control?Ecclesiastes ends with clarity.Ecclesiastes 12:13–14 (NLT) says, “Fear God and obey his commands, for this is everyone's duty.”You can control your response to God.Not your parents' faith.Not your spouse's obedience.Not your pastor's integrity.Yours.To fear God means more than being afraid. It means awe,

Matthew 19:16-22He was closer than most; face to face with Jesus and wanted to learn more about eternal life. The rich young ruler was one decision away from following Christ. So close, yet so far. His story reminds us of a sobering truth: proximity doesn't always lead to transformation. Admiring Jesus isn't the same as following Him. He almost became a disciple and almost experienced eternal life.Here are five steps Jesus invited him to take but he chose not to.1. Accept that God is GOOD (vs 17)2. Sometimes God asks you to do IMPOSSIBLE things (vs 17)3. Stop focusing on what you've DONE (vs 20)4. Start focusing on who you want to BECOME (vs 21)5. Choose JOY, you have eternal life (vs 22)Watch this video to dive a little deeper!Let's keep growing togetherJoin us LIVE every Tuesday at 6:30pm on YouTubeText "UG" to 320320 to connectVisit UnstoppableGrowth.orghttps://linktr.ee/unstoppablegrowth.org

JAN. 12, 2026"Keep calm and carry on"."The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still." Ex 14:14 NIVDuring World War II, the British Department of Information designed three "home publicity" posters. The first said, "Your courage, your cheerfulness, your resolution will bring us victory." The second said, "Freedom is in peril." The third and most famous said, "Keep calm and carry on." The department printed 2.45 million of the third posters, but they were never publicly displayed.  That motto had all but vanished from Britain's consciousness when a bookstore-owning couple in Alnwick—Stuart and Mary Manley-discovered an original copy of the poster at the bottom of a box of old books. With Pharaoh's chariots bearing down on Moses from behind, and the Red Sea in front of him, he was "between a rock and a hard place." That's when God gave Moses these instructions: "The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still" (Ex 14:13-14 NIV). That sounds an awful lot like keep calm and carry on, doesn't it? What would be the hardest thing to do if Egyptian chariots were charging straight at you at full speed? To be still! When we find ourselves in this sort of situation, we want to do something-anything. We have a nervous energy that tries to solve problems as quickly as possible. But these are the tests that reveal trust. Sometimes God leads us to a place where we have nowhere to turn but to Him. Is that where you are today? Then trust God's power, love, and faithfulness, and He will bring you safely through it."Keep calm and carry on" Trust God's power, love, and faithfulness.Share This DevotionalSend us a textSupport the showChanging Lives | Building Strong Family | Impacting Our Community For Jesus Christ!

What do we reach for when life feels uncomfortable, confusing, or heavy? In this episode, we explore how distraction, numbing, and limiting beliefs can quietly keep us stuck—spiritually, emotionally, and physically. This conversation is for Christian women who want clarity instead of confusion, peace instead of just pushing through, and a faith-centered way to think about healing and forward movement. Together, we reflect on Scripture, freedom in Christ, and what it means to stop numbing and start paying attention to what God may be inviting us to face. Distraction, Numbing, and the Cost of Avoidance We live in a culture filled with noise and “respectable” distractions. While many of these things aren't inherently wrong, they can become ways we avoid discomfort, grief, or truth. Over time, numbing keeps us from facing what needs healing and from experiencing the joy that comes from walking in our calling. Freedom Has Value in Itself Galatians 5:1 reminds us that Christ set us free for freedom itself. This verse points to God's heart—freedom is not just a means to an end; it matters on its own. When we live distracted or numb, we often settle for less than what Christ already made available to us. Limiting Beliefs That Keep Us Stuck Many women carry quiet beliefs that shape their health and spiritual choices: “I've always been sick.” “I'll never change.” “The Bible is too hard to understand.” These beliefs can slowly steal motivation and hope. It Is Not Too Late to Begin Again No matter your age, history, or past decisions, it is never too late to make a different choice. While salvation is a free gift received through faith, our daily decisions still matter. The steps we take today can influence our peace, our health, and the way we live out our calling. When God Doesn't Give a Clear Answer There are seasons when we ask God for direction and don't receive a clear, immediate response. In those moments, discernment may look less like waiting and more like taking one faithful step. Sometimes God invites us to move forward and trust that He will guide us along the way. Time-Stamped Highlights 00:00 – A reflective question about numbing and healing 00:09 – Galatians 5:1 and God's heart for freedom 00:39 – The grief of wasted potential and missed joy 01:37 – How delighting in God reshapes our desires 02:07 – Respectable distractions and subtle numbing 02:32 – “Permissible vs. beneficial” and the role of boundaries 03:30 – Limiting beliefs that quietly keep us stuck 04:25 – Why it's never too late to begin again 05:25 – Salvation by grace and why our daily choices still matter 06:50 – Freedom as something God deeply values 07:15 – Cultural lies about inevitability and helplessness 08:14 – Obedience, faith, and taking the next small step 09:12 – Turning to God instead of numbing or avoiding 09:42 – Invitation to Health Clarity Sessions and quiet gathering Key Takeaways • Freedom is something Christ intentionally offers and values • Distraction and numbing can quietly keep us from healing and growth • Limiting beliefs shape what we believe is possible for our health and faith • It is never too late to change direction or take a new step • Clarity often comes after movement, not before it • God meets us in honesty, not avoidance If this episode stirred something in you and you feel overwhelmed, unsure, or disconnected from your body and direction, you don't have to navigate it alone. I offer one-on-one Health Clarity Sessions for women who want a calm, faith-centered space to listen, discern, and identify wise next steps—without pressure or fixing. You can learn more at: herholistichealing.com/clarity And if what you need right now is simply space—to sit with God, Scripture, and other women—I'm also hosting a gathering focused on presence and reflection. There is no pressure to share, no coaching, and no expectations—just space. Details are available at: herholistichealing.com/gathering   Start with the $47 Workshop   Learn more: herholistichealing.com   This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.

