Podcasts about Surrender

THE EMPEROR INTERVENES Colleague Evan Thomas. Following the bombing of Hiroshima, Emperor Hirohitobroke with tradition to support Foreign Minister Togo, urging the deadlocked War Council to "bear the unbearable" and surrender. War Minister Anami, however, continued to romanticize national suicide, suggesting it would be beautiful for the nation to perish like a flower. Negotiations stalled over the status of the Emperor, as the US insisted he remain subject to the Allied commander. Ultimately, the fear of continued atomic destruction and future war crimes trials forced the Japanese leadership to accept the Potsdam Declaration. NUMBER 6 1945 OKINAWA 

THE COUP ATTEMPT AND SURRENDER Colleague Evan Thomas. As the US prepared a third atomic bomb to drop on Tokyo, a military coup unfolded in the Japanese palace to prevent the surrender. Young officers attempted to seize the recording of the Emperor's surrender speech, but the coup was suppressed, and War Minister Anami committed suicide by seppuku. When the Emperor's broadcast finally aired, the depth of the Japanese "national psychosis" was revealed; even radiation victims in Hiroshima wept in despair, not because the war was over, but because their nation had surrendered. NUMBER 7 1945 OKINAWA

THE ATOMIC BOMB AND POST-WAR LEADERSHIP Colleague Craig Symonds. Nimitz and King believed a naval blockade could force Japan's surrender without a costly invasion, which they feared would result in millions of deaths. Nimitz was informed early about the atomic bomb to ensure it wouldn't interfere with operations. After the war, despite resistance from the aviation community and Secretary Forrestal, Nimitz served a two-year term as Chief of Naval Operations. Spruance, denied a fifth star in favor of Halsey, took the high road by leading the Naval War College, ensuring future officers learned from the Pacific war's lessons. NUMBER 8 1945 OKINAWA TEN YEAR OLD SURRENDERS WITH WHITE FLAG

SHIGENORI TOGO AND THE JAPANESE WAR COUNCIL Colleague Evan Thomas. Thomas profiles Shigenori Togo, the Japanese Foreign Minister and the only civilian on the Supreme War Council advocating for surrender. Togonavigated a dangerous political landscape defined by the "stomach game" of indirect communication and the threat of assassination by military extremists. The discussion explores the Japanese military's adherence to the "47 Ronin" code of honor through death and their preparation for a "final battle" involving 28 million civilians. While the military hoped to bleed the Americans to gain better terms, Togo attempted a desperate and ultimately failed diplomatic outreach to the Soviet Union. NUMBER 3 1945 OKINAWA

Prayer for Surrender for her Daily Spiritual Espresso published on December 28, 2025 which you can access here:https://powerofloveministry.net/the-year-everything-changed/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Message by Jeff Whye on December 27, 2025. 2026 is more than a new year—it's a call to surrender. Join us this weekend as we learn why surrender is foundational to following Jesus and how it positions us to represent Him on mission. Video available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Vl3rjJPHahk - Live Notes available at https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/38370/note-254094.html

This podcast is a short daily audio provided by the online recovery group Transitions Daily. The daily content includes different recovery quotes from various sources, including; Twenty-Four Hours a Day, A.A. Thought for the Day, Daily Reflections, Big Book Quote, Just for Today, As Bill Sees It, and more! Transitions Daily also delivers the same content in a daily email with a secret Facebook group for discussion. Visit www.DailyAAEmails.com for more information. Do you want to stop drinking? Have you ever listened to sobriety podcasts? Does alcoholism or addiction run in your family? Have you tried Alcoholics Anonymous or the 12 Steps of A.A.? Are you considering how to get sober? Are you seriously thinking about sobriety for the first time? Is alcohol controlling your life as never before? If so, you will definitely want to check out this recovery podcast.

You don't have to DIY period recovery. In this podcast episode, Gemma Atkinson shares the journey of regaining her period, discussing the challenges she faced over 10+ years, the importance of support, and the transformative power of self-acceptance. She reflects on how her life has changed since embracing a more flexible and nourishing approach to health, emphasizing the significance of rest, community, and letting go of control. Gemma's story serves as an inspiration for others navigating similar struggles, highlighting that recovery is possible and that life can be fulfilling and joyful again.TakeawaysLife has been good post-recovery, with new opportunities.Recovery has led to unexpected gains in work and personal life.The importance of community support during recovery.Letting go of control is essential for healing.Rest is a crucial component of recovery.Body image issues can fluctuate during recovery.High achievement does not equate to health or happiness.Nutrition education is vital for understanding health needs.Surrendering to the process can lead to freedom.It's okay to seek help and support from others.Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCallDiscover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation! Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionistFor the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

