Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith: Recent Episodes
Sarah Young
Millions have been encouraged and inspired by the words of the #1 best-selling 365-day devotional "Jesus Calling." Listen to real-life stories of faith as told by those who have experienced the power of living in His presence.
This episode contains content that may be triggering for some listeners.
Today we’re joined by author and speaker Sarah Jakes Roberts, who invites us to rethink what true strength looks like—shifting from building a tolerance for the world’s noise to finding stillness in our calling. From stepping back from social media to anchoring identity in daily prayer, Sarah shares the liberating truth she discovered when she finally hit “mute” on the digital world.
Next, we hear from human rights defender Timothy Cho, who recounts his harrowing escape from North Korea. He recounts the oppression and lies that were leveled at him from an early age and the moment he was labeled a traitor in his own country, driving his daring escape to experience the freedom truth brings, and how he now advocates for others to find their own freedom.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Cyntoia Brown-Long
Upcoming interview: Heather Land
Sarah Jakes Roberts
Woman Evolve
2 Corinthians 12:9
www.SarahJakesRoberts.com
The Power in Surrender
Timothy Cho
Tumen River
Timothy Cho’s Instagram
Interview Quotes:
“Strength is not our tolerance for whatever comes our way. It is our ability to stay focused regardless of what comes our way.” - Sarah Jakes Roberts
“Coming to a place where you can admit that I don’t have to be strong enough takes so much pressure off of yourself.” - Sarah Jakes Roberts
“My gratitude becomes more magnified because I realized just how unworthy I am, and how good God has been in allowing me this space and opportunity.” - Sarah Jakes Roberts
“When we talk about trying to figure out our identity in Christ in a world that is so noisy, we have to be the one to turn the volume down. You have to remember that you hold the remote control. At any given moment, you can hit mute. And in the process of hitting mute, you have to be willing to confront some of those voices that exist within our own head.” - Sarah Jakes Roberts
“Our identity is constantly being developed, and we get to decide whether we allow it to be formed by digital algorithms or by words from God, affirmations that come from stillness and prayer.” - Sarah Jakes Roberts
“Connecting with God daily allows us to be rooted and anchored in such a way that when we show up to the world, we’re not asking the world to tell us who we are.” - Sarah Jakes Roberts
“I asked God, ‘If you are really there and you give me freedom, I will give my life to you.’” - Timothy Cho
“Arriving in a democratic country, a free country, I thought it was the end. What I didn’t realize was that it was the beginning of another part of the journey.” - Timothy Cho
“I was [able to] fight back against a wave of darkness and trauma. In my desperation and screaming out and tears, I would keep hearing, ‘Son, I love you, I love you, I love you.’” - Timothy Cho
“We are facing a lot of hatred in this world at the moment. But hatred never [wins]; only love can overcome all of this hatred.” - Timothy Cho
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Butch Hartman, the animator and creator behind Nickelodeon’s biggest shows, including The Fairly OddParents and Danny Phantom. Butch grew up in a chaotic household in Michigan, where television and comic books served as his primary escape. This early passion eventually led him to California’s top animation school and then to a long career at Nickelodeon. Today, we’ll hear why he walked away after nearly twenty years at the network to start his own studio.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Matt Cooper, a country artist from Jacksonville, Florida who turned the worst year of his life into a number one radio single. After losing his mother to cancer, Matt found himself white-knuckling his grief, until a late night group therapy session cracked something open and sent him home to write a song in a single hour that would change everything.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Jimi Cravity
Upcoming interview: Sarah Jakes Roberts
Butch Hartman
CalArts
The Garden - Cartoon created by Butch Hartman
Matt Cooper
“Good God” - song by Matt Cooper
“Highs and Lows” - song by Matt Cooper
Interview Quotes:
“I was [at Nickelodeon] for a lifetime, and I thought it’s time to go build a new life somewhere else with my own way to do this.” - Butch Hartman
“There are millions of people out there that will never go into a church, but they’ll hold a screen in their hand and they’ll watch something. So it’s my job as a producer and a showrunner and a studio head to make sure that whatever goes on that screen is uplifting and is good for people’s souls and their spirit.” - Butch Hartman
“There are kids out there I will never meet, but I know that the content I’m producing is going to somehow affect their life in a positive way for the Lord.” - Butch Hartman
“We have to be very wise about the decisions we make, especially when it comes to entertainment, because it lives forever.” - Butch Hartman
“I think it’s really hard, especially as a man, to deal with grief, because you try to white knuckle everything as a dude.” - Matt Cooper
“I’m a big believer in therapy. It was really, really great for me. It was a way for me to talk through the emotions that I had just been hiding a lot.” - Matt Cooper
“I wrote my song 'Highs and Lows' in one hour. It was the fastest song I ever wrote. And that was the first sense of like finding music as a way of dealing with my grief.” - Matt Cooper
“I think the biggest thing that I’ve taken away from grief is that I understand more of the love of the Father than I ever had in my life.” - Matt Cooper
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https:/bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
In this deeply honest conversation, Erin Kerry opens up about living with PTSD, depression, and bipolar disorder—and the labels that once defined her. As a nutritionist and health coach, Erin shares how she moved from shame and self-limiting beliefs to a place of healing, hope, and wholeness.
Guest’s LinksYouTube: @erinbkerry
Facebook: @ErinBKerry
Instagram: @sparkingwholeness
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/44xz2Xs
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Jesus Calling Website
TikTok
Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Dr. Jim Burns, founder of HomeWord, returns to the Jesus Calling Podcast to discuss how parents can navigate the heartbreak of estrangement with their adult children. He offers advice on avoiding self-blame, communicating without unsolicited criticism, and prioritizing healthy boundaries.
Later, neuroscientist Dr. Joshua W. Brown shares how a terminal brain tumor diagnosis at age thirty sparked his interest in investigating how faith practices and prayer contribute to healing. Using his scientific training, he describes seeing cases that medical professionals cannot explain, exploring how healing may happen beyond the scope of traditional treatment.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Brooke Envick
Upcoming interview: Butch Hartman
Dr. Jim Burns
Doing Life with Your Adult Children: Keep Your Mouth Shut and the Welcome Mat Out - Book by Dr. Jim Burns
When Your Adult Child Strays: Trading Heartache For Hope - Book by Dr. Jim Burns
Reconnecting with Your Estranged Adult Child: Practical Tips and Tools to Heal Your Relationship - Book by Tina Gilbetson
Dr. Joshua W. Brown
Global Medical Research Institute
Proving a Miracle: Unlocking the Power of Prayer to Heal - Book by Dr. Joshua W. Brown
Interview Quotes:
“I say to people whose kids are just moving into adulthood: ‘Number one, you’re fired as a day-to-day parent. You have to give the kid the passport to adulthood.’” - Dr. Jim Burns
“Mentors don’t necessarily give advice, they give advice when they’re asked.” - Dr. Jim Burns
“I say to parents all the time, take the lead, but take the lead with love. Take the lead with kindness.” - Dr. Jim Burns
“There are very few estrangements where we don’t need the help of counsel. We need somebody coming alongside us to give us insight, especially with estrangement, because we don’t know what to do.” - Dr. Jim Burns
“So the tightrope that you walk is you show love, you practice kindness, you expand the relationship to not just be a one-topic parent. And in doing that, you can embrace your child and love your child.” - Dr. Jim Burns
“I think the bottom line with a lot of people, a lot of adult children, is they’re asking one question, ‘Do you still love me?’” - Dr. Jim Burns
“If you hope for nothing, you are protected from being disappointed. And so hope has a cost to it. I was starting to see people, right in front of me, experience healing through this kind of prayer ministry. And so that gave me some degree of hope that there was at least something going on there that was worth pursuing.” - Dr. Joshua W. Brown
“If you spend your time praying, thinking about God, thinking about His goodness, thinking about how He loves you and cares for you, your brain cells will become more responsive to those thoughts over time.” - Dr. Joshua W. Brown
“Can what we believe, or our prayers for example, lead to mind-body effects that can have effects on actually reducing pain?” - Dr. Joshua W. Brown
“As with food, you are what you eat. And I think the same principle applies spiritually and even psychologically [as to] the things that you spend time thinking about.” - Dr. Joshua W. Brown
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Today, we’re joined by two people who found their way through the wreckage of their pasts to build something new. First, we hear from Tom Hardin. A former Wall Street insider trader, Tom saw his entire world unravel the morning the FBI knocked on his door. He joins us to share how he moved from a double life of secrets to finding a faith that finally holds up on Monday mornings.
Then, we’re joined by Dawn Cazedessus [CAZZ de sue], author of Trailer Park CEO. Raised in an environment of generational poverty and abuse, Dawn navigated the difficult path from survival to becoming a regional leader for Keller Williams International. She’ll walk us through how she broke that cycle and why she’s learned to embrace failure as a way to fail forward.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Tim Green
Upcoming interview: Dr. Jim Burns
Tom Hardin
Wired on Wall Street: The Rise and Fall of Tipper X, One of the FBI’s Most Prolific Informants - Book by Tom Hardin
Dawn Cazedessus
Trailer Park CEO: 12 Leadership Cornerstones to Become a Godly Woman of Influence - Book by Dawn Cazedessus
Interview Quotes:
“Ambition without any anchoring was sort of like velocity without direction. I had all the drive in the world; I just hadn’t built the moral infrastructure to sustain it.” - Tom Hardin
“The most dangerous lie isn’t the one you tell others; it’s absolutely the one you tell yourself so fluently you forget it’s a lie at all.” - Tom Hardin
“God didn’t meet me at the top of my career; He met me at the bottom of my character.” - Tom Hardin
“Guilt says, I did something bad, shame says, I am something terrible. Guilt can drive you towards repentance, but shame drives you into hiding—not only from yourself, but from others and from God.” - Tom Hardin
“This idea of “Who am I hurting” is the most seductive question a person can ask because the answer is always larger than you’re willing to imagine while you’re asking it.” - Tom Hardin
“Faithfulness isn’t a feeling. It’s a decision you make every morning before the feelings arrive.” - Tom Hardin
“As I drove off [from the trailer park], in my mind, I was leaving that past behind and going into the future, but what I realized later on in my life is that I physically left that day, but it took years to mentally leave.” - Dawn Cazedessus
“The people who have given me their time have been even more valuable because they took time to pour into me, to speak into me.” - Dawn Cazedessus
“You’ve got to be able to approach life with a glass that is overflowing, so that you can navigate the difficulty of the things.” - Dawn Cazedessus
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Website
TikTok
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Welcome to a special scripture-focused bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, where we think about the concept of the Trinity—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—and what their presence and purpose means to each of our individual lives. Pastor, author, and speaker Timothy Jones helps us contemplate this relational view, and how the communing of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit brings a new level of intimacy and belovedness to each of us.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Timothy Jones
Fully Beloved
Interview Quotes:
“I found that knowing God as Father, Son, and Spirit warms our view of God. There’s a real tenderness here, and that surprises some people.” - Timothy Jones
“I see in the three-person portrait of God a wonderful invitation to know all three in more intimate ways, to realize how God comes close to give us help for our everyday life.” - Timothy Jones
“Before humankind even appeared on the scene, God was already busy relating. It makes sense that God, already full of love and communing, would create.” - Timothy Jones
“God is not some aloof, distant being. This is not some deity who can’t understand what it means to be in an intimate relationship.” - Timothy Jones
“Because God has shown us this picture of God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, we glimpse a delight that grows out of a communion that’s already at play between the three persons of the Trinity.” - Timothy Jones
“We’re all searching for a more lasting love, something that’s reliable, sturdy, dependable, and abundant. This is what I see in the picture of the Trinity. Because of all this relational depth, it’s not intimidating as much as it is life-changing.” - Timothy Jones
“Human tenderness alone cannot satisfy our deepest longings. What I’m seeing here [in the Trinity] can heighten our anticipation for a life with God, a relationally richer life.” - Timothy Jones
“God cares about our daily worries, about the hardest things that happen to us, whether we’re loved and valued.” - Timothy Jones
“The early church spoke of the Trinity not merely as doctrine, but as something that could take a lifetime of exploring and pondering, and could deepen and enrich our worship in wonderful ways.” - Timothy Jones
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we hear from Jameson and Mary Reeder, authors of Rescue at the Reef. They share the miraculous story of their ten-year-old son, Jameson Jr., who narrowly survived a devastating bull shark attack in the Florida Keys. Despite a life-altering injury, Jameson Jr.’s faith remained unshaken, and just four days later, he asked to return to the reef.
Later in the episode, we hear from Greta Eskridge, author and homeschool mom of four, who shares her story of healing after her husband Aaron confessed to an affair and a years-long pornography addiction. While working to heal the damage to their marriage, Greta became convinced that parents must break the silence around this issue and initiate difficult conversations with their kids about pornography.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Chelsea Damon
Upcoming interview: Tom Hardin
Jameson & Mary Reeder
Rescue at the Reef: The Miraculous True Story of a Little Boy with Big Faith - Book by Jameson & Mary Reeder
Greta Eskridge
It’s Time to Talk to Your Kids About Porn - Book by Greta Eskridge
Interview Quotes:
“It goes from the greatest day of our life to the worst day, just like that. [My son] hears me scream, “No,” and the first words out of his mouth are, “Daddy, it’s okay. Jesus is going to save me.” - Jameson Reeder
“When you face your fear, the fear doesn’t go away, but what you focus on is what rises. Do you focus on the fear or do you focus on your heavenly Father who’s with you in those fearful moments? He’s not abandoned you. He’s with you. And when you focus on your Father over the fear, then freedom rises.” - Jameson Reeder
“Cultivating connection isn’t about these singular once-a-year, twice-a-year big moments. It’s everyday intentional time spent with one another.” - Greta Eskridge
“We need to have conversations about pornography and the disconnection that it causes.” - Greta Eskridge
“Out of that brokenness [of betrayal] has come a desire for both of us to not only cultivate meaningful, intentional, lasting connection as a couple, but also with our children, with friends, because not only have we experienced the disconnection ourselves, but we have recognized that our world is becoming increasingly more disconnected.” - Greta Eskridge
“As much as [my husband] wanted to escape addiction, the nature of addiction is that it is very hard to do that on your own, and he needed support.” - Greta Eskridge
“Beginning to understand what [my husband] was dealing with was impactful for me to have compassion and understanding for him..Being willing to do that and pursue my own healing as a betrayed spouse at the same time, those two things were transformative, and really, honestly, what changed everything for both of us.” - Greta Eskridge
“When we allow ourselves to have that conversation [about pornography] with our kids or with one another, it takes away the power of the thing, and it reduces the shame. Shame tells us this is the end. But when we bring it into the light, it loses its power.” - Greta Eskridge
“It’s incredible how much can change just by simply opening the door to honest, heartfelt conversation.” - Greta Eskridge
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
YouTube
Website
TikTok
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Victoria Arlen, a former Paralympic swimmer and ESPN personality, who shares her harrowing journey of surviving a rare autoimmune condition that left her in a “locked-in” vegetative state for four years beginning at age eleven. Beyond her physical recovery, she faced the intense emotional pressure of being labeled a “miracle,” while silently struggling with trauma and mental health. She eventually found peace by learning to embrace vulnerability, a transformation she details here.
Later in the episode, we hear from author and actress Hillary Phillips as she bravely shares about transforming a broken view of God—seeing Him as angry and tallying mistakes—into an authentic relationship. After a complicated childhood turned into years of internalizing pain, Hillary recounts the raw moment she cried out to God in anger, only to be met with a supernatural love she never knew was possible.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Chris & Lindsey Wheeler
Upcoming interview: Jameson and Mary Reeder
Victoria Arlen
Victoria’s Victory Foundation
Dancing with The Stars
Hillary Phillips
My Brain While Reading the Bible- Book by Hillary Phillips
The Big Blue Book - Show ft. Hillary Phillips
The Greatest Thing Ever!- Movie ft. Hillary Phillips
Interview Quotes:
“What the doctors failed to realize was I could hear everything that they were saying, and I could see, but nobody knew that I could. So I was literally locked inside my own body.” - Victoria Arlen
“..You really have a choice—you fight or you give in. I saw how my family refused to give up on me.. They set up a hospital room in our living room and basically brought the world to me, because in their eyes, if they had a month with me, or a couple years, or the rest of my life, they wanted to take care of me.” - Victoria Arlen
“I had this peace that surpassed understanding, and this journey as my mom calls it—our tragic, beautiful journey—is where we found God. It’s where we found our family, on a whole different level, and it really set my life in a whole different direction.” - Victoria Arlen
“When I broke down, that was the beginning of that breakthrough in which God orchestrated so many things, to essentially help me get to that path where, Oh, I get that peace that surpasses understanding.” - Victoria Arlen
“It was the first time the Gospel really sunk in for me—You don’t just love me because of how I perform or because of all these outward things, You love me [through] all of that stuff that I’m seeing.” - Hillary Phillips
“Learning to be still with God and realize, Oh wait, you don’t actually expect me to be anything other than who I am. You don’t call me to wear a mask. You call me just to be. And learning how to do that is such a liberating thing, but also it’s just ongoing.” - Hillary Phillips
“I was angry and felt wronged, and God really started to challenge me on how I was showing up in love. One of the things I realized was that I was not accepting my parents as they were [or] where they were. I was holding them to this idea of who they needed to be and who they weren’t.. God really helped me realize that’s not actually walking in love. I am rejecting who they are and only holding them to this idea or their past.” - Hillary Phillips
“God didn’t promise us an easy life, He didn’t promise us a life free of suffering, but He did promise us hope and a future. He promised us that whenever we are struggling, He’ll be there with us through it. He’ll never leave us or forsake us.” - Hillary Phillips
“I think that God used that experience to really show me His love is because I had to learn to sit and see trauma up close, but also recognize it’s not my job to fix.” - Hillary Phillips
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
YouTube
Website
TikTok
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Author and counselor John Eldredge joins us to share why the Christian life was always meant to be more than information—it’s meant to be deeply experiential. In this conversation, learning to receive God’s love, and allowing His presence to heal our deepest wounds.
Guest’s LinksYouTube: @WildatHeartOfficial
Facebook: @wildatheartministries
Instagram: @wildatheart
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4ojPthk
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
YouTube
Jesus Calling Website
TikTok
Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we hear from Dr. Michael Guillén, a physicist who grew up in East LA, earned his PhD from Cornell, taught at Harvard, and spent fourteen years as the science editor for ABC News—including a dive to the wreck of the Titanic that nearly killed him. Dr. Guillén shares how decades of studying invisible forces in the universe—dark matter, hidden dimensions, the limits of what science can actually see—ultimately led the self-described atheist to faith and why he believes science makes the case for God stronger, not weaker.
Later in the episode, we hear from Chris Hodges, founding pastor of Church of the Highlands, who opens up about the grief, burnout, and panic attacks that brought him to a breaking point after a decade of leading one of the country’s fastest-growing churches—and the five-step process he found in scripture that pulled him out.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Nathan Davis Jr.
Upcoming interview: Victoria Arlen
Dr. Michael Guillén
The Invisible Everywhere: Believing Is Seeing - Documentary by Dr. Michael Guillén
Church of the Highlands
Highlands College
Legacy Letters: Timeless Principles I Learned, Lived, and Leave Behind - Book by Chris Hodges
Interview Quotes:
“It’s not seeing is believing; it’s believing is seeing.” - Dr. Michael Guillén
“Far from there being any contradictions, actually there were a lot of similarities between how the Bible describes heaven and how modern science describes this visible realm beyond the cosmic horizon.” - Dr. Michael Guillén
“There is no fundamental contradiction between the Biblical worldview and the modern scientific worldview.” - Dr. Michael Guillén
“Now that I’m grown up, I’m still a scientist, but now I’m a devout Christian. I don’t feel that lonely. I’m finding that more and more scientists are very receptive to the idea of God.” - Dr. Michael Guillén
“Science has made it easier for me to believe in God, not harder.I’ve grown accustomed to dealing with invisible realities. It’s the bread and butter of modern science.The fact that God is invisible is no big deal for me, because I see His fingerprints everywhere.” - Dr. Michael Guillén
“I liken the process or the feelings of depression and burnout as kind of being in the cave. Like, you know there’s a way out, but you don’t know where it is and it’s dark and it’s confusing.” - Chris Hodges
“Many people only know God in the dynamic; they don’t know Him in the intimate.” - Chris Hodges
“When I had a new assignment, and a fresh purpose for life.. Joy flooded my heart the moment I knew God had something He wanted me to do.” - Chris Hodges
“I call it the bucket list principle—if you want to start living, start dreaming.” - Chris Hodges
“I think people can come out of their burnout conditions by their closeness with the Lord, by renewing their sense of purpose and hope.” - Chris Hodges
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
YouTube
Website
TikTok
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This Father’s Day week, we hear from two men whose completely different experiences of childhood and fatherhood led them to the same mission: helping dads show up with intention. Jeff Hamilton, pastor and author of Dad Academy, grew up with the rare gift of an engaged, present father. Today, he’s helping dads build stronger relationships with their children through intentional parenting.
Later in the episode, we hear from Glen Henry, known online as Beleaf in Fatherhood, whose story couldn’t be more different—a childhood marked by feeling unwanted and unloved, and a young adulthood spent shifting his identity just to feel accepted. It was becoming a father himself that finally forced the inner work he’d avoided and how he learned the importance of fathering yourself first.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Dr. Meg Meeker
Upcoming interview: Dr. Michael Guillén
Jeff Hamilton
Dad Academy
Dad Academy: Raising Courageous, Capable, Confident Kids - Book by Jeff Hamilton
Glen Henry
Beleaf in Fatherhood YouTube Channel
Father Yourself First: Everything You Need to Become the Father Your Family Deserves - Book by Glen Henry
Interview Quotes:
“Kids are going to be kind of self-conscious as they start to compare themselves to the environment or to the relationships that are around them, but our job is not to let their self-worth and value be influenced by an image of what other people want them to be.” - Jeff Hamilton
“There’s inherent greatness in our kids, and it’s our job as parents to nurture it within them.” - Jeff Hamilton
“I think the greatest thing that we can pass on to our kids is the value of serving. We find a sense of significance by the value and benefit that we bring to others.” - Jeff Hamilton
“A dad’s mission is to prepare their kids for life by passing on their values and their skills to their children.” - Jeff Hamilton
“The rituals and traditions of your family are the things that give your children a sense of identity and understanding of who they are and the priorities that they need to establish in the course of their lives.” - Jeff Hamilton
“[Traditions and rituals] create memorable moments that helpour kids understand when they move from one stage to another, and it affirms who they are becoming and the future and the destiny that’s ahead for them.” - Jeff Hamilton
“Once I started to grow as a man by having to apply the things that people were trying to teach me my whole life, I recognized the true gift that fatherhood was.” - Glen Henry
“My thought is that you would father yourself out of that and start to change your inner voice so that you always speak to yourself as a father that loves you, just like you love your children.” - Glen Henry
“The way I have been held as a father, I’ve never felt closer to God than I have being a part of a family. You’re collaborating with God on a masterpiece.” - Glen Henry
“There are things hidden in the relationship [with your family] that if you allow it to teach you, you will grow closer to God.” - Glen Henry
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Welcome to this special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast. We’re talking to men who look at their lives as fathers as one of the most important roles they’ll ever have. Our earthly fathers—or the significant father figures in our lives—cast a profound and lasting shadow on who we become. We carry their wisdom, their lessons, and their support as a foundation for our own lives. Yet, for many, that influence also includes painful memories—moments of absence, criticism, or misunderstanding that leave behind wounds and a deep yearning for unconditional acceptance. No human father is perfect, and the imperfections in our relationships can sometimes make it difficult to grasp the concept of a loving Father in heaven. Through prayer and faith, we can allow God’s perfect love to mend the broken places and provide the strength to honor and navigate our relationship with our human fathers.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Steven Curtis Chapman & Emily Chapman Richards
Rob Kenney
Kirk Cousins
Jeremy Rosado
Trey Tucker
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we hear from comedian Tim Hawkins, who shares what it took to build a career on clean, relatable comedy—and the surprising lesson he learned when nearly two decades of constant road life led to complete burnout.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from singer-songwriter and pastor Michael Charles Olson, who shares a life influenced by both worship and wounds. Raised in a church where music and faith were woven into everyday life, Michael reflects on how that early sense of sanctuary was later shaken to its core by a church fire that damaged more than just its walls.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Becky Thompson
Upcoming interview: Jeff Hamilton
Tim Hawkins
Fist Bump - Comedy Special by Tim Hawkins
Michael Charles Olson
Rocketown Records
Daddy Set the Church on Fire: A Journey Toward Restoration - Book by Michael Charles Olson
Interview Quotes:
“I grew up in a very fun family. We laughed a lot. We enjoyed comedy. I didn’t know what it was. I just know it made me feel good, and it was fun to create it and make people laugh.” - Tim Hawkins
“My job is to be funny. People call me a Christian comedian, but I’m a Christian who is a comedian.” - Tim Hawkins
“It’s all about connection. Connection is something that we need—and lack.It’s a need that fulfills something in us.” - Tim Hawkins
“A thing that I needed to learn was to control my brain, to just shut it down.. And being able to just stop that and be quiet and present.” - Tim Hawkins
“Just like that organ was a really, really intricate instrument of praise, my dad was a beautiful soul, deep soul, and through the power of unforgiveness, our home fell apart.” - Michael Charles Olson
“When the heart of the father turns inward on itself through pain, the child is kind of left not knowing what to do because we’re hardwired in the way that we were created in our relationship with God for this openness and vulnerability.” - Michael Charles Olson
“I really feel like my role as a worship leader is to create environments where the fire of God is experienced in the church.” - Michael Charles Olson
“We all go through seasons of brokenness. We all go through seasons where we feel like we’ve let God down. We feel like we let ourselves down. I think I would just say that I’ve had those seasons, and it’s very, very important to hear the voice of the Good Shepherd speaking to you in the midst of your brokenness.” - Michael Charles Olson
“When you’re wounded in the sanctuary, when the thing that you hold most dear burns to the ground, God meets you in a restorative place.” - Michael Charles Olson
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Welcome to a special scripture-focused bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, where we contemplate the two hundred plus mornings mentioned in the Bible with author and Bible teacher Jennifer Dukes Lee. Jennifer walks us through notable mornings from Scripture, like God’s first creation on earth when He said “let there be light,” to Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, and the tasks God gives people like Abraham, Moses, and Jacob to begin at daybreak. Jennifer reminds us how each sunrise reminds us that God’s mercies are new each and every day, giving us built-in do-overs and a chance to fall in love with life and the role God has for us all over again.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Jennifer Dukes Lee
How to Love Your Morning by Jennifer Dukes Lee
Interview Quotes:
“Anytime we look east, we see the sun rising and it reminds me that God’s mercies are new every morning.” - Jennifer Dukes Lee
“God built these do-overs every twenty-four hours into this cycle on earth, and every morning is a new opportunity to wake up and say, ‘Thank you for this day you have given me.’” - Jennifer Dukes Lee
“You study all these mornings in Scripture, and you see it as a really special time for God to set His people out to be obedient to what He has called them to do.” - Jennifer Dukes Lee
“If you chase a sunrise, you stand with your eyes facing east, and you see a little bit of light creeping up over the horizon. And it’s like God saying to you, ‘Welcome to a new day. This is your day to love and enjoy and to be present with Me.’” - Jennifer Dukes Lee
“On the morning when Jesus was crucified… we don’t like to think about Jesus on a cross and how painful that is. But it reminds me that Jesus gets our hard mornings, and some of the most sacred mornings in Scripture don’t start with joy, they start in the dark.” - Jennifer Dukes Lee
“We have this idea that everything will be better in the morning. That doesn’t mean our problems are going to disappear, but it does mean that God could change something in us even if our circumstances don’t change.” - Jennifer Dukes Lee
“It doesn’t matter what time I get up, or how much I can accomplish before 8:00 AM. What matters is that I can bring the hopefulness that God promises at the start of a new day and bring that into my life, beginning with the moment my feet hit the floor.” - Jennifer Dukes Lee
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Annie Bosko, a country artist whose career was gaining momentum when, in the middle of a live performance, her voice suddenly gave out. What followed was a vocal cord injury that required surgery and months of recovery where she couldn’t speak at all. Annie shares what that season of silence revealed, the people who stepped in to help her rebuild, and how she slowly returned to doing what she loves.
Later, we’ll hear from chef and author Danielle Kartes. After her family lost everything when their restaurant closed, Danielle struggled to rebuild her life and marriage. Though she vowed never to cook again, she was drawn back to the kitchen. Her attempt to reconcile her deep faith with her practical, food-centric work asking, “How does hope relate to pot roast?” became the foundation for her company, Rustic Joyful Food.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Jordan Smith
Upcoming interview: Tim Hawkins
Annie Bosko
MusiCares
God Winks - Song by Annie Bosko
California Cowgirl- Album by Annie Bosko
Danielle Kartes
Rustic Joyful Food.