Our chapter describes the nature of various bodily fluids, some natural, others involuntary, and speaks of the Tum'ah that they create and the rites of purification.Today we speak about various perspectives about the nature and effects of "Tum'ah" and whether sometimes God prefers Israel even in an impure state of being.

Sometimes God leads us straight into a hardship so He can show us His power and that He is for us. This was the story of God's people in Joshua 3 and 4. And then after God remarkably delivered His people, He asked them to remember it by making a pile of stones.November 30, 2025Helpful resources that shaped and informed this sermon: Joshua by Dale Ralph Davis

Sometimes God's work in our lives feels slow and hidden, other times it feels urgent, unmistakable, and impossible to ignore. In today's message, Pastor Ricky explores how God lovingly disrupts our comfort in order to draw us back to Himself. He helps us see the deeper mercy behind His pursuit and the hope that comes when we finally stop running. It's an invitation to recognize God's hand, even in the moments that feel overwhelming.

Sometimes God feels distant, and our circumstances seem hopeless. Yet His presenceis never absent, and His purposes are quietly unfolding behind the scenes. Even in thedarkest seasons, hope exists because God is working to bring restoration and life inways we cannot yet see.

Elijah reminds us that powerful prayer flows from obedience, dependence, and perseverance, not from strength or certainty. His life shows that prayer is not a moment but a posture, marked by trust that keeps asking, seeking, and knocking. Sometimes God answers with visible breakthrough; other times He gives sustaining grace. In every case, prayer and fasting create space for God to shape us into a people who listen, endure, and participate with Him as peacemakers in our time.

There are moments when we want to obey God with all our heart—but we feel completely stuck. We pray, we wait, we ask again, and still, it seems like heaven is silent. This devotional puts words to that frustrating experience: pacing, pleading, searching for clarity, and feeling anxious because we don’t want to make the wrong decision. When we don’t know what to do, the pressure can become overwhelming, especially when we set timelines and demand certainty. But in the midst of that tension, today’s devotional offers a perspective shift that can bring peace: what if God cares more about the posture of our hearts than the perfection of our choices? What if the question isn’t only What should I do? but also How am I walking while I wait? That’s where Scripture gives us a simple, steady anchor: “Do everything in love.” Love becomes a compass when direction feels unclear. Instead of spiraling into distress, we can learn to “wait well”—not by forcing answers, but by choosing patience and surrender. Waiting well looks like staying rooted in God’s Word, loving Him even when we don’t understand, loving ourselves with kindness instead of criticism, and loving others as we discern next steps. When decisions must be made, we can ask: Will this move me toward greater love for God, myself, and others—or will it reduce love? When love leads, we can trust God to fill in the gaps, guide us on His timeline, and direct our path with purpose. Main Takeaways God’s silence can feel frustrating, but it doesn’t mean He is absent. Sometimes God is more focused on your heart posture than the “perfect” decision. Love is a reliable compass when clarity feels out of reach. Waiting well means resisting distress and choosing endurance through love. When making decisions, ask what will produce more love toward God, yourself, and others. Today’s Bible Verse: 1 Corinthians 16:14 Your Daily Prayer Here is a brief excerpt from today’s prayer: “Father, I need help with the direction I should take… Will you lead me on Your paths of love?” You can read the full prayer and devotional at the links below. Want More? Relevant Links & Resources Looking for more daily encouragement and faith-filled content? LifeAudio – Discover daily devotionals, Christian podcasts, and biblical encouragement at LifeAudio.com Crosswalk – Explore faith, prayer, and Christian living resources at Crosswalk.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

River of Life is an inter-denominational, interracial, Spirit-filled church located in the heart of Wakulla County, Florida. We share the sermons from our services in the hopes they'll reach others determined to worship God in spirit and truth.

River of Life is an inter-denominational, interracial, Spirit-filled church located in the heart of Wakulla County, Florida. We share the sermons from our services in the hopes they'll reach others determined to worship God in spirit and truth.