In this episode, Guy talked with Ishita Sharma. The podcast explored the transformative journey of living in alignment with one's true self through a conversation with a guest who has experienced a profound spiritual awakening. The discussion covered the guest's transition from a structured life as an architect to embracing a life dedicated to healing and spirituality. Key topics included the emotional and existential challenges of stepping into one's true calling, the significance of energetic basics, and the beauty of communal awakening. Ishita shared personal experiences, including the pivotal moments that led to her spiritual path and the importance of living in integrity with oneself. This episode offers deep insights and practical wisdom for anyone seeking to understand and align with their true purpose. About Ishita: Ishita Sharma lives in awe of this Human Life, sharing its deepest invitation. She offers a simple, direct and loving invitation into a bright, joyful, inspired and honest Life, walking in Truth and Love together. Ishita helps clients awaken to power, beauty and Grace, and live into the fire of their calling. She is the host of the Come to Center Podcast and creator of The Body Class. As a Leadership Coach, a "Syncretic, Human Spiritual Teacher," Facilitator and Somatic Therapy Practitioner, she helps clients get where they want to be, while enjoying who and where they already are. Illuminating universal principles and facilitating direct connection to Source, she helps them master personal energy and attention so they can enjoy generative relationships, ease in their bodies, stillness in their minds, joy in their hearts, and live from their True Nature. Her refined multidimensional approach addresses the core essence of complexities, with a signature mix of precision, heart and humor!  Come to Center is the expression of her deepest inquiries and realizations, and an invitation into your own. It is dedicated to inspiring conscious, joyous transformation from the inside out- one that prioritizes authentic connection to Self, Life and others, conjoining Human and Divine, sacred and mundane, celebrating this paradoxical Human Life. Key Points Discussed:  (00:00) - Why So Many Awakening Experiences Point to the Same Truth About Reality! (00:27) - Welcome to the Podcast (00:45) - Defining One's Life Work (03:18) - Growing Up in the Himalayas (05:50) - Journey to the United States (07:44) - From Architecture to Spirituality (12:12) - The Turning Point (17:38) - Embracing a New Path (22:26) - Living in Alignment (26:47) - Challenges and Realizations (27:56) - Exploring Spiritual Awakening (29:37) - Moments of Clarity and Surrender (32:29) - Claiming Your Voice and Anger (35:20) - Helping Others on Their Path (38:20) - Living in Flow and Daily Practices (45:48) - Recommended Books and Influences (50:59) - Offerings and Services (55:19) - Final Thoughts and Reflections How to Contact Ishita Sharma:cometocenter.com   About me:My Instagram: www.instagram.com/guyhlawrence/?hl=en Guy's websites:www.guylawrence.com.au www.liveinflow.co''

Do you enjoy peace with God? Do you want to enjoy a peaceful relationship and fellowship with God? Do you live every day in full surrender to Him? Do you resist Him in some area or areas of your life? What would happen in your life if your stopped resisting His way and surrendered to Him daily?

When Joseph first heard that his fiancee was pregnant, he graciously decided to quietly break the engagement. Then an angel showed up! As the angel described to Joseph what God was doing and what God wanted from Him, Joseph had a decision to make. Would he go the way that seemingly made sense and everyone else would have gone? Or would his trade his plan for another? What if trading your plan for God's plan is what Christmas is all about? Text: Matthew 1:18-25 Speaker: Aaron Patton   

Surrender or suffer

Surrender to the sacred mystery of life and discover your true self. Inspired by her favorite Christmas carol, "Oh Holy Night," Katie shares about self-worth, surrendering to the divine and opening to the darkness of winter. Deepen your spiritual practice in our year-long Divine Feminine Ayurveda School starting on January 14th. Click here to learn more and enroll today! In this episode about surrender and letting go, you'll hear: ~ What if your soul could feel its worth? ~ The power of falling on your knees ~ Feeling inadequate, worthless ~ Surrendering your defences and becoming more yourself ~ Overvaluing the intellect ~ Death and rebirth ~ The sacred spiritual practice of surrender ~ 2026 is the year of the horse ~ An old recording of "Oh Holy Night" by Harry Macdonough Find the full show notes here: https://theshaktischool.com/ep-236-winter-surrender/ Connect with Katie and The Shakti School: ~ Questions about Ayurveda School? Click here to book a FREE call! ~ Sign up for our free mini-course about Women's Wisdom and Ayurveda! ~ Follow The Shakti School on Instagram and Facebook

Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Read more about Project23 and partner with us as we teach every verse of the Bible on video. And Merry Christmas to you all. Our text today is Judges 18:11-20. So 600 men of the tribe of Dan, armed with weapons of war, set out from Zorah and Eshtaol, and went up and encamped at Kiriath-jearim in Judah. On this account that place is called Mahaneh-dan to this day; behold, it is west of Kiriath-jearim. And they passed on from there to the hill country of Ephraim, and came to the house of Micah. Then the five men who had gone to scout out the country of Laish said to their brothers, "Do you know that in these houses there are an ephod, household gods, a carved image, and a metal image? Now therefore consider what you will do." And they turned aside there and came to the house of the young Levite, at the home of Micah, and asked him about his welfare. Now the 600 men of the Danites, armed with their weapons of war, stood by the entrance of the gate. And the five men who had gone to scout out the land went up and entered and took the carved image, the ephod, the household gods, and the metal image, while the priest stood by the entrance of the gate with the 600 men armed with weapons of war. And when these went into Micah's house and took the carved image, the ephod, the household gods, and the metal image, the priest said to them, "What are you doing?" And they said to him, "Keep quiet; put your hand on your mouth and come with us and be to us a father and a priest. Is it better for you to be priest to the house of one man, or to be priest to a tribe and clan in Israel?" And the priest's heart was glad. He took the ephod and the household gods and the carved image and went along with the people. — Judges 18:11-20 The Danites raid Micah's house—not for gold, not for land, but for religion. They take his idols, his ephod, and even his priest. They want everything that looks spiritual—but none of what demands surrender. This is the heart of false faith. It wants the blessing of belief without the burden of obedience. They want a god they can move, not one who moves them. They want a priest who blesses, not one who confronts. They want the look of religion without the Lord of righteousness. It's the same impulse alive today. We still crave the symbols of faith without submitting to it. We want a baby christened—but not a child discipled. We want a church wedding—but not a marriage that honors God. We want a pastor to conduct our funeral—but not a life spent following Christ. We want faith that makes us feel covered—but never changed. This is why false religion is so attractive: it offers comfort without conviction, community without accountability, and symbols without sanctification. It gives you everything except transformation. The Danites carried off the priest and the idols, thinking they'd secured God's favor. But they weren't following God—they were franchising a fake religion. Don't turn faith in God into a performance of externals. Don't settle for "religious moments" in place of regular obedience. God doesn't want your religious props and symbols; he wants all of you. He is here not to tag along but to transform you. ASK THIS: Where have you settled for symbols instead of surrender? Do you display faith publicly but resist obedience privately? What modern "idols" have you borrowed to make faith feel easier? How can you move from religious performance to real pursuit of God this week? DO THIS: Ask God to expose any area where you've kept religion but lost relationship. Read 2 Timothy 3:5: "Having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power." Replace outward habits with inward devotion—prayer, confession, and obedience. Live today as if God's presence, not your performance, is what defines your faith. PRAY THIS: Lord, save me from the trap of empty religion. I don't want symbols of faith; I want surrender. Strip away anything that looks spiritual but keeps me from true obedience to You. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Christ Be Magnified."

We would love to pray for you! Please send us your requests here. --------This Christmas, you can shine the light of Christ into places of darkness and pain with a purchase from the Joni and Friends Christmas catalog. You are sending hope and practical care to people with disabilities, all in the name of Jesus! Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

As the year comes to a close, many women feel the pressure to finish strong — to push harder, tie everything up neatly, and prove that the year “counted.” But what if that pressure isn't aligned with what this season is actually asking of you? In this episode, Aubrey invites you into a softer, truer way of closing the year: finishing it honestly instead of forcefully. With Christmas approaching and expectations running high, this conversation offers grounding, perspective, and relief for the woman who feels tired, reflective, and quietly aware that something inside her has changed. Blending astrological insight, nervous-system wisdom, mindfulness, and faith-rooted truth, this episode is a reminder that winter is not a time for performance — it's a time for integrity, truth, and recalibration. In this episode, we explore: Why the “finish the year strong” mindset can create more burnout than alignment The deeper meaning of Capricorn season and the Winter Solstice How your nervous system responds to pressure, obligation, and emotional overload A simple mindfulness practice for grounding during busy holiday moments What it really means to finish the year aligned rather than accomplished How honesty creates space for clarity, rest, and future growth This episode is especially for the woman who: Feels both hopeful and exhausted Knows she's changing, even if her life doesn't look different yet Is craving peace more than productivity Wants to end the year with integrity instead of pressure Toward the end of the episode, Aubrey shares about Embodied — A Feminine Leadership Experience, (use coupon code SURRENDER) a supportive space for women who are ready to live from truth, intuition, and nervous-system safety rather than hustle or force. ✨ Listen in, take a breath, and let this be your permission to end the year honestly.

As we move closer to Christmas, we often focus on traditions, celebrations, and familiar stories — but this message invites us to slow down and ask a deeper question: How do we respond to Christmas? In this message, Pastor Brandon walks through Luke 1:26–38, focusing on the story of Mary and her remarkable response to the announcement that she would be the mother of Jesus. Though she was young, confused, and faced with enormous uncertainty, Mary responded with courageous faith and heroic surrender. This message explores:What the Gospel message really isWhy Mary may be the first person to hear and believe the Good NewsThe difference between healthy doubt and unhealthy doubtWhy asking questions is part of authentic faithWhat it means to trust God when you don't understandWhat surrender looks like in a culture that celebrates controlMary's response reminds us that faith doesn't mean having all the answers — it means trusting God even when obedience is costly. As Christmas approaches, this message challenges each of us to consider what God may be asking us to trust Him with, and what He may be asking us to surrender. Whether you are new to faith or have followed Jesus for years, this message offers a fresh and powerful perspective on the Christmas story and what it means to truly respond to it.