The Best Kids Cookbook: 60 Fun and Simple Recipes to Get Kids Cooking - Book by Danielle Kartes
Interview Quotes:
“That’s really when your faith is tested the most—when you don’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, but you still have to believe that it’s there.” - Annie Bosko
“I was forced—because I couldn’t talk, I couldn’t open my mouth and talk to anyone—to get really quiet, to quiet the outside noise, and forced to really dig deep into what I wanted to do next and what I was feeling called to do to next, which I think is really important because the world will pull you a thousand different ways if you don’t have the internal strength, fortitude, direction in here.” - Annie Bosko
“I think when everything’s going really well, it’s easy to forget about consulting with God. But when nothing’s going for you, or when you feel like you’re at your wit’s end and you feel really down on all hope, I think that’s when people have to turn to faith the most.” - Annie Bosko
“You have to be on the bigger spiritual plan, path, [or] course for your life that doesn’t look like anyone else’s. That’s really important to sort of tune out sometimes even like your own voices of fear, because I really believe that anytime you’re making decisions out of fear, that’s not in love.” - Annie Bosko
“I can carry out God’s plan for me, [and] I think at the end of the day, it’s only you and God [that] know how far you can actually go.” - Annie Bosko
“God is still good, and He can still use your story even if it’s broken. God still wants wonderful things from you.” - Danielle Kartes
“When I stopped wanting Him to show up in the way that I thought I needed and allowed God to show up in the way that He needed for my life, everything changed as far as my peace and trusting His provision.” - Danielle Kartes
“I think that you can strengthen your family bond and your bond with your children by allowing them into your day. I think that it’s really important to just involve your kids in what you’re doing.” - Danielle Kartes
“The more time you spend with the Lord, the more time you make for Jesus, the better you feel, even if your life circumstances aren’t changing.” - Danielle Kartes
“God didn’t promise us that it would be easy, but He did promise, “I’m going to be with you every step of the way.” - Danielle Kartes
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’re honored to welcome back a dear friend of the show—the iconic artist, singer, and GRAMMY winner Amy Grant. Amy joins us to share her heart about her first album of original material in thirteen years, the deeply personal project titled “The Me That Remains.” In this moving interview, Amy opens up about the profound life events that inspired her new music—navigating the tender journey of aging and caring for her parents at the end of their lives, her ongoing recovery from a serious bike accident, and the enduring joy of creating music that she feels grateful to share with the world.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Andrew Osenga, a Nashville-based musician, writer, and podcaster. Andrew spent years trapped in the tension between his private doubts and the crushing expectation of performing as a Christian artist. Growing up, image was everything, and he struggled under the pressure to appear “put-together”—even when he felt broken inside. It took devastating loss—including his home flooding, displacing his family, and his wife’s grueling cancer journey—for him to finally break free from performance-driven faith.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Diane Chew
Upcoming interview: Annie Bosko
Amy Grant
The Me That Remains - Album by Amy Grant
The Book of Forgiving - Book by Desmond Tutu and Mpho Tutu
The 6th Of January (Yasgur's Farm) - Song by Amy Grant
Andrew Osenga
How to Remember: Forgotten Pathways to an Authentic Faith - Book by Andrew Osenga
Caedmon’s Call
Young Life
Interview Quotes:
“Don't ever be afraid to speak the truth of what is right now.” - Amy Grant
“Life is happening to all of us all the time, and we have to be gentle with ourselves and gentle with each other.” - Amy Grant
“I feel like the arts are good medicine for everybody.” - Amy Grant
“We are all part of humanity and we all experience good, hard and unresolved unrest; how do we sit in it and find our way forward?” - Amy Grant
“When [accidents or illnesses] come, you need people in your life to remind you what matters: you are loved by God, and if you’re still breathing, the adventure continues.” - Amy Grant
“Jesus doesn’t want us to pretend. He wants us to be the people He created. He doesn’t love a fake image of me. He loves me.” - Andrew Osenga
“There have been a number of experiences in my life that have helped redirect me towards a more quiet and grounded way of being with God, moving from performance towards presence.” - Andrew Osenga
“The wonderful thing is Jesus doesn’t meet us in our perfection, He meets us in our suffering. Jesus is introduced to us in the Bible as a man of sorrows. And so, it’s not that we have to stay there all the time, knowing that is a part of our story. Being able to be honest about that allows us this freedom to be people of joy rather than having to sort of put on a happy face.” - Andrew Osenga
“We can say that we can hold suffering and joy in both hands at the same time, and I think those are the people that we’re drawn to. And that’s when we can start to speak with an authentic voice. That takes time to learn how to do that, and that takes, honestly, walking through seasons of both suffering and joy to be able to learn how to do that.” - Andrew Osenga
“We live in a culture that prizes things like novelty, speed, and constant reinvention. I think these practices like lament, confession, shared prayer, and silence can be a form of resistance, pushing back against this speed, the hectic life, against the doom scroll.” - Andrew Osenga
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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TikTok
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Author and poet Tanner Olson joins us to share his family’s journey through unexplained infertility and the heartache it brought. Out of that season of grief came unexpected joy—the gift of adoption and the arrival of his son. Tanner reflects on the role of prayer in holding both sorrow and hope, and the childlike wonder he’s learning from his little boy.
Guest’s LinksYouTube: @tannerJolson
Facebook: @writtentospeak
Instagram: @writtentospeak
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4p3cPZC
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Jesus Calling Website
TikTok
Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Caroline Beidler, a speaker and recovery advocate who began using alcohol at just eleven years old to numb the pain of a deep sense of loneliness and not belonging. This led to years of addiction, but even after getting sober, Caroline found she was still wrestling with shame, unhealthy patterns, and wounds that hadn’t healed.
Jonathan Tepper is a founder, author, and strategic thinker whose journey began as the son of missionaries in regions of deep cultural and economic contrast. From his upbringing in Spain by missionaries who sought to help those addicted to heroin, all the way to Taiwan and the high-stakes world of global finance, he has found himself on a search for truth and fairness.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Ryan Scheckler.
Upcoming interview: Amy Grant
Caroline Beidler
When You Love Someone in Recovery, A Hopeful Guide to Understanding Addiction - Book by Caroline Beidler
Jonathan Tepper
Shooting Up: A Memoir of Love, Loss and Addiction - Book by Jonathan Tepper
Mere Christianity - Book by C.S. Lewis
Interview Quotes:
“I had no name for who God was, but at the same time, I just remember knowing that He was there. I just feel like from even an early age, I was seeking that relationship, and I was seeking a connection with God.” - Caroline Beidler
“It wasn’t until I started walking in longer-term recovery that I saw how me showing up as a sober, healthy, growing person impacted people in my life, in my family, who struggled with substance use—just my presence showed people there’s another way to live.” - Caroline Beidler
“Recovery is a deep experience that we can go through, of not just physical healing and emotional healing, but spiritual healing and formation.” - Caroline Beidler
“When our loved ones have hope for us, have hope that we will heal and find addiction recovery, we are more likely to. That is a powerful statement, and that is a powerful way that I think God reveals [that] hope isn’t just some feeling.” - Caroline Beidler
“We know from the research and our own experience that the number one way to help people struggling with addiction is to connect them with people with a similar life experience.” - Caroline Beidler
“Those two pieces—hope and belonging, hope and connection—are so important when we’re talking about how people can heal from addiction, not just themselves as individuals, but as families.” - Caroline Beidler
Addiction kind of breeds and increases and gets stronger and more destructive in isolation. When we can shine some light on what’s going on, that’s where God can come in and that healing can happen.” - Caroline Beidler
“The best thing that families can do when their loved one is struggling is lead with love and lead with compassion.” - Caroline Beidler
“Addiction is a crisis of loneliness, and the way to address it isn’t just through treatment. It’s making sure our loved ones are connected in community.” - Caroline Beidler
“One thing I’ve taken away is that you can be a miserable, greedy person and poor or you can be a miserable, greedy person and rich.” - Jonathan Tepper
“You have to decide every day whether you want to be loving and compassionate. And it doesn’t really matter where you are to do that, as long as you’re doing your best with what you have.” - Jonathan Tepper
“I don’t think heroism is one single great act of courage. I think it’s showing up day to day and trying to show love and compassion to others.” - Jonathan Tepper
“My parents never planned on starting an international drug rehab center, they set out to show love and compassion to one addict at a time. And I think that taking one step at a time is a way that you can change the world, even if you don’t set out to do it.” - Jonathan Tepper
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’re talking with astronaut Butch Wilmore who has spent 465 days off-planet, giving him a literally out-of-this-world perspective on God’s creation. From fighter jet pilot to Space Shuttle commander, Wilmore’s career was a testament to preparation and discipline. However, his faith was truly tested when a spacecraft Wilmore was manning began losing thrusters—and he was just a prayer away from spiraling toward potential disaster.
Next up, we speak with Brooke Envick, a veteran dean in higher education, who recounts how achieving every professional milestone left her feeling empty. She discusses combining lessons from neuroscience with practices like gratitude and prayer, revealing how a sudden, debilitating health crisis forced her into a necessary stillness that ultimately paved the way for profound, lasting internal change.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Nikki DeLoach
Upcoming interview: Caroline Beidler
Jesus Calling for Moms
Butch Wilmore
Boeing Starliner
Stuck in Space: An Astronaut's Hope Through the Unexpected - Book by Butch Wilmore
Brooke Envick
True Ascension: Unlocking Greatness Through Faith, Fortitude, and Foresight - Book by Brooke Envick
Interview Quotes:
“You can see the vibrancy, you can see life in the colors. Understanding and knowing that the atmosphere protects the planet and enables us to have the air to breathe that we need, and all of that, and it’s all supplied by our Lord and Savior, our God, the Creator of all things, that is a special thing to view from that vantage point.” - Butch Wilmore
“In all types of strenuous situations that we come through in life—to where realizing the Lord’s in control, He is sovereign, working providentially for His Glory and our ultimate good, if we believe. And that is the mainstay of who I am, what I understand, what I know God’s Word to say. And again, even in those moments, it brings intense comfort and intense hope. There’s always, always, eternal hope, regardless of what takes place.” - Butch Wilmore
“You’ve got to be completely committed, all in, and that commitment breeds the preparation that is required for whatever the tasks are that you’re undertaking, because the responsibility is great, sometimes greater in certain areas than others.” - Butch Wilmore
“I have to come at whatever the task is with a complete mindset of being prepared, disciplined in that preparation, because that’s what it takes—and in those extremist situations, maintaining the focus that’s required to do the task, whatever that might be.” - Butch Wilmore
“Anything that we have, everything that we are capable of doing, everything that we are tasked with doing, He’s given us the ability, and to Him be the glory.” - Butch Wilmore
“Life is tough, and in every situation, everything in life, you have to want whatever it is that’s going forward. You have to want it, you’ve got to be committed, you’ve got to prepare, because the responsibility is great that God requires of us, in all aspects of our lives.” - Butch Wilmore
“God was still shaping me in that moment and it taught me that real change doesn’t always come from moving faster or starting over. Sometimes it actually happens from stopping and listening and allowing God to align your inner life before sending you forward again.” - Brooke Envick
“I found that scripture gave me a lot of insight into broader wisdom and lessons from the Bible, prayer gave me a connection and ongoing conversation with God, and meditation brought alignment to my life. It helped me slow down and focus my thoughts and become more intentional about how I was responding to life, instead of simply reacting to it.” - Brooke Envick
“What we return to consistently is what begins to shape our thought patterns, emotional responses, and also our sense of peace. So when we connect with God daily, we reinforce those neural pathways associated with calm, trust, and meaning. Devotionals like Jesus Calling help us create space for that daily attunement and moments when we need to pause and listen and realign our thoughts with truth and with trust. What I’ve seen in my own life is that daily connection doesn’t remove challenges, but it changes how we move through them.” - Brooke Envick
“Faith isn’t meant to be passive. God gives us direction, purpose, and trust, but He expects us to use the tools He gives us to make progress.” - Brooke Envick
“Faith shapes the why, which is our meaning, our purpose, and our trust in God, and neuroscience reveals the how.” - Brooke Envick
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
YouTube
Website
TikTok
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Welcome to a special scripture-focused bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, in which we hone in on the character of Abigail in the Bible with singer/songwriter, author and Dove Award-winning artist Nicole C. Mullen. Nicole shows us how we can apply Abigail’s courageous principles to our own lives in order to stand up for what’s right, even when we’re surrounded by wrongs, and what it looks like to raise our voices in a way that’s full of grace and freedom.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Nicole C. Mullen
Corrie ten Boom
Mother Teresa
It’s Never Wrong to Do the Right Thing by Nicole C. Mullen
Interview Quotes:
“I love studying the lives of biblical women because they remind me of myself. When I see in Scripture how God dealt with them, I know He’s the same yesterday, today, and forever, and what He did is what He still does. Their stories give me hope in my now and in my future.” - Nicole C. Mullen
“[The story of Abigail] is one of those stories that’s encouraged me throughout the years to make wise decisions. Sometimes I, too, will have to run interference for the safety of my home.” - Nicole C. Mullen
“Abigail’s story teaches us spiritual discernment in the realm of if there is a situation where we are faced with the decision between right and wrong, good and evil, I believe we are called to act on behalf of the good.” - Nicole C. Mullen
“I was abused physically for a few years, and I had to make a decision as to, Do I continue to stay and remain silent and allow fear to make me voiceless? Or do I borrow the courage of other sheroes that have come before me?” - Nicole C. Mullen
“I’m very passionate about encouraging other women and letting them know they have a voice, and that Scripture allows them to beautifully turn up the volume.” - Nicole C. Mullen
“I see the Abigail spirit all the time in women who may never gain notoriety. Their names may never become famous. They may never wear a cape or have an S on their chest. But on the inside, they are sheroes, because they have courageously stood against evil, and so I applaud them.” - Nicole C. Mullen
“We’re not called to be quiet when it comes to righteousness and justice and things that are promoted as biblical values. We’re called to raise our voices in a way that’s full of wisdom, full of intelligence, full of beauty, full of grace, and full of freedom.” - Nicole C. Mullen
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
What happens when the question “Am I enough?” follows you into every part of your life? For mental health therapist Trey Tucker, that question isn’t just theoretical—it’s something he’s seen affect the lives of countless men and one he’s wrestled with himself.
Then, writer and mother Kit Willis Rutherford invites us into a quiet, sacred moment from her own life. As her grandmother faced her final days, a tiny cross appeared in the screen of a bedroom window—unchanged through storms and still visible decades later. What began as a mystery became a lasting symbol of comfort for her family.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past Interview: Brandi Rhodes
Upcoming Interview: Butch Wilmore
Jesus Calling for Moms
Trey Tucker’s Rugged Counseling
Taken (Movie starring Liam Neeson) 2008
Destiny Rescue
Tough Enough: Hone Your Habits, Cultivate Purpose, and Forge Genuine Strength - Book by Trey Tucker
Kit Willis Rutherford
Interview Quotes:
“In my experience, every guy that I’ve talked to has some sort of question, Am I enough? It’s the word that haunts him, and you can fill in the blank with whatever word you want before that.” - Trey Tucker
“So being enough or being not enough is the thing that haunts the guys the most. It can drive you to make some really amazingly terrible decisions, but it can also be deceptively helpful in driving you to some great successes.” - Trey Tucker
“Looking back at all the experiences that I’ve had, I finally got it into my body or my heart that God is going to come through. And since He’s going to come through, that means I’m going to be okay….I think it’s helped me to purposely put myself in uncomfortable situations—in situations that scare me—because I just know the more I do that, the more I’m going to really feel and experience God coming through for me, and then I can help other people do the same thing in their own walk as well.“ - Trey Tucker
“[My grandmother] was always such a pillar of the community for people that were in need, quietly meeting needs without ever being prompted to do so.” - Kit Willis Rutherford
“Just because we are filled with faith or we are filled with joy or any other wonderful attribute, we’re not immune from the world. The bad things in the world sort of creep in.” - Kit Willis Rutherford
“The veil between heaven and earth is so thin and we really can, from time to time, glimpse little bits of heaven-sent love and heaven-sent information.” - Kit Willis Rutherford
“I feel like hardship has shaped my faith and been truly the balm against the agony of such a broken world where there is so much sickness and so much grief and so much hardship.” - Kit Willis Rutherford
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
What starts as a single “yes” can influence a lifetime. In this episode, we speak with Tennessee’s First Lady Maria Lee, who shares how a short summer of ministry in Nashville turned the trajectory of her life—from teaching in a classroom to serving alongside her husband in public life—and taught her that true impact often comes from simply showing up and seeing others.
Speaker and radio personality Brooke Taylor’s story takes a different turn when a sudden stroke changes everything, forcing her to relearn how to live and let go of perfection, only to discover that God could use her brokenness to reach people in a deeper, more meaningful way. Together, their stories reveal a powerful truth—that even in the most unplanned moments, God is guiding us with compassion toward connection.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Anita Renfroe
Upcoming interview: Trey Tucker
Jesus Listens for Moms
Maria Lee
Bill Lee
Christ Presbyterian Academy
My Utmost for His Highest
COVID
Covenant school shooting
Tennessee Serves Project
Brooke Taylor
Joy99
Interview Quotes:
“The hardest part I think with being in the public eye is the criticism that comes along with that. But the thing that has grounded me and [helped with] being able to handle being in that public eye is staying in God’s Word and knowing what He’s called me to do and being able to walk that purposefully and intentionally. Being in His Word reminds me of who I am and who He is, what He values and what He wants me to value.” - First Lady Maria Lee
“I think there’s a lot of bright, shiny things in the world that draw our attention away from what the Lord has called us to, and if we’re not grounded in daily communion with Him and daily relationship with Him, you can easily be distracted.” - First Lady Maria Lee
“I think if we are going to emulate the character of Christ, He came not to be served, but to serve. And if we’re going to follow in His footsteps, I feel like each one of us who is a believer and confesses Christ should be finding a place to serve.” - First Lady Maria Lee
“There are so many ways to serve, and it doesn’t have to be big, it can be little. I think one of the greatest ways to serve somebody is just to be present with them, to show up and let them know that you see them.” - First Lady Maria Lee
“When I heard how the [radio] listeners were praying for me and how they were sending cards and how they were sending messages that they were praying for me, I knew that was God’s way of surrounding me with His love.” - Brooke Taylor
“As a radio personality, you’re pouring out and pouring out and pouring out. You say things, but you don’t know if anybody’s listening. You don’t know if it’s reaching anybody, or if you made any sense with that sentence. And then to have that all come back to me—the listeners pouring out to me—it was very humbling.” - Brooke Taylor
“[After my stroke] I felt like God was with me, and it was as if He was saying, ‘I don’t need the perfect you. It’s actually more effective for Me if I use the broken you. Because the broken you is going to be able to reach people that are also broken.’” - Brooke Taylor
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Author and artist Ruth Chou Simons joins Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer to share her journey of faith, from immigrating to the U.S. as a young girl to raising six boys while writing and creating art that points others to Christ. Ruth opens up about the struggles of striving for approval and how she discovered freedom in God’s grace.
Guest’s LinksYouTube: @RuthChouSimons
Facebook: @ruthchousimons
Instagram: @ruthchousimons
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4ohxdVK
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Rebecca St. James, a Grammy and Dove award-winning contemporary Christian music artist. When Rebecca’s family moved from Australia to the U.S. when Rebecca was a teen, they faced serious financial struggles—the kind that forced them to rely completely on each other and outside support for basic survival like food, transportation, and medical bills. This intense period of “making it work” became the bedrock of her career and is the focus of the film Unsung Hero.
Next, we meet Zahriya Zachary, an artist and worship leader with Bethel Music who experienced a major pivot in her early twenties. She shares how she shifted from the pursuit of a traditional career to an unexpected music career. Her story explores the struggle of unlearning the need for perfection and performance, and the profound freedom found in simply showing up as yourself.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Darlene Zschech
Upcoming interview: Maria Lee
Jesus Listens for Moms
Rebecca St. James
Unsung Hero
“You Make Everything Beautiful”
My Utmost for His Highest
www.rebeccastjames.com
Zahriya Zachary
“Stay”
www.bethelmusic.com/roster/zahriya-zachar
Rediscovery
Interview Quotes:
“[Hardship] really did encourage us to turn to God as a family, because we needed Him in a way that we had never needed Him so desperately before.” - Rebecca St. James
“My parents were definitely the kind that encouraged us to flourish in our own gifts. I think that they were very attentive to specialized giftings within the family and encouraged us to be unique.” - Rebecca St. James
“I remember my parents being very available for just talking things through, and that’s something that I’m also trying to do with our kids, [is to be] available and present.” - Rebecca St. James
“I think God’s design for the family is so beautiful, and I think when we can live that out privately in our lives, but then also if God allows us to to live that out in the public space too, there’s an undeniable loveliness to it.” - Rebecca St. James
“I think something that I am currently unlearning ismy performance being the thing that makes God stay, and even that makes other people stay. I’m really unlearning that because it can tend to be this driving force of, If I do good enough at this, if I can just be perfect at this, then God will just stay. The Lord is revealing to me, ‘I love you because I love because I love you.’” - Zahriya Zachary
“I’ve had these moments throughout my lifewith God in the moments where I felt the most lost. He actually reveals to me a highlight reel of every place where I thought I was alone and every place where I thought He wasn’t. It’s actually given me strength to stay when it’s hard, because He enables me to remember.” - Zahriya Zachary
“It was never up to us to reach for God’s presence or earn it, because He’s already done it all.” - Zahriya Zachary
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Jon Acuff, a bestselling author and speaker who turns personal challenges into practical lessons for living with intention and resilience. From mastering goals to overcoming negative thinking, Jon shares insights that help listeners navigate life’s “hard middle” and keep moving forward, even when it feels impossible.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from journalist and anchor Leland Vittert, whose new book, Born Lucky, is a deeply moving story of his childhood with autism and the profound sacrifices his father made to give him hope and teach him resilience.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Ken Abraham
Upcoming interview: Rebecca St. James
Jesus Listens for Moms
Jon Acuff
Zephaniah 3:17
Luke 15:11-32
www.jonacuff.com
Leland Vittert
Born Lucky
www.bornlucky.com
Interview Quotes:
“I just had this sense that if I would take responsibility for my life, I could change a lot of things I wanted to change.” - Jon Acuff
“I think a lot of goals work better when they’re measured, when they are paced.” - Jon Acuff
“I think that a lot of life is talking yourself into doing things you don’t want to do, but you really want to. There’s a lot of mornings I don’t want to write, I don’t want to work out, I don’t want to be polite, I don’t want to be detailed—but I really do want that. If I’m honest, I really want the benefits of those things. And so I figure out games inside the middle that get me to where I want to be.” - Jon Acuff
“One of the soundtracks I use in my life is that fear comes free, hope takes work. You’ll never have to look for fear. It will find you. You’ll never have to look for stress or anxiety. They will find you. Hope takes effort. Positivity takes effort.” - Jon Acuff
“The difference for me between a broken soundtrack, meaning a negative thought that’s running on a loop, and a prompting from the Holy Spirit, is often what it leads to. I think a prompting of the Holy Spirit leads to prayer, it leads to change, it leads to journaling, it leads to confession to a friend, it leads to plugging back into your small group.” - Jon Acuff
“Your thoughts turn into actions, your actions turn into results. What you think becomes what you do, becomes what you get.” - Jon Acuff
“[My dad] didn’t know how it was going to end up, but he knew that being there every day and becoming my friend—he still is my best friend—was my only hope.”- Leland Vittert
“Everybody needs to feel like they have somebody who believes in them. For me, that was my dad. When I was diagnosed with autism, my dad said, ‘I don't know how this is going to turn out, but I have to try.’ I didn’t understand the word resilience as a kid. I now know how important it is, and it’s just not quitting.” - Leland Vittert
“Hard work yields results. One is defined by character, not by accolades or achievements or personal wealth, but by who they are as a man.” - Leland Vittert
“[My dad] had no expectations about the future, but there were standards, and the number one standard was about character and being a good person.” - Leland Vittert
“When I was diagnosed with autism, there was no therapist, there were no counselors, there were no accommodations. My parents didn’t tell anyone. They did not want me to be defined by a label or use a label as an excuse. Going to therapy on national television at forty-three years old and sharing the deepest, darkest, secrets of my life and darkest moments of my life is not a lot of fun, right? But it was worth it because it has given so many people hope.” - Leland Vittert
_______________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Welcome to a special scripture-focused bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, where we take a look at the book of Romans with pastor and author J.D. Walt. J.D. walks us through Romans and how it illuminates a “darkness to light movement, chaos to love, and chaos to new creation.”
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
J.D. Walt
Romans: From Sin Management to Love Unleashed
The Book of Romans
Interview Quotes:
“The awakening that I was experiencing led me to understand that the Christian life and faith is not a good-to-great program. It’s a death to life movement. It’s a darkness to light movement. It is chaos to love, chaos to new creation, lost to love.” - J.D. Walt
“Consecration, transformation, demonstration—that’s Romans in a nutshell. That’s a Christian life in a nutshell.” - J.D. Walt
“In the early church, they had a saying: one Christian is no Christian. Certainly every person has to become a follower of Jesus, a believer themselves. But this is not like golf, it’s like football. It’s a team sport. We are made for community, we already are connected together.” - J.D. Walt
“One of the greatest acts is simply being together in God’s Word, because it’s a Word that actually moves us towards each other. It moves us towards loving one another. Love must be sincere, Paul says in Romans 12.” - J.D. Walt
“The opposite of sin is love. Love is the movement toward God and others. Sin is the retraction of self into its own world at the cost of worship of God and love of neighbor. We need a better understanding of love—love is not soft and fuzzy, it’s hard and real.” - J.D. Walt
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Michael Leach, who went from the high-pressure, competitive world of the NFL to navigating the intense landscape of national politics, ultimately becoming the first-ever Chief Diversity Officer in the White House. Leach reveals the defining moments—from simple childhood boundaries on the south side of Chicago to faith-led decisions that cost him his seemingly secure career—that prepared him for roles he never planned.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from entrepreneur and business leader David Meltzer. David opens up about growing up with intense financial insecurity, reaching extraordinary success—amassing over a hundred million dollars by age thirty—and the catastrophic moment he lost absolutely everything.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Cyndi Thomson
Upcoming interview: Jon Acuff
Jesus Listens for Moms
Michael Leach
Chicago Bears
Elevation Worship
Tauren Wells
www.myfaithoverfear.com
Faith Over Fear
David Meltzer
www.dmeltzer.com
Interview Quotes:
“I remember praying something I didn’t fully understand yet—that God would give me a life and a job that would help me change the world or my environment.” - Michael Leach
“God sets boundaries, not to limit us, but to protect and prepare us.” - Michael Leach
“Everyone communicates, but few connect. When you’re interacting with hundreds of people in high pressure environments, communication alone isn’t enough. Connection was what, for me, built trust.” - Michael Leach
“One of the best ways to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others. That’s where my commitment to servant leadership was formed.” - Michael Leach
“I left the NFL only because I believe God had called me to do so. I trusted that if He called me to unfamiliar territory that He would sustain me there also. And He did. I think we should never stop learning because life never stops teaching.” - Michael Leach
“It’s through our surrendering that God does His establishing—whether it’s in our career, our finances, our marriage, or our sense of control.” - Michael Leach
“I believe that everything you consume will eventually come out of you, for better or for worse—what you listen to, what you eat, what you view, what you watch. Even though things are going to come up, He’s always going to stay up and above what’s coming your way.” - Michael Leach
“I attributed all my success to how much money I made. Though success came early for me, I was trying to fill a God-sized hole with everything but God. And money doesn’t fill that hole.” - David Meltzer
“If I could encourage anyone to make God their faith non-negotiable—whether it’s meditation or prayer, or just living in the divine direction of taking care of your sleep, your health, your family, and your faith every day—knowing that two minutes a day is worth two hours on a Sunday.” - David Meltzer
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Welcome to this special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, inspired by the topical themes from Sarah Young’s seasonal prayer devotional, Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season. Today we are featuring guests who share stories of renewal, restoration, and the vibrant hope that comes with starting anew. Just as spring wakes the world from winter, you’ll hear from previous Jesus Calling podcast guests about how they found strength, peace, and restoration after periods of darkness and struggle.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Alicia Michelle
Zim Flores
Dansby Swanson
Chris Janssen
Sonya Curry
Dr. Dharius Daniels
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we welcome writer Jonathon M. Seidl, who transparently shares his struggle with alcoholism. Jonathon opens up about how he turned to alcohol as a solution to his problems, the breaking point moment when he realized something needed to change, and the real, raw, honest circumstances that led him to healing.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from author Yana Jenay Conner. She shares her personal experience of learning to forgive deep wounds from her family and friendships, highlighting the crucial difference between forgiveness and reconciliation. She also reveals the daily spiritual practices that sustain her heart in the midst of ongoing pain.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Jeanne Lakin
Upcoming interview: Michael Leach
Jonathon M. Seidl
Morning And Evening by Charles Spurgeon
www.jonseidl.com
Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic
Yana Jenay Conner
www.yanajenay.com
Living Beyond Offense
Interview Quotes:
“I’m the Christian that became an alcoholic, not the other way around. I think what’s unique about my story and a lot of people’s stories is the shame that comes with being a Christian who falls.” - Jonathon M. Seidl
“I think what’s unique about my story—and what I think is actually a lot of people’s stories but we don’t talk about enough—is that as Christians, we can still and do fall into sin.” - Jonathon M. Seidl
“I finally got to the point where the Lord was like, ‘Jon, if there’s not the chance of it costing you something, it’s not a sacrifice—like the definition of sacrifice is that it has to cost you something.’ Okay, here we go. And so, here we are. I decided, Alright, Lord, I’m just going to put this in Your hands. I’m going to tell my story.” - Jonathon M. Seidl
“I finally got to the point where the Lord was like, ‘Jon, if there’s not the chance of it costing you something, it’s not a sacrifice—like the definition of sacrifice is that it has to cost you something.’ Okay, here we go. And so, here we are. I decided, Alright, Lord, I’m just going to put this in Your hands. I’m going to tell my story.”- Jonathon M. Seidl
“I think we think in order to have a problem with something, it has to look a certain way. That actually kept me drinking a lot longer and in an unhealthy relationship a lot longer because I said, ‘Well, I’m not doing this. I don’t look like this.’ And yet, especially if you look at the Bible, anything that occupies an unhealthy place in our life is disordered.” - Jonathon M. Seidl
“We can follow Jesus and know what’s right and yet still struggle to do it.” Jonathon M. Seidl
“My goal is for you to have a deeper, more enriching, relationship with Jesus. And that takes care of not just the sobriety, but it takes care of the anger, it takes care of the pride, it takes care of the selfishness, and all those other things that you need to work on as well.” - Jonathon M. Seidl
“I think it wasn’t until I was in my early twenties that I really allowed myself to feel the ache of my dad’s absence and to really take stock of how not having him in my life was really impacting how I moved in the world.” - Yana Jenay Conner
“I am trying to create space for people to be human and to mess up and not hold them to standards of perfection that I can’t even reach.” - Yana Jenay Conner
“The thing that keeps me moving towards forgiveness is remembering the forgiveness that I’ve received. I’m learning that the power to forgive comes from remembering the grace and the mercy that I have received.” - Yana Jenay Conner
“Forgiveness is releasing them of their debt and not retaliating against them in anger. We make this decision out of mercy, because people don’t deserve forgiveness, but we offer it to them freely because forgiveness was offered to us freely.” - Yana Jenay Conner
“He’s always inviting us to be in His presence. And I can confess that on the days where I choose to not accept that invitation, it shows in how I show up in the world.” - Yana Jenay Conner
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Welcome to a special Easter bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast. In this episode, we welcome actress and mental health advocate Courtney Hope as she shares about her personal experiences with OCD and anxiety. She also gives us an inside look at her latest project—a four-part Easter audio podcast called The Christ—in which she explores the stories of the Easter season, particularly of Jesus’ Mother, Mary, and how this exploration has led to a deeper understanding of her own relationship with God.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Courtney Hope
The Christ Podcast
Interview Quotes:
“Diving into the journey of Jesus’ Mother Mary and her heart and her story, I got an answer from God, which is everyone’s got their own journey. Mary had to trust in her heart that there was a plan and a purpose in Jesus’ journey, and that the suffering and the triumph was worth it in the end.” - Courtney Hope
“I’ve always seen myself as a vessel for storytelling through God. I want people to feel less alone, I always sit in silence and see whose hearts I’m trying to speak to.” - Courtney Hope
“The more I dove into my faith and I sat with God, I realized that we can’t control what happens in life, but we can be open to the experience of what God has in store for us.” - Courtney Hope
“Sometimes if we sit in stillness, we get the answers that we need.” - Courtney Hope
“God is a prince of peace, not the God of fear. The closer I am to God, the calmer I find my heart is.” - Courtney Hope
“It’s so easy to turn to God when times are rough, but we forget when times are great to give thanks and gratitude and praise.” - Courtney Hope
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
What if conflict in your marriage could become a doorway to deeper connection? In this episode of “Jesus Listens,” Dr. Dan Allender and Dr. Steve Call return to explore how fear, self-protection, and past wounds often show up in the way we relate today, through the lens of their book “The Deep-Rooted Marriage.”