Sometimes, we spend so much of our energy believing that God will give us a breakthrough in our time of need, that we miss the fact that he's already provided us with everything we need to get through those tough times.   So Easy to Miss Sometimes we can be looking forward to something ... something that God will do; some defining moment in life, without realising what He has already done for us in the past. Let me give you an example: you are going through a tough time, perhaps some difficulty at work or in bringing up our children or in our marriages – we all go through those times. In fact it seems that there is never a time in life when there isn't some pressure or difficulty in some part of our lives. And so we start praying feverishly for God to deliver us from those tough times. We start believing Him for a miracle and a breakthrough. Now that's good; it's a good thing to do but so many people do that at the expense of realising that the changes God has already made in us – deep within our hearts. Those changes are meant to help us to travel through those difficult times. Those changes are meant to make us a blessing to others in those dark times. Those changes are meant to make His light; His glory to shine through us out into a lost and hurting world. There is a saying "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush." It's absolutely right that we should pray about difficult situations but not at the expense of knowing and trusting in what God has already done; in what we already have in our hands. This is the third programme in a series that I have called "Defining Moments". It is so often the case that minor and even major miracles come through the smallest and seemingly, most insignificant event in our lives. It's a great thing about God – He gets involved in the smallest things in our lives. But sometimes ... sometimes He's not so much about wanting to do something fresh and new to deliver us out of a situation; sometimes He is calling us to rely on something that He has already done to get us through that situation. Today we are going to look at a man who is pretty well known – King David of Israel. He is on the Biblical "A" list if you like and he is probably the greatest King that Israel ever had. Now, David had quite a few defining moments in his life; he had trials, he had victories, he had failures, he had repentance – turning back to God after making a mistake. He was anointed as the King of Israel by God's prophet, Samuel when he was just a lad. He slew Goliath; he fled from Saul in the wilderness, running for his life, on and on. He won so many battles; he was so successful! David had so many defining moments that we could look at in his life but it was something ... something that God did way back before all of those things, that I think was the defining moment in David's life – the thing that carried him through all those trials; the very reason that God was able to use David so mightily in the history of Israel. Here's how it happened. Israel didn't have a King – their system of government was a theocracy – that meant that God was their King. He would send leaders like Moses and Joshua to lead them and then finally, when they made it out of Egypt through the exodus for forty years, into the Promised Land, He had a series of Judges to judge over Israel – that's all they needed – to judge whether the people had met God's law or not. So these Judges presided over Israel. When they needed specific revelation or guidance or instruction from God, God used men called prophets, to speak His specific will into the life of Israel. But eventually, people decided they wanted a King like all the other nations, so God gave them Saul. Saul was the first King of Israel and he was okay for a while, but pretty soon he turned out to be an abject failure. So God removed His anointing from Saul; that divine appointment and empowerment and God said, "No more, that's enough. Saul is no longer My anointed King, even though Saul continued on in the position of King." That's how it went – if you have got a Bible, grab it, open it at First Samuel chapter 13, verse 13: Samuel the prophet said to Saul, "You have done foolishly; you have not kept the commandment of the Lord your God, which He commanded you. The Lord would have established your kingdom over Israel forever, but now your kingdom will not continue. The Lord has sought out a man after His own heart and the Lord has appointed him to be ruler over His people because you have not kept what the Lord commanded you. And therein lies, I think, the defining moment for David, even before David's name is mentioned – the moment when God took the ordinary and turned him into the extraordinary. Later on we discover that this new King is to be David; the shepherd boy, that not even his father thought enough of to bring him before Samuel, the prophet, with his other brothers, to be anointed as King. This was just an ordinary, everyday little shepherd boy. He was created in his mother's womb to be a man after God's own heart; equipped in his very DNA to be a man that God had planned for him to be. And in those lonely times, pasturing his sheep out there on his own, fighting bears and lions and protecting the flock; those seemingly ordinary shepherd things, all along God was growing and developing that heart in David; the shepherd who would be King. Most of us will know the terrible times that David went through – times when Saul was hunting him down to kill him and yet David refused even to raise his hand against Saul. We are going to share in one particular time to see how this heart worked out in his life. Saul is in a cave; Saul is out there hunting David to kill him – why? Because he realises that people are starting to follow David and he is desperately wanting to cling onto power, so he decides to kill David. So David, in this cave, has an opportunity to kill Saul but instead of killing him in the dark, he sneaks up and cuts part of Saul's robe off in the dark. And then calls out to Saul and says, See, this proves that I had the opportunity to kill you and I didn't harm you. I am never going to harm you. I will not raise my hand against God's anointed. Let's pick it up in First Samuel chapter 24, beginning at verse 12 – and so David says to Saul, look: May the Lord judge between you and me. May the Lord avenge me on you; but my hand shall not be against you. As the ancient proverb says, 'Out of the wicked comes forth wickedness,' but my hand shall not be against you," says David to King Saul. "Against whom shall the King of Israel come out? Whom do you pursue? A dead dog? A single flea? May the Lord therefore be judge and give sentence between you and me. May He see to it and plead my cause and vindicate me against you." When David had finished speaking these words to Saul, Saul said, "Is this your voice, my son, David?" Saul lifted up his voice and wept. He said to David, "You are more righteous than I for you have repaid me with good whereas I have repaid you evil. Today you have explained how you have dealt well with me and that you did not kill me when the Lord put me into your hands. For who has ever found an enemy and sent the enemy safely away? So may the Lord reward you with good for what you have done to me. Now I know that you shall surely be King and that the Kingdom of Israel shall be established in your hand. So swear to me therefore, by the Lord, that you will not cut off my descendants after me and that you will not wipe out my name from my father's house." So David swore this to Saul and then Saul went home but David and his men went up to a stronghold. We are going to have a look how that promise worked its way out in David's life next.   A Promise Fulfilled Pretty amazing stuff for how David reacted to Saul and what an amazing promise that David makes to Saul, to bless his descendants when he becomes King and even more amazing, when Saul and his sons die, David mourns their death. I mean Saul hunted him down and tried to kill him. I don't know, my hunch is, I would have been celebrating Saul's death – "Finally now I'm safe, finally now I'm King" – but not David. You can read it in Second Samuel chapter 1, verse 12: He mourned and wept and fasted for Saul and his son Jonathan when they died. Right now we are going to look at how ordinary people become extraordinary. How the heart that God put into David shines forth the love and the glory of God in the most beautiful way as he fulfils his promise to Saul. And he does it in the life of a young man called Mephibosheth, Jonathan's son. So Saul had a son called Jonathan, Jonathan before he died, had a son called Mephibosheth. Now most people have never heard of Mephibosheth - he is definitely not on the Biblical 'A' list. This is one of those stories we don't hear that much. It's not about some great victory of King David; it's not about some spectacular battle or anything like that. Let's have a look at it – we pick it up in Second Samuel chapter 9, beginning at verse 1: David asked, "Is there anyone left of the house of Saul to whom I may show kindness for Jonathan's sake?" Now there was a servant of the house of Saul whose name was Ziba and he was summoned to David and the King said to him, "Are you Ziba?" and he answered, "Yes, at your service!" So the King said, "Is there anyone remaining in the house of Saul to whom I may show the kindness of God?" And Ziba said to the King, "There remains a son of Jonathan. He is crippled in his feet." The King said to him, "Where is he?" And Ziba said to the King, "He is in the house of Machir son of Ammiel, at Lo-debar." Then King David sent and brought him from the house of Machir son of Ammiel, at Lo-debar. Mephibosheth, son of Jonathan, son of Saul came to David and fell on his face and did obeisance. David said, "Mephibosheth!" He answered, "I am your servant." David said to him, "Do not be afraid, for I will show you kindness for the sake of your father Jonathan; I will restore to you all the land of your grandfather Saul and you yourself shall eat at my table always." He did obeisance and said, "What is your servant that you should look upon a dead dog like me?" Then the King summoned Saul's servant Ziba, and said to him, "All that belonged to Saul and to all his house, I have given to your master's grandson. You and your sons and your servants shall till the land for him and shall bring in the produce, so that your master's grandson may have food to eat; but your master's grandson Mephibosheth shall always eat at my table." Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants. Then Ziba said to the King, "According to all that my lord the King commands his servant, your servant shall do." So Mephibosheth ate at David's table, like one of the King's sons. Mephibosheth had a young son whose name was Mica. And all who lived in Ziba's house became Mephibosheth's servants. Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem, for he always ate at the King's table. Now he was lame in both his feet. See, so often there was a bloody transition of power from one King to another. You know, the new King would kill, not only the old King but all the descendants of the old King to make sure that there would be no challenge to the throne from the old King's bloodline. Mephibosheth was Saul's grandson – he was crippled in his feet, living in obscurity in Lo-debar, hoping not to be noticed. And I use that term "crippled" which is politically incorrect these days – I use that word deliberately because there was no political correctness in those days. If you were disabled, you were at the bottom of the heap – almost an outcast. And yet here for the sake of David's covenant with Saul and his friendship with Jonathan, David elevates Mephibosheth to the King's table and restores all the possessions of King Saul, his grandfather, to Mephibosheth, this young man. What an absolutely extraordinary act of grace! For Mephibosheth it was like ... like winning the lottery – it was unbelievable. In fact, it's the accumulation of a pattern in the life of David. Saul twice tries to kill David and twice David has the opportunity to strike Saul down; to take the throne; to guarantee his safety. After all, hadn't David already been anointed by the prophet Samuel as King? "Come on, David, just do it, get on with it. End this pain and misery and risk – believe in a breakthrough from God. Take things into your own hands." That's what David's followers were urging him to do but David's response in First Samuel chapter 24, verse 6, is this: He said to his men, "The Lord forbid that I should do this thing to my lord, the Lord's anointed, to raise my hand against him; for he is the Lord's anointed." Twice, at his own risk, refuses to kill Saul and then when David learns of Saul's death, he goes into mourning and now ... now to cap all this off, he pours his favour and his grace and his mercy and his possessions on the descendant; the grandson of the man who hunted him like an animal. Do you see how David refused to take things into his own hands, to end his suffering, to ensure his own safety? And as utterly extraordinary as his behaviour was, it was like it was the most naturally, ordinary, obvious thing for him to do. Do you see that? Why? Because David ... David was a man after God's own heart. David didn't spend his time looking for a breakthrough; he lived through the trials with the heart of God in him. That's why he blessed Mephibosheth – that's why he was the perfect shepherd King for Israel – a man after God's own heart.   Where it All Began So what are we to learn from this story? Is today's message as simple as "Well, be like David?" Um, no, I don't think so – I don't know about you but I'm no David. I think there is a much deeper; much more wonderful story for you and for me to discover here. It's not just about ourselves; not just about David – it's about God. So what was this defining moment in David's story; when did it happen? Well, it's before David was anointed King, it's before David had his battles and his trials and his victories and ... and all that stuff. When was David's defining moment; when did he receive a heart that was the same as God's? Right back at the beginning – actually David knew that. He wrote a Psalm; he wrote Psalm 139. Let's just listen to what he wrote here – Psalm 139 beginning at verse 13. This is David writing this. He is saying to God: For it was You who formed my inward parts; it was You who knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise You for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are Your works O God, that I know very well. My frame, it wasn't hidden from You when I was being made in secret, intricately woven together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes beheld my unformed substance. In Your book were written all the days that were formed for me when none of them as yet existed. How weighty to me are Your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them. I try and count them but they are more than the sand; I come to the end – and I am still with You. That's a Psalm of David! David realised what was going on here. He looks back and he realises that God handcrafted him in his mother's womb. That heart of God that was in him was part of his very DNA blueprint. But not only that – all those days as a shepherd - protecting his flock – were part of God's plan. Listen how David talks about those days, when as a young man, he convinces Saul to let him go up against Goliath in that famous battle. First Samuel chapter 17, beginning at verse 33: Saul said to David, "You are not able to go up against this Philistine to fight with him; for you are just a boy and he has been a warrior from his youth." But David said to Saul, "Your servant used to keep sheep for his father and whenever a lion or a bear came and took a lamb from the flock, I went straight after it and struck it down, rescuing the lamb from its mouth. And if it turned against me I would catch it by the jaw and strike it down and kill it. Your servant has killed both lions and bears and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be like one of them to me, since he has defied the armies of the living God." See, David seemed to know that not only was the heart of God handcrafted in him but those very mundane days of being a shepherd boy and protecting a flock of sheep and going after the lost lamb – those seemingly mundane, everyday things in his life thus far, had prepared him for this battle against the giant Goliath. David knew that the way that God had made him, had prepared him to be the shepherd of Israel. Do you see what God is saying to you and me today? Do you have any idea what God has done in handcrafting your DNA and mine, in putting His heart into you and to me? Do you have any idea how carefully He has prepared us through every moment of every day for a time just as this? Through all the boring and mundane and everyday things that we have travelled through – who we are and what we have been through are such a perfect fit, because they are part of God's plan to prepare us to be who He has called us to be – to do what He has called us to do. "But Berni", I hear you say, "You don't understand how mundane my life has been. You have no idea what a hash I have made of things. Maybe David is a man after God's own heart, but me? No!" You and I were never meant to be David; you were always meant to be you – I was always meant to be me. Wake up! Stop comparing! When we look at our lives they are so mundane! You know, ninety nine point nine percent of life is mundane but the miracle in it is that every moment is part of God's plan. Every hair on our heads is known to God! What defines us is not the mundane – what defines us is God's plan – for every strand of our DNA and for every moment of every day that we live and breathe on this earth. When we are going through tough times, should we pray – should we ask God for a breakthrough? Absolutely, we should! But so often God's plan is for us to live through those things, with what He has already put in us. The defining moment happened a long time ago. Jesus spent forty days and nights in the wilderness, being tempted by the devil and starving. He didn't spend five days, not ten, not twenty, not thirty or thirty five or thirty nine – God's plan was for Him to spend forty days. And we don't know how long our wilderness tour is going to last but this thing we do know, God ... God has prepared us for times such as this. God is preparing us right now for the future He has planned. There is such wonder in who He has made us to be. He has given us everything we need through Christ, to live out today with His joy in our hearts, for His glory. Who knows, maybe today or tomorrow or the next day, maybe He will bring a Mephibosheth into our lives for us to lavish His grace and His kindness and His mercy and His love upon that person. Who knows what God has got planned? Who knows how long the trials are going to last? Sometimes God just wants us to rest on what He has already done and just live day by day by day through the things that He is calling us to travel through.