Send us a text As mankind deteriorates, The Shining has amused itself with the craft of music. Wretched human filth gather in dark, smoke-filled bars throughout Chicago land lured by the promise of a rock show. With the stage set, the music kicks in and the Shining is on. Loud, grinding guitars; gut-thumping drums; and a driving bass power these electric minstrels. Surrender yourself to the hard and heavy melodic pleasures. Overwhelmed by the experience, you will seek freedom by the admission that you are undeniably part of the Shining. Support the showPodcast edited by Paul Martin.Theme song courtesy of M&R Rush.www.rocknrollchicagopodcast.com

Our Morning Prayer of Surrender Each new day begins best when we place our hearts, our hopes, and our plans into the hands of the Lord. “Our Morning Prayer of Surrender” is a reminder that life works better when we stop trying to control everything and simply trust God. Laying down worries, burdens, and expectations, and inviting the Holy Spirit to guide each step of the day.

Homily by Fr. Francis Mary Roaldi, CFR.

2nd Sunday - Koiahk @ St. Athanasius Coptic Orthodox Church - Ooltewah, TN ~ December 21, 2025 | Koiahk 12, 1742

What should we do when God calls us to radical obedience, especially when it disrupts our comfort, plans, or public image? In this powerful message, we explore the story of Joseph and his courageous choice to trust God despite fear, uncertainty, and cultural expectations. His example challenges us to choose faith over fear and obedience over convenience, even when the cost is high. Like Joseph, we're invited to become part of something far greater than ourselves.

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/BuGEAQwKndAThe last reading of 2025 is here! Thank you so much for watching, liking, subscribing, and supporting Black Sheep Experience! Ready to start 2026 as your most confident, worthy, and alive self? Visit www.blacksheepexperience.com to break free of your limiting beliefs and start living a life that reflects your high self-worth.

Today's episode explores the surprising and transformative announcements that accompanied the Christmas season, focusing particularly on Mary's encounter with the angel Gabriel. How we can respond like Mary with surrender and faith, even when life challenges our understanding or comfort?Key Lessons: God's announcements can be surprising and may challenge us to trust Him even when we don't understand. Mary's story illustrates the personal cost of obedience, including surrendering one's reputation. True peace comes from a relationship with God, and we are called to be peacemakers in today's noisy world. We should make room for Jesus in our lives and schedules, especially during the busyness of the holiday season. Surrendering to God's will allows Him to transform our messes into powerful messages.Subscribe for weekly messages that will inspire your faith! What's one area of your life you're ready to surrender to God? Hit the notification bell so you never miss an uplifting message!#ChristmasMessage #FaithJourney #SurrenderToGod

On December 19th, interstellar object 3I/ATLAS makes its closest approach to the Earth, marking what astrologer and psychologist Heather Ensworth, Ph.D., calls the final activation window of this rare cosmic event. In this in-depth interview, Heather explains the astrological, mythological, and energetic significance of 3I ATLAS, including why its trajectory, timing, and symbolism align with major collective shifts leading into 2026. We explore the object's possible cosmic origin, how it interacts with the Sun, Earth, Venus, and Mars, and why so many intuitives, seers, and ancient traditions predicted a period of accelerated awakening during this solstice corridor. Whether you're tracking ATLAS as an astronomical phenomenon or tuning into the spiritual implications of this interstellar visitor, this episode brings brand-new 3i atlas updates you won't find anywhere else.Heather and Emilio dive into the deeper meaning of December's energies, including the Sun–Galactic Center alignment, the solstice gateway, plasma-field activations, and the psychological and spiritual shifts unfolding as humanity enters a new evolutionary phase. We discuss timelines, intuition, 5D consciousness, the awakening of the heart, and what this moment means for healers, sensitives, and starseeds around the world. If you're searching for the latest 3I/ATLAS update, looking to understand the astrological significance of December 19, or wanting to prepare for the energetic doorway of 2025–2026, this conversation with Heather Ensworth serves as your complete guide.___________________PODCAST CHAPTERS00:00 - Heather Ensworth Intro03:47 – December Full Moon & The Window Until Dec 19, 202504:31 – 3I/ATLAS, Solstice & The 2025–2026 Evolutionary Cycle07:02 – Mars–Venus Dance 08:36 – Reunion of Masculine & Feminine Energies Across Ages09:34 – Humanity's 12,000-Year Descent12:43 – Who Rules the Aquarian Age? 13:29 – Dimensional Divide15:47 – Seeing Multi-Dimensional Reality21:13 – Why Humanity Chose Forgetting25:07 – Free Will vs. Cyclical Forces25:55 – Choice, Surrender & Hopi Prophecy29:05 – Does It Really Only Take 10% to Shift the World?35:10 – The Shadow of Each Royal Star38:10 – How Ancient Civilizations Received Star Wisdom43:29 – Flash-Forward to 2032: Saturn/Uranus in Orion's Arm46:36 – June 2032: Humanity's Choice Point Revealed47:36 – How to Prepare Spiritually for the Intensity Ahead50:05 – Heather's Daily Practices50:14 – The Heart as Humanity's Center51:29 – Earth's Movement Toward the Galactic Center Explained52:34 – Revisiting the Binary Star System & Sirius Connection59:19 – Becoming the New Human01:01:29 – The Convergence Event 01:05:06 – Your Message to the Future Human01:05:22 – What Quality Is Awakening in Humanity?01:06:12 – What Gives You Faith in Our Future?___________________Guest: Heather Ensworth, Ph.D., Astrologer & Wisdom Keeper✦ Website | https://risingmoonhealingcenter.com/✦ Readings & Courses | https://risingmoonhealingcenter.com/a...✦ YouTube | ‪@HeatherEnsworth‬ ✦ Instagram |   / heather.ensworth   Host: Emilio Ortiz✦ IG |   / iamemilioortiz  ✦ Subscribe to Channel |    / emilioortiz  ___________________© 2025 Emilio Ortiz. All rights reserved. Content from Just Tap In Podcast is protected under copyright law.Legal Disclaimer: The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by guests on Just Tap In are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of Emilio Ortiz or the Just Tap In Podcast. All content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.