Guest’s LinksYouTube: @AllenderCenter
Facebook: @allendercenter
Instagram: @reconnectmarriage | @allendercenter
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4iw2xPu
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Jesus Calling Website
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This episode contains content that may be triggering for some listeners.
This week, we welcome RobertAnthony Cruz, known to many as Coach RAC. RobertAnthony is a professional baseball player with the Savannah Bananas, a former minor league athlete, and a mentor to thousands of young people through sports camps and social media. But beyond the flips on the field and the packed stadiums, Coach RAC has wrestled with anxiety, fear of failure, and the pressure to prove himself. Today, he shares how learning to root his identity in God’s unchanging love, rather than outcomes or approval, has transformed the way he competes, leads, and lives.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Christine D’Clario, who takes us behind the music and the platform into the hidden places of her story. From a childhood shaped by unspoken trauma with years of learning how to hide pain in the name of faith, Christine shares how postpartum depression became the breaking point that forced her to confront what she had carried for far too long.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Dr. Sasha Shillcutt
Upcoming interview: Jonathon M. Seidl
RobertAnthony Cruz
Coach RAC
Savannah Bananas
ESPN
Psalm 1
Jared Orton
Christian Dearman
Christine D’Clario
postpartum depression
Philippians 4:6-7
John 16:33
www.ChristineDClario.com/en
Healing in the Desert
Interview Quotes:
“When you make it your aim to serve your teammates and do that, it becomes such a beautiful thing, and you find so much more fulfillment in it. I’ve had to learn to detach my sense of peace and joy from the results and instead play from a place of gratitude and see how I can serve my teammates well.” - RobertAnthony Cruz
“God created us to be part of the body, so we’re supposed to be connected to each other. When you can experience competition while being deeply connected to your teammates, it ends up being such a beautiful and fun thing.” - RobertAnthony Cruz
“The older I get, the more I realize that God is our friend. He wants a relationship with us, and a healthy relationship requires spending time. I think that having daily rituals and prayer time are so important for you to cultivate this relationship with God.” - RobertAnthony Cruz
“It took me being 100% dysregulated in my body, in my emotions, in my mind, to understand that the spirit alone cannot carry the weight of all the other areas.” - Christine D’Clario
“There was just so much compounded on each other that when I reached the moments of deep despair, I couldn’t understand that God was actually extending me an opportunity to look inward and fix those things that needed healing.” - Christine D’Clario
“I learned to hide the pain, stuff it down, because we had a lot of work to do at church. It took me a really long time to finally admit that I was broken.” - Christine D’Clario
“It takes people who have been through brokenness to have the authority to pull others that are in it out of it.” - Christine D’Clario
“When everybody else discards what is broken as garbage, the Lord stays. If you’re in the rut and it’s muddy and it’s dirty and it stinks, He’ll sit with you in the mud and the dirt and the stink and the rut. He’ll stay, He’ll hold you, and He will patiently wait with His inviting arms for the moment that we feel strong enough to take the step of faith, get up, and start healing.” - Christine D’Clario
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we speak with Nathan Davis Jr., an actor, singer, and songwriter whose career has taken him from church choirs to television screens and viral music platforms. But behind the success is a deeply personal story of loss and faith. After losing his little brother to suicide and enduring a season of overwhelming grief, Nathan found himself at a breaking point, until a quiet, honest cry to God changed everything.
After we hear from Nathan, we talk with Tim Timmons, a songwriter and founder of the nonprofit 10000 MINUTES. Based in Nashville, his insightful music and ministry were profoundly shaped by an unexpected diagnosis of incurable cancer twenty-five years ago. Tim shares his journey of wrestling with faith’s biggest questions, the power of praying his songs, and how he’s learned to hold the tension between deep sorrow and profound gratitude.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Chris Tomlin & Darren Whitehead
Upcoming interview: RobertAnthony Cruz
Nathan Davis Jr.
www.IAmNathanDavisJr.com
“Woke Up This Morning”
*Nathan will be the first R&B Christian/inspirational artist to perform at the 2026 Rolling Loud Festival in Orlando, Florida on May 10th!
Tim Timmons
10000 MINUTES
Switchfoot
Bart Millard from the band MercyMe
“Even If”
I Can Only Imagine 2
www.timtimmonsmusic.com
Interview Quotes:
“You go through your Jonah phases where you’re running away from your purpose because you’re afraid and you get distracted, and God has an interesting way of bringing you back around.” - Nathan Davis Jr.
“The best way to honor [my brother] is to just be a better version of myself. To keep his name alive by speaking to kids and speaking to people that deal with depression and mental health situations and continue to help and to give back and to just love and show as much love as I can.” - Nathan Davis Jr.
“I’m just blessed that God gave me another chance and that He’s forgiven me and showed me a lot of mercy and grace and that He’s utilizing me.”- Nathan Davis Jr.
“All I could think about was waking up in the morning and praying to God and walking with Him on my walks, and His presence just felt so calm. I just felt so loved and validated and just reassured.” - Nathan Davis Jr.
“Fear pays attention to facts, but faith pays attention to the Father. As long as our eyes are on God—no matter how many storms or chaos or whatever is going on—we’re going to walk on water.” - Nathan Davis Jr.
“I felt abandoned. Rejected. Depressed. I remember having a moment where all I could say was, ‘This pain is terrible. God, I need you.’ And for the first time, I felt like I had a spiritual encounter with God.” - Nathan Davis Jr.
“I wish I could say I have it all figured out, but I don’t. But at some point I remember saying, ‘Okay, God, I don’t know how all this works, but I think Your way is the most beautiful way I can see.’” - Tim Timmons
“Living as though something is true—that’s the actual definition of to believe. It’s like this verb of faith, I’m believing as though this is true. So it really became a sobering moment for me to say, ‘Okay, I’m going to bet my one and only life on you, Jesus. So You lead on.’” - Tim Timmons
“Somehow, I got to wake up again this morning. Because of that, I’m just going to find gratitude for this day. This is the day that You have made, God. I will rejoice and be glad in the fact that You woke me up again. Even in the midst of sorrow, You woke me up. So how do I join You well today? I would not be the man I am today or the husband or the dad or the follower of Jesus I am today without sorrow.” - Tim Timmons
“I’m trying to figure out how to live with the idea of saying, ‘Life is hard. This thing is really hard. It sucks, period. I’m so sorry for this. And what if God is actually good and He’s at work even in the middle of the fire?’ I want to be the guy living as though these both can exist and I can hold the tension of these two—that God is good and life’s hard and God’s good.” - Tim Timmons
“We get good at what we practice and we get good at who we’re with. One of the definitions of worship is attention. What has your attention? In the way that we’re actually starting our day or ending our day or during our day, we’re saying, ‘Jesus, you have my attention.’” - Tim Timmons
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’re joined by beloved television host, actress, songwriter, and author Kathie Lee Gifford. Kathie Lee shares her deeply personal faith journey, emphasizing that she is not a “churchy person” but a “relationship person.” She advocates for understanding the Scriptures deeply, going beyond surface-level readings, and ultimately seeking to bring Jews and Christians together in the love story of God.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Dr. Julia Garcia, also known as Dr. J., who joins us to dismantle the myth that hope is an elusive personality trait. Drawing from years of clinical practice and her own raw, lived experience—including overcoming addiction, failed businesses, and seasons of deep uncertainty—Dr. J offers a powerful, practical pathway back to hope, even when the darkness feels permanent.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Tauren Wells
Upcoming interview: Nathan Davis Jr.
Jesus Calling app
Kathie Lee Gifford
Psalm 143:8
Psalm 103
Psalm 25:4-5
Acts 17:28
www.KathieLeeGifford.com
Nero and Paul
Herod and Mary
Dr. Julia Garcia
The 5 Habits of Hope
www.DrJuliaGarcia.com
Interview Quotes:
“When Jesus says. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant,’ He didn’t say ‘perfect servant.’ He said ‘good.’ ‘Your heart was good. Your heart was in the right place. You walked with Me and were faithful to the little things, faithful to proclaim Me.’” - Kathie Lee Gifford
“I would never take a role that required anything that dishonored the Lord. The Lord gives us a conscience for a reason.” - Kathie Lee Gifford
“I follow Him, and I’m going to use every opportunity that comes my way to proclaim Him, because people are hurting. People are broken. People are desperate. People are hungry, not just for food. They’re hungry for life itself. They’re hungry for the truth. The only thing that has been constant in my life that never changes is my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.” - Kathie Lee Gifford
“Our life should be a prayer constantly.” - Kathie Lee Gifford
“I think religion puts us in chains, and Jesus came to get us out of the chains. It’s all about relationship, not religion, and I think we’ve really lost touch with that in Western Christianity.” - Kathie Lee Gifford
“I’ve always had to go back to different habits at different times to make sure that I don’t associate how I feel with who I am.” - Dr. Julia Garcia
“Hope is not a personality trait. People can feel like they need to have a huge amount of hope. It just takes that mustard seed—a tiny, tiny, tiny, little piece of hope is enough to carry you through.” - Dr. Julia Garcia
“Habits of hope are an emotional framework to help us with those perspective shifts so we can interrupt harmful thought patterns.” - Dr. Julia Garcia
“We’re going to have to get a lot stronger in our ability to emotionally risk so that we can deepen our relationships, not just with other people, but in our faith and with ourselves.” - Dr. Julia Garcia
“We can reshape our thought patterns by constantly interrupting them and building these little tiny practices of hope, these emotional practices.” - Dr. Julia Garcia
“The more we learn language around identifying what support would look like or feel like, the more we can get in the emotional habit of receiving that support. But it starts with us identifying what it is, who it is, and what we need from those people—our support pillars—so that we can receive hope.” - Dr. Julia Garcia
“Being honest has helped me heal because you can’t have hope without honesty.” - Dr. Julia Garcia
“Keep coming back to that place that aligns you with God’s call on your life. Even if the external things around you don’t make sense and it feels chaotic inside, just keep coming back, keep aligning back to the voice that you know is real and true.” - Dr. Julia Garcia
“If we can just take a moment to receive the truth that we are not alone, that we are enough, then that is a building place for us to help navigate out of that feeling of feeling stuck or overwhelmed. It’s to replace these feelings with truth, with identity statements, reminding us who we are. We are not alone and we are made perfect in His image.” - Dr. Julia Garcia
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Welcome to a special scripture-focused bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, where we do a deep dive on misunderstood women in the Bible with author, podcaster, and speaker Mary DeMuth. Many of us grew up hearing the stories of women like Bathsheba, Tamar, and the Woman at the Well, often presented in a simplified—and sometimes judgmental—light. But what if the Sunday School lessons we learned missed the mark by overlooking the cultural context, the brutal realities of the time, and what the Bible actually says about these women? Mary DeMuth takes us through a powerful rereading of their narratives, challenging the common misconceptions.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Mary DeMuth
Pray Every Day Podcast
The Most Misunderstood Women of the Bible by Mary DeMuth
Restory Your Life by Mary DeMuth
Interview Quotes:
“There are some amazing women in the Bible, and sadly I have not heard them preached much except for the heavy hitters. And it gave me an ignited desire to highlight these women because they are part of the story of Scripture.” - Mary DeMuth
“These women, maybe like you, were misunderstood, misjudged. You can learn a lot from these women of the Bible.” - Mary DeMuth
“I think a lot of women ask, How can I get rid of this feeling? How can I get rid of this pain, this trauma, this worry? And yet the Lord is so good, He is with us when we walk through those kinds of really painful journeys.” - Mary DeMuth
“If you have felt like things have been really, really, hard, God is at work. And there will be a moment when He brings healing.” - Mary DeMuth
“One of the themes of my life has been how God has intersected a very broken, traumatic story and brought beauty out of it, healing me to bring me into places of ambassadorship where I am able to walk alongside those who have a similar story and just to see the beauty of the Lord intersecting them.” - Mary DeMuth
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
*This episode mentions suicide and may be triggering for some listeners.
This week, we’ll hear from Ed Newton, pastor of Community Bible Church in San Antonio, Texas. Growing up as a CODA (Child of Deaf Adults), Ed bridged the hearing and deaf worlds for his parents, fostering immense empathy but also hardship. Later, following his parents’ deaths, he faced a tidal wave of despair and suicidal thoughts. He sought professional help and openly shared his struggle with his church, who responded with grace. Now, Ed advocates for the church to be a hospital for the broken, urging people to seek help and recognize it’s okay not to be okay, but not to stay that way.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Wendell Vinson and Todd Lamphere from CityServe, an organization that helps equip and empower churches to serve their communities. They discuss CityServe’s mission to equip local churches and to meet the last mile of need in their communities. They highlight the church’s role in community transformation, citing reduced recidivism rates, and its essential “ministry of presence” before, during, and after crises like natural disasters or war. Finally, they acknowledge compassion fatigue, emphasizing that faithful service requires spiritual replenishment in order to continue to serve others well.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Erica Campbell
Upcoming interview: Kathie Lee Gifford
Jesus Calling app
Ed Newton
CODA (Child of Deaf Adults)
Romans 8:28
www.ednewton.com
Why Not You? Believing What God Believes About You
CityServe
Canyon Hills Church
Matthew 16:13-27
prison recidivism
Interview Quotes:
“My mission was to actually be the voice for two people that could not speak and to help them understand how to aggregate and acclimate into a hearing world.” - Ed Newton
“It’s okay not to be okay. It’s just not okay to stay that way. God can break every chain.” - Ed Newton
“I believe some of the healthiest people I have ever met sit on somebody’s couch. I actually think the red flag of danger is for somebody that says, ‘I’m good. I don’t need counseling.’ I would say watch out for that slippery slope of destruction that’s about to happen.” - Ed Newton
“I just think for most people, life gets shaken up and they don’t know what to do with that. Don’t live life all bound up when you can find somebody that would love you, sit with you, and go, ‘Hey, let me tell you what I hear and see. You’re not alone.’” - Ed Newton
“Sometimes churches get it wrong and we slap Bible verses on a chemical disruption in the body. And I want to say, ‘I’m sorry you got hit with a Bible verse when you just needed someone to sit in the puddle of your tears.’” - Ed Newton
“We’re constantly hearing and listening and feeling, but when we do not align our heart to what God says, who is the ultimate voice, then it just conflicts with the directional, navigational component of our life.” - Ed Newton
“There’s a God who never changes, who operates out of the character of sovereignty and goodness, and who’s always working for your greater good. So why not begin a day with Him, and let Him frame the filter of how you’re to see the world?” - Ed Newton
“It’s a beautiful partnership that allows pastors and churches that have a desire to meet the practical, physical needs of the community it was called to serve, and to have an organization come alongside it to help make that happen. This is the beauty of the partnership between the local church and CityServe.” - Todd Lamphere
“When a person connects with the body of Christ and starts moving down a different path, it transforms community.” - Wendell Vinson
“What people need in times of disaster more than anything, is they need the ministry of presence.” - Todd Lamphere
“Compassion is scalable. You start where you are with what you have, and God will take you further.” - Wendell Vinson
“Compassion fatigue is just a reality. You cannot give out what you do not have in you. This is why being saturated in God’s Word every day is so vitally important. It’s a non-negotiable to stay in God’s Word to commune with Him, to listen to worship music, to pray for God to just continue to be your strength, to be your source, to be your all in all.” - Todd Lamphere
“If any of us think that we can in our own strength or power just live out what the Lord’s called us to, we’re mistaken.It all flows out of that personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.” - Wendell Vinson
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’re joined by author and speaker John O’Leary. John shares the story of a joyful Midwestern childhood that was forever changed at age nine by a devastating house fire that doctors said he would not survive. Through the unwavering love of his parents, the kindness of unexpected heroes, and a hard-fought choice to live, John’s life became a testimony to hope rising from unimaginable pain.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from finance executive and advisor Athanase Kadita Tshibaka, known as A.T., who was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. A.T. shares a journey shaped by poverty, displacement, and profound loss, and the faith that sustained him through imprisonment, injustice, and life-threatening trials.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Alice Marie Johnson
Upcoming interview: Ed Newton
John O’Leary
Soul on Fire
Jack Buck
www.johnolearyinspires.com
Athanase Kadita Tshibaka
Son of the Congo
Interview Quotes:
“The heroes show up, and none of them wear tights. None of them wear capes. They just look like ordinary friends who faithfully live out the message of Jesus in life.” - John O’Leary
“I think when we get burned in life, whatever that looks like for all of us, we can become bitter about it and wonder where God is in our mess. Or you can recognize that God is all over this mess with you and that you can reveal that goodness and that grace and that mercy to others through your life.” - John O’Leary
“I think when you go through a [difficult] event, at any age, it’s easy to really quickly decide whether I will be a victim or a victor to this. Even if you feel like you have no talent, your life is a precious, priceless gift. You have one job, to say yes to being used for good.” - John O’Leary
“Your life, in spite of what you’ve been through or done, can be used in mighty ways.” - John O’Leary
“Even though we were essentially living in poverty… [my mother] had to struggle, she had to really work hard. But even with her very meager means, my mom showed me the value of hospitality and the value of generosity. There was never an instant where some strangers came and she let them just go hungry. Above it all, God’s grace.” - Athanase Kadita Tshibaka
“When I decided to accept Christ as Lord and Savior, I had nobody pushing me, I had nobody influencing me except that very still voice, very gentle, saying that was my day of decision.” - Athanse Kadita Tshibaka
“Like most people, I am a cracked pot, a leaking vessel, and I need to be refilled by His Holy Spirit daily. Reading the Bible and being attentive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit helps keep us growing.” - Athanase Kadita Tshibaka
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
What if the struggles in your marriage aren’t just about today, but about untold stories from long ago? In this episode of “Jesus Listens,” Dr. Dan Allender and Dr. Steve Call explore how past wounds, unspoken patterns, and even everyday tones of contempt shape our relationships more than we realize. The themes discussed are found in their new book “The Deep-Rooted Marriage.”
Guest’s LinksYouTube: @AllenderCenter
Facebook: @allendercenter
Instagram: @reconnectmarriage | @allendercenter
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4pqVSZ4
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’re thrilled to be celebrating our 500th podcast episode with actor Sarah Drew, known for her roles in Grey’s Anatomy and Everwood. Sarah shares how her faith shaped her career from a pastor’s kid who found joy in acting to eventually navigating the pressures of Hollywood. She discusses the rewarding challenge of developing her Grey’s Anatomy character, April Kepner, into an honest portrayal of a person of faith, including the storyline of April’s crisis of faith and her eventual return. Later in the episode, we’ll hear from actor Janine Turner. Janine recounts her own tumultuous path to Hollywood, characterized by countless rejections and setbacks. She shares the story of her darkest period, when she had only eight dollars and felt entirely alone, right before landing her breakthrough, unexpected role as a bush pilot in Northern Exposure. Janine’s experience with closed doors taught her to wait on unexpected, better opportunities—proving that perseverance, even through black holes of despair, can take us to where we’re meant to be.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Erin Hicks Moon
Upcoming interview: John O’Leary
Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season
Sarah Drew
Eric Liddell
Grey’s Anatomy
Janine Turner
Northern Exposure
Rocky
www.JanineTurner.com
Northern Disclosure
Interview Quotes:
“The gift of having so many seasons to develop [a character] is you actually have time to sort of unpack and allow someone to take different turns and twists and upside downs. You get to experience a far more human life when you see someone on a series for a long period of time.” - Sarah Drew
“If I don’t have the thing that rooted me and anchored me to the whole purpose of my life, if that somehow comes undone and is shaking under my feet, then what am I doing here? How do you keep breathing when you are so shaken to your core?” - Sarah Drew
“So many people are suffering, so when they welcome a character [into their life], day after day, week after week, year after year, and really become kind of friends with this person who’s walked this path, they’re feeling through it with them.” - Sarah Drew
“In every job I walk on to, I want the folks that I’m working with, the cast, crew, and everyone to really feel a sense of belonging and that they deserve to be there and that they are part of this community and we’re so happy that they’re here and we’re all in this together. I think that’s one of the biggest ways that I live out my faith.” - Sarah Drew
“If God closes the door, He opens the window. There will be a window. There will be the right thing at the right time.” - Janine Turner
“I didn’t give up before the miracle because eighty percent of success is just showing up.” - Janine Turner
“[Northern Exposure] became the most miraculous opportunity for me that I think also used my talents in such a way that were dignified, respected, and it had an impact that made people’s lives happier. Don’t let anybody put out your flame that God has given you or me, and don’t give up before that miracle.” - Janine Turner
“I’ve hit this kind of, literally, sort of a wall of blackness where I’m desperate or I’m in a panic attack or I’m crying hysterically. I don’t see the light, I don’t see the hope, but there’s always been something that has kept me from going over that cliff. I believe it is my faith and it’s God and Jesus and the Holy Spirit. If I just stick with it, tomorrow will be a better day.” - Janine Turner
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This episode contains content that may be triggering for some listeners.
This week, we hear from Stephen McWhirter, a songwriter and worship leader whose early life was marked by deep trauma, addiction, and a shattered view of God shaped by his father’s hypocrisy and abuse. After years of rebellion and anger toward faith, Steven encountered Jesus in an unexpected moment that transformed everything. Today, he shares a powerful story of grace, redemption, and the hard-won freedom found on the other side of forgiveness.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from author and speaker Courtney Pray Duke, who opens up about the tragic loss of her husband. Courtney shares what it was like to navigate grief while raising three children alone, and how it encouraged her to draw closer to God as a source of comfort when everything felt like it was falling apart.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Chynna Phillips
Upcoming interview: Sarah Drew
Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season
Stephen McWhirter
Lee Strobel
Ephesians 2:8
John 6:29
www.worshipjesus.life
Radically Restored
Courtney Pray Duke
www.courtneyprayduke.com
And She Got Up: Shattered by Loss, Restored by Jesus
Interview Quotes:
“I was the guy that literally would have either cussed you out or tried to knock you out had you mentioned Jesus’ name around me. I literally had this deep anger and this wound in me that really was connected to my earthly father and a broken view of who God is.” - Stephen McWhirter
“I’m in this room and I have drugs on the side table next to me. I always say it’s the kindness of a very real God to meet a wounded evangelist son in a place like this. I knew God was in the room, and I’m like, ‘I want to give you my life. I want to quit all this addiction, all this darkness, all this anger, all this depression, and this trauma that I’ve known for so long.’” - Stephen McWhirter
“Jesus never healed anyone [from addiction] the same way twice, because every story has a purpose. If it takes you five times or eleven times to fall at the feet of Jesus and you mean it, He’s going to use your story to draw people to Him.” - Stephen McWhirter
“There is something truly powerful on the other side of forgiveness. It’s not about reciprocation. Somebody may not say to you, ‘I’m asking for your forgiveness,’ but you have the ability to tear up the debt and throw it away. That’s real freedom, that’s real restoration.” - Stephen McWhirter
“Those early days of grief were so messy and they were so uncharted. And to be honest, I didn’t even know what grief really meant until I was in the place where I was grieving with everything inside of me.” - Courtney Pray Duke
“The Lord was so faithful to meet me in every moment, and I could lay my head on my pillow at night and look over the day and I could see where He was when I would open up the Word of God. It was like His promises and His love were illuminating off the page and they were bringing sustenance to my life.” - Courtney Pray Duke
“It wasn’t until I lost everything that my faith grew legs. It was walking through fiery times and profound loss where Jesus met me with strength and love and power and life.” - Courtney Pray Duke
“Holding the grief of my kids’ hearts and mine was impossible for me to bear. I learned so much during that time about releasing my children.” - Courtney Pray Duke
“It’s just so beautiful when you see a nugget of truth that comes from the Word of God—something that you can remind yourself of what’s true, even when your circumstances look anything like what it is that you’re contending for, to know that this is what’s true. Truth is immovable. It’s not going to change shape and waver like my life does. Truth is truth.” - Courtney Pray Duke
“God can do anything through a life surrendered to Him.” - Courtney Pray Duke
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Welcome to a special scripture-focused bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, where we do a deep dive on the book of Philippians with Nate Pickowicz, the pastor of Harvest Bible Church. Nate walks us through the context of Philippians, and the life of the author—the apostle Paul—revealing how when we turn to God in the middle of our fear, anxiety, and uncertainty, we can find joy and peace that transcends our circumstances.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Nate Pickowicz
Overcoming the Darkness
Book of Philippians
Interview Quotes:
“Paul is writing from a very personal experience, sort of an authoritative experience. He’s in prison writing about joy, this is something very near and dear to his heart.” - Nate Pickowicz
“Even though [Paul’s] uncomfortable, even though he’s probably not where he wants to be, he’s not happy about where he is in prison, he has this transcendent view of his suffering that actually gives hope and gives an element of joy, because he knows that the gospel of Jesus Christ is going out because of that.” - Nate Pickowicz
“Regardless of our circumstances, not only can we find joy in the midst of trouble, we can actually find a purpose for our suffering that God is using to accomplish His end.” - Nate Pickowicz
“Paul connects these two worlds: he connects the experience of anxiety and worry and fear about the future, and he pairs it with thanksgiving and contentment and rejoicing.” - Nate Pickowicz
“Once you recognize that everything that’s good comes from God, suddenly you realize that, If I’m anxious or worried, what might I need from the Lord? I can actually just turn to Him.” - Nate Pickowicz
“Learning to become thankful becomes an antidote to anxiety and worry and fear and discontent. Being grateful to God for what He’s given changes the entire focus of our hearts.” - Nate Pickowicz
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
*This episode mentions suicide and may be triggering for some listeners.
This week, in celebration of Super Bowl Sunday, we’ll hear from Tim Green, a former NFL player, bestselling author, and commentator. Tim, who now speaks with the assistance of technology due to a diagnosis of ALS, reflects on a life marked by ambition, the identity-shaking diagnosis of this neurodegenerative disease, and the perspective that transformed his understanding of what matters most in life.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Mike Flynt, whose story inspired the 2023 sports drama film The Senior. One day when talking with his friends, Mike shared one of his deepest regrets—getting kicked off the college football team as a senior. When asked, “Why don’t you do something about it?” Mike decided to pursue a second chance, and became the oldest linebacker of a college football team in NCAA history at age fifty-nine, proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Rosie Rivera
Upcoming interview: Stephen McWhirter
Super Bowl Sunday
Tim Green
ALS
Tracheotomy
www.authortimgreen.com
Rocket Arm
Mike Flynt
The Senior
D-Day
Battle of The Bulge
www.mikeflynt.com
Interview Quotes:
“These days, the most important thing I do is simply try to serve the people I love. My life’s work now is about family, about helping others, and about using whatever time and gifts God has given me to make a difference.” - Tim Green
“God had other plans—plans that were bigger than anything I could have imagined. Looking back, every step prepared me for the next one. He was weaving the story long before I knew it.”- Tim Green
“What really matters is your faith, family, and identity in Christ—not in a jersey or a job. Football gave me a platform, but it’s faith and family that gave me a purpose.” - Tim Green
“My diagnosis forced me to confront what really matters—to put Christ at the center, not tucked quietly in the background. It made every day, every relationship, every breath more precious and more purposeful.” - Tim Green
“One morning, I woke up with a clarity I didn’t create that this wasn’t the end of my story. I realized that God had left me here for a reason. Maybe to show that even in suffering, His goodness can still shine. That moment was a second chance, and I wasn’t going to waste it.” - Tim Green
“Prayer became less about asking and more about resting. Peace came in small moments—a hand held, a smile, a sunset—reminders that God was still here.” - Tim Green
“Every chapter of my life has required a deeper anchor than achievement. When the applause stops, when the career ends, when the body fails, you need a foundation that won’t.” - Tim Green
“It was my profession of faith in Christ, and my realization that I know so little about Him, that started me on my journey in faith that I still pursue today.” - Mike Flynt
“So many people need to know that somebody else has overcome and that Christ was there and they can take that same concern, those same weaknesses, to Him and know that if He did it for Mike, He’d do it for anybody.” - Mike Flynt
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Our first guest is Jeremy Rosado, who traced a path from New York City dreams to the bright lights of American Idol and The Voice. But the biggest spotlight in his life wasn’t a stage—it was the decision to lay down his music career for a season to become a father to his niece. Jeremy shares how choosing fatherhood over fame became a pivotal act of faith, and how God used the quiet, waiting years to prepare him for a powerful return to music.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Nashville singer, songwriter, and author Jason Gray. Jason offers a vulnerable look into his life—one shaped by music, but also by instability, a painful childhood divorce, and reckoning with his own difficult divorce. Jason shares how the wounds he incurred became the very doorway through which he met God. He reveals the radical peace found in accepting divine love and unpacks why allowing yourself to be loved is the most radical, powerful act of faith.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:nobigdyl.