“Afterward he appeared in a different form to two of his followers who were walking from Jerusalem into the country. They rushed back to tell the others, but no one believed them.” (Mark 16:12–13 NLT) One of the great mysteries of the Bible is why Jesus chose to appear to certain people and not others after His resurrection. There is no record of His appearing to the Jewish religious leaders who opposed Him during His earthly ministry. Or to the high priest Caiaphas, who orchestrated His crucifixion. Or to the Roman Emperor Caesar. Imagine the drama if He had appeared to Pilate: “Yo, Pilate! Remember me? Can’t keep a good man down, can you?” Instead, we find post-resurrection accounts like the one in Mark 16. Jesus appeared to two disciples on the road to Emmaus and joined them on their journey to the country. We don’t know who the disciples were, and they are not mentioned again in the Bible. Verse 12 tells us that Jesus “appeared in a different form” (NLT) to the pair. In other words, He went incognito. The two travelers had no idea that they were walking with Jesus. Later, when they told others about their encounter, “no one believed them” (verse 13 NLT). Maybe it’s because their story lacked drama and spectacle. The idea of the Lord walking incognito lacks punch. But it’s revealing as to how the Lord works. It’s a reminder to believers that Jesus walks with us always, even when we’re not aware of Him. In Isaiah 43:2, the Lord promises, “When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you” (NLT). Sometimes God’s people don’t realize He’s there until the rivers, flames, and other obstacles are in our rearview mirror. In 1 Kings 19:11–13, the prophet Elijah experienced God’s presence not in a windstorm, not in an earthquake, not in a fire, but in “the sound of a gentle whisper” (verse 12 NLT). Just as people must pay close attention to hear a gentle whisper, they must also pay close attention to experience God’s presence. Feeling close to the Lord isn’t something that happens only in church. Wherever you go, you can know that Jesus is with you there, too. When you’re going through hard times, even when you cannot feel Him, Jesus is there. That’s great news for believers—news that should be celebrated. One of the best ways to respond to the Lord’s quiet presence in your life is with a spirit of gratitude. Thank God that you never have to wonder where He is when things get tough. Another great way to respond is with silence of your own. Commit to a regular quiet time—a time when you intentionally block out the noise and distractions of the day so that you can be aware of God’s presence. Reflection question: How does God make Himself known to you? Discuss Today's Devo in Harvest Discipleship! — The audio production of the podcast "Greg Laurie: Daily Devotions" utilizes Generative AI technology. This allows us to deliver consistent, high-quality content while preserving Harvest's mission to "know God and make Him known." All devotional content is written and owned by Pastor Greg Laurie. Listen to the Greg Laurie Podcast Become a Harvest PartnerSupport the show: https://harvest.org/supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, KyLee and Darcy share a few holiday highlights, then KyLee sits down with author Julie Klassen to talk about research, faith, and her latest Regency release. Key takeaways Holiday traditions can be simple, and still feel special. Teachers and read-aloud stories can shape a reader and a writer for life. Julie Klassen weaves themes of grace, forgiveness, and second chances into her fiction. Real places and local legends can add weight and texture to historical novels. Whispers at Painswick Court blends romance with gothic atmosphere and a murder plot. Holiday baking, hot chocolate, and an Instagram invite A Bookworm Review of The Lost Girl of Astor Street, Stephanie Morrill KyLee: Today I will be talking with Julie Klassen. Darcy will not be with us because she’s gone to spend some time with her family. We’re recording this beforehand, and Darcy, we are about 10 days until Christmas. I know you are full of Christmas cheer and doing tons of Christmas things. No, that is not true. Darcy and I were talking about how it feels like the season has not quite started because we have been so busy. However, there are a couple special things we would like to share with you. Darcy: The most Christmas-y thing I am doing this year is making hot chocolate over and over at the ice cream shop. I’m not complaining — I love hot chocolate. I love making it, frothing the milk and everything. I am really looking forward to visiting my sister for Christmas. She lives five hours away. We see each other regularly through the year, but I’m going to spend a whole week at her place with my younger sister. The three of us will be hanging out. She has to work, so we’ll probably be doing some reading during the day. I have a couple of Christmas novellas picked out, one by Rosanna White. I’m looking forward to relaxing and doing Christmas-y things after I get the chaos behind me. KyLee: Do you ever throw something in with your hot chocolate, or make it different? Darcy: I’m very classic. I like to stir it with a candy cane and let that slowly melt in. So it’s like a peppermint hot chocolate. KyLee: I only ask because I started baking while procrastinating on preparing for this episode. I had this idea to take peanut butter cookies, make them a little bigger, and put a Reese's cup in the middle. Like you put a chocolate kiss in the middle. We got Reese's cups and they were PB&J, which I’m not the biggest fan of. I thought, let's see if I can make this work. I get halfway through the recipe. I have my sugar out, shortening measured, flour measured, and I have no peanut butter. I do not know how this happened in my house. My oldest has a pretty severe allergy to milk that affects her esophagus. Finding things like proteins is something we’re constantly trying to do. I pulled out some plant-based chocolate protein powder and mixed that in with the cookies, then cooked them up. They are so good. They are a little heavy on the sugar. Along with having my daughter with this severe allergy, my husband has diabetes. So I rarely bake. I was procrastinating and it is Christmas time, so I broke that out. He tried them against my recommendation. He hates coconut, and since it is plant-based, it has coconut, so he does not want them. So it worked out. Darcy: I love that you are improvising with your holiday baking. This may be a new tradition. You might end up