Message by Chris Brown on December 20, 2025. Maybe we have had it all wrong this whole time, and it is actually better to receive than give. According to the first Christmas message, receiving is how we can finally find a peace in this world that can get us through the brokenness of life. Let's revisit the words spoken to shepherds to find how we can have the promise of great joy and peace in our lives today. Video available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/v7YnELvUebI - Live Notes available at https://churchlinkfeeds.blob.core.windows.net/notes/38370/note-253673.html

Timmerie dives into the growing infertility crisis, exploring real solutions while confronting the challenges of IVF—from high costs and low success rates to the strain it can place on marriages. Episode Guide Why cover trending topics? (2:57) In vitro fertilization policies for the infertility crisis (14:51) For those who didn’t conceive right away — what’s your story of waiting for your little ones? (41:22) Resources mentioned: 21 children - all with surrogate mothers - taken from an Arcadia couple amid an investigation https://abc7.com/post/surrogacy-scandal-21-children-surrogate-mothers-taken-arcadia-couple-amid-investigation/17140359/ Scandinavia research – couples likely to divorce after failed IVF attempt https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/aogs.12317/abstract;jsessionid=15C5E2D0FEEDCE75FDF9374F26F76BD3.f03t02 Research and facts on IVF by The Heritage Foundation https://www.heritage.org/life/commentary/christians-practical-guide-reproductive-technology Past Episodes with Dr. Caldwell – infertility specialist and had IVF babies: https://relevantradio.com/?s=Susan+Caldwell Femmenessence MacaLife For all seasons, fertility to Perimenopause https://symphonynaturalhealth.com/collections/femmenessence Fertility care find a NaPro doctor https://fertilitycare.org/find-a-mc NaPro Telemedicine https://naturalwomanhood.org/find-a-doctor/telehealth/ Shiloh - A Post-IVF Ministry https://www.shilohivf.com/about Emily Chapman – Healing when you can’t have children adoption? https://relevantradio.com/2023/10/healing-when-you-cant-have-children/ NaPro Fertility Surgeon on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/napro_fertility_surgeon/

Trusting God rarely comes with all the details upfront, and Mary’s story reminds us just how costly obedience can be. Faced with fear, uncertainty, and the very real possibility of public shame, Mary chose surrender over self-protection. Her response shows that trusting God doesn’t mean understanding everything—it means believing He is good even when the path forward feels risky and unclear. Highlights Mary’s calling disrupted her plans, reputation, and future Obedience often requires surrender before clarity arrives Trust means saying yes even when the cost feels heavy Mary praised God in the middle of uncertainty, not after it passed God’s plans may not align with our expectations, but they are always purposeful Surrender positions us to participate in what God is doing, not just observe it Faith grows when we value God’s will over our comfort Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas! Full Transcript Below: How Mary’s Surrender Teaches Us to Trust By Hannah Benson Bible Reading:“And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.” - Luke 1:46-49 ESV Have we ever stopped to consider how Mary may’ve felt when the angel Gabriel visited her? She was just a young girl, newly betrothed to Joseph. While the Bible doesn’t share with us her exact age, scholars speculate she may have been as young as 14. Now consider the fear that likely coursed through her veins when Gabriel delivered the news that she, an unmarried virgin, would bear a son. How scandalous! Perhaps questions ravaged through her mind: What would people think? No one would believe her if she told them the truth. With a pregnancy outside of marriage, the townspeople would stone her. And Joseph? Would he believe her? If he didn’t, surely he’d feel betrayed. Instead of arguing or begging the Lord to choose someone else, Mary simply asked, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” (v. 34). Though the plan didn’t make sense to her, she chose to swallow her fears. Hard. As Luke writes in verse 38, Mary humbly responds: “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word”. And the angel departed from her.” Sometimes, I wonder if Mary knew the full implications of what she was saying yes to. Surely, the possibility of public shame and stoning crossed her mind. But whether she understood the full danger or not, Mary surrendered her future as Joseph’s wife, her reputation, and even her life to the Lord. Despite the danger, she chose to sing the praises of the Lord, saying “my soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior” (v. 47). The Magnificat, as it’s often called, is the cry of Mary’s heart as she soaked in the goodness of God and shared how “he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name” (v. 49). Now, none of us has been asked to carry the Son of God inside of us the same way Mary did, but we have been asked to carry Him in our hearts. And following God does come at a cost. Are we willing to risk everything? To praise God no matter what? To surrender our future, whatever that looks like? To surrender our reputation and even our very life itself? Mary was willing. Did she know exactly why the Son of God came into the world? Perhaps, like the rest of the Israelites, she anticipated a Messiah who would rescue God’s people from their physical enemies. In this case, the Roman Empire. She didn’t need to fully understand why. Instead, she chose to embrace God’s plan, surrendering and yielding to His sovereignty even if it cost her. Intersecting Faith & Life: What may God be calling you to today? How might He want you to share the love of Jesus Christ with others? Are we willing to step out of our comfort zone even when it’s uncomfortable, to surrender and submit to His plan, and trust His promises? To long for the Giver more than the gift, the Promise-Keeper more than the promise itself? If we read the other Gospel accounts of Jesus’s birth, we know Joseph contemplated divorcing Mary (Matthew 1:19). Being a just man, he didn’t want to put her to shame. But before he could, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and told him not to be afraid to take Mary as his wife and that the child was from the Holy Spirit (v. 20). God will always take care of each of us. When we walk in obedience, even when it looks impossible, or we may lose something we hold dear, we choose to walk in that obedience anyway. It doesn’t mean things will always turn out the way we want. Pain is a funny thing: it can either push us further from God or pull us closer to Him, depending on how we choose to respond. Mary could’ve never foreseen the plans God had for her or the role she would’ve ultimately played in bringing God’s Son into the world. Had she resisted, God’s plans still would’ve prevailed. Perhaps he would’ve chosen someone else for the task. But then Mary would’ve missed out on an amazing opportunity to be part of what God was doing. Isaiah 55:8-9 (ESV) says, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” When we face the unknown, we must remember we are not trusting what we can see, but in the One Who sees all things, Whose wisdom transcends our limited view and Whose thoughts are not our thoughts, and whose ways are higher than our ways. Do you think anyone ever imagined He would send the Messiah born miraculously through a virgin? Do you think anyone ever imagined that Jesus Christ would come to save us, not as a war hero but as a humble carpenter who would grow up and take the punishment we deserved by dying on the cross in our place? Pray with me: Dear Father God, sometimes I struggle to trust You. Please help me to learn from Mary’s surrender, to trust You, and to walk in obedience even if it looks like I may lose something else I hold dear. I know Your plans are higher than my own (Isaiah 55). Thank You for Your great, indescribable love for me! In Jesus’s Name, Amen Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

When you're wondering if you would feel better if you just let your hopes, dreams, desires, and preferences go... you're really asking a different question. I wanted to talk about this today in relation to my IG reel from the other day, I promised an expansion on that, and this is it. 

Did you know there's MAGIC in your Meditation Practice? Say Goodbye to Anxiety and Hello to More Peace & More Prosperity! Here Are the 5 Secrets on How to Unleash Your Meditation Magic https://womensmeditationnetwork.com/5secrets Join Premium! Ready for an ad-free meditation experience? Join Premium now and get every episode from ALL of our podcasts completely ad-free now! Just a few clicks makes it easy for you to listen on your favorite podcast player. Become a PREMIUM member today by going to --> https://WomensMeditationNetwork.com/premium There is a hush in the air, A sacred quiet, A whisper of something greater, Wrapping itself around you. PAUSE… The day has come and gone, Its weight no longer yours to carry. The sun has surrendered itself to the night, And so, too, shall you. PAUSE… Close your eyes now, dear one. Let your breath soften, Let your body loosen, Let your heart be cradled in the arms of this moment. Join our Premium Sleep for Women Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Sleep podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here --> https://bit.ly/sleepforwomen Join our Premium Meditation for Kids Channel on Apple Podcasts and get ALL 5 of our Kids podcasts completely ad-free! Join Premium now on Apple here → https://bit.ly/meditationforkidsapple Hey, I'm so glad you're taking the time to be with us today. My team and I are dedicated to making sure you have all the meditations you need throughout all the seasons of your life. If there's a meditation you desire, but can't find, email us at Katie Krimitsos to make a request. We'd love to create what you want! Namaste, Beautiful,

Jennifer Acker, founder and editor in chief of The Common, speaks to Emily Everett about her essay “On 15 Years of The Common,” which appears in The Common's recent fall issue. The piece is a reflection on the hard work and stick-to-itiveness it takes to train a horse—and keep a literary magazine running. Jennifer talks about how The Common has grown and expanded since its early days—when it was only her and a few student interns and section editors—including some highlights like favorite portfolios and a new film adaptation of a story from Issue 16. Jennifer also discusses her forthcoming novel, Surrender, out in April 2026 from Delphinium. The book explores smalltown life, following a woman who returns to her family's farm to raise goats, and encounters life challenges that extend far beyond farmwork. Jennifer Acker is author of the debut novel The Limits of the World, a fiction honoree for the Massachusetts Book Award. Her memoir “Fatigue” is an Amazon bestseller, and her short stories, essays, translations, and reviews have appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Oprah Daily, the Washington Post, Literary Hub, n+1, and The Yale Review, among other places. She has an MFA from the Bennington Writing Seminars and is founder and editor in chief of The Common. At Amherst College, she directs the Literary Publishing Internship and LitFest. Her second novel, Surrender, will be released in April 2026. ­­Read Jennifer's new essay in The Common here Check out more of her translations and essays here. Learn more about Jennifer here, and follow her on Instagram @jen_acker. The Common is a print and online literary magazine publishing stories, essays, and poems that deepen our collective sense of place. On our podcast and in our pages, The Common features established and emerging writers from around the world. Read more and subscribe to the magazine here, and follow us on Instagram, Bluesky, and Facebook. Emily Everett is managing editor of the magazine and host of the podcast. Her new debut novel All That Life Can Afford is the Reese's Book Club pick for April 2025. Her work has appeared in The New York Times Modern Love column, the Kenyon Review, Electric Literature, Tin House, and Mississippi Review. She was a 2022 Massachusetts Cultural Council Fellow in Fiction. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

The hardest moments don't just test our faith—they rewrite it. Author Elizabeth Harris sits with us to share how grief, motherhood, and the daily work of love turned her from religious motions to a living relationship with God. After losing her grandfather, she began writing letters to heaven, a humble practice that shifted from ink on a page to prayer with a pulse. Those pages became a map out of despair, teaching her to feel what is real, name it without shame, and surrender what she couldn't fix.Our talk moves from the silence of loss to the music of nature. Elizabeth describes standing in a tropical grove as wind changed tone across different trees, a simple moment that revealed a language of the Spirit—one breath expressed a thousand ways. That insight fueled her choice to blend poetry and prose, because some truths need the space of a line break and others need the steadiness of narrative. We also walk through her unexpected path into late motherhood and the seismic shift of raising a son with autism and cognitive delay. Denial gave way to an honest, gut-level lament that cleared room for peace. Along the way, she learned to see people who wound us as carrying their own special needs of the heart, and to live from the inside out instead of performing for the room.Elizabeth now describes herself as a heartist, offering prayerful Reiki as gentle care that smooths stress and pours love without fanfare. Her throughline is disarmingly simple: be the child of God you are, and the rest finds its place. If you've been navigating grief, faith deconstruction, autism parenting, or the fear of sharing vulnerable work, this conversation offers practical hope and thoughtful perspective. Listen, breathe, and consider what love this moment is asking of you.If this resonated, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs courage, and leave a short review—it helps more people find these stories. Find the book HERESupport the showElsa's AMAZON STORE Elsa's FAITH & FREEDOM MERCH STORE Elsa's BOOKSElsa Kurt: You may know her for her uncanny, viral Kamala Harris impressions & conservative comedy skits, but she's also a lifelong Patriot & longtime Police Wife. She has channeled her fierce love and passion for God, family, country, and those who serve as the creator, Executive Producer & Host of the Elsa Kurt Show with Clay Novak. Her show discusses today's topics & news from a middle class/blue collar family & conservative perspective. The vocal LEOW's career began as a multi-genre author who has penned over 25 books, including twelve contemporary women's novels. Clay Novak: Clay Novak was commissioned in 1995 as a Second Lieutenant of Infantry and served as an officer for twenty four years in Mechanized Infantry, Airborne Infantry, and Cavalry units . He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2019. Clay is a graduate of the U.S. Army Ranger School and is a Master Rated Parachutist, serving for more th...

Joanna Pocock, author of Surrender and Greyhound, speaks to Samantha Walton, academic and author of Everybody Needs Beauty: In Search of the Nature Cure, about her writing to date. The conversation touches on resistance to nostalgia in nature writing, mapping internal journeys onto landscape and the invention of ‘wilderness' in American literature.

Bring your whole being into the enchantment of Winter with this soft and peaceful guided meditation. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/sanchii/equilibrium License code: NULQX7KFNMPSODYI

Judy Dempsey examines fears that Russia will shift military forces to the NATO border if a Ukraine peace deal is reached. She discusses reported US pressure on Kyiv to surrender the Donbas, noting that both Ukraine and the EUoppose such concessions due to sovereignty concerns and lack of security guarantees. 1781 GERMAN SEA

Mary Kissel argues that Ukraine cannot surrender the Donbas without ironclad security guarantees, citing past broken agreements like the Budapest Memorandum. She validates Finnish and Baltic fears regarding Russian aggression and questions whether the Trump administration's business-centric approach can effectively manage Vladimir Putin'sideological brutality. 1855 CRIMEA

In this soulful and empowering episode, Rhonda Farrah, LIFEstyle Empowerment Alchemist, author, coach, and spiritual guide, shares how self-love, forgiveness, and gratitude can transform even life's greatest challenges into powerful awakenings.Drawing from her own journey through incarceration, illness, and reinvention, Rhonda teaches why fixing your reflection first is the foundation of authentic empowerment. This conversation explores healing, midlife renewal, and how women can reclaim their inner power by living from the inside out.In this episode, we explore:Why self-love is essential for personal transformationHow forgiveness releases emotional weight and restores peaceWhy adversity often carries hidden spiritual giftsHow gratitude and forgiveness create an empowered lifeHow women can embrace midlife as a season of renewalThis episode is for anyone seeking healing, clarity, and the courage to live aligned with their true self.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rhonda Farrah07:15 Fix Your Reflection First Explained13:42 Turning Adversity into Awakening20:04 Surrender, Healing, and Inner Strength25:00 Inspired Action and Self Responsibility28:52 Forgiveness as Freedom36:33 Reclaiming Power and Living FullyYour transformation begins the moment you decide to look within.Let this book walk with you.

Hey HomeGirls

Today we cross beyond life and straight into family drama in The Surrender. We discuss using the loss of a loved one to push characters deep into darkness, the messy motivations of our main character, and entering the dark via Monk ritual.  Synopsis: When the family patriarch dies, a grieving mother and daughter risk their lives to perform a brutal resurrection ritual and bring him back from the dead. Starring: Colby Minifie, Kate Burton, Chelsea Alden Youtube: https://youtu.be/IOTQ2UUxBn0 Help us make our first feature length Messed Up Movie: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/mr-creamjean-s-hidey-hole-horror-comedy-movie#/ Support the show on the Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/messedupmoviespod Watch our newest short film Sugar Tits Now! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sz7leFqqo4g  

In this episode, Julie Jancius welcomes back Pedro Silva for a powerful continuation of their conversation on angelic timing, surrender, and how life places us in the exact right moment for the right encounter. Pedro shares the full story of meeting Oprah Winfrey in Japan, plus the surprising chain of synchronicities that included LaShana Lynch and Ava DuVernay. Together, Julie and Pedro break down the pattern of tension, surrender, and revelation, and how this becomes a practical way to understand manifesting beyond ego and control. They also discuss grief signs, divine orchestration, and how service and ministry can become the path back to peace. Work with Julie & Your Angels If you've been feeling the nudge  I want to hear my angels clearly, I want to work with them every day here's how to go deeper:

On this chilling episode of Seven Deadly Sinners, we plunge into one of the most astonishing tales of obedience, delusion, and the deadly consequences of unshakable belief. Hiroo Onoda, an elite Japanese intelligence officer trained to never surrender, vanished into the jungles of Lubang Island during World War II… and kept fighting for three more decades after the war had ended. As the world rebuilt, Onoda waged a private war in the shadows — stealing food, attacking villagers, and evading countless rescue attempts. Was he a loyal soldier? A brainwashed zealot? Or something far darker? We peel back the layers of an extraordinary human tragedy shaped by pride, violence, and a nation unwilling to face defeat. Join us as we explore the psychological grip of military indoctrination, the lives lost in Onoda's long refusal to accept reality, and the bizarre, heartbreaking moment his former commander had to travel into the jungle to tell him — finally — to stand down. This is the story of devotion pushed to deadly extremes. And it may just be one of the most haunting stories of pride we've ever covered.

If God can perfectly order the events of the Christmas story, we can entrust Him with stories of our own. We should mirror Mary's surrender and submission to God's plan. Notes: Galatians 4:4 (NKJV)But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law. READ Luke 1:26–33 #1 God Is Always On Time Luke 1:28 (NKJV)“Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” Luke 1:29 (NKJV)But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was. God is always on time. READ Luke 1:34–38 #2 God’s Timing Requires Our Surrender Luke 1:38 (NKJV)“Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” Matthew 6:10 (NKJV)Your kingdom come.Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. READ Mark 8:34–36 God’s plan is always better. Surrender doesn’t mean God makes everything comfortable.It means God makes everything count. Surrender always leads to Christ. Psalm 84:10 (NKJV)For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand.I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my Godthan dwell in the tents of wickedness. “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”—Jim Elliott READ Luke 1:39–45 #3 Our Obedience Has A Radius Luke 1:15 (NKJV)For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. What is God asking you to do? What areas in your life is God calling you to submit and surrender? Too many Christians are satisfied with comfort when God is offering conquest. Obey God.Submit to scripture.Live a life of integrity committed to God. Let it be to me according to your word. — Become a Harvest Partner today and join us in knowing God and making Him known through media and large-scale evangelism, our mission of over 30 years. Explore more resources from Pastor Greg Laurie, including daily devotionals and blogs, designed to answer your spiritual questions and equip you to walk closely with Christ.Support the show: https://bit.ly/anbsupportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.