Upcoming interview: Tim Green
Jeremy Rosado
American Idol
The Voice
www.iamjeremyrosado.com
The Waiting Room
Jason Gray
Acoustic Story Time
Frederick Buechner
The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence
www.jasongraymusic.com
Sparrows
Interview Quotes:
“I came off [American Idol] and took a few months—went to Nashville to start chasing this dream of mine. I quickly realized that my life was going to change and that there was a decision to be made [whether or not] to step in and help and become a father.” - Jeremy Rosado
“Even though that decision [to become a father to my niece] was not easy, it was worth it, and I would do it a million times over for my child. God provided and made ways for us. I look back now, and even in the pain and the tears, I can see His faithfulness and how He’s carried us.” - Jeremy Rosado
“When I did [The Voice], that trust and that reliance began to grow even more. It felt like every room I walked into, every stage I walked on, there was victory already there.It gave me renewed confidencein the God that I serve and in my ability to walk knowing that He’s with me and He’s for me.” - Jeremy Rosado
“God knew how to cut through all of that [chaos] and speak the thing that He wanted me to hear in the way that He knew that I could understand it.” - Jason Gray
“All of a sudden, I had this profound sense of a loving presence in the car with me, as though it was holding me and it was saying, ‘Psst, hey, the words of this song that you love so much, this is my heart toward you. ‘When you’re weary, when you’re feeling small, when tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all like a bridge over troubled water.’” - Jason Gray
“From a very young age, I was drawn to music, and it has always been one of the places that I meet with God and one of the ways through which He speaks.” - Jason Gray
“I believe that when something connects us to our own heart, then in that same moment, worship spontaneously happens, and we are connected with the divine in that moment. Music has a way of connecting me to my heart and therefore brings me to the place where God meets with me.” - Jason Gray
“If you love tinkering on a car or working in the garden or listening to music or a conversation with a friend, those moments where you lose track of time and you forget yourself indicates that you’re on holy ground.” - Jason Gray
“The Lord has usually come to me through other people. As inconsistent and as unreliable as we often are, He demonstrates that we are still His preferred delivery system for His love in the world.” - Jason Gray
“My whole life, all the painful things—everything was leading to this moment to break me open enough to be able to receive the transformation that I had been praying for as long as I could remember. And that gave me a sense of peace and helped me to feel like I was no longer at the mercy of the storms of my life, but that this storm held within it the power to make me who I’d always wanted to be.” - Jason Gray
“The way that I have observed how God works in my life is that if I get connected to my own heart, all of a sudden, He’s meeting with me there.” - Jason Gray
“If I love the Bible so much that I only allow God to speak to me through it rather than allowing it to train me to be more in tune with the still, small voice, the voice of the Holy Spirit, then I’ve probably loved it too much.” - Jason Gray
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’re joined by beloved authors/speakers who coined the term “Godwink”—SQuire Rushnell and Louise DuArt. Godwinks are the little gifts left on our doorstep, the personal connection moments in which God lets us know we’re not alone. SQuire and Louise share about the latest title in their collection, Godwinks for Moms, and how the mothers and mother figures in our lives impact us, make a difference, and shape us into the people we are—all a part of God’s grand design and a way to show us how much He loves us.
Guest’s LinksYouTube: @godwinks
Facebook: @Godwinks
Instagram: @godwinkguy
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/3M8hI54
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we sit down with Chris Blair, the owner of the Listening Room Cafe in Nashville, a place known not just for great music, but for the spirit of generosity that lives within its walls. Chris came to Nashville chasing a dream, but what began as a pursuit of music slowly became a calling to create space for others—space where stories are honored, community is formed, and giving back becomes more important than getting ahead.
Later in the episode, we’ll also hear from country artist Cyndi Thomson, who experienced a rapid rise to fame with her debut album My World and hit song “What I Really Meant to Say.” At the height of her success, she began to struggle with panic attacks and a deep sense that God was moving her in a different direction. She shares the private process of wrestling with this decision, and how after walking away from her career, her focus became on the one individual over the accolades of the world.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary
Upcoming interview: Jeremy Rosado
Chris Blair
The Listening Room Cafe
Tootsies
Brian White
Bridget Tatum
Danny Myrick
Hands On Nashville
www.chrisblair.com
www.listeningroomcafe.com
Cyndi Thomson
My World
www.cyndithomson.com
Interview Quotes:
“At The Listening Room, we connect people with the stories behind the songs. That’s our mission.” - Chris Blair
“Part of the reason that I wanted to start the Listening Room in the first place [was] to bring in and spend thirty minutes to an hour with individual artists and songwriters and really share their story of not just the songs, but how they got started, their struggles, their wins, and all of that.” - Chris Blair
“We went through a lot of hard times in the early days, but that was the early dream of what I wanted people to experience when they walked into the doors of The Listening Room for the first time—that they just felt like they belonged and that they could walk out feeling like they were connected to the stories behind the songs in a way that they had never heard and couldn’t wait to come back.” - Chris Blair
“Because I’d come out of a bullying experience, I didn’t know what I was. [A teacher] was the first person to really call out what God had put on my life. She saw an anointing that I didn’t see, and I needed a teacher like that in my life.” - Cyndi Thomson
“Looking back now, [walking away from my career] was self-preservation, and it was obviously the Lord’s hand on my life. So that decision came with much prayer. I remember having this moment where I was like, Okay, Lord, if you really want me to do this, I need something supernatural from You only.” - Cyndi Thomson
“I think that time with the Lord on a daily basis can either make or break your day. How many times can we call it out by the end of the day, like, I didn’t spend my time with the Lord? You just know it. It just runs so differently when you do.” - Cyndi Thomson
“God really does care about the ‘one,’ and He’ll go to any length to reach them.” - Cyndi Thomson
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Welcome to this special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, inspired by the topical themes from Sarah Young’s seasonal prayer devotional Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season. Today, we are featuring guests who speak to themes that all of us might be experiencing in this season of winter. As the days grow shorter and the night longer, we are offered a rare gift: permission to stop. This season can be a challenging time for many, and if you are struggling with low spirits, please know you are not alone and help is available. This episode is an opportunity to honor your weariness, to resist the urge to rush, and to discover the profound healing that happens when we simply let ourselves rest in the stillness.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Patsy Clairmont
Herman Mendoza
Kristin Smedley
Tamron Hall
Kevin Olusola
Sabrina Greenlee
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we hear from retired Washington D.C. police sergeant and pastor Dale Sutherland, who shares how his faith carried him through dangerous undercover work, false accusations, and ultimately inspired him to launch a ministry that brings hope to families in crisis.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Haley Scully, who has spent nearly fifteen years with Hope for the Heart, equipping people to offer compassionate care within their communities. Through her own journey of navigating disappointment and renewal, she’s gained a deep understanding of the struggles others face—and a passion to restore their confidence and hope.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Clarissa and Fiona Moll
Upcoming interview: Chris Blair
Dale Sutherland
Ephesians 2:10
2 Corinthians 1:9
Boost Others
www.boostothers.org
www.theundercoverpastor.com
Haley Scully
Hope for the Heart
www.hopefortheheart.org
The Care and Counsel Handbook
Interview Quotes:
“I’ve been shot at, robbed, and threatened a lot of times. But by God’s grace, I’m here.” - Dale Sutherland
“[Being a police officer] was intense, yes, but the great thing is knowing Jesus the Lord went with me on all those calls. When I got ready to do an undercover, I prayed and asked the Lord for help. I really think any success I’ve received or been blessed with has truly been a result of the Lord’s work and answering all those prayers.” - Dale Sutherland
“The Lord helped me a tremendous amount so that I could do my job but not let my own worries or feelings about what might happen or what has happened—almost like an on and off switch.” - Dale Sutherland
“That time of trying to understand the goodness of God and His calling, in spite of some of the biggest disappointment and hurt in my life, that was certainly a time that I didn’t feel uncertain of Him, but I was feeling afraid and definitely stretched. I had to search through His Word with Him and really dig in to believe that He is good in spite of those disappointments.” - Haley Scully
“When we allow God to use the gifts that He’s given us and we allow Him to shape that, it takes off all the pressure. That’s when the burden is light, when the yoke is on the Lord. I just get to help lead people to His Word.”- Haley Scully
“Whether we are in a village in Africa or we’re in a high rise in Hong Kong, it does not matter where we are, the struggles of the human heart are the same.” - Haley Scully
“We know that people are carrying quite a load as they try to care for others, and we want to help them be the most prepared to do that so they can still have joy in their calling and that they truly can trust in God to be the One to manage these things and be a vessel of help and hope.” - Haley Scully
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Welcome to a special scripture-focused bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, where we do a deep dive on the book of Proverbs with author Sherri Hughes-Gragg. Sherri walks us through the wisdom and compassion of God that are on full display in Proverbs, how short scripture passages like these can serve as a touchpoint to bring us back to God, and what it truly means to love our neighbors as ourselves.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Sherri Hughes-Gragg
The Compassionate Christ
Book of Proverbs
Interview Quotes:
“I think if we only read Proverbs at face value, we are missing a lot of the depth and the richness of the text. And I think that’s true for all of Scripture, actually. When we approach Scripture with the culture and history of the Bible in mind, it really illuminates it.” - Sherri Hughes-Gragg
“One of the things I love about the Proverbs is how practical it is. When I open the Proverbs to read them, pretty much every time something hits me right between the eyes and challenges me, usually about the way I’m loving my neighbor.” - Sherri Hughes-Gragg
“Books like the book of Proverbs have challenged me on what it means to live in right communication with God and my neighbor.” - Sherri Hughes-Gragg
“God really is a compassionate, merciful God. More so than we could ever even imagine. His mercy and compassion are beyond our imagination. And when we begin to rest in that, we then have the capacity and the responsibility to live compassionately with others.” - Sherri Hughes-Gragg
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
In the foothills of Appalachia, Jordan Smith, a young boy from Harlan, Kentucky, found his voice in the hymns of a small country church. Years later, that voice would capture the nation’s heart when Jordan Smith won NBC’s The Voice in 2015. In our conversation, Jordan reflects on how hymns shaped his journey and how prayer and Scripture continue to anchor him through every season of life.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Tyler White, also known as DJ TyWy. Growing up on the spectrum, Tyler discovered the power of music to break through social struggles, from singing in talent shows to dancing at school events. Today, he DJs across Florida, including Autism Speaks Walks, using his platform to inspire others on the spectrum. In our conversation, Tyler reflects on perseverance, faith, and how music has shaped his journey and dreams.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Johnny and Donnie Van Zant
Upcoming interview: Dale Sutherland
Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season
Jordan Smith
NBC’s The Voice
Psalms
The People’s Hymnal
Gaither Music
www.therealjordansmith.com
Tyler White
Autism Speaks Walks
Love on the Spectrum
CMA Fest
Dillon Weldon
Randy Travis
*Tyler White would like to thank Clay Bradley, President of BMI, his manager Brent Daughrity, the board of directors for the CMA, and his attorney J. Reid Hunter for introducing him to the platforms for writing and recording in Nashville. He’d also like to thank Drew Trosclair, Jeff Garrison, Jackson Nance, and Cameron Bedell for helping him write and produce the songs.
Interview Quotes:
“Hymns are songs that are meant to be memorized and sung together. They’re songs that bring people together, they are songs that are centered around the message of the gospel. They highlight the truth of Scripture. They also bring people together and allow people to experience that truth together.” - Jordan Smith
“When you have a group of people coming together to sing these uplifting messages, to sing these messages of hope, and to sing these messages of the gospel, I think something just comes alive in you, and there’s something profound about it.” - Jordan Smith
“I found myself in moments where worry was stealing the joy of what God was doing in my life. Worry was taking away the happiness that I should feel in doing what God created me to do. I had to learn how to cultivate a consistent prayer life with God in order to remain at peace in every situation. I continually had to come back, sometimes even every single day, to give Him the same worries and fears and trade them and exchange them for His love and His peace.” - Jordan Smith
“I think the beautiful thing about faith and about a relationship with God is that it’s universal and it does bring unity and it does connect us together, but it’s also so extremely personal.” - Jordan Smith
“Christian faith is built on Christ as the foundation, but it’s sustained by Christian community. And we need each other to get through this thing.” - Jordan Smith
“With hard work, perseverance, determination, positive attitude, and faith in God, you can overcome any obstacle and do anything you set your mind to. I say that because really that’s how I’ve learned how to overcome things.I think everybody needs Jesus.” - Tyler White
“With my lifegrowing up on the spectrum, I always say my autism is what’s helped me draw closer to Jesus. And I think it’s very important, no matter what you go through, to always put Jesus first and He’ll help you. I always ask God to use me in the way He’d have for me to be and always make sure that I’m using this to glorify Him, as well as inspire others on the spectrum.” - Tyler White
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we welcome Ben Higgins back to the show—entrepreneur, author, and former star of The Bachelor who has turned public fame into a platform for authentic connection. Ben shares why true connection can’t be found through screens or status, but through honest conversation and shared life with others.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Nashville singer-songwriter Jamie MacDonald. From growing up in a home where singing wasn’t allowed to standing on stages sharing songs of hope, Jamie’s story is a powerful reminder that some voices are too full of light to stay silent.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Ali Gilkeson
Upcoming interview: Jordan Smith
Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season
Ben Higgins
Generous Coffee
Alone in Plain Sight
www.thebenhiggins.com
www.generouscoffee.com
Jamie MacDonald
Michael W. Smith
Stephen Curtis Chapman
www.jamiemacdonaldmusic.com
Interview Quotes:
“There’s still this piece of our heart that screams out to sit beside somebody else, to look somebody else in the eye, to ask them the questions that actually matter. I think we’re seeing that even when everything’s handed to us, there’s still something missing, which is the connection to humans face-to-face.” - Ben Higgins
“I think if you want to really get to know somebody, if you really want for somebody to get to know you, you have to let them see the stop moments of your life. You have to be able to sit with them in their roughest seasons and their most joyous seasons and celebrate when joy is at the table and also mourn with them when maybe mourning is necessary.” - Ben Higgins
“Life doesn’t give us the gift of hiding outwhen pain is at the forefront of our experience. I think we’ve all learned that when pain is a part of our life, sitting alone in that is not the most healing. It is getting with people who can relate. It is speaking to professionals who can process. It is getting around friendships who can love on you and getting around family who cangive you a hug.” - Ben Higgins
“When divisiveness is no longer the common thread amongst us as humans, I think we’re going to really look back on a time where we maybe burnt too many bridges and be embarrassed by that.I want to hopefully give people the warning to not jump too quickly into cutting everybody out that they don’t agree with.” - Ben Higgins
“Being in the public eye has taught me that the more vulnerable I become and the more outspoken I become on the things that are tough in my life, the more connected I feel to others because there’s other people dealing with it also.” - Ben Higgins
“I knew I felt good singing. It’s the one thing that brought me the most joy throughout some of my lonely, hardest times when I was young. It brought me happiness and peace. And it was also a way to encounter God’s presence.” - Jamie MacDonald
“There were just a lot of miracles that [God] did in my life to get me out of that place, and it’s been a slow, steady climb—a lot of behind the scenes work that He’s done in my heart to heal me and all the identity issues that come with letting your life hit the bottom.” - Jamie MacDonald
“Singing in the prison really gave me courage again and hope to sing, and it really gave me my why. When they sing in there, there’s no cameras, there’s nobody putting them on YouTube. It’s all for the Lord, and it’s an encounter with God’s presence and a ministry to each other.” - Jamie MacDonald
“I think where all of the best songs come from is when you can be yourself and you’re not trying to reach a certain audience necessarily or trying to be commercial.” - Jamie MacDonald
“God is really good at picking up the broken pieces and making it into something beautiful. I want people to know that it’s never too late, and no matter what you’ve done in your life, when you give it to Jesus and you turn to Him and you confess and you give Him those things, He chooses to forget them.” - Jamie MacDonald
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
“Passion is what we can't stop doing despite not having any accolades or open doors.” Get ready for a real and raw conversation on Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer as Heather Thompson Day shares her journey with Susie McEntire-Eaton. Discover how to find God's delight in our attempts, even in failure.
Guest’s LinksHeather’s YouTube: @heatherthompsonday1
Heather’s Facebook: @HeatherThompsonDay
Heather’s Instagram: @heatherthompsonday
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/480YXcq
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
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This week, we welcome a music legend whose voice has become synonymous with the sounds of the season. At just twelve years old, Brenda Lee recorded “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” She shares memories of recording in Nashville alongside country greats, her deep respect for the team behind every hit, and the enduring value of kindness in a competitive industry.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from pastor, author, and publisher Philip Nation, who has dedicated his career to making Scripture accessible to readers everywhere. Philip opens up about his desire to know and understand God’s Word more fully.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Lisa Harper
Upcoming interview: Ben Higgins
Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season
Brenda Lee
“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”
Owen Bradley
Johnny Marks
Anita Kerr
Quonset Hut Studio
Loretta Lynn
www.brendaleeofficial.com
Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree book
Philip Nation
Gospel of John
John 3:16
John 17
Hosea 14:4
about.me/philipnation
Interview Quotes:
“It was a team effort, so if I had a hit, so did they, all those wonderful people. And we just had a ball.” - Brenda Lee
“I try to tell the new artists that are coming up, ‘You don’t do this by yourself. You may be the greatest singer that ever walked the earth, but if you don’t conform and listen, you’ll still be a great singer, but nobody will know.’” - Brenda Lee
“If you don’t make it on your voice, you’ll make it on your kindness. Goodness always wins out.” - Brenda Lee
“I think that walking alongside other people in celebrations and in painful times, and constantly looking to the Scripture to inform, guide, and help you make decisions, to find hope when times are dark, and to be able to magnify your joys when you’re celebrating—to do that together is the very nature of what we see God unfolding in the Bible.” - Philip Nation
“[God] is constantly calling people together to live by faith and to walk through this world, not as lone rangers and solitary believers, but to do it together.” - Philip Nation
“There is plenty of anxiety and stress and pressure that just flows through our lives, which is why we need the study of Scripture. It’s why we need to be able to pause in prayer [and do as] the Scripture tells us, to pray without ceasing, just to let our hearts be abounding in prayer and our minds being constantly renewed by the Scripture.” - Philip Nation
“When I pick up the Bible, I realize that this is God knowing what humanity is all about and desiring to speak with me personally, kindly, and clearly. Even in the midst of stress and anxiety, it is the place we can turn our minds and allow the Holy Spirit to say, ‘I want to meet you and care for you in this moment of need.’” - Philip Nation
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This episode mentions suicide and may be triggering for some listeners.
On today’s episode, we talk with two guests who have navigated both the heights of success and the depths of personal struggle, learning a profound truth: finding hope isn’t just for the good times. Candace Cameron Bure, the beloved actress and author, shares how she rooted her identity not in Hollywood fame, but in her faith, discovering her true value when the applause stopped. Then, Pastor Shawn Johnson opens up about his lifelong battles with anxiety, depression, and a devastating medical diagnosis, revealing how he found the courage to “kiss the fire” and walk through his hardest seasons with God’s strength.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Anthony Lucia
Upcoming interview: Brenda Lee
Candace Cameron Bure
Full House
Fuller House
Bob Saget
Luke 2 NIV
Jesus Listens for Advent and Christmas
www.candacecbure.com
Pastor Shawn Johnson
Attacking Anxiety
Kiss the Fire
Mayo Clinic
Parkinson’s disease
www.redrockschurch.com
Interview Quotes:
“I really started digging deeply into the Word of God and understanding that my identity isn’t in my occupation, who I know, or how much money I have. My identity is rooted in Christ, that I am the daughter of the King. My purpose is to glorify God in all that I do.” - Candace Cameron Bure
“There was always a hug at the end of Full House and Fuller House, and we always worked through the problems. It was a really great model for so many people that have families that don’t feel safe. This was a family that they could look to for that.” - Candace Cameron Bure
“My joy comes from the Lord and the goodness that He gives me and having hope in Him for eternity. And through that joy, He gives me my strength to persevere each day, to endure every day, to take another step, to be able to breathedeeply.God calls us to walk with Him, and you can’t get to know someone if you don’t spend time with them.” - Candace Cameron Bure
“As a working woman, there are so many days that I can feel overwhelmed. I have to remind myself that my joy doesn’t come from the circumstances around me, but from the Lord. He gives me the strength to persevere, endure, and take another step each day.” - Candace Cameron Bure
“I started to realize the more I would be willing to talk about my real struggles, the more people felt like, Oh my gosh, me too. If that guy can admit he struggles, then I could too.“ - Shawn Johnson
“We’re gonna kiss this fire and walk away whistling. That phrase ‘kiss the fire’ just sort of became almost like a mantra for me. I didn’t talk to anyone else about it, but I would remind myself daily that, I’m not going to give up. I’m not going to quit. I’m not going to stop trusting God, although part of me wants to. I’m not gonna stop believing that He has a plan for my future. I’m not going to stop trying to do the things I think He’s called me to do.” - Shawn Johnson
“I work out a lot, and remind myself every day that none of us know how long we’re going to live. And so today I’m going to be a really good dad to my three boys. I’m going to be a good husband to my wife. I’ll try to be a great pastor this week, a good friend.” - Shawn Johnson
“A daily devotion is so important because life’s already hard enough, and we need to constantly be reminded that God is with us and that God is working and that God has a plan even when we can’t see it and don’t understand it.” - Shawn Johnson
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This episode mentions suicide and may be triggering for some listeners.
This week, we hear from author, podcaster, and entrepreneur Theresa Bruno. After experiencing a profound loss that threatened to plunge her into complete despair, Theresa shares how through raw honesty and unwavering prayer, she discovered the strength to not only keep going, but to find hope amidst the wreckage.
Next up, we talk with Reverend Joash Thomas, author, speaker, and tireless advocate for liberation, especially for those caught in the brutal grip of trafficking and all who suffer at the margins. The Reverend’s spiritual work centers on a justice-focused interpretation of Scripture, guiding us to envision a faith that unifies rather than separates, pleading for mercy for all of God’s precious souls.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past episode:God Loves Broken People
Upcoming interview: Candace Cameron Bure
Theresa Bruno
The Soul Talks Podcast
He’s Not Coming Back: Rewriting Life After Loss
Reverend Joash Thomas
Anglican Episcopalian tradition
Luke 4:18 NIV
The Justice of Jesus
Psalms
Interview Quotes:
“The way I really like to look at the whole of my life and all the things I’ve done is that early on, the beauty of music organized me.” - Theresa Bruno
“Even though I was mad and I yelled at [God] a lot, there was still a presence I was being invited into, and I think that word is so important. There’s an invitation in our darkest times.” - Theresa Bruno
“I tried to be perfect, because I thought if I was perfect, then God would love me. But I never really understood what it meant at all to have any kind of intimacy with God.” - Theresa Bruno
“I’ve tried to flip my prayers into thankfulness for whatever is provided, so I don’t feel like I live in a place of constant begging and beseeching. In order to live more fully into faith and less into fear, it requires dedicated practice.” - Theresa Bruno
“Courage is like a burst. You have enough courage to do something. Resilience is that slow burn that gets stronger and stronger and rises and rises, and that builds with every little tiny step.” - Theresa Bruno
“Grief, the way we deal with it, is such a jagged line. And everybody does grief differently. I know you can’t feel it or know it right now, but this is not your final moment. Your story is still being written.” - Theresa Bruno
“I know that if it breaks my heart, it also breaks the heart of God. Who we see throughout the Bible is a God of justice and mercy. If something like sexual abuse or human trafficking is keeping the little children from coming to Jesus, then we need to remove those hindrances.” - Rev. Joash Thomas
“Jesus coming down to earth is called the incarnation and that was physical, through which spiritual truths were made known. My hope for the church is to retrieve the physical good news while still holding onto the spiritual good news that we embody, and to fully proclaim both together so that it actually sounds like good news to people who are poor and oppressed.” - Rev. Joash Thomas
“People read the Bible in very different ways, but we’re still united in Jesus, and we have to be united in Him to bring the good news to a world in need of good news today—a world full of injustice and oppression.” - Rev. Joash Thomas
“We’re human beings with mistakes who don’t always get everything right. But at the same time, there’s also goodness in us because we’re all made in the image of God.” - Rev. Joash Thomas
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Welcome to a new monthly bonus series of the Jesus Calling Podcast, where we focus on specific books of scripture with an expert guest. This month, we’re doing a deep dive on the book of Luke with pastor and author Rob Morgan. Rob walks us through Luke’s vision for the gospel and the eyewitness accounts that it’s formed out of. He shares what we can learn from Zechariah and Elizabeth about being faithful, even when we’re anxious and disappointed.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Robert Morgan
World Outreach Church
Book of Luke
God Hasn’t Forgotten You
Interview Quotes:
“Luke is a very consummate historian who wrote with great accuracy and gave us the facts of the gospel so that we could be absolutely certain that when we read it, we were reading truth and true history.” - Rob Morgan
“Whenever we worry, especially if the worry overtakes us and we just begin living in chronic anxiety, it’s a sign that we aren’t really trusting those promises of the God whom we believe. We are saying, ‘Well, I believe in God, but at this particular moment in my life, I’m not sure He is able to handle this.’” - Rob Morgan
“John was the opening act for the Lord Jesus. He was the one who was going to preach a message of repentance which would convict people of their sins and give them a spiritual openness for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.” - Rob Morgan
“Everything about our background, the good and the bad, everything about our lineage, the good characters and the bad characters, has been preparing us to do what God has called us to do. It’s all bound up in Jesus Christ. It’s His work and His ministry, but we have been appointed and preordained in order to be exactly where we should be to do what the Lord wants us to with the gifts that He has chosen for us to have.” - Rob Morgan
“We may age, but we never get beyond the place where God can use us in ways greater than He’s ever used us before.” - Rob Morgan
“The Lord has not forgotten us, and He wants to do some remarkable things in us and through us. And we get a pretty good glimpse of what some of those things are by reading Luke chapter one and the story of Zechariah and Elizabeth.” - Rob Morgan
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Melissa Ferguson, a mother of five whose love for stories and the countryside has inspired her creative life. From her family’s Tennessee farmhouse by the mountains, she writes heartwarming romantic comedies for television and children’s books. Melissa reflects on the lessons she’s learned from farm life, family rhythms, and faith—and why at the end of the day, it all comes down to keeping what’s most important at the top of the to-do list.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from worship artist Natalie Runion. Natalie grew up as a pastor’s kid watching her parents serve their church, but found herself needing to forgive certain toxic elements that had shaped her upbringing. Today, through her ministry Raised to Stay and her writing, Natalie gives us a glimpse into how she’s helping others reconcile their love for Jesus with the realities of a sometimes imperfect church culture.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Chris and Kelly Janson
Upcoming interview: Theresa Bruno
Melissa Ferguson
Great American Family
Our Friendly Farmhouse Instagram
Homesteading
Jesus Calling for Kids
www.melissaferguson.com
Our Friendly Farmhouse
Natalie Runion
Raised to Stay
Campus Crusade for Christ
2 Corinthians 11 NIV
Hebrews 13 NIV
www.natalierunion.com
I Don’t Even Like Women
Interview Quotes:
“We definitely stepped into [homesteading] slowly and kind of enjoyed getting to know the adventure of each thing because there is such a learning curve there. It’s been an adventure along the way, and I think it’s been really healthy for our children and for ourselves.” - Melissa Ferguson
“It’s important to step back, especially when something feels off. I broke it down by the hours that each activity in that priority order would take, and I realized this is why I’m stressed. I’m stressed because I’ve swapped the extras, the least important priorities in my life, with the things that are.” - Melissa Ferguson
“I have allowed myself to be too busy doing other things and that was a choice not to spend time in the Word or pray because I thought, Oh, well, it doesn’t matter that much. I’m too busy. I’d rather go do this. And I’ve experienced the consequences of what became a growing sense of restlessness or a lack of peace.” - Melissa Ferguson
“The older I get, the more aware I am that we live in a very broken and hurting world. So I absolutely need to spiritually set aside time in my day. Otherwise, I can’t fight those feelings that come at me that try to cause chaos and unrest.” - Melissa Ferguson
“I think how good God is that even when our plans change because of people, that His plan for us can’t be changed.” - Natalie Runion
“It shouldn’t come as a surprise when we walk into situations where we think that we’re going to just tell the gospel without getting wounded, because throughout Scripture, we’re being warned this is going to happen. For me, it has been really separating imperfect people from a perfect gospel, imperfect people from my perfect Jesus, saying the standard has been set, but we won’t reach that standard until we get to heaven, and we’re all made perfect in the sight of the Lord.” - Natalie Runion
“God has promised me that He will never leave me and He will never forsake me. And though people are going to fail me, institutions and organizations are going to fail me, He remains the same yesterday, today, and forever.” - Natalie Runion
“This is why I love our Father so much—He knows what we need in the season that we need it.” - Natalie Runion
“I do believe that as we as women begin to like ourselves and then we start to love ourselves, that then we will begin to like and love other women and become that force that we are reckoned to be in the church, when we unify as God’s daughters and stop competing and comparing and start collaborating.” - Natalie Runion
“I wanted women to see that not only are they worthy of friendship, every woman is worthy of being loved, wanted, invited, seen. They’re worthy of giving their opinions. They’re worthy of collaboration.I also wanted them to reconnect to their friendship with God, to see from the garden that God made us unique as women.” - Natalie Runion
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Website
TikTok
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
In this special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, you’ll discover inspiring stories of individuals doing good in the world. Hear from Ken Isaacs of Samaritan’s Purse as he shares the impact of Operation Christmas Child. Evan Dougoud, founder of the Be Heard Movement, talks about his family background of scarcity and homelessness and how that moved him toward helping others in providing basic needs, and bringing dignity to those who have lost everything. Caregiver and life coach Diane Chew offers insights on finding strength while caring for her husband with Lewy Body Dementia. Finally, multi-platinum country artist Tracy Lawrence talks about his annual Mission Possible Turkey Fry, which feeds hundreds of people at Thanksgiving. These guests live out how faith and a desire to love their neighbors fuel their efforts toward making a tangible difference.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Ken Isaacs
Evan Dougoud
Diane Chew
Tracy Lawrence
Interview Quotes:
“In my experience, you have yet to fall fully, completely, without reservation into God’s arms and trust Him with everything. Get involved.” - Ken Isaacs
“I’m constantly looking for ways to intertwine all the avenues in such a way as to reach people who are in the ditches of life for the purposes of saving lives, reducing suffering, and doing it in Jesus’ name.” - Ken Isaacs
“It has a profound impact on me, the way that [God] weaves things together beyond the horizon of our vision.” - Ken Isaacs
“God comes through on His promises, but that doesn’t always mean you’re going to have happy endings. What God promises is that He will be with us through the valley of the shadow of death. I find in my most desperate situations is when I most desperately turn to the Lord and seek His guidance.” - Ken Isaacs
“I wanted to present that to those experiencing homelessness—by listening to them, listening to their stories, elevating their voice, it could help save thousands of people. God saved me, and I want to help and go to the same for somebody else.” - Evan Dougoud
“One of the most powerful things you can provide somebody is your ears. So by listening, by affirming to them, by allowing their voices to be heard, by allowing their testimony to be heard, that really is breaking barriers, but also creating a solution of trust.” - Evan Dougoud
“It takes constant practice to look for the blessings, and to stay connected to something bigger than my thoughts and feelings.” - Diane Chew
“There are ways we can take care of ourselves, even as we’re taking care of somebody else. It takes intention, it takes willingness, it takes stubbornness, I think, to not go down with the ship.” - Diane Chew
“Whatever you’re facing that feels like it’s beyond your ability to cope, the truth is yes it is. But together with your Creator, you will cope and you will be stronger than the storm.” - Diane Chew
“Since I was a young kid, I always believed that God had a plan for me and He had great things in store for my life.” - Tracy Lawrence
“It seems like the more you do, the more you realize you’re barely scratching the surface. But hopefully you’ll inspire somebody else, somewhere else, to just do our part to help out our fellow man.” - Tracy Lawrence
“I think we all have a responsibility, wherever we’re at in life and whatever you can afford to do, to just contribute and help your fellow man out. I think that when God has blessed you, you have a responsibility to share that with the people you come in contact with and to spread a little bit of that love and joy.” - Tracy Lawrence
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This episode contains content that may be triggering for some listeners.
From the whirlwind of a rock and roll upbringing to the heights of pop stardom, Chynna Phillips’ life has been anything but ordinary. The daughter of music legends, Chynna navigated the complexities of a turbulent childhood while in the glare of public attention, which left her searching for her own identity. Yet, even in the midst of the spotlight and the challenges, a profound spiritual awakening offered her a path to healing and self-discovery.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Tiffany Espensen, an actress, content creator, wife, and mom. Tiffany’s journey began with her adoption from China and her upbringing in California, where her passion for performing blossomed, leading to roles with Disney, Nickelodeon, and Marvel. Tiffany shares her thoughts on the significance of adoption in her life and how she’s discovered meaning and identity in both her on-screen roles and her life at home.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Rolene Strauss
Upcoming interview: Melissa Ferguson
Chynna Phillips
One Day at a Time
Glenn Ballard
California Healin’
Wilson Phillips
Tiffany Espensen
Bucket & Skinner’s Epic Adventures
Bindi Irwin
Interview Quotes:
“At the core and at the center of my being, I knew I was a creative, kind, loving human being, but it was just so tainted by my environment that I felt lost.” - Chynna Phillips
“The song[“Hold On”]was written mostly to inspire myself, and little did I know that it would end up inspiring and being an anthem to so many people around the world. It is a very universal lyric, and everyone can sort of identify with just holding on for one more day.” - Chynna Phillips
“Once I started to pray and I started seeing all of this abundance of answered prayer pouring out onto my life, that validated for me that I am loved by God because He’s listening to me.” - Chynna Phillips
“There’s something about girl power and being around your Christian friends and they pray for you and you confess to one another—and it’s just a beautiful thing.” - Chynna Phillips
“When people have the courage to be transparent with me and talk to me about what’s really going on in their lives, not only does it bless them because they get to confess with somebody and talk with somebody, but it blesses me because I know they trust me and I know that they are opening up to me and being vulnerable with me.” - Chynna Phillips
“When I started playing different characters, it made me talk to more people and be open to hearing their stories and asking their thoughts. It really made me think about different personalities of people and their different quirks and their behavior. So it really makes you empathetic.” - Tiffany Espensen
“We all have different roles in life and we’re all a different role to someone else. We’re a daughter, a son, a sister, a nephew, an employee, a boss, a co-worker. Everything comes and goes in your life—people, jobs, opportunities—but Jesus is the one thing that will remain constant. He’s with you through it all.” - Tiffany Espensen
“I feel like God puts people in your life that you need, and I feel like once I kind of talk it out with people outside of my own head—people that I trust and good people of faith as well—it definitely balances my brain out.” - Tiffany Espensen
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
YouTube
Website
TikTok
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
In this episode of Jesus Listens Stories of Prayer, host Susie McEntire Eaton talks with author and speaker Arlene Pellicane. Arlene shares insights from her book, Making Marriage Easier, discussing how intentional decisions, gratitude, and making time for fun can strengthen relationships. She also touches on the importance of prayer in marriage and offers a realistic perspective on how it can be incorporated into daily life.
Guest’s LinksYouTube: @ArleneHappyHome
Facebook: @ArlenePellicaneAuthor
Instagram: @arlenepellicane
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/43xG8ec
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Jesus Calling Website
TikTok
Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
The Christmas season is a beautiful time when the light of faith often breaks through in the most surprising and wonderful ways—and sometimes, right on prime-time television! We love watching artists who sing and speak from their hearts and who have shared their Jesus Calling journey with us, step onto the world’s biggest stages. December 2nd, that moment is happening on ABC with the annual CMA Country Christmas special. The show will also be available to stream on Hulu starting on December 3rd. We are thrilled that several friends of this show—talented artists who have graced our podcast and shared their stories with you—are part of this yearly event. We’ll revisit powerful moments of inspiration and deep connection from GRAMMY award winning artists Bebe Winans and Hillary Scott from Lady A, plus CMA Song of the year Award winner Jordan Davis, who will also be co-hosting this CMA Country Christmas special.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
BeBe Winans
Jordan Davis
Hillary Scott
Interview Quotes:
“I don’t take music lightly. If I don’t believe in the song, I don’t sing the song. I really do believe this, that if it comes from the heart, it goes to the heart.” - BeBe Winans
“All of us are born with a purpose. It’s important for you to find out what that purpose is, to not give up. I’m not a mistake, I am a child of God, and there is a world called destiny attached to my name.” - BeBe Winans
“The more God does for me, the more I need to be closer to Him. Prayer is so important.” - BeBe Winans
“The low points, the valleys of my life, come when I get away from Christ and when I start living for me and I start thinking about the things that are going to make me happy.” - Jordan Davis
“God couldn’t care less how many number ones I have. That’s not what I got into music for—the accolades and number ones—I got into it because I loved it. If I leave it just to me, I will do it for all the wrong reasons. [I have to] put God first and realize how blessed I am to get to do this.” - Jordan Davis
“Lord, put somebody in my life today that could use a light, somebody that’s lonely, somebody that needs some guidance. Let one of my messages get through to them.” - Jordan Davis
“[My husband] Chris wakes up early and we’ll put worship music on and have it on low volume in our house because we believe that invites the Holy Spirit in, and we want to be mindful of His presence through us and through our home every day.” - Hillary Scott
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This episode mentions suicide and depression and may not be suitable for all listeners.
This week, we’re joined by Cristina Baker, a speaker, author, and digital creator. After growing up in a tumultuous family environment, experiencing homelessness, addiction, and jail time, Cristina bravely rebuilt her life after someone she barely knew encouraged her to go to a prayer meeting.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Becky Thompson. Becky is the founder of the Midnight Mom Devotional online community, where more than two million mothers gather each night to pray and encourage one another. Becky reminds moms of the strength found in community and the simple power of prayer.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Monique Rodriguez
Upcoming interview: Chynna Phillips
Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season
Cristina Baker
www.cristinabaker.com
Hope in 60 Seconds
Becky Thompson
Midnight Mom Devotional
www.beckythompson.com
Healing Rest
Interview Quotes:
“The great equalizer of life is pain, and we all end up in that place one way or another—where it’s just us and it’s God and that’s it.” - Cristina Baker
“What happens when God leads you into what you think is a disaster, but actually that disaster is the very thing that He’s going to use to bless you?” - Cristina Baker
“There’s no better place to be than when your back is up against the wall and you have no other option but God. He will take that night season that was meant to destroy you and turn it into something that you could have never thought or imagined.” - Cristina Baker
“God hasn’t changed the subject because humanity will always need hope. And hope is not a concept, He’s a person. Hope is found in Him.” - Cristina Baker
“I am a spirit that lives in a body, and sometimes my body doesn’t line up with what my spirit knows is true.” - Becky Thompson
“Just because the healing hasn’t come instantly, and just because it hasn’t happened as quickly as you wanted it to, does not mean that the Lord is not a part of the process.” - Becky Thompson
“I think it’s so important that we remember that mental health situations don’t disqualify us from being women full of faith, they actually often cause us to be women of greater faith that lean more heavily on God’s sufficiency.” - Becky Thompson
“No one says you have to wake up the next day and do the hardest thing. You just have to wake up the next day and do the next thing that makes the most sense for you, which is whatever the Holy Spirit is putting on your heart.” - Becky Thompson
“The gift of this season in my life is that I’m learning to rest in the Lord even before the work is done. I can rest in a promise that I am safely held by a good God who loves me and promises to never leave.” - Becky Thompson
“Rest is not a reward for our finished work. Scripture’s very clear about that. We actually get to rest because of Jesus’ finished work on the cross. We get to receive the rest that He offers to us in relationship with Him because of what He has accomplished.” - Becky Thompson
“You get zero stars for trying to do it on your own when the Lord sends people to help you. Receive the help that the Lord is sending you because there may be other seasons when you can turn and be the help that you needed in another mama’s story.” - Becky Thompson
“You have never been solely responsible for carrying that heavy burden on your own, and the rest that you really crave is attached to His presence and found in surrender.” - Becky Thompson
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we explore the profound impact of service and caretaking for others, as highlighted by our two inspiring guests, former governor and presidential candidate John Kasich, and former governor Marty Schreiber. Join us as they share their personal journeys and insights into how dedicating oneself to the well-being of others can transform lives, both for those who serve and those who receive care.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Justin Knoop
Upcoming interview: Cristina Baker
Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season
John Kasich
Ohio State
Heaven Help Us
Marty Schreiber
Dementia
www.mytwoelaines.com
My Two Elaines
Interview Quotes:
“All of us who go through trials and tribulations, which we all do in one way or another,, we can hang in there. Even though very bad things can happen, there’s a higher power that cares about you and loves you even through difficult times.” - John Kasich
“When I ran for president, the people that I was meeting with, they didn’t really care about my position on issues. They really cared that I cared about them.” - John Kasich
“If people can get involved in some way in their community, where you would be helping somebody else—helping somebody else is going to make you feel good.” - John Kasich
“People are so focused on these things that are far away instead of focused on what’s happening right next door. Because of my Father’s love for me, I believe fundamentally that we have a God who loves us, forgives us, gives us grace, gives us gifts, and encourages us. Faith, to me, is a gift. I think that’s something I can hold on to.” - John Kasich
“We may lose something, but we may never allow ourselves to feel defeated.” - Marty Schreiber
“A person morphs into being a caregiver, and because of that morphing process, the mind, the energy, and the psychology—all of that has to change you as you morph from being a loving husband or spouse to being a caregiver.” - Marty Schreiber
“A caregiver understands the importance of joining the world of this person who now is. And a caregiver has to let go of this person who once was so that we can now embrace the person who is now.” - Marty Schreiber
“I had a chance, really, by the grace of God, to love two Elaines and to take care of two Elaines and to repay her for all of the great, wonderful things she did for me during our married life.” - Marty Schreiber
“The medical profession does not understand that when there is a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, there are two patients. There is the person who is ill, and then also, there is the caregiver.” - Marty Schreiber
“I know I couldn’t fight Alzheimer’s disease because it is impossible to fight it. But I do know that I could give my wife moments of joy. I do know that I helped her have a better life. There’s a lot of comfort that we can take in that.” - Marty Schreiber
“If you are a friend or a relative of a caregiver, as someone who’s taking care of their loved one on the Alzheimer’s journey, one of the most important things you can do is to simply acknowledge that you understand what a challenge it is to be a caregiver.” - Marty Schreiber
“It’s a difficult transition, there’s no question about it. You enter a dark room and you just kinda have to feel your way along and try to identify a specific guidepost, specific things that are going to help you on this journey to deal with this grief, to deal with this new world.” - Marty Schreiber
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from husband and wife team Jason and Erica Redman. After Jason’s twenty-one years as a Navy SEAL—including surviving severe combat injuries in Iraq—and Erica’s steadfast role as caregiver, entrepreneur, and mother of three, the couple has learned to face life’s toughest battles together.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Scott Payne, a retired law enforcement officer who spent twenty-eight years serving his community, including twenty-three years with the FBI. Specializing in undercover work, Scott infiltrated gangs, drug cartels, and domestic terrorist groups, constantly stepping into roles far from his true self. Today, he shares how those experiences tested him and shaped who he would become.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Tom and Pam Banwart
Upcoming interview: John Kasich
Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season
Jason and Erica Redman
Mission: Invincible Marriage
Navy SEAL
Al-Qaeda
www.jasonredman.com
Scott Payne
South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy
Isaiah 41:10 NIV
Code Name Pale Horse: How I Went Undercover to Expose America’s Nazis
*Signed/personalized copies of Scott’s book can be procured from Union Ave Book in Knoxville, TN: https://unionavebooks.com/book/9781668032909-1
Interview Quotes:
“I think you go into a marriage and you say ‘for better or worse, until death do us part,’ but there are a lot of marriages that get put to that test that break.” - Jason Redman
“Marriage is continually communicating, continually updating your goals and what your priorities are and how you support each other and how we address the problems we’re facing together, whether those are financial or personal or whatever external things.” - Jason Redman
“That night on the battlefield, I think there was no doubt I was dying. I prayed in that moment, ‘Lord, please let me go home to my wife and kids again,’ and I think that was a miracle moment.” - Jason Redman
“Jesus is perfect, but it’s really guided me in my job to offer those second chances—third, fourth, fifth chances, twentieth chances.” - Scott Payne
“It’s a calling—you take an oath—and in my mind, and the way I see it is, you are a servant. You have a servant’s heart. You are a shepherd. You’re not just a warrior, you’re a shepherd and you protect and you will leave the ninety-nine to go save the one.” - Scott Payne
“Throughout my career in law enforcement, there were times my marriage almost didn’t make it. Had it not been for God, prayer, and our small groups—they prayed for me even when I couldn't tell them what was going on—I wouldn’t have made it.” - Scott Payne
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from actor Michael Iskanderwho currently portrays King David on the House of David series. Michael opens up about his unconventional route to acting, the prayer and fasting that became his ritual as he waited to hear whether or not he would be cast in his dream role, and what portraying David has taught him about trusting God in every moment and in every decision.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Christian Dearman—a professional baseball player with the Savannah Bananas, a team known not just for their show-stopping performances, but their heart for people. Christian shares how his journey toward the big leagues was nearly cut short by a career-threatening injury and how that difficult season became a turning point in his faith.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Erin Hicks Moon
Upcoming interview: Jason and Erica Redman
Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season
Michael Iskander
House of David
The Chosen
Jon Erwin
Psalm 8:3-6 NIV
Christian Dearman
Savannah Bananas
latissimus dorsi tendon
Jake Peavy
Florida International University
Jesse Cole
Interview Quotes:
“Even in the mundane, God has a will for us, even in something that we think is unimportant or that doesn’t have a big impact. Maybe it feels like we’re throwing a tiny rock in the ocean and it has no ripple effect. God wills for that to happen, because He is pruning us and training us for something bigger.” - Michael Iskander
“Prayer is extremely important, and always having a moment of reflection of why we’re doing this is vital. For me, the show is not about David. The show is about God. I think even in the acting process of this, God was teaching me just to let go of any sort of idea of control that I have and just to surrender to Him and to trust that prayer is powerful.” - Michael Iskander
“I’m just so grateful that God had put me into a positive mindset, because through reading Scripture, I was learning a lot of verses that I was looking at as motivational quotes.” - Christian Dearman
“It’s insane because at one point, they were telling me I would never be able to pick up baseball again, and now, my name is in the Hall of Fame. It’s surreal. God is so good all the time.” - Christian Dearman
“What I am able to do every single game is connect with kids about Jesus with something as simple as just wearing a cross.” - Christian Dearman
“If you could add just a smile to brighten someone’s day—that’s truly God’s work right there.” - Christian Dearman
“It doesn’t matter what you’re going through—Jesus already accomplished the ultimate goal. He fought the ultimate battle, and we are saved by grace.” - Christian Dearman
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
In this honest and hope-filled interview, Rachel Wojo shares how her faith was tested through her daughter’s 22-year battle with a terminal illness, and how God met her in her grief. From wrestling with anger to discovering the power of simple, heartfelt prayers, her story is a raw reminder that it’s never too late to call on Jesus.
Guest’s LinksFacebook: @rachelwojoauthor
Instagram: @rachelwojo
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/46vT2eL
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Jesus Calling Website
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, beloved Bible teacher and speaker Lisa Harper shares her perspective on how she traded theological study for a personal God experience and began seeing the Bible as a love story. She stresses showing up to God just as you are—imperfections and all—illustrated by a story of shared heartache.
Then, we’ll hear from Richard Gamble, the founder of the Eternal Wall of Answered Prayer in the United Kingdom, which is set to open in the fall of 2027. Richard shares the vision behind the largest Christian landmark in Britain, which will contain one million bricks, each one containing a scannable QR code which will reveal someone’s answered prayer.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Josh Baldwin
Upcoming interview: Christian Dearman
Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season
Lisa Harper
Malachi 3:6 NIV
www.lisaharper.org
A Jesus-Shaped Life
Richard Gamble
Eternal Wall of Answered Prayer
Royal Institute of British Architects
www.eternalwall.org.uk
Interview Quotes:
“If we compartmentalize our relationship with Jesus to only when we’re reading the Bible, to only when we’re attending church or in a Bible study, then it can become segmented in our lives. Theology at its core is relational. It’s less about accruing data about who God is and it’s more about developing an intimate relationship with Jesus.” - Lisa Harper
“When you think of the Bible as a rule book, or that it’s primarily about biblical ethics, then it becomes punitive—it’s something I have to get right. When you see it as primarily a love story, then everything changes.” - Lisa Harper
“If you look at all of Scripture, including the Old Testament, through a socio-historical context, you’ll see this ongoing theme of a good God who’s always in the process of redeeming our inherent dignity as His children.” - Lisa Harper
“All of us experience exquisite loneliness, but that also shows we are hardwired for relationship.” - Lisa Harper
“Jesus Christ, the Son of God, He chose to be accessible to us, to be near to us when our lives feel crushed, to get the residue of our heartache on His personhood. He doesn’t just love me because it’s His duty. He delights in me.” - Lisa Harper
“How kind is our God. It’s His mercy that leads us to repentance.” - Lisa Harper
“Whatever you do, don’t believe the lie that you have to clean yourself up first before you turn back to God. Bring everything to the Lord, even your disappointment, even the places where you’re stuck. Then ask Him to restore unto you the joy of your salvation, and He will.” - Lisa Harper
“My own prayer life has changed so much because I don’t worry about if I sound spiritual. I just want to be closer to my Redeemer. Some days that doesn’t look pretty. Some days, that’s really, really messy. But He says, ‘Bring me everything.’” - Lisa Harper
“The first thing I did was to speak the dream. I think that’s an important step—when God gives you a vision, to actually speak it out to others.” - Richard Gamble
“If God has given you a dream, the success of that dream is not limited to your ability. The success of the dream is just predicated on whether God has chosen it to be. If God is behind a dream, everything is possible.” - Richard Gamble
“Ultimately, what we want people to do is to find stories that inspire them to go on their own personal journey to find Jesus, the God who answers.” - Richard Gamble
“You can overcome by sharing your testimony with somebody.” - Richard Gamble
“The more those overwhelming moments come, if you are grounded in that truth of who God is daily, you don’t get the anxiety, you don’t get the fear—it bounces off you because you know the truth.” - Richard Gamble
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Dan and Sam Mathews, full-time content creators who’ve built a life rooted in creativity, family, and a passion for adventure. From backcountry camping and RV renovations to raising their kids on the road, they’ve shared their journey online—offering an honest look at the challenges and joys of living boldly and encouraging others to step outside their comfort zones and choose a more adventurous route.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Jacob Robinson, founder of Dig World, a construction theme park where kids and adults can operate real equipment. Behind the fun lies a deeply personal story. After a life-changing medical crisis with their son Pierce, Jacob’s world shifted, pushing him to navigate grief, hope, and a new way forward. Today, Dig World isn’t just a park—it’s a place where families connect, challenges are embraced, and joy is celebrated in its purest form.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Bear Grylls
Upcoming interview: Lisa Harper
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith on UPTV
Dan and Sam Mathews
Always Choose Adventure
Jacob Robinson
Dig World
Texas A&M
Texas Children’s Hospital
bacterial meningitis
www.digworldnation.com
Interview Quotes:
“There are a lot of times when multiple doors open, and we don’t know which one to choose. As long as it’s in line with the Lord’s will and we have a peace about it, we just look through the door and go, ‘Which one’s more adventurous?’” - Dan Mathews
“The more you have, it can become a distraction in a way that keeps you from fully experiencing what God has.” - Dan Mathews
“Chasing a new job title or a bigger house or nicer car or more zeros in your bank account—at the end of the day, it just leaves you unfulfilled. Having time to do what we love, to share Jesus with people, to love on one another, to spend time with our kids, to go and see new places, that became our idea of success. If we don’t have the time to do what we love and to spend time with each other, then all other measures of success don’t matter.” - Dan Mathews
“Adventure isn’t one-size-fits-all. Adventure can just be getting outside of your comfort zone and trying something new.” - Dan Mathews
“God doesn’t want us to live a stagnant life. If you look through the stories in the Bible, you can’t find anywhere God is like, ‘Hey, just stay where you’re at. Don’t change a thing. Long-term, we just want you to hunker down and be comfortable.’ He’s always calling people. He’s telling people to go.” - Dan Mathews
“Jesus welcomes us through tough questions. He says, ‘I see you, I understand you, my heart is breaking with you and I love you. And there is a bigger plan.’” - Jacob Robinson
“[My son] Pierce is now profoundly deaf in both ears. He’s nonverbal, he’s epileptic, and he’s in a wheelchair. But he is the happiest little dude you’ll ever meet. He radiates joy. He sees life the way that I think Jesus wants us to see life. He doesn’t see your skin color. He doesn’t see how much money you make. He doesn’t see what car you drive or what your house looks like. He truly just wants to be with you, and I think that’s how Jesus would want us to live.” - Jacob Robinson
“Don’t try to figure out your faith until you have a life experience that turns you upside down. Figure out what your faith is and lean into that faith when those times come, because Jesus promises us that challenges will come. Lean into that, and lean into Him.” - Jacob Robinson
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Welcome to this special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, inspired by the topical themes from Sarah Young’s seasonal prayer devotional, Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season. Today we are featuring guests who speak to themes that all of us might be experiencing in this season of autumn. Fall is a time of dormancy, where we and nature begin the process of shedding old things, preparing for rest, and starting anew after winter. This episode offers us an opportunity to reflect, release what no longer serves us, and embrace a period of quiet rejuvenation in anticipation of new beginnings.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Tahj Mowry
Demi-Leigh Tebow
John Eldredge
Danielle Coke
Candace Cameron Bure
Steve Wohlberg
Kara Stout
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
*This episode contains content that may be triggering for some listeners.
This week, we’ll hear from Jenny Marrs, an author, designer, and passionate advocate for community transformation, family preservation, and orphan care worldwide, who hosts the HGTV show Fixer to Fabulouswith her husband, Dave. Jenny shares the path that led her to the business she is in today, and the challenges of leaving all that you know to embrace the unknown.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Struggle Jennings, an independent music artist, father of seven, and prison ministry leader. Struggle shares how growing up in a famous musical family didn’t shield him from tragedy and poor choices, but how God used even the hardest seasons, including prison, to rebuild his life.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Patricia Heaton
Upcoming interview: Dan and Sam Mathews
Jesus Listens: Prayers for Every Season
Jenny Marrs
Fixer to Fabulous
University of Central Florida
www.jennymarrs.com
Trust God, Love People: Stories of My Openhanded Faith
Struggle Jennings
Send Musicians to Prison
Waylon Jennings
Jessi Colter
www.strugglejennings.com
Interview Quotes:
“We’re not meant to do life alone. In [a difficult] season, [my husband and I] needed to lean on each other and on God and get through it, and we realized we actually needed to let people in.” - Jenny Marrs
"[God] works through us; He works through our inadequacies, and often when we don't want to do it, He can—even if we think there's no way." - Jenny Marrs
"Identifying and spotting God's hand in all of it–the mundane, the hard, the beautiful, the mountain tops—all of those different experiences—we can spot His hand in that." - Jenny Marrs
"I want my kids to be able to look back at the faithfulness of God in their lives that they didn't even know about before they were born and have that moving forward." - Jenny Marrs
“I was introduced at an early age to both sides of the tracks—seeing Waylon with the security guards and the Cadillac and the Jaguar and the big house and [being a] successful country music icon. And thengoing back to my dad’s side of the family that lived in West Nashville who worked nine to fives and lived right at that poverty line.” - Struggle Jennings
“I was caught up in that world—gangs and drugs and a lot of the beliefs like, Feed your family by any means necessary. It’s okay to do wrong if you’re doing it for the right reason—those types of things that I had to eventually strip myself of.” - Struggle Jennings
“Many times God showed His face and showed His favor, even though I didn’t know why, because I didn’t understand what my purpose was.” - Struggle Jennings
“I knew that I finally had to strip down and take full responsibility and accountability and say, ‘This is my fault. I can’t blame the judge. I can’t blame the person that snitched on me. I can’t blame my circumstances or the cards I was dealt. I have the opportunity to turn this around.’” - Struggle Jennings
“I just really felt that God had a plan for me, and I wasn’t going to take it for granted.” - Struggle Jennings
“Even the times that I had doubts, it was the responsibility to God and to my fans and to my children[that kept me going]. When you’re purpose-driven and you have a reason for getting up every day and you know you’re living in God’s glory and God’s mercy, you have that strength and that confidence that I’ve made it through a lot of things and I don’t know what’s ahead of me, but I know that if I keep moving in the right direction with love in my heart and God in my heart, it’s going to work out okay. God gives His greatest warriors the toughest battles.” - Struggle Jennings
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
YouTube
Website
TikTok
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from three seasoned leaders from Cedarville University—Dr. Michael Sherr,Dr. Jason Lee, and Dr. Angelia Mickle—who bring together decades of experience in social work, theology, and nursing. United by a shared passion for equipping healthcare professionals, they explore how we can find renewed strength under tremendous pressures by bridging the gap between faith and health.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Dr. Drew Dickens, a technologist and storyteller exploring where faith, identity, and innovation meet. As host of the Encountering Peaceand AI and Spirituality podcasts, he brings deep insight into how emerging technology is reshaping the way we think, connect, and seek meaning.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Brett Swayn
Upcoming interview: Jenny Marrs
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith on UPTV
Dr. Michael Sherr
Dr. Jason Lee
Dr. Angelia Mickle
Cedarville University
Center for Biblical Integration at Cedarville University
Colossians 3 NIV
Isaiah 40:31 NIV
Scripture and Scrubs: A Christian Calling to Healthcare
Dr. Drew Dickens
Encountering Peace
AI and Spirituality
Whispers of the Spirit: A 40-Day Guide to Intimate Prayer
Interview Quotes:
“One of the things that we want to do is make sure that we’re setting our trajectory around what God wants from us, to listen to God regularly through His Word, and to connect with Him daily.” - Dr. Jason Lee
“We all have to live out our call to live the gospel, to be on mission, to live our relationship with Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior in whatever endeavor we find ourselves in our lives.” - Dr. Michael Sherr
“Part of the challenge is to see how we can pull the professional and spiritual journeys together and create a greater impact and a sense of purpose. But also a sense of longevity, because all these things are done not just in the moment and for immediate success or healing or any treatment, but ultimately for the glory of God.” - Dr. Jason Lee
“The purpose of us being here is to comfort people and to help them in their time of vulnerability, or if they’re hurt and suffering, and just love them unconditionally—the way that Jesus would.” - Angelia Mickle
“If we have Jesus in our heart, the joy is going to show. Jesus is love, and we’re going to reflect Christ, so we’re going to reflect love.” - Dr. Angelia Mickle
“[AI] is still casually dismissed right now, and that’s concerning to me because we’re dealing with issues of identity, we’re dealing with issues of inspiration.” - Dr. Drew Dickens
“Prayer requires effort, and we need to remember that communicating with the Creator and Sustainer of this vast universe is an amazing privilege.” - Dr. Drew Dickens
“We need to have these conversations on the effects of [AI] in the pews, on families and relationships—the effects it’s going to have on community, on communion, on what it means to gather together, or just to re-engage with a physical moment of intimacy with God.” - Dr. Drew Dickens
“We’re not to be a people of fear, but of hope. So we can be intentional, we can find ways to engage with AI in a redemptive way, and we can be mindful of these opportunities because there is hope.” - Dr. Drew Dickens
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from physician, researcher, author, and speaker Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, who understands the daily pressure many of us feel to “perform” and live up to unrealistic standards of who we think we should be. When we can begin to understand who we are apart from what we do, God can help us remove the pressure to “do” and embrace the freedom to “be.”
Guest’s LinksYouTube: @SaundraDaltonSmith
Instagram: @drdaltonsmith
Facebook:@DrSaundraDaltonSmith
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4mzRd5X
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Jesus Calling Website
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Monique Rodriguez—an author, entrepreneur, and founder of the women-led beauty brand Mielle Organics, a hair care and beauty brand. Monique shares how a devastating personal loss became the catalyst for a deepened faith and the birth of a global beauty brand built on bold belief, healing, and hope in God’s promises.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Adam Young, a therapist and podcaster from Fort Collins, Colorado. Adam is the voice behind The Place We Find Ourselves, where he guides listeners through the intersections of personal story, trauma, and healing. In his work, Adam highlights the power of relationships, the wisdom of the body, and the role of faith in helping us find meaning and connection.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Tabitha Brown
Upcoming interview: Drs. Michael Sherr, Angelia Mickle, and Jason Lee
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith on UPTV
Monique Rodriguez
Mielle Organics
emergency C-section
Romans 8:28 NIV
Psalm 30:1-5 NIV
www.mielleorganics.com
The Glory in Your Story
Adam Young
The Place We Find Ourselves
Make Sense of Your Story
www.adamyoungcounseling.com
Interview Quotes:
“I just didn’t have the courage and the faith in myself to believe that I could actually achieve what was deemed impossible for someone that looked like me growing up in the household that I grew up in.” - Monique Rodriguez
“I had to lean on His Word and trust Him by faith that He was going to see me through this with an even bigger promise on the other side of this.” - Monique Rodriguez
“I decided that I wanted to follow God’s lead, and I wanted to live a purpose-filled life because you only get one shot. When you go through tragic events, it really causes you to have a different perspective.” - Monique Rodriguez
“I decided to fulfill [my dream] when I went through that loss, and I am thankful for my son’s life because he caused me to have a relationship with God. He taught me to be fearless and to have courage and to be bold in my faith.” - Monique Rodriguez
“Our mission is not only to empower, educate, and to excite women about healthy hair, but I also feel that we are empowering, exciting, and educating about the gospel.” - Monique Rodriguez
“I do feel that Mielle—because it was birthed from a place of pain that ultimately was purposeful—is anointed.” - Monique Rodriguez
“If you’re having butterflies in your stomach, if you have a lump in your throat, if you have tightness in your chest because of a certain experience that you’re having or something coming up in your life, that is your body’s way of saying, ‘There is something inside your heart that needs to be addressed that is not well.’” - Adam Young
“Part of the healing journey is getting honest, not just about what happened, but about the feelings that you have in your body, and welcoming those, making us a home for those feelings so that they can be felt, processed, and expressed.” - Adam Young
“Whenever you experience trauma, the single most effective way to experience healing of those neural networks is through healthy relationships with other people. Healing is necessarily relational, and it requires looking at the past.” - Adam Young
“We’re created for secure attachment, which means a healthy relationship with God where we have a felt sense that God is there for us, that God will respond to our cries, and that God is pursuing our hearts.” - Adam Young
“Practices in general, whether it’s prayer, mindfulness, walking and looking at beauty, whatever practices you have in your life where you bring the fullness of your presence—and that’s the key attribute for a practice to be meaningful—you have to be aware and present.” - Adam Young
“The practice of prayer, the practice of solitude, both are necessary for the development of not just your brain, but for you to come to know who you are, who God created you to be, and how you uniquely reflect God in a way that others don’t.” - Adam Young
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week on the podcast, we meet Justin Knoop—a husband, father of four, and the heart behind the Blessing Boys. What began as a small lawn care business grew into a mission to serve others, inspire his sons, and transform lives one yard at a time.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Tricia Goyer—an author, speaker, podcaster, and homeschooling mom whose journey has taken her from teen pregnancy to building a family of ten through adoption and foster care. Along the way, Tricia discovered that it’s not about doing more, but about noticing what matters most.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Gary Sinise
Upcoming interview: Monique Rodriguez
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith on UPTV
Justin Knoop
Blessing Boys
Tricia Goyer
Psalm 22:6
Psalm 40:2
www.triciagoyer.com
Faith That Sticks: 5 Real-Life Ways to Disciple Your Preteen
Interview Quotes:
“There was a search in my heart for purpose, for fulfillment. I spent a lot of my teenage years and even into my twenties just searching to fill that void. I think eventually it led me to where I am today, but it took me a long time to figure out what that purpose was that I was searching for.” - Justin Knoop
“My sons were getting into this phase of life where I needed to start thinking about what it meant to begin to set an example for them. So what I did was I set aside Fridays—one day a week—for me and my sons to actually go out and serve the community.” - Justin Knoop
“I think we can get caught up in our own lives and what’s going on in our family and our home and forget that there’s a world out there that needs us. What we teach our kids is that your purpose in life—outside of being in relationship with God—is to bring value to others.” - Justin Knoop
“Yes, we have different hobbies and things that we do, but we want to pour the majority of our time into things that impact people around us. We’re not just about cutting grass and overgrown yards. We’re really after changing lives and impacting people.” - Justin Knoop
“I realized through God, through prayer, through sitting before Him crying because I was so overwhelmed, that He already created [my children] as unique human beings with a purpose and I didn’t need to pour everything into them. I just needed to follow the purpose that God had given them.” - Tricia Goyer
“I think it really takes almost becoming students of our kids and seeing what God already put in them—the calling that He has on their lives—and really focusing on who God created each individual to be. And then going before God, sitting quietly before Him, praying for our kids, and asking Him to open the door that we can help them walk through.” - Tricia Goyer
“If we are listening—if we’re sitting around, driving, taking a walk around the block—if we’re there and listening to [our children], that’s when the big things come out, that’s when the questions happen.” - Tricia Goyer
“If we’re waiting for our kids to be adults before we have meaningful conversations with them, it is too late. We need to build that, and pre-teens is the perfect little window where they still think it’s really cool to go get a smoothie and talk, and we can use that time to pour into our kids.” - Tricia Goyer
“So many times we wonder how things are going to work out. Whatever God has called us to, we’re trying to see the end, and all we see is obstacle, obstacle, obstacle. I think that’s just a reminder that if God calls us to something, He is faithful and He’s going to be there.” - Tricia Goyer
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from two incredible actors—Chrissy Metz, best known for her role on TV’s This Is Us, and Edwina Findley Dickerson, known for her roles onThe Wire and Chicago Med. Through their transformative work as actors, they strive not only to compassionately portray their characters, they deeply inhabit them, telling powerful stories with empathy and grace.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Cole Prasse
Upcoming interview: Justin Knoop
Chrissy Metz
This Is Us
Jim Carrey
Jack Black
Robin Williams
www.chrissymetzmusic.com
When I Talk To God, I Talk About Feelings
Edwina Findley Dickerson
The Wire
Chicago Med
Psalty’s Christmas Calamity
Duke Ellington School of the Arts
www.edwinafindley.com
The World Is Waiting for You
Interview Quotes:
“I wanted to be an actor because I wanted to tell stories that I never saw or people like me that I’d never seen on TV or movies that weren’t just the butt of the joke, but had like full-fledged stories and important lessons to impart.” - Chrissy Metz
“I start my day with a gratitude list before I even get out of bed because life is fleeting, life is precious, people are going through so much—but you can always find at least ten things to be grateful for.” - Chrissy Metz
“I just know that what’s meant for me will find me, even if I’m running away from it. It will be God’s time, not mine.” - Chrissy Metz
“When people tell you things almost as a fact, you can start to believe it if you don’t have another voice. God told me I was called to entertainment, and I thank God that I leaned into His voice even when other people’s voices seemed louder, because God’s plan is the one that won out.” - Edwina Findley Dickerson
“We can end up with what I call the ‘curse of comparison,’ and then we can talk our way out of what God is trying to talk us into.” - Edwina Findley Dickerson
“From Genesis to Revelation, we see people who were not considered the smartest, who were not considered the most powerful, who were not considered the most beautiful, but were called for a purpose. If we lean into some of those scriptural examples of people who were not the likely candidate from other people’s point of view, but were exactly who God chose, then I think we can see ourselves in that lineup, and start leaning into our calling.” - Edwina Findley Dickerson
“I think like most people, there’s a chasm between what you believe that God has promised you in your life and your current circumstances. A lot of times when God’s promise enters your life, it can speak very differently from your current reality.” - Edwina Findley Dickerson
“Sometimes the choices that you make aren’t necessarily about what would come naturally to you—sometimes it’s purely surrendering to what God is calling you to do.” - Edwina Findley Dickerson
“If God has called you to do something, do it in obedience, even if you don’t understand how it’s going to end up. You have no idea what kind of blessings are on the other side.” - Edwina Findley Dickerson
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Bethany Joy Lenz, an actor, singer, director, and now author, who shares a deeply personal story of her time in a spiritually abusive community and the journey of healing and rediscovering faith that followed.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from speaker and non-profit founder JT Mestdagh. Born with a rare and complex condition that led to over a dozen major surgeries before the age of sixteen, JT’s life has been anything but ordinary. From long hospital stays to reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, he’s faced life’s toughest challenges with an optimism and heart for helping others.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Amy Downs
Upcoming interview: Chrissy Metz
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith on UPTV
Bethany Joy Lenz
Dinner for Vampires
Richard Barrett
Brooklyn College of Opera
Guiding Light
One Tree Hill
Hebrews 11:1-2 NIV
www.bethanyjoylenz.org
JT Mestdagh
Mount Kilimanjaro
JT Mestdagh Foundation
VACTERL syndrome
Dyslexia
Children’s Hospital Colorado
ww.JTMestdagh.com
No Bad Days
Interview Quotes:
“I fundamentally believed—not in my head, but in my body and my heart—that if I did all the right things, if I checked off everything on the Christian girl list, then God would be pleased with me, and I would have a good life.’ - Bethany Joy Lenz
“You need your brain in order to have faith. God is so big. He’s not afraid of us thinking. The more you think, the more you understand, the more Christianity makes sense out of everything else in the world.” - Bethany Joy Lenz
“When you understand what you believe—when you think about it and you research it and you journal about it, the further you dissect it, the more intricate and fascinating it becomes.” - Bethany Joy Lenz
“God is big enough to not be intimidated or afraid of your questions, your mess, that spaghetti bowl of confusion. God is big enough to untangle it and to guide you.” – Bethany Joy Lenz
“I always talk about finding your tribe—the people around you that are going to support you and help you throughout challenges.” - JT Mestdagh
“I look back at moments where the Good Lord has worked in my life—where the doors were closed and new doors were opened along the way—and it is totally Him working with me and through me.” - JT Mestdagh
“When I look back at my conversations with the Lord, my time with Him and speaking to Him has been some of the most encouraging moments that have gotten me back on track.” - JT Mestdagh
“There are no bad days. There’s only hard days, and we get through them with the Good Lord.” - JT Mestdagh
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
*This episode contains mature content.
This week, we hear from two remarkable women who dared to pursue their dreams even when faced with disbelief, ultimately dedicating their lives to helping others through their art and work. First, country music star Mickey Guyton shares her journey of breaking barriers and finding her voice in an industry that wasn’t always ready for her. Then, author and speaker Lea Hurley opens up about how her personal health experiences shaped a life and a business she created to help herself but ended up helping others in a way she never dreamed possible.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:David and Tamela Mann
Upcoming interview: Bethany Joy Lenz
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith on UPTV
Mickey Guyton
Joanna Gaines
The Cosbys
LeeAnn Rimes
Dolly Parton
Jessica Bendinger
Charlie Pride
www.mickeyguyton.com
Jesus Calling: Songs for Sundays CD
Lea Hurley
American Dream Nut Butter
Neuroendocrine cancer
Tunnels to Towers Foundation
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
www.americandreamnutbutter.com
Interview Quotes:
“The challenges were people trying to change who I was or trying to interpret who I was as a black woman. And I understand the cultural differences, but people were trying to make me palatable to a country music audience.” - Mickey Guyton
“Country music literally fell into my lap. “It was a God thing. It was a spiritual thing. It chose me.” - Mickey Guyton
“I was like, ‘Why do you think country music isn’t working for me?’ And my husband was like, ‘Because you’re running away from everything that makes you different. Country music is three chords and the truth. Why aren’t you leaning into that?’” - Mickey Guyton
“I’m not only pursuing a career for myself, but pursuing a career for people that come after me. How can I help them? This may never happen for me, but how can I help the people that are coming up after me?” – Mickey Guyton
“I would say to anyone out there who is struggling to change either physically or mentally or emotionally that you really need to dig deep and find what your “why” is. You are going to have to rely on that every single day when it’s hard.” - Lea Hurley
“I’m a major dessert person, so I figured out that I can make nut butter taste like the desserts that I was missing, but still have all the things that I was allowed to have.” - Lea Hurley
“I feel like you just have to be plugged into Him, plugged into the Word all the time, so that you can receive what He’s trying to tell you and to be open to where it might come from.” - Lea Hurley
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’re joined by certified master naturalist and author Eryn Lynum. Eryn gives us insight into how Jesus used nature in His teaching, and how scripture reflects thoughts of nature as well. As she looks at these connections, Eryn finds that God is beckoning us toward rest, and she shares some practical ways we can weave rest into our day-to-day lives.
Guest’s Links
Facebook: @authorerynlynum
Instagram: @erynlynumauthor
YouTube: @erynlynum
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4l7Gbn5
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
In honor of National Dog Day, we’re sharing a heartfelt story about the special bond we share with our pets—and the comfort they bring in life’s hardest moments. Steve Wohlberg, a husband, father, author, and speaker, grew up in Hollywood with a deep love for animals. From Great Danes to turtles to a dog named Jax, animals have always been part of his story. After a painful loss, Steve began to explore what that bond really means—and how it can point to something bigger than ourselves.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Dr. Sy Garte, a retired research biochemist who spent much of his life convinced that science held all the answers. Raised in an atheist household, Sy’s early perspective left little space for questions of faith or meaning beyond the material world. But as his life unfolded, experiences both personal and professional began to challenge that view and a growing curiosity led him to reconsider what he believed about life, purpose, and truth.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Michael and Zina Goodin
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith on UPTV
Steve Wohlberg
National Dog Day
Matthew 26:36-46 NIV
White Horse Media
Genesis 2:9-19 NIV
Exodus 20:11 NIV
Proverbs 12:10 NIV
book of Jonah
Matthew 10:29 NIV
Will My Pet Go to Heaven?
*The first ten people who call Steve’s office at White Horse Media will receive a free copy of either “Will My Pet Go to Heaven?” or “Approaching Armageddon.” Call 800-782-4253 for your copy today!
Dr. Sy Garte
National Institutes of Health
Scientism
American Scientific Affiliation
Interview Quotes:
“I think the reason why people grieve so greatly over the loss of a pet is because God our Creator is the author of the bond between people and animals. I really believe that God ministers to people through animals.” - Steve Wohlberg
“When people are hurting, when they need a touch of love, animals can be a big part of God revealing to us that He cares about us.” - Steve Wohlberg
“The last thing [my dog Pooka] did was look full view into the eyes of her master. I thought, That’s the way we need to be with Jesus. When we get into tough times or if we’re about to die, we fix our faith on Him because He loves us and He wants us to have such a relationship with Him.” - Steve Wohlberg
“God can use tragedy, and He can bring good things out of it. It really makes me look forward to heaven and to the new earth where we’ll be with not only Jesus but with friendly animals.” - Steve Wohlberg
“There are millions of things that we know to be true that we know not through science. Science can only address a certain number of things because the scientific method is not able to ask and answer questions on things like, Why do I love this or that person? Why am I the way I am?” - Dr. Sy Garte
“If you think that God doesn’t love you, you’re wrong, because I know He loves you, because He loves even me. And if He could love me, how could He not love you?” - Dr. Sy Garte
“Belief in Jesus Christ, belief in biblical reality, and everything in science are not in conflict, but in fact, completely compatible. I think that if you ask the right questions about all of this—where did this purpose come from, where did this cognition come from, why is life this way—there’s no scientific answer that relates to physics or chemistry, just as there’s no scientific answers to how life began that relates the physics and chemistry.” - Dr. Sy Garte
“We have to be quiet if we want to hear the voice of God. You don’t know what form it’s going to take. It could be somebody smiling at you. It could be anything. But pay attention and you will hear it.” - Dr. Sy Garte
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
YouTube
Website
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This episode mentions suicide and depression and may not be suitable for all listeners.
This week, we’ll hear from actress and producer Patricia Heaton. Beloved for her roles in Everybody Loves Raymond and The Middle, Patricia has faced seasons of grief and depression while navigating the ups and downs of a demanding industry, and shares how she has used comedy as a way to connect on a deeper level, helping others find light and meaning even in life’s hardest moments.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from journalist Anita Vogel. With a career spanning more than three decades, Anita has reported from small-town newsrooms to national television screens. She’s covered some of the nation’s biggest stories, but behind the headlines, it’s her interviews with everyday heroes and her experiences on the frontlines of breaking news that have shaped her deep commitment to telling meaningful, lasting stories.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Nika King
Upcoming interview: Steve Wohlberg
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith on UPTV
Patricia Heaton
St. Cecilia’s convent
Aneurysm
Unexpected
Everybody Loves Raymond
The Middle
www.patriciaheatonofficial.com
Anita Vogel
Fox News Channel
University of Southern California
Congressional Medal of Honor
The People Concern in Los Angeles
Pacific Palisades
Interview Quotes:
“When my mom died, it was so important that we had our Catholic faith because there’s a certain foundation with that that you land on when things like that happen. You’re still dealing with grief and pain and there’s suffering, but because we knew she was with Jesus, there’s certain things you don’t have to wonder about.” - Patricia Heaton
“There were times when I could feel depression coming on, as if someone was taking a shade and pulling it down. I could feel it coming on, and I remember I would just be saying prayers over and over. So, it definitely gives you a solid landing place while you’re struggling.” - Patricia Heaton
“The entertainment industry is really a difficult industry—there are no guarantees and there is zero security. It’s actually a really good place to be, because in life, there’s zero security except our relationship with Jesus. That’s the only guarantee.” - Patricia Heaton
“The balance to try and strike is to be in the moment as much as possible—present to what God wants you to do and present to the people that you’re in the room with so that no event is ever wasted.” - Patricia Heaton
“You do commit, but you have to know that you’re not in charge of the result. So in that sense, I’ve always had to let God be God because things fall apart so easily. We just have to believe that He has a plan, and that He will open doors and shut doors, and that’s what’s best for us.” - Patricia Heaton
“Your family and your relationships and each other are the most important things, and God has you in His hands through all of it.” - Patricia Heaton
“God is much bigger than our problems. He’s much bigger than our sins. He’s bigger than our failings, so we just need to learn to rest and relax in Him and trust and have faith in His love for us.” - Patricia Heaton
“God is in control, and as a human being, you can only do as much as you can to survive, to protect your loved ones, to protect others. At the end of the day, God is present and He is watching all of this, and we just have to have faith that things are unfolding according to His plan.” - Anita Vogel
“I always say a prayer and I always ask God to help comfort these people to get them through this horrific time. I don’t know how God does it. He has His own special way. We just have to have faith that He does something special for these people, to bring some kind of peace and comfort back into their lives.” - Anita Vogel
“That’s one of the highlights of my career—that I do get to meet people from all walks of life and people who helped shape my life.” - Anita Vogel
_______________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Welcome to a special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, focusing on the tragic events in Texas that happened in July 2025 with deadly flooding in Kerr County, and the heroic folks who have come to the aid of those who have lost so much.
Devastating floods, triggered by torrential rains and the rapidly rising Guadalupe River, struck Kerr County, Texas. This catastrophe, which resulted in numerous missing persons and confirmed deaths, now stands as the second deadliest flood in Texas history. As search efforts for the missing continue and debris cleanup is underway, singer/songwriter Cory Asbury, known for his song “Reckless Love,” alongside other musicians, organized a benefit concert. Their aim was to provide hope, solace, and aid to the affected families who are striving to rebuild their lives. Cory highlights how these families’ experiences have resonated nationwide, underscoring the enduring power of love in times of adversity.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Camp Mystic
Camp Mystic girls singing “Reckless Love”
“Reckless Love” by Cory Asbury
Texas On My Mind fundraiser t-shirts
Patrick Mahomes
Tim Tebow
Derek Carr
Russell Wilson
Morgan Wallen
Eric Church
Cory’s website
Corey’s Facebook
Corey’s Instagram
Corey’s Twitter/X
Corey’s YouTube
Youth-Reach Houston
Youth-Reach Houston’s Facebook
Youth-Reach Houston’s Twitter/X
Youth-Reach Houston’s Instagram
Interview Quotes:
“When we heard about the flooding there in the hill country of Texas, we knew we had to get involved. We’re praying for you guys, we’re behind you guys, we know what you’re going through, and we’re with you in whatever capacity we can be.” - Cory Asbury
“We put together the benefit show in literally 10 days. We did this show in Nashville as sort of an extension of love from here. To see people come together like that was really beautiful.” - Cory Asbury
“It was emotional just being able to gather for those folks and know that we can do something, whether big or small, to kind of lighten their load.” - Cory Asbury
“I have been able to personally see the work that [Youth-Reach Houston has] done. And it's truly incredible to see these families when they knock on the door and say, ‘Hey, can we cut these trees down for you? Can we rebuild your roof?’ And to watch these families just weep knowing that God is there with them is incredible.” - Cory Asbury
“I feel like [the song] ‘Reckless Love’ is the opus of my life. I feel like it encapsulates all of my life, all of my experiences. It was me knowing what an absolute failure I was on so many colossal levels. And then God’s still going, ‘Hey, I’m still beating down your door. I still want you. I’m still chasing you down, though you’re chasing after other things.’” - Cory Asbury
“Through all things with prayer and supplication, make your request known to God, right? So we open our mouths and we go, ‘God, I can’t do this. I’m freaking out. I don’t know how to deal with this situation. Can you please help?’ And I think there's something beautiful to that honesty that He steps in and He helps.” - Cory Asbury
“There’s no better prescription for anxiety or stress than to actually take it to [God] in prayer. And He doesn’t mind honesty, that’s what I’ve found. He’s waiting to help.” - Cory Asbury
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’re joined by Sissy Goff and David Thomas, longtime counselors and co-executive directors at Daystar Counseling Ministries in Nashville. With over three decades of experience each, Sissy and David have dedicated their lives to walking alongside kids and families as they face anxiety and stress and providing kids with tools for healthy living.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from authors and speakers Gabe and Rebekah Lyons. Gabe and Rebekah are parents to four children—including two with Down syndrome—and they share about the unexpected challenges that have deepened their family’s bond.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Ellie Holcomb
Upcoming interview: Patricia Heaton
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith on UPTV
Sissy Goff
David Thomas
Daystar Counseling Ministries in Nashville
Raising Boys and Girls
square breathing
www.raisingboysandgirls.com
The Daystar Dogs
Gabe and Rebekah Lyons
Down syndrome
THINQ Media
The Fight for Us: Overcome What Divides to Build a Marriage That Thrives
Interview Quotes:
“[We are] teaching kids that God’s equipped us with something as simple as breathing that will begin to slow down our heart rates and settle our bodies so we can feel more in control of our emotions.” - David Thomas
“We can only take the kids we love as far as we’re going ourselves. If we’re not regulating our own bodies, if we are not able to respond rather than react, then everybody’s going to be operating out of the amygdala of their brain, which is the fight or flight region of our brain.” - Sissy Goff
“Helping [children] learn that they can lean into how loved they are and to where God has uniquely gifted them, and step out in that to experience things that might sound a little scary, ends up being a whole lot of fun, and really rewarding, too.” - Sissy Goff
“We were gracious that God helped bond us through a crisis that we weren’t expecting. That’s given us a bond and a trust and a lesson to keep going back to His faithfulness, as well as what it means to turn towards one another.” - Gabe Lyons
“Every season of life is an invitation for conflict and stress because it’s new. We’re all rookies throughout the entirety of our marriage.” - Rebekah Lyons
“Sometimes in a marriage relationship you dream early on, but man, as life piles up, we’ve had to really implement a structure of our rhythms that allow us to keep having conversations about the future.” - Gabe Lyons
“[In marriage] we’ve realized that God’s given us each other as part of our healing, to help us experience the fullness of feeling alive and being connected.” - Gabe Lyons
“We’re so grateful for the example of Jesus who modeled humility, who humbled Himself, that He took death on a cross so we could be free, we could have life. We believe that’s a picture of what our marriage should look like—humbling ourselves, walking in the freedom that Jesus paid for so that we could have that.” - Rebekah Lyons
_______________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
*This episode mentions suicide and may be triggering for some listeners.
This week, we’ll hear from Erin Leigh Nelson, founding executive director of Jessica’s House, a grief support center for children, teens, young adults, and their families coping with the loss of a parent or sibling. Erin’s story is marked by deep personal loss—waves of tragedy that shaped her life and inspired a mission to help others heal. Through heartbreak and resilience, she’s found a way to create a space where young hearts can find hope, expression, and connection.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Allie Marie Smith, a writer, speaker, mental health advocate, and founder of Wonderfully Made, a nonprofit that helps young women discover their worth. Once a high-achieving student and athlete, Allie faced a battle with depression and trauma that reshaped her path.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Jay Lowder
Upcoming interview: David Thomas & Sissy Goff
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith on UPTV
Erin Leigh Nelson
Jessica’s House
Psalm 68:5-6 NIV
Dougy Center in Portland, Oregon
When Grief Comes Home
Allie Marie Smith
Wonderfully Made
Social Media Reset
Interview Quotes:
“After Carter died, I just had this sense that I felt unsafe in the world. I wondered where God was and if He noticed. I had prayed so much for protection for my children, and I went into a raw place of grief.” - Erin Leigh Nelson
“I experienced this beholding of love that was so deep—and it was beautiful in some way—because I had this feeling of God surrounding me even in the darkness.” - Erin Leigh Nelson
“I adopted a practice of just sitting in silence in God’s love for ten minutes every morning. I think it really did increase my intimacy with Him because I was able to be so honest and be in a place of unbelief for as long as it took.” - Erin Leigh Nelson
“When a child has support, when they can express what they’re going through, when they can find ways of expression through art and music and play, they are more likely to experience post-traumatic growth.” - Erin Leigh Nelson
“If you don’t take the time to be with your healing, to surrender to the grief process that God has placed in each of us, sometimes we can miss the depth of how much healing we can discover for ourselves.” - Erin Leigh Nelson
“Every day was a battle. I was struggling silently, and no one knew. The way I coped was I hustled for my worth, and I pushed back against the depression through overachieving and through perfectionism.” - Allie Marie Smith
“I felt abandoned by God. I thought that when I gave my life to Him, I wouldn’t have any more troubles or I would never struggle with mental health issues again.” - Allie Marie Smith
“I have been waiting my entire life to hear that I wasn’t an accident, that there was a God who intentionally and lovingly created me with awe and dignity and purpose, and that I was so loved and held by God.” - Allie Marie Smith
“As we meditate on things that are true and good and lovely, God can actually heal the neural pathways in our brain. We can live our lives to the fullest without any regrets.” - Allie Marie Smith
“You’re not broken. You have been chosen. You are so valuable and loved, and God has a hope and a future for you. This isn’t the end of your story—there is hope.” - Allie Marie Smith
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from special needs mom and caregiver Jessica Ronne, who shares about life with her son Lucas. After finding out her yet-to-be born son had a stroke in utero, Jessica faced the reality of caring for a child with profound disabilities. On top of this, her husband would be diagnosed with brain cancer, and ultimately would pass away. Alone with four children to raise, Jessica recounts her survival story, and how her understanding of the needs of caretakers and those they care for led her to start her nonprofit, The Lucas Project.
Guest’s LinksJessica Ronne’s Facebook: @jessronneofficial
Jessica Ronne’s Instagram: @jessplusthemess
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/447S4CS
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Jesus Calling Website
TikTok
Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This episode mentions suicide and may be triggering for some listeners.
This week, we hear from Niki Hardy—a writer, speaker, and coach who brings honesty and hope to life’s most difficult moments. Niki has weathered seasons of cancer, grief, burnout, and questions of faith. After transitioning from a corporate career into nonprofit and ministry work, she came to believe that life doesn’t have to be pain-free to be full.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Danette Crawford, founder of Joy Ministries. Danette shares her journey through heartbreak, single motherhood, and the challenges of starting over. She reflects on how joy is more than a feeling—it’s a deep-rooted strength—and encourages listeners to embrace service to others as a path to a more fulfilling life.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Father James Martin
Upcoming interview: Erin Leigh Nelson
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith on UPTV
Niki Hardy
Matthew 11:28 NIV
www.nikihardy.com
God, Can We Chat?
Danette Crawford
Joy with Danette Crawford
Proverbs 3:5 and 6 NIV
www.joyministriesonline.org
The Power of Joy for Women: A 365-Day Devotional
Interview Quotes:
“I’ve left corporate life, been to seminary, moved continents, planted churches, started businesses and nonprofits, and even navigated loss, cancer, church hurt, and painful uncertainty. And through all that, I’ve come to believe God loves a cheerful doubter.” - Niki Hardy
“It’s possible to experience the full, abundant life right in the midst of all we’re enduring and to thrive, not just survive. Life doesn’t have to be pain-free to be full.” - Niki Hardy
“If I chat with God, I might not find the answers that I’m looking for, but I will find the relationship and the intimacy that I am really after.” - Niki Hardy
“When we are going through times when either life isn’t going as we hoped or expected and it’s just annoying and frustrating or when it’s deeply painful and life-altering, it’s in that place of walking and talking and chatting with God that we find peace in our hard moments.” - Niki Hardy
“We love that God is knowable, but we also have to reconcile and live in the mystery that He’s also unknowable.” - Niki Hardy
“I had to make the choice to forgive. I had to make the choice to go forward. I had to get up out of my mess.” - Niki Hardy
“We need to realize that when things change—because things will change fast—we can hang on to the truth of God’s Word. And we can hang on to our deep-rooted faith and trust.” - Danette Crawford
“It’s when we go through situations and circumstances that really shake us and test our faith and test our joy that we are faced with a decision. And I made a decision that I was going to get my happy back.” - Danette Crawford
“When you are determined to get your eyes off of yourself and go minister to others, trust me, joy will spring up in you. Focus forward, and go be a blessing to somebody else.” - Danette Crawford
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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TikTok
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from author, certified health coach, and former QVC host Kerstin Lindquist. With a background in journalism and more than a decade in broadcast sales, Kerstin has reached millions through her work in health, wellness, and personal growth. Her journey—marked by infertility, loss, caregiving, and career pivots—inspired her to study the roots of stress and its impact on the body.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from writer, wife, and mother Kara Stout. Having faced significant personal challenges, including the loss of both her parents and a difficult journey through infertility before adopting her daughter, Kara has learned the importance of simplifying life, setting boundaries, and finding peace amid a fast-paced, often overwhelming, culture.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Roma Downey
Upcoming interview: Niki Hardy
Kerstin Lindquist
Dementia
IVF [In Vitro Fertilization]
www.kerstin-lindquist.com
Kara Stout
www.karastout.com
An Untroubled Heart: Calming Anxiety and Finding God’s Peace
Interview Quotes:
“As long as I had [God] in front of me leading the path, I was able to make the next step. But I will tell you that fear, every step of the way, has been a constant companion.” - Kerstin Lindquist
“If you remain in the present and next to [God], you can calm the fear. But as long as you’re remaining future-focused—what’s gonna be next, how am I gonna provide for my family, how am I gonna get over this health hurdle—then there will be fear.” - Kerstin Lindquist
“I stand on stages and talk to thousands of people at a time about how to reduce stress and get closer to the Lord, hear the Lord, and combat fear. But it is a practice.” - Kerstin Lindquist
“One of the big, huge ingredients to people having stress is not living out their purpose. Our purpose is always connected to the Lord and serving others. And you know without a doubt that you’re in your purpose if you feel the Lord’s presence, participation, and peace.” - Kerstin Lindquist
“There really isn’t any way for us to completely rid stress from our life. But the beauty of our bodies—even if we go back and look biblically—it really does give us kind of the rule book on how to deal with things, which is why we talk about God resting. Even in the midst of stress—like at the bottom of a boat in a storm—He was still resting.” - Kerstin Lindquist
“I ask myself the same questions [during my devotional time]: How are you feeling? How do I need to humble myself before the Lord? What am I grateful for? What am I praying for? What am I excited about today? What am I stressed out about today? How am I going to react to that stress? What do I have to hand over to the Lord? Who am I gonna serve today?” - Kerstin Lindquist
“It was extremely difficult to have to endure the loss of both parents, but at the same time, I saw how real God was in that suffering, in that grief, and it was a gift to be able to draw near to God in that deep suffering.” - Kara Stout
“Something that I felt God encouraged me to do in the early days of becoming a mother, that I continue to remind myself of today, is to recognize when I’m striving and then to simplify.” - Kara Stout
“Sometimes people can become accustomed to anxiety or worry, but God gives us a different way to live—a life lived safe in His peace, despite trials and circumstances.” - Kara Stout
“God does not leave us on our own to deal with life’s worries and hardships. He’s a God of compassion, and He’s there for us, always, to help us. It’s just His love that really gives us so much peace in those moments.” - Kara Stout
“Though there are multiple ways our hearts can feel troubled at times, God is our ever-present, always available remedy for the troubles of our hearts.” - Kara Stout
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
*This episode mentions suicide and depression and may not be suitable for all listeners.
This week, we sit down with podcaster Lola Sheen, daughter of actors Charlie Sheen and Denise Richards. Lola bravely shares her story, detailing the unique challenges of growing up under public scrutiny and its impact on her mental health. She opens up about a pivotal turning point in her life—discovering her faith and the profound difference it has made. Now, Lola is channeling her experiences into her own podcast and online platforms, passionately dedicated to supporting others who may be walking a similar path.
Later in the episode, pastor, author, and founder of Fresh Life Church, Levi Lusko, returns to the show to speak about how he hit a wall in midlife, reevaluating his identity, and learning to live within the limits of time. Levi also shares practical tools that helped him move forward—and invites us to consider the hidden gifts that can come from life’s hardest seasons.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Angela Braniff
Upcoming interview: Kerstin Lindquist
Lola Sheen
Charlie Sheen
Denise Richards
TikTok
Ally Yost
HeavenlyBonded
Levi Lusko
Fresh Life Church
James 1:2-3 NIV
Matthew 13:44 NIV
Richard Rohr
Proverbs 20:29 NIV
www.levilusko.com
Blessed Are the Spiraling
Interview Quotes:
“I just didn’t know my purpose. I didn’t [know] my worth. I believed all these other things that everybody would say about me. I never had someone be like, ‘No, this is the truth. This is who you are.’” - Lola Sheen
“I didn’t see Him, but I felt Him. It felt like Jesus came and took my hand, and I can’t even explain it—my room just had this overwhelming sense of peace and safety and I knew I was going to be okay.” - Lola Sheen
“I felt such a calling on my life to minister to people who have experienced depression and anxiety and to help them and show them that you are never too far gone for Jesus.” - Lola Sheen
“I just want to show that His heart is like a father. He wants to be there for you, help you and to show you what real love looks like.” - Lola Sheen
“I would say the habit that has kept me focused on the more positive things is spending so much time alone with God and letting Him fill my mind before anybody else does. When things get hard, I just have to look up and remember that I serve an audience of One.” - Lola Sheen
“The last two years, I look back on it as a really important time—a milestone that I smile when I think about—because joy came from digging once again in the field for fresh treasure, which is what Jesus said the Kingdom of Heaven is like.” - Levi Lusko
“It’s really important for us to remember that we are in an upside-down kingdom. So everything is inverted. Want to find your life? Lose it. Want to keep your life? It is not going to be yours anymore. You want to be great? Serve.” - Levi Lusko
“That kind of became a rally cry for me, going all in for fresh treasure, because there’s no end to the treasure of knowing Jesus.” - Levi Lusko
“If you feel like you’ve hit a wall, it might mean you’ve just gone as far as you can go with the tools you currently possess and the season of life that you’re in. That’s okay to mourn the ending of whatever it is that is making you feel bad. We tend to belittle our grief if it’s not worthy of making us sad.” - Levi Lusko
“Maybe I’m feeling so much despair because I’m trying to make permanent what was meant to be a season.” - Levi Lusko
“After you’ve mourned what’s behind you, let God build up excitement for what’s in front of you, because with Jesus, the best really is always yet to come.” - Levi Lusko
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
YouTube
Website
TikTok
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, as we celebrate the spirit of independence, we’re spotlighting a uniquely American story. Jared Orton, president of the Savannah Bananas baseball team, joins us to reflect on a journey that started with just a few season tickets, no logo, and a wild idea. From humble beginnings in a historic Savannah stadium to becoming a national sensation, it’s a story about bringing people together, breaking the mold, and accomplishing it all with a deeper meaning.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from marine biologist Rachel G. Jordan. From her inland roots in Idaho to coral reefs around the world, Rachel has followed a lifelong passion for ocean life, earning degrees in ecology and marine biology, and studying biblical theology along the way. Through science and story, Rachel explores the powerful intersections between nature, faith, and the presence of God—even in the deep.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Holly Hayes
Upcoming interview: Lola Sheen
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Jared Orton
www.TheSavannahBananas.com
sports entertainment
Gastonia Grizzlies
Andy Stanley
www.jaredorton.com
Rachel G. Jordan
National Park Service
Dry Tortugas National Park
tide pooling
If the Ocean Has a Soul
Interview Quotes:
“We always say whether you like baseball or you don’t, we felt like we had an entertainment proposition for you—whether you’re two years old or ninety-two years old or a mom or a dad or a sister or a brother or a grandma or grandpa—it doesn’t matter who you are. This thing is fun to the max, and that’s been our mission from day one—to make baseball fun.” - Jared Orton
“We were created on purpose, by purpose, for purpose, and to do anything less than our best would not be glorifying God and the reason that we were created and placed on this earth.” - Jared Orton
“We’re in the human business, and we’ve got to hold that very humbly in our hands because that is a privilege and a huge responsibility that this thing has been entrusted to us to do something incredibly powerful in the world.” - Jared Orton
“We’re going to treat every game like it’s someone’s first game, and we’re gonna make it important for them. That’s been our guiding light and guiding principle—we’re going to treat this like someone’s first game.” - Jared Orton
“People are legitimately looking for things to celebrate and do with people. And they come to our games and they dance, they laugh, they cry, they cheer and they hug each other. We treat every game like it's someone's first game and we're gonna make it important for them.” - Jared Orton
“It blew my mind that these [corals] were not rocks or plants but animals—animals that built these cities underwater that attracted all sorts of other creatures to live there and supported so much of our planet.” - Rachel G. Jordan
“God never leaves or forsakes us. He promises that when we go through hard things, when we walk through the rivers, when we walk through deep waters, He’ll be with us.”- Rachel G. Jordan
“Where are the places I can meet God where I currently am—whether that’s looking out a window or reading a novel or admiring the creation and the nature that is expressed there?” - Rachel G. Jordan
“There are times that I look up from what I’m doing and I'll feel or literally be alone. I might be the only person in this ocean right now, but God never leaves or forsakes me.” - Rachel G. Jordan
“I’m a firm believer that God speaks to each of us in the way that we will best understand. A lot of learning to be in a relationship with God is finding those meeting places–sort of the holy ground where you can best experience His presence, most clearly hear His voice, and engage in life together.” - Rachel G. Jordan
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
YouTube
Website
TikTok
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
*This episode contains mature content.
This week, we’ll hear from war correspondent Benjamin Hall, who has spent much of his career reporting from some of the world’s most dangerous conflict zones. In 2022, while covering the war in Ukraine, he was gravely injured in an attack that killed two of his colleagues. Today, he shares how that harrowing experience challenged his limits and instilled in him the unshakeable belief that we all have the strength to overcome—no matter what we face.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from author and life coach Chris Janssen as she shares her firsthand experience with alcoholism and the path to recovery. Now, through her journey of sobriety, Chris uses the lessons learned from her lowest moments to help others rise to new heights.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Natalie Grant
Upcoming interview: Jared Orton
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Benjamin Hall
Japanese prison camp
War in Ukraine
Kyiv
Ukrainian Special Forces
Fox News
Save Our Allies
Brooke Army Medical Center
Psalm 23 NIV
Resolute: How We Humans Keep Finding Ways to Beat the Toughest Odds
Chris Janssen
www.chrisjanssencoaching.com
Grace Yourself: How to Show Up for the Sober Life You Want
Interview Quotes:
“I learned how much your mind can influence how you are feeling and how you can find another level of strength when you have to.” - Benjamin Hall
“I do think that I must now live for those who died [in the car bombing I survived in Ukraine], and that I must challenge what I do for them. I make it drive me to be better, make it drive me to go into things that I think would inspire them and make them happy.” - Benjamin Hall
“You mustn’t let fear disable you. You’ve got to address it, but also not run from it. I think that the worst thing you can do is hide from them, run from them, pretend they didn’t happen.” - Benjamin Hall
“We are survival machines—humans. If you can channel your feelings, if you can talk to God, if you can find the strength you need, you can get through absolutely anything.” - Benjamin Hall
“Everyone has resilience. I suppose what’s difficult is learning how to really use it. I always managed to find the beauty in every day while acknowledging loss. I think that’s something that is so important for people to learn—how to balance those two things in your life and not let the loss overwhelm you, but how to let the positive really guide you.” - Benjamin Hall
“I just think anybody, regardless of how you grew up, can get caught in the snare of addiction.” - Chris Janssen
“When the shame and guilt flew off my shoulders, my belief changed from I’m a monster to I’m deserving of recovery and community and sobriety because I’m addicted to alcohol.” - Chris Janssen
“To me, physical wellness leads to emotional wellness.” - Chris Janssen
“The way I describe sobriety is more than abstinence—it’s a lifestyle, not an event. I don’t believe I’m giving something up by sobriety, I’m gaining something. And what’s gained is my life, my memories, my presence with people, my ability to have fun.” - Chris Janssen
“I felt like everything I did, I had to earn it, and that’s the opposite of grace. When we live in a mindset of control, we’re unable to accept grace. We’re taking control of our own worthiness, and we don’t get to do that. God has said we’re worthy and valuable no matter what.” - Chris Janssen
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’re joined by author, editor, and spoken word artist Quina Aragon. Quina shares her passion for helping others see themselves and their story within the pages of the Bible—being willing to engage even with our dark, painful, embarrassing, or shameful chapters toward healing and redemption in Jesus.
Guest’s LinksQuina’s YouTube: @QuinaAragon
Quina’s Facebook: @QuinaAragon
Quina’s Instagram: @quina_aragon
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/3T2C8fX
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Jesus Calling Website
TikTok
Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from pastor, speaker, and author DawnCheré Wilkerson. After walking through an eight-year journey of infertility, DawnCheré began to have a new understanding of what it means to trust God even when the answer is “not yet.” Now a mother of four, she encourages others to look for God’s presence not just in fulfilled promises, but in the slow, sacred work of waiting.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Erin Hicks Moon. Erin is a writer, podcaster, and the resident Bible scholar on the Faith Adjacentpodcast. Known for creating thoughtful space for spiritual questions, Erin invites listeners to engage their faith with open hands and open hearts, believing that questions aren’t roadblocks but profound invitations.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Austin and Marideth Telenko
Upcoming interview: Benjamin Hall
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
DawnCheré Wilkerson
VOUS Church
Infertility
Isaiah 40:31 NIV
Psalms
Hebrews
Slow Burn
Erin Hicks Moon
Faith Adjacent
www.erinhmoon.com
I’ve Got Questions: The Spiritual Practice of Having It Out With God
Interview Quotes:
“All of life is waiting. I think that we feel the tension between hope and despair, but I found that a relationship with God and faith in Jesus, make all the difference.” - DawnCheré Wilkerson
“It’s in the waiting that I discovered who God is. The intimacy that you feel when you’re desperate for God, knowing that He’s close, knowing that He’s involved in every second, knowing that He’s orchestrating your life; there’s a confidence that we can hold on to. And when we find it in seasons of desperation, we don’t just find it for that moment, we get to carry it for the rest of our life. ” - DawnCheré Wilkerson
“In those eight years of infertility, I came to a place where I discovered there is work in this wait. There’s soil for me to dig deep into. There are areas for me to grow, areas for me to prune, areas for me to be outstretched and generous with my life.” - DawnCheré Wilkerson
“Hebrews is very clear. Abraham, Sarah, Rahab, Moses… Scripture tells us in Hebrews that they all died still believing in what they had not seen. So if these heroes of the faith, the matriarchs, the patriarchs of our faith, didn’t see all of the promise in this life, why do I think that I will? This is where we get to trust God, but know that this is not the end of the story.” - DawnCheré Wilkerson
“I think what life is really about is this long burning fuse attached not to a seasonal outcome of the explosion of God’s faithfulness, but rather to the promise of eternity.” - DawnCheré Wilkerson
“We say we’re waiting, but we’re filling the time with a million different things that are really turning down the volume on the voice of God. A lot of my focus in life is how to prune out distractions because I’m prone to pick up so many different things to fill the time while I’m waiting on God.” - DawnCheré Wilkerson
“There’s a really heavy leaning on preaching and crafting sermons and getting people in line with exact ‘correct’ theological beliefs, but I think there’s a disconnect between that and actually being pastored. Do people believe what we say because of what we do? I think a lot of younger generations are seeing a disconnect between that, and they want to follow the fruit.” - Erin Hicks Moon
“I think we often tend to over complicate things at times. The disciples—we don’t have any record of them arguing about atonement theory or transubstantiation—what we’re mostly left with is just ‘go do the thing. Take care of the people. Tell them about Jesus. Let the Holy Spirit do the Holy Spirit’s work.’” - Erin Hicks Moon
“I think if we lean in with a posture of curiosity, it’s one of the avenues through which we love our neighbor as ourselves. I think we want our kids and the people who come after us to have better tools and be more informed to have a fuller faith.” - Erin Hicks Moon
“I see prayer as life with God, and I think there are so many ways to be with God. You don’t have to have everything perfectly figured out with God to talk to God, to be with God, and to look for God everywhere.” - Erin Hicks Moon
“The goal is being with Jesus and letting Jesus transform you. I would tell you not to be afraid or to try to push past the fear of burning something down, like your faith, because ash is fertilizer and good things will grow again.” - Erin Hicks Moon
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
* This episode contains mature content.
This week, we get to hear from Becky Murray, the founder and CEO of One By One, an organization committed to ending exploitation and bringing freedom to vulnerable children around the world. Becky’s journey began with a simple desire to fight injustice—a passion that eventually led her from her dreams of a law career to the front lines of global humanitarian work. Becky shares how a pair of pink flip-flops sparked a lifelong mission and why she believes that even small acts of kindness can change the world—one life at a time.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Andrea Kazindra, co-founder and co-CEO of Musana, a Ugandan-led organization transforming communities through schools, hospitals, and businesses. What began as a college internship turned into a lifelong commitment to creating sustainable, locally-driven change. Nearly two decades later, Andrea continues to lead with humility, vision, and a deep belief in the power of community.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Lori Allen
Upcoming interview: DawnCheré Wilkerson
Becky Murray
One By One
Luke 10:25-37 NIV
Embrace The Journey
Andrea Kazindra
Musana
Mohammed Yunus
Interview Quotes:
“The temptation is because I can’t fix it all, I’ll shrink back and do nothing at all. It sometimes feels like when I look out at the ocean of need before us, it feels like I’ve got a teaspoon in my hand, and I’m attempting to empty an ocean. God doesn’t ask us to go and feed the 5,000, but what is in our hands that we can make an impact with today.” - Becky Murray
“If we would just have eyes to see the needs of the ones that God brings across our path day in and day out, and if we just constantly have this heart of, Who today can I reach, who’s my neighbor today? Every day, we can see a big impact in and through our lives.” - Becky Murray
“We’ve got incredible staff around the world that are running our centers. I see the kids who were supposed to not make it even past elementary education because they were so ill. And yet, after encountering the love of Christ and being given the help and the medical care that they needed, they’re now graduating around the world. To see the difference that God has made in their lives is what helps keep us motivated to keep reaching that next one.” - Becky Murray
“Live with our hands open, saying, ‘Okay, God, I’m not perfect and maybe I’m still needing healing in certain parts of my own life, but despite all that, you can still flow through me if I just say yes.’” - Becky Murray
“I think as long as our eyes are constantly fixed on Him, that makes all the difference, because it takes your eyes off the mountain and puts them on the One who can move those mountains.” - Becky Murray
“The kids became more than just kids that were abandoned or vulnerable, living in poverty, they became names and faces and personality.” - Andrea Kazindra
“If a woman delivers a baby in one of Musana’s hospitals, it is four times more likely that the baby will survive than if the baby is born at another facility in Uganda.” - Andrea Kazindra
“One thing that I’ve learned being in Uganda is that prayer can be a part of every day, throughout the day. I think when you don’t have much and you don’t know what you’re going to feed your family next week, your reliance and trust has to be in God.” - Andrea Kazindra
“The only reason Musana is what it is today and has grown into what it is today is because it has had God’s hand in it.” - Andrea Kazindra
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’re joined by Mike Nawrocki, best known for his work in co-creating the beloved children’s series VeggieTales, and voice of Larry the Cucumber. Mike shares the leap of faith he took with college friend and VeggieTales co-creator Phil Vischer, the setbacks and devastating losses they faced along the way to create what would become an iconic staple for families all over, and how simple stories told by talking vegetables helped people understand just how much God loves them.
Later, we’ll hear from Jennie Smythe, the CEO of Girlilla Marketing. Through the tragic cancer diagnosis that Jennie helped her father walk through, to her own battle with breast cancer, Jennie shares how life’s challenges have shown her that her security and identity rests in Jesus alone.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Brandi Rhodes
Upcoming interview: Becky Murray
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Mike Nawrocki
VeggieTales
Phil Vischer
Dead Sea Squirrels
Christian and Missionary Alliance
Crown College
Jim Henson
Peace Corps
Everland Entertainment
3-2-1 Penguins
Jonah
My Utmost for His Highest
The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything
Lipscomb University
Matthew West
Mac Powell
Ellie Holcomb
www.mikenawrocki.com
www.gominno.com
Jennie Smythe
Girlilla Marketing
pancreatic cancer
breast cancer
www.girlillamarketing.com
Becoming Girlilla
Interview Quotes:
“The Silly Songs helped the kids fall in love with Larry the Cucumber and the other characters to the point where they love this character, they trust this character, and they care what the character has to say about God making them special and loving them very much.” - Mike Nawrocki
“We lost everything, so it was a really, really tough time. For me, from a kind of a personal and spiritual standpoint, it really made it clear to me how much I needed God in my life. It's like my only security can be found in my relationship with Jesus. That's really the only truly secure thing that there is in this world.” – Mike Nawrocki
“It’s really neat to see kind of everything coming together and the heart of the [Dead Sea Squirrels series] and my wanting to do this in the first place was to share more of the gospel story, tell more New Testament stories, and share the gospel message with kids.” - Mike Nawrocki
“While there’s nothing great to talk about in terms of pancreatic cancer and losing your father, what was amazing about that situation is that he gave me forgiveness.” - Jennie Smythe
“I can’t help but think that my dad speaking to me at that time was a little bit of a divine intervention, and I am forever grateful for that.” - Jennie Smythe
“As I was able to get better physically [from my cancer], I was also able to recognize the amazing things that I had. I just decided I wouldn’t have any bad days. I might have bad moments. I certainly still get angry and emotional, say the wrong things, don’t do the right things–you know—normal human behavior. But [I approach life] more from a place of appreciating that I wake up each day and I have the opportunity to make it the best day of my life.” - Jennie Smythe
“It’s really important to show up when you are vulnerable and when you’re struggling, because you can really help people.” - Jennie Smythe
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
For this special bonus episode, we’re joined by Pastor of Home of Jesus the King Church in Nazareth, Saleem Shalash. Since Biblical times, there’s been animosity between Arabs and Jews in the Middle East, and as an Israeli Arab Christian, Pastor Saleem often felt stuck in the middle. He was raised with hatred for Israel buried deep in his heart, but after God opened his eyes to the reconciliation and love that’s so desperately needed in the world right now, Saleem began providing much-needed humanitarian support to Jews, Muslims, and Christians through his affiliation with Joseph Project International. In his pursuit to be a peacemaker that helps bring healing to a hurting world, Pastor Saleem is serving families from all ethnic and religious backgrounds across the nation—praying for the next generation to be free of hatred, and instead fueled by love and compassion.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Saleem Shalash Instagram
The Joseph Project website
Joseph Project Facebook
Joseph Project Instagram
Interview Quotes:
“When they gave me the Bible, [it was] like giving a thirsty man a cold cup of water.” - Saleem Shalash
“The Lord said, ‘Saleem it is your choice. Do you want to be part of the family or do you want to stay out?’ I was weeping that night. And I said, ‘God, I can't do it by myself. I need your help.’ I felt that God set me free from this hatred.” - Saleem Shalash
“I believe that God keeps His promises. God changed all my life upside down. And I became one of the people that supports Arabs and Jews, who builds bridges between Arab and Jewish people; peacemakers in the land of Israel.” - Saleem Shalash
“We need to create a new generation that's empty of hatred. We don't want to create a new generation that continues with the same conflict, with the same fight, with the same words.” - Saleem Shalash
“Reconciliation is our message. Love is our message. We want everyone to live in peace and to be bridge builders in these difficult days.” - Saleem Shalash
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’re joined by Jennifer Tucker, an author and illustrator. When her youngest daughter began experiencing severe panic attacks as a teenager, Jennifer found herself seeking help for her daughter, only to discover that she herself needed help for her long-ignored struggles with anxiety. Through research and the practice of using breath as prayers, Jennifer discovered powerful ways for managing anxiety while deepening her faith.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from college-age athlete Cole Prasse, who shares how a sudden cancer diagnosis upended his baseball dreams, forcing him to fight a battle he never saw coming. Through months of treatment, unexpected setbacks, and moments of deep uncertainty, he leaned on his faith and the support of those around him to find the strength to push through his toughest season yet.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Desiree Siegfried
Jesus Calling for Moms
Jesus Calling for Graduates
Jennifer Tucker
sympathetic nervous system
Psalm 23 NIV
www.littlehousestudio.net
Present in Prayer
Cole Prasse
Tommy John surgery
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
ABVD [chemotherapy drug]
ICE treatment
immunotherapy
Interview Quotes:
“I did not know how to reconcile my own feelings of anxiety with what I thought I was supposed to be [in order to] be a good Christian. I must not have enough faith, I must not be praying enough or the right way. My personal anxiety was really enveloped in a lot of shame and a lot of just pushing it down, but inside I was struggling.” - Jennifer Tucker
“The breath is the bridge between the brain and the body, and [my daughter’s psychiatrist] really emphasized how important it was to really slow down those breaths and to breathe in deeply and slowly, and exhale slowly and fully, and how significant that was.” - Jennifer Tucker
“I found this idea of breath prayer where you connect that slow, deep breathing to a very simple, short prayer from God’s Word—like a little verse—and you inhale one part of it, exhale the other part of it.” - Jennifer Tucker
“God’s not mad at us because we’re anxious or afraid. He knows we’re gonna feel these things. He knows we’re gonna be anxious. He knows we’re gonna worry. He comes to us not as a harsh judge, but as a loving Father.” - Jennifer Tucker
“It’s an intentional choice I have to make every single day to return my heart to Christ, return my mind to the truth in His Word, and really cling to that regardless of what’s happening around me because that’s where my source of hope and peace is.” - Jennifer Tucker
“For me, being a pitcher, positive self-talk is a big thing for me in my game and when I’m on the mound. Being in that hospital bed alone at night on the seventieth day that you’re there, you learn a little bit about the way that you think and the way that you process things.” - Cole Prasse
“I wanted to be cancer free, and I surrounded myself with everybody that wanted me to be cancer free, and that made it a lot easier because they shared the same thoughts as me. The ministry of presence goes a long way.” - Cole Prasse
“You can’t plan for things like cancer. It’s about learning, moving forward, pushing through, trusting the process, and trusting that your story is written. So you can be mad at the story that’s been written, or you can make the most of the story.” - Cole Prasse
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
YouTube
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TikTok
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’re joined by rancher and rodeo wife Paige Murray. Paige shares how she met her 9x world champion rodeo husband Ty Murray, the life values they’ve learned by working on their ranch, and about her children’s book, Rosie’s Wild Ride—inspired by her daughter Oakley’s brave ride on their family Clydesdale horse.
Guest’s LinksFacebook: @PaigeDukeMurray
Instagram: @paigedmurray
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4j7tpVi
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Jesus Calling Website
TikTok
Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Tauren Wells, acclaimed recording artist and lead pastor of Church of Whitestone in Austin, Texas. Raised in Battle Creek, Michigan, Tauren’s early life was steeped in music and shaped by his experiences at a small church and the guidance of a caring youth pastor. In this conversation, Tauren reflects on the things that can steal our focus, the quiet dangers of success, and what it means to live a truly joyful life.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Out of Eden, the ground-breaking sister trio who burst onto the scene in the nineties and helped redefine contemporary Christian music. From their early beginnings singing harmonies and choreographing dances in their living room to performing on big stages in nationwide tours, they navigated the pitfalls of growing up in the spotlight with grace beyond their years. Now, thirty years later, they’re reuniting their voices to offer hope to a new generation.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Rachael Lampa
Upcoming interview: Jennifer Tucker
Jesus Calling for Moms
Jesus Calling for Graduates
Tauren Wells
Church of Whitestone
Matthew 5:4 NIV
Joy Bomb
www.taurenwells.com
Out of Eden
Lisa Jordan
dc Talk
Audio Adrenaline
TobyMac
Genesis 2:10 NIV
Michael Guido
“Lovely Day”
Lovely Day 3.0
Interview Quotes:
“There can be so much pressure around success of always elevating, always trying to find the next good thing, [and it] sometimes leaves our soul in a state of despair, because we’ve been focusing on the wrong things, as opposed to the way that Jesus unlocks joy for us.” - Tauren Wells
“Sometimes I have a really hard time differentiating doing things for God and doing things with God. And I think that’s when our heart can be thrown upside down and all we ever feel is anxiety, fear, doubt, and despair, because we flip the beauty of the reality that we get to do life with God.” - Tauren Wells
“There is a relentless joy that flows from being intentionally aware of [God’s] presence.” - Tauren Wells
“Jesus preached the most important message on joy, and it was the first thing that He decided to talk about. How important to the heart of God must our happiness be just based on the priority of the message?” - Tauren Wells
“Happiness and joy have nothing to do with what’s happening around you; it has everything to do with what is happening inside of you. Restoring that sense of gratitude for the ultimate price that was paid to unlock our freedom is so central to all of our lives as believers.” - Tauren Wells
“We found a scripture in Genesis 2:10 that says, ‘A river flows out of Eden to water the garden.’ Once we read that, we knew that was our mission. We grew up in the church, we’ve always been plugged into the Word of God, and we really wanted to use that to minister to those who would be listening to our music.” - Andrea Kimmey-Baca of Out of Eden
“I really do believe that because of our grounding in the Word of God and having a community of believers surrounding us, that we were able to ride the harder waves and talk out the things that were more confusing to us.” - Danielle Kimmey of Out of Eden
“We just wanted to honor the fans who kept our name and our legacy and our music alive.” - Danielle Kimmey of Out of Eden
“We were in an industry that wasn’t really built for our style of music. I think that presented a lot of challenges for us, and gave us the opportunity to not only overcome those challenges, but also have the right heart posture.” - Lisa Kimmey of Out of Eden
“For anyone who is going through these current times—we need hope, we need joy.” - Out of Eden
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
YouTube
Website
TikTok
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Welcome to a special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast. Today, we’ll hear from a number of guests who have previously appeared on the show, giving us their insights and guidance about what helps them when they experience fear and uncertainty in their lives—including Curtis Chang, Jennie Finch, Dr. Michelle Bengston, Dr. Henry Cloud, and Jesse Hutch.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Curtis Chang
Jennie Finch
Dr. Michelle Bengston
Dr. Henry Cloud
Jesse Hutch
For more interviews like this, check out the Peace for Uncertain Times series on the Jesus Calling YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Website
TikTok
Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’re joined by Emily Compagno, an attorney, television host, and advocate for those who serve. From her time as an NFL cheerleader on a USO tour in Iraq, to her work honoring the faith and sacrifice of service members, Emily shares powerful stories of courage, loss, and the unshakable presence of God in the midst of battle.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from author, speaker, and former news anchor Brooke Martin. Brooke reached a point in life where she had nearly everything she had hoped for—a thriving career as a news anchor, a loving family, and a future that seemed bright. But everything changed in an instant when she received devastating news about her unborn daughter. Faced with a heartbreaking loss, Brooke and her husband made a courageous decision—one that would redefine their faith and deepen their understanding of God.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Scotty Hasting
Upcoming interview: Tauren Wells
Jesus Calling for Moms
Jesus Calling for Graduates
Emily Compagno
United Service Organizations (USO)
Outnumbered on Fox News
Under His Wings
Space Academy
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC)
Bob Hope
Oakland Raiders
Improvised Explosive Device (IED)
Brooke Martin
Temple University
Anencephaly
www.morewithbrookemartin.com
Controlled Burn
Interview Quotes:
“My mom says her philosophy was that of a gardener—not a sculptor—in that she planted and then sat back and watched the garden grow, rather than sculpting out what she wanted us to look like.” - Emily Compagno
“I was just so struck by these earnest and selfless and determined men and women who were serving on behalf of our country so that we could enjoy our freedoms.” - Emily Compagno
“I will not presume to speak for those incredible veterans who have such a special inner strength that enables them to stare death in the face. Every single individual has a unique voice as to what inspires them and what encourages them and what ultimately leads to their faith and to their relationship with God.” - Emily Compagno
“There are an incredible number of people who walk through infant loss. I’m so grateful for the people who are willing to step into the fire with you and hold your hand through it.” - Brooke Martin
“What I experienced in the hospital room made me realize that I had been taking a penny when God had been offering me the riches of heaven.” - Brooke Martin
“Something happens when we are able to empathize with Jesus and His suffering. There is an intimacy that is born and it changes your prayer life because it changes your relationship.” - Brooke Martin
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
*This episode mentions suicide and may be triggering for some listeners.
This week, we’re diving into something truly transformative—the power of love to change everything. First, we hear from Father Richard Rohr, who shares his lifetime of wisdom about how experiencing deep, unconditional love—not rules or fear—is what really brings about meaningful change.
Then, Pastor Zach Meerkreebs takes us to Asbury University, where a truly extraordinary event happened in that faith community. He reminds us that following Jesus’ example of humility can open our lives up to amazing possibilities.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:The Power of Love
Upcoming interview: Emily Compango
Jesus Calling for Moms
Jesus Calling for Graduates
Father Richard Rohr
Franciscans
Center For Action and Contemplation
Hosea 2 NIV
Isaiah 40-55 NIV
Lamentations
Ephesians 4:26 NIV
Day of Grief
1 Corinthians 13:13 NIV
“For When People Ask” by Rosemary Watola Trommer
www.CAC.org
The Tears of Things
Pastor Zach Meerkreebs
Asbury University
Romans 12:9-21 NIV
Matthew 11:28-30 NIV
Luke 14 NIV
Lower: Igniting Spiritual Awakening Through Radical Humility
Interview Quotes:
“‘Don’t let the sun go down on your anger,’ the New Testament says. But that doesn’t say, ‘Don’t be angry.’ Right now there is so much that deserves anger—the wars in our world, how we treat the very ones Jesus told us to love, the little ones, the rejected ones. That comes from an excess of anger and a deficiency of sadness.” - Fr. Richard Rohr
“An experience of infinite, unconditional love—that’s the only thing that changes us.” - Fr. Richard Rohr
“We can’t authentically love one another without experiencing the authentic love of Jesus first.” - Zach Meerkreebs
“Within a couple of days, it had been spread around the world that God was moving on the campus [of Asbury University], and we started having guests from South America and the Middle East and Asia to come and encounter God at our chapel service.” - Zach Meerkreebs
“Humility really is a foundation in what’s countercultural, captivating, convicting and compelling of the Christian walk.” - Zach Meerkreebs
“If you read Scripture and you study the person of Jesus, humility is the most captivating thing about Him.” - Zach Meerkreebs
“Because I understand who I am and I understand who God is, that drives me to pray. I want to spend time with Him, because I know my life is better when I spend time with Him and when I listen to His voice.” - Zach Meerkreebs
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week we’ll hear from singer, songwriter, and producer Mark Miller. For over four decades, Mark has been a driving force in music as the lead singer of the legendary country band Sawyer Brown. Beyond the stage, he’s been the guiding hand behind Casting Crowns, producing their music for over twenty years. Now, as Sawyer Brown celebrates its fortieth anniversary with a brand new album and a documentary directed by his daughter, Mark reflects on how his life and career have prayerfully unfolded.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Hope Reagan Harris. Hope never set out to start a global movement. She was simply a wife, a mother, and a former corporate professional searching for her next steps. But when she leaned into where God was leading her, she discovered that purpose doesn’t pause—it multiplies.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past blog post: Ciara Laine Myers
Upcoming interview: Richard Rohr
Mark Miller
Sawyer Brown
Casting Crowns
Christopher Knight
The Brady Bunch
Dick Clark’s American Bandstand
Get Me To The Stage On Time
Flagler College
Steven Curtis Chapman
“If We Are the Body”
Blake Shelton
“Desperado Troubadours” single
Desperado Troubadors album
Hope Reagan Harris
Purpose Doesn’t Pause Inc.
Walmart’s corporate office
Christine Caine
Dayspring cards
Onyx Coffee Lab
Pepperdine University
www.purposedoesntpause.org
Now Over Next: Conquering the Fear of Missing Out
Interview Quotes:
“There’s not an hour that goes by that I’m not praying in my mind. It’s just a part of everything that I do in my being. From the time I get up to the time I go to bed, I want the Holy Spirit to just cover me and carry me throughout every minute of my waking day.” - Mark Miller
“As I reflect on the forty-year career, I just know that I’ve been amazingly blessed that God has given me this timeframe, and I’ve always wanted to be a good steward of the blessings, the fans, the platform.” - Mark Miller
“[As musicians], we’re judged every day on whether our songs are good or not, or whether we have a hit song or not. Well, I don’t have to worry about that when I think of who I am as a man. Because I know who I am in the eyes of Jesus.” - Mark Miller
“God sees me right now. I’m not missing out. God has eyes on me, He’s seeing me, and He’s sending what I need right when I need it.” - Hope Reagan Harris
“I look at my life and I feel like God is just reminding me that there’s nothing He can’t do. When it’s His timing and His plan, there’s nothing that can stop it.” - Hope Reagan Harris
“I’m like, Wow, God, You did not waste a single thing for [Purpose Doesn’t Pause] to happen. I may not have enough money to fund this on my own or enough time, but You’re bringing Your people, You’re bringing the resources, You’re bringing love.” - Hope Reagan Harris
“God is a God who sees us—whether we can see it or not. We’ve just got to believe and trust that He is with us now and He is working on our behalf.” - Hope Reagan Harris
“If the Lord is making some of the things that you once loved disenchanting and not as sparkly or shiny as they once were, maybe He is leading you somewhere else.” - Hope Reagan Harris
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from executive strategist, author, and speaker Bethny Ricks. Bethny had an incredible rise to the top of corporate America and two plus decades of experience with Fortune 500 companies. At times, Bethny faced misogyny and racism, which caused her to doubt herself. When a health scare threatened her livelihood, she realized she needed something deeper than success could bring, and turned to her faith for healing and hope.
Guest’s LinksFacebook: @mywaywithwordsofficial
Instagram: @bethnyricks
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4iG0c3v
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Jesus Calling Website
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week we honor Organ Donation Awareness month with music industry veteran Lisa Boullt. Lisa decided to start her own business helping artists and songwriters, and ended up working with legendary country artists. Through this process, Lisa reconnected with her sister Andrea's story, who had passed away in a car accident years earlier and was an organ donor. Lisa was touched by Andrea’s live-giving gift, and felt moved to write her sister’s story and educate people about the impact of organ donation.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from author and advocate Judy Henderson, who spent thirty-five years of her life in prison for a crime she didn’t commit. After growing up in a dysfunctional family, dealing with an abusive ex-husband, a stay in a psych ward, and facing a boyfriend who manipulated his crime to pin the blame on her, it seemed like Judy would never find her way out of darkness and despair. But she chose to believe that God would rescue her from the prison walls that surrounded her both physically and emotionally.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Jochen Wurfl
Upcoming interview: Mark Miller
Jesus Listens for Lent & Easter
Lisa Boullt
Organ Donation Awareness month
Charlie Daniels
Middle Tennessee State University
17 Again: A Story of Life After Life
Judy Henderson
When the Light Finds Us
Catholic Charities of Kansas City, St. Joseph
Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
Residents Encounter Christ
Interview Quotes:
“Once you meet someone that has received an organ from a donor, it’s a game changer, because they’re telling you from their perspective of how their life has changed.” - Lisa Boullt
“When God gives you an assignment, you don’t ask questions, you just say yes, and everything falls into place.” - Lisa Boullt
“I think when you’re passionate about whatever it is in life—if it’s your job, if it’s a mission that you’re passionate about—I think when God lays it on your heart, you’re gonna be an advocate for it, no matter what it looks like.” - Lisa Boullt
“In my cell in prison, I put up the verse Jeremiah 29:11. His plan was not for me to die and rot in prison, but I did find my purpose while I was there.” - Judy Henderson
“What He does for one, He’ll do for others. You have to stand on it, you have to believe it, and you have to walk the path that He’s chosen for you to walk, and those things will come to you.” - Judy Henderson
“If everybody will pay attention to the signs that occur in their life, they will find their purpose, they will know what it is God created them to do, and they will live a happy, blessed, prosperous life.” - Judy Henderson
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week we’ll hear from Kurt Avery, the leader of Sawyer Products, who shares his mission to bring clean water to underserved communities around the world. Kurt discusses how God equipped him with the means and the determination to create life-changing products that improve global access to safe, clean drinking water.
Then, we meet Britney Higgs, the founder of HER Campaign, an organization dedicated to rescuing women from the devastating realities of sex trafficking. Britney opens up about her passion to provide women who have been trafficked a safe place to heal and the support they need to rebuild their lives with dignity.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Delilah
Upcoming interview: Lisa Boullt
Jesus Listens for Lent & Easter
Kurt Avery
Sawyer Products
REI
waterborne sicknesses
SEAL Team Six
Sawyer Think
Britney Higgs
HER Campaign
NGOs [non-governmental organizations]
Institute for Survivor Care
www.hercampaign.org
Interview Quotes:
“I’m not a scientist, but I've always been on the fringe of science. If you look at creation, how do you not come to the conclusion there’s a God?” - Kurt Avery
“You have to have the establishment that God is out there and He’s bigger than us—way bigger than us.” - Kurt Avery
“Always let your God be as big as He is. If you make God small, you’ll do small things. If you let God be big, you’ll do big things, because it’s not you, it’s Him. He just gave you the gifts. Let Him show you how to use them in a much bigger way.” - Kurt Avery
“I truly believe that God loves to work in a process. I believe in the miraculous instant moments, but more often than not, He chooses to walk us through a beautiful process and reveal more of Himself to us as we walk into healing.” - Britney Higgs
“One of the main things that helps me ground and stay focused on what’s important is really that daily time with Jesus when I wake up in the morning. No matter what we face today, no matter what these survivors face, we know that it is nothing compared to the glory that You are about to reveal to us.” - Britney Higgs
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we welcome Nashville singer/songwriter Dave Barnes. Growing up in a small Mississippi town before moving to Music City, Dave discovered his love for music through a series of seemingly small but pivotal moments. His breakout hit, “God Gave Me You,” became a life-changing milestone, coming to life after Dave had prayed a simple prayer for encouragement, and ultimately catching the attention of country superstar Blake Shelton, who went on to record it as well.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Justin Gambino, a singer/songwriter from Houston, Texas. Justin’s story takes him from a troubled youth where he had a brush with the law to finding his place in this world through music and serving his country.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Matt Forté
Upcoming interview: Kurt Avery
Jesus Listens for Lent & Easter
Dave Barnes
“God Gave Me You”
Blake Shelton
Middle Tennessee State University
Sermon on the Mount
We The Kingdom
Miranda Lambert
Hebrews 10:24-25 NIV
www.davebarnes.com
Featherbrained Wealth Motel
Justin Gambino
www.justingambino.com
Made New
Interview Quotes:
“A lot of my faith has come from these moments in my life of just seeing God accomplish these crazy things sort of in spite of me.” - Dave Barnes
“God loves honesty, I think because it does away with formalities. It shows intimacy.” - Dave Barnes
“I felt so clearly that God was like, ‘Dave, when you pray for answers, you don't get to qualify the answers I give you. That's not how this works.’ And I was like, ‘Touché Lord. Well played.’” - Dave Barnes
“God has really impressed on me this idea that His intention for me and for His children is to not be alone.” - Dave Barnes
“I think ninety-nine percent of the time when I have a problem with someone, the more I go toward them, the better and easier that problem gets. The further I get from them, almost 100 percent of the time, it gets worse.” - Dave Barnes
“I was completely hopeless, but God stepped in and opened up a door for a different path.” - Justin Gambino
“I get choked up every time I share this part of the story because I look back now and wonder about the feelings and the emotions of my earthly father—what he was feeling when he heard the voice of his prodigal son call home.” - Justin Gambino
“I just remember falling on my knees. I said, ‘Lord, I can't quit this on my own, but I also know that I've never asked You to take it from me. So I'm asking You to take it from me. Take this hurt, this pain, this guilt.’” - Justin Gambino
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week we take a heartfelt look at the “dash”—that time between our birth date and our death date—and how our faith can guide us to make every moment count. Entrepreneur and cofounder of Market America, Loren Ridinger, and gospel singer Lynda Randle join us to share their powerful stories of how trusting in God’s plan has shaped their journeys. With resilience and gratitude, they leaned into their faith through loss, fear, and even discrimination, and tell us how we can all leave a lasting legacy rooted in love and service.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Diane Chew
Upcoming interview: Dave Barnes
Jesus Listens for Lent & Easter
Loren Ridinger
Market America
Shop.com
JR Ridinger
pulmonary embolism
Scrambled or Sunny-Side Up? Living Your Best Life After Losing Your Greatest Love
Lynda Randle
Michael Tate of DC Talk & Newsboys
Museum of the Bible
Together for Christmas event
Free to Love EP
“Whole Woman”
www.lyndarandle.com
Interview Quotes:
“Grief is an extension of love. It is love in the harshest, hardest form.” - Loren Ridinger
“If I have a bad day personally—and a bad day could be I'm just sad, I don't want to get up, I feel heartbroken, I feel angry, I feel mad—I give myself grace for going through those emotions.” - Loren Ridinger
“When you lose someone, you lose belief. You question God. You question all types of things. And then all of a sudden, it's God that helps you back out of it. It's Him who says, ‘We can get through anything.’” - Loren Ridinger
“We're all going to have a death date. We all have that. But what we do with that line—that little dash—is what will make the difference. And that's what we do with our life. Let's make the biggest difference to help people. What are you going to do with the dash?” - Loren Ridinger, quoting her late husband JR Ridinger
“We only get this lifetime that we know of, and the most important thing that you can do is enjoy the journey because life is short.” - Loren Ridinger
“God used music in my life, not only as this instrument to encourage people and lift the hearts of people, but to help build bridges and communicate with people that maybe on any given day probably wouldn't even have me in their home.” - Lynda Randle
“When you can't have a conversation with some people because they just don't want to talk or they are so angry, music has a way of melting the heart, calming the spirit.” - Lynda Randle
“I know that the ministry that God's given me to build bridges is significant. It's necessary. And a lot of walls are coming down.” - Lynda Randle
“I just want every woman to know no matter what the brokenness, no matter what the pain, no matter what the devastation—God sees you as a whole woman.” - Lynda Randle
_______________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’re joined by Nikki Walton, host of GoOD fMornings with CurlyNikki and an influential voice in personal transformation, who shares her struggles with self-esteem and identity as a young woman to achieving massive success through her groundbreaking platform, CurlyNikki.com. Nikki's life was filled with accomplishments—but also a profound sense of emptiness.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Tori Hope Petersen, an author, speaker, and podcaster. After enduring twelve different homes in the foster care system, Tori aged out without a permanent family. Through the kindness of a foster mom who introduced her to faith, the guidance of a track coach who became a father figure, and her own unwavering determination, Tori rose above her circumstances to find meaning and mission for her life.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Patsy Clairmont
Upcoming interview: Loren Ridinger
Jesus Listens for Lent & Easter
Nikki Walton
GoOD Mornings with CurlyNikki
www.curlynikki.com
Wake Up To Love: Meditations to Start Your Day
Tori Hope Petersen
Orphan Sunday
www.torihopepetersen.com
Breaking the Patterns That Break You
Interview Quotes:
“I knew something was missing because I could look around and see what looked like success, like the American dream, and I felt empty. There was still this void. I had not found God and I didn't even know that that's what I was looking for.” - Nikki Walton
“I love myself and it's not in that superficial, surface-level love. It's like I went from outer beauty to inner beauty to beyond beauty entirely, and I appear beautiful to some because of His light shining through me.” - Nikki Walton
“I listen not for [God’s] voice booming, but for His silence, for His stillness, for His peace, And then I feel His stillness. I feel His peace. I know I'm in contact with Him when I feel lighter.” - Nikki Walton
“You can still be aware of that humbled nature, that humbled posture inside. That way, when you go out into the world, even though you are smiling and walking upright, you're still bowing to Jesus everywhere you go.” - Nikki Walton
“I had to learn through time that God doesn't just save us, He keeps us.” - Toire Hope Petersen
“I do think that God speaks to us in the way that we can understand how to do what's next.” - Tori Hope Petersen
“Our brokenness does not just point to the deficit in us. Sometimes our brokenness points to the disciples that we are, points to our faithfulness.” - Tori Hope Petersen
“God does not hate you and He doesn't want you to hate yourself. He wants you to embrace who He has called you to be, because when we do that, we can walk out the calling that God has placed on our life. God did a good job making you and you’re allowed to be loved.” - Tori Hope Petersen
“God is just so glad when we show up to be in His presence and to pray. He just welcomes me with open arms. He is our safe place.” - Tori Hope Petersen
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from artist Anne Neilson, best known for her Angel series. Anne shares the story of how she went from getting a D- in 10th grade art class to eventually finding her voice as an artist. Anne shares how God saw her heart for creating and how He inspires her to be a light in the world through her artwork.
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4beXLC4
Guest’s LinksFacebook: @anneneilsonhome
Instagram: @anneneilsonhome
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Jesus Calling Website
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This episode may be triggering for some listeners.
This week, we have writer and speaker Ann Voskamp back on the podcast. Ann shares insights from her personal experiences with anxiety and brokenness and what she found out while she waited through those uncomfortable moments, and how she used scripture, prayer, and the practice of writing to heal her mind and become closer to God.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Christian country music artist Brennley Brown. Raised in the high desert of Southern California, and now playing music in Nashville, Brennley got her start in voiceover work before gaining national recognition as the youngest finalist on The Voice. She shares her own experience with waiting while her mother battled a health crisis, and how that time led her to find out where she should go with her music—and her life.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Dr. Alan Weissenbacher
Upcoming interview: Nikki Walton
Jesus Listens for Lent & Easter
Ann Voskamp
Sarah Young
Agoraphobia
Hagar in Genesis 16
Book of John
www.annvoskamp.com
Loved to Life
Brennley Brown
The Voice
Waylon Jennings
Emmylou Harris
Dolly Parton
Jesus Anywhere
www.brennleybrownmusic.com
Interview Quotes:
“I'm not just getting up every morning and looking for a way through. But I actually have a way of life that centers and grounds me, roots me, and calms me, and keeps me such that the person of Christ, the being of Christ, is my way through.” - Ann Voskamp
“What we're all looking for is, Is there a way of life that leads me into abundant joy? And if joy is a function of gratitude and gratitude is a function of perspective, how can I shift and change my perspective moment by moment? What needs to have a shift is my perspective, to see that not only other gifts and graces right here I can give God thanks for, but ultimately that God Himself, His very presence, His very being, is with me right here.” - Ann Voskamp
“I think each of us—no matter whatever season of life we're in—there are things that we have laid before the Lord in prayer and we are in this open-handed posture of waiting. Can we feel like when we're waiting on the Lord and we're at the end of our rope, that we actually have hope because our hearts are being bound to the Lord's?” - Ann Voskamp
“We don't want our devotions, our quiet time with the Lord, to actually be fragmented. We actually want that devotional time to weave through the rest of our day, all the moments and the hours keeping our hearts devoted to Him, our eyes attentive to Him, us constantly listening to Him, His Spirit saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it.’” - Ann Voskamp
“All of us are searching for, longing for, hoping we don't miss out on the fullest life, the most meaningful life, an abundant life. And that is exactly why Jesus comes, to actually love us to the fullest life.” - Ann Voskamp
“Music was something that my mom and I could do together. I would sit by her bed and sing worship songs, sing country songs, and it was such a powerful tool that the Lord used in our life to bring joy in the midst of something really challenging and really hard.” - Brennley Brown
“Every day we have that same opportunity to love on people and to show them Jesus in the way that we live, in the words that we speak.” - Brennley Brown
“I wanted to reflect my love for the Lord and how I believe He shows up in people's lives today, as a reminder that when God places a dream and a calling in your life, it's not going to be easy.” - Brennley Brown
“When God uniquely places a calling and a dream on your heart, it's not going to look like what the world may think it should.” - Brennley Brown
“[God] has given us such a powerful, incredible example of not only how to live, but being reminded of His promises daily—of the hope that we have in Him, the promise that He is with us, the promise that He goes before us—are only found in the Word of God.” - Brennley Brown
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Jay Lowder, an evangelist who has spent more than two decades traveling the globe, sharing the message of the gospel with audiences ranging from NFL teams to prison inmates. Early in his life, Jay struggled with depression which led him to medicate with alcohol, but ultimately brought him no peace from his pain. Feeling like giving up, Jay considered suicide, and he shares about the series of events that led him to finally find the peace he was looking for.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Riley Kehoe, an influencer and author, who shares the harrowing story of how her family survived a tsunami in Thailand when she was just a little girl. Riley recounts the terrifying events of the day, how her family stayed to help those who lost everything, and how she leaned on scripture to deal with the aftermath of such a traumatic event.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Davey Blackburn
Upcoming interview: Ann Voskamp
Jesus Listens for Lent & Easter
Jay Lowder
Matthew 27:32-56 NIV
Luke 23:34 NIV
John 3:16 NIV
John 3:36 NIV
Salvation Army
Madison Square Garden
www.jaylowder.com
Midnight in Aisle Seven
Riley Kehoe
2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami
www.rileywithcourage.com
Three Seconds of Courage
Interview Quotes:
“Church was just a place that we went, but not something that added any real value to my life. I didn't have a connection because I didn't have a relationship to Christ.” - Jay Lowder
“I was in such a dark place that I questioned, Was God real? Was everything that I was ever told going to church authentic? Was that real? And I really didn't know the answer to that.” - Jay Lowder
“The next thought that goes through my mind is, If God could forgive those Roman soldiers [who crucified Christ], maybe He could forgive me.” - Jay Lowder
“I've never been the guy that says, ‘Well you know, if you come to know the Lord, all your problems are going to fade away.’ The truth is if you give your life to the Lord, there may be a season where things get worse.” - Jay Lowder
“Knowing Jesus goes way beyond just going to heaven. It even goes beyond being forgiven. It goes to a Friend that's closer than a brother that wants to walk with you, lead you, and guide you. And it goes back to the verse that I heard the night I met Jesus. Christ said, ‘I came to give you not just life, I came to give you an abundant life.’” - Jay Lowder
“We would go and do missions work wherever we would land—my family would just find somewhere or someone to love on.” - Riley Kehoe
The 2004 Boxing Day tsunami hit the coast of Southeast Asia and with it took 230,000 lives. We were among the few that were survivors.” - Riley Kehoe
“I was so confused at the moment, Why are we not leaving this island as quickly as we can? I want to just get back to my life in New Zealand. I want to snuggle my pony and be in my bed. My mom told us, ‘Hey, girls, we're going to stay. We need to have courage to care for others right now, and we need to help these people who have lost absolutely everything.’” - Riley Kehoe
“I just want to encourage anyonethat there is light and that Jesus will redeem, and He will be with you in your pain and your suffering. He promises to be close to the brokenhearted.” - Riley Kehoe
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’re joined by Ian Morgan Cron, who shares his deeply personal journey with the Enneagram, addiction, and faith. Ian recounts how a chance encounter with a book on the Enneagram during a retreat sparked a life-changing path of self-awareness, ultimately inspiring his book, The Road Back to You. Through his story, Ian challenges us to see addiction not simply as a problem to be solved, but as an opportunity to draw closer to God and experience true healing, which he shares about in his latest book, The Fix.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Alicia Michelle, a certified neurocoach, podcaster, and author. Alicia shares how a health crisis led her to reevaluate her life and seek healing through the integration of neuroscience and biblical truth. Now, she helps others break free from limiting patterns, renewing their minds, and building emotional resilience.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Lecrae
Upcoming interview: Jay Lowder
Jesus Listens for Lent & Easter
Ian Morgan Cron
Enneagram
The Road Back to You
The Fix
The Twelve Steps
www.ianmorgancron.com
Alicia Michelle
Neurocoach
Emotional Confidence Club
brain priming
www.AliciaMichelle.com
Emotional Confidence
Interview Quotes:
“Addictions are very complicated. I see them principally as a spiritual problem, but they are not exclusively a spiritual problem.” - Ian Morgan Cron
“It's when you hit bottom that you finally become available to the wooing of God. The spiritual life is so loaded with paradoxes that it's frustrating at times. But here is one—powerlessness actually is a superpower, because the moment that you declare your own powerlessness, like Paul, you finally say, ‘I can't stop doing the things I don't want to do, and the things I do want to do, I can't start doing.’” - Ian Morgan Cron
“I sometimes see addictions as invitations from God. Are you ready to come back to the Source, to the Fountain? And are you also willing to accept that on this side of whatever divide we're on here, that you will never perhaps fully quench the thirst?” - Ian Morgan Cron
“The gospel speaks about transformation, and transformation happens not when you try to be a good Christian, but when you actually give God consent to do in you what you cannot do for yourself, namely change.” - Ian Morgan Cron
“I wonder if you could understand your seeming failures more as an invitation from God to a deeper intimacy with Him, rather than labeling them as failures or irredeemable misadventures. I think that lens has helped me to understand the peaks and valleys of my own life experience.” - Ian Morgan Cron
“There was this core, broken soundtrack inside of me that had associated achievement, making others happy, and being enough by doing things, by producing, and by trying harder. It was not associated with what I knew to be true logically with God's Word.” - Alicia Michelle
“When we as Christians can understand the beautiful ways that God has made our bodies and made our minds, it really helps us get to a place where we can choose to embrace those truths in a different way. When we are able to learn about our body, we can help our bodies get into a parasympathetic state so that we can make a logical response.” - Alicia