making these chocolate-protein-powder cookies every Christmas now. KyLee: They might be the start of a beautiful Christmas dessert. For our listeners, we are going to do something fun. Pop over to Instagram, on the Historical Bookworm Podcast page. On Instagram, it is Historical Bookworm Podcast, not Historical Bookworm Show. You will find a picture of my cookies, and Darcy, a picture of some hot chocolate. Darcy: Yes, absolutely. KyLee: We would love to see pictures of your sweet treats that you are making this holiday season. Now we are going to get on to the show with Julie Klassen. Meet Julie Klassen Julie Klassen loves all things Jane—Jane Eyre and Jane Austen. She worked in publishing for sixteen years and now writes full time. Three of her novels have won the Christy Award for Historical Romance. She has also won the Minnesota Book Award, the Midwest Book Award, and Christian Retailing's BEST Award. Julie is a graduate of the University of Illinois. She and her husband have two sons and live in St. Paul, Minnesota.  KyLee: Julie, welcome to the Historical Bookworm Show. Julie: Thank you, KyLee. I’m happy to be here. The most Jane Austen thing, besides tea KyLee: Tea drinking goes without saying for an Anglophile. What is the most Jane Austen thing, other than drinking tea, that you might incorporate into your daily life? Julie: True confessions, I do not drink as much tea as I’m probably alleged to do. I am a coffee drinker. Normally it is coffee in the morning, and then I might switch to tea. I just went to the Jane Austen Christmas and birthday party for my local Jane Austen Society of North America meeting and drank lots of tea. Today I drank lots of tea, but it’s not usual. I don’t incorporate a lot of things from the Regency era into my real life because I like my computer and technology. A few things I do. I love candles. I’m not a writer who writes with music or soundtracks, but I do love to burn sweet-smelling candles when I write. If we’re talking about Christmas, then I do love to go to church. We have candlelit services. Charity was very big in the Jane Austen time during Christmas in general. Those kinds of things I am a fan of, but I also like modern medicine and other ways of modern life. KyLee: I agree with you about the modern thing. There is something homey and romantic about candles. Aromatherapy would be great for when you are writing. Julie: I do enjoy it. Ordinary people who leave a lasting impact KyLee: Jane Austen's characters are average people with ordinary lives, often drawn from real life observations. Can you tell us about a time an ordinary person left a lasting impact on your life? Julie: There are a lot. I’ll name teachers. Mrs. Hayes read Jane Eyre to us out loud over several weeks in the sixth grade. That cemented my love of all things English, British literature. Even though I grew up in Illinois, she had a big impact on me. Later, Mrs. Mitchell, a high school writing English teacher, encouraged me in my writing. I am still connected with both of those women online, and I send them my books every year. KyLee: Teachers have a big impact on our lives. There is something special about having a story read aloud to you. It builds trust and imagination. I am a teacher, so I try to read out loud to my students often. I read to them every day. When my children were younger, I read out loud to them too. They don’t really let me do that anymore. How faith and writing intersect KyLee: Could you share a little bit about how faith and writing intersect for you? Julie: I came to Christ later, in my 20s. A lot of my books carry similar themes of grace, forgiveness, second chances, things that I appreciate in my own life. God was very generous to me and wooed me and called me and saved me when I was not interested in Christianity. I try to weave those kinds of things into my books. I have imperfect characters who make mistakes, because that is what I did and continue to do. I am grateful for His mercy, and I try to weave that into all of my books. KyLee: It makes sense that you would share those experiences. We write what we know. Real history, and writing historical fiction versus fantasy Is there anything especially interesting you haven’t covered in other interviews for this book? Julie: One of the things I love about being a historical writer is that, even though I am writing fiction, I love to base things on what was really happening. My book is set in a real place called Painswick in England. Someone praised me about how I continue to show great historical medical knowledge. I laughed because I have zero real medical knowledge, but it shows I have to do a lot of research. For this book, the main character is a surgeon's daughter. She is trying to serve as a sick room nurse to an older woman. It was a fun connection that Jenner, who came up with the smallpox vaccination, was related to Painswick. I did not know that when I made the setting there. It was interesting to include some real history about medical practices. I do a lot of research, but I am not a medical expert. KyLee: You do your research and write those characters and that story, and it takes off. Weaving in historical details makes a difference. I am a fan of fantasy too, but I like that historical fiction is anchored in the way it really was. Julie: In fantasy, you have to build that whole world. In historical, I have anchors, but you still have to build the world for the story. I don’t think I could be a fantasy writer. You would have to make up all your rules and keep track of it. KyLee: I would have to have lists of rules, then I would lose the list and find it a decade later on my computer. Julie: You and I have a similar organizational system. There are so many resources in historical. I can check if a word is too modern. I can see if Jane Austen used it. Whispers at Painswick Court KyLee: Let's talk about your latest release, Whispers at Painswick Court. Anne Loveday, a surgeon's daughter, is determined to live a single, useful life. To escape her matchmaking stepmother, she accepts an invitation from an old friend to return to Painswick, the place she and her sister spent many happy summers until that last, fateful year. Soon after arriving, Anne is asked to serve as sick-room nurse to Lady Celia, who forbade her nephew to marry Anne's sister years before. Pushing aside resentments, Anne moves into Painswick Court, a shadowy old house rumored to be haunted. Also in residence are Lady Celia's spinster daughter, her handsome adult nephews, and a secretive new lady's maid.  Two local doctors visit regularly as well, one of whom admires Anne while concealing secrets of his own. As an escalating series of mishaps befalls her patient, Anne realizes someone is trying to kill the woman. But who? When Anne finds herself a suspect and her determination to avoid romance challenged, can she discover the real killer—and protect her heart—before it's too late? KyLee: Somehow the title did not prepare me for the secrets to include a murder plot. Anne has medical knowledge at her disposal. Why has she set her heart on remaining single? A heroine committed to the single life Julie: Women in that time period, in general, their main goal was to marry and marry well. There were not a lot of options for women. Anne has gotten a taste of helping others and having a greater purpose than marriage. She thinks that because she has a sister who married in an arranged marriage and is unhappy. That’s been her example. Her young stepmother is trying to marry Anne off to completely inappropriate men. Men who are strangers, far too old, and not at all suitable. Men who want a wife and do not appreciate Anne's qualities. She’s determined that marriage is not for her. In that time period, many marriages were more like business arrangements. She does not want to marry for those reasons. She does not want to give up helping others and using the knowledge she has. The men interested in her would expect her to give that up to be their wife. KyLee: She found something she loves. Being pulled away from that would be heartbreaking. Julie: In a different world, she would have loved to be a doctor, a physician, a surgeon. She is smart enough and capable enough, but that was not an option for women. This is as close as she can get. The men in Anne's orbit KyLee: There seem to be several gentlemen of interest. Two nephews of Lady Celia, and a young doctor who admires Anne. Could you sketch a quick portrait of each? Julie: Anne and her sisters spent summers in Painswick because her grandparents lived there. She knows the two grown nephews from her younger days. One is very handsome and charming, and untrustworthy. Jude Dalby is the man her sister fell in love with years ago. His aunt said no, you are not going to marry this surgeon's daughter with very little money. So Anne has resentment toward him. The other nephew is a former military man. They were friends. He takes a shine to her and vice versa, but it is more of a friendship. There are actually two doctors in the story. Both doctors have secrets. The one who takes an interest in Anne has other stuff going on, so he cannot be forthcoming right away. Anne has to review her plan for her life. Sometimes God has other plans. She has to reevaluate if there is a way for her to have both marriage and purpose. KyLee: Which is the happily ever after we hope for. Julie: When you read a Julie Klassen book, you are going to have a happily ever after. It’s pretty much guaranteed. Gothic atmosphere, real legends, and place-based history KyLee: Did this book uncover any new historical tidbits, or give you an opportunity to weave in detail you had not shared before? Julie: There is poison involved, so I had to research those things. I love that the setting, Painswick, has real history I could weave in. The house I based it on is a real place with gothic legends surrounding it for generations. King Charles I stayed there, and people report seeing his ghost around the house and the adjacent churchyard. I am not that interested in ghosts except the Holy Spirit, but it is a well-known legend, and he really did stay in the house. The old house had jail cells in the basement because it used to be used as a courthouse. Prisoners were sent there. I love when I can take something real and weave it into the novel. I think it makes the world more believable and more real for readers. KyLee: Especially when there is somewhere they can go. If you can’t go to England, you can use street view and at least have an idea of what it looks like. Julie: Painswick has a beautiful church and a churchyard that is famous. It has 99 yew trees, and there is legend around it. If they plant another to make it 100, one of the other ones will die, and they will have to cut it down. I did not know yew has lore around it. It is a symbol for eternal life. It is also used for poison. I love to weave in that symbolism. You can Google it and see beautiful pictures. KyLee: I did not know yew wood was poisonous either. That will be handy if it is part of the murder plot. What's next for Julie Klassen KyLee: What is next for your writing, looking forward to 2026? Julie: I turned in my draft for the 2026 novel. Most of my books have been standalone. Whispers at Painswick Court is a standalone, and the 2026 book is also a standalone. It’s not a murder mystery, per se, but it’s a romantic story set on the coast of North Cornwall. It has gothic elements, bumps in the night, rumors, smugglers, those kinds of good things. It’s more of a romance with those gothic elements. It’s set to come out in December of 2026. The title is The Widow of Woodlark Cottage. It’s about a woman who rents Woodlark Cottage on this estate. There are a couple of men with different agendas and a lot of other things going on. Connect with Julie: Newsletter, Pinterest, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, and Instagram. Bookworm review: The Lost Girl of Astor Street by Stephanie Morrill In “The Lost Girl of Astor Street,” Stephanie Morrill combines a gusty heroine, chronic illness representation, a swoony detective, feuding mafia families, and raw emotion into a gripping YA mystery that'll keep readers guessing till the very end. Fans of first-person narratives will fall for Piper Sail's vibrant voice that practically zings off the page. Determined and devoted, Piper is a compelling character sure to win readers' hearts as they're immersed in her dualistic world of Chicago amid the Roaring Twenties. If you love to hunt for clues with gumshoes and amateur sleuths, join the search for The Lost Girl of Astor Street! Read more about Stephanie at her website. (www.stephaniemorrill.com) ~ Angela Bell, author of A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure If you enjoyed this episode, we hope you'll subscribe for more on your favorite listening platform, and join our newsletter (see the sidebar). Don't forget to share it with a fellow historical fiction reader! And if you really enjoyed this episode and would like to support, you can always buy us a coffee.

Sometimes God's mercy shows up in ways we never expected. This powerful testimony reminds us that when God says "I am your protector," He means it—even when life gets chaotic, scary, and unpredictable.After years of infertility and heartbreak, God answered prayer with a miracle baby. But the journey included a premature birth, emergency surgery, and moments of pure terror. Through it all, God was faithful. He showed up through doctors, friends, church family, and divine whispers of hope that said "he will see" and "it is finished."The holiday season can be bittersweet, bringing both joy and heartache. Whatever you're facing today, approach God's throne with confidence. He sees you. He's with you. And His mercy is real—not just as a feeling, but as an action He takes to rescue His people.How do you need God's mercy in your life right now? Let this be your invitation to trust Him with your story.

Sometimes God answers our prayers through other people. Erie First Worship Pastor Jonathan Dutcher examines the power that unlocks when we bring ourselves, and whatever God has gifted us with, into our relationships. The blessings that God does far exceeds the power of what we think we're contributing.

Sometimes God's blessings don't exactly look or feel like blessings. Sometimes they feel like an inconvenience. Sometimes they look like an unwelcome change. Sometimes blessings come in the form of everything you think you want absolutely falling apart. Mary had her life planned out. This little small town girl was engaged to Joseph, they were […]

Sometimes God uses trials to shape our character and strengthen our faith.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sometimes God's call comes when life feels impossible. Dr. Tony Evans explains how God equips ordinary people to do extraordinary things, and how faith in the small things prepares us for life's biggest battles.

Sometimes God's call comes when life feels impossible. Dr. Tony Evans explains how God equips ordinary people to do extraordinary things, and how faith in the small things prepares us for life's biggest battles.

Sometimes God's call comes when life feels impossible. Dr. Tony Evans explains how God equips ordinary people to do extraordinary things, and how faith in the small things prepares us for life's biggest battles.

Sometimes God's call comes when life feels impossible. Dr. Tony Evans explains how God equips ordinary people to do extraordinary things, and how faith in the small things prepares us for life's biggest battles.

Sometimes God's call comes when life feels impossible. Dr. Tony Evans explains how God equips ordinary people to do extraordinary things, and how faith in the small things prepares us for life's biggest battles.

Sometimes God's call comes when life feels impossible. Dr. Tony Evans explains how God equips ordinary people to do extraordinary things, and how faith in the small things prepares us for life's biggest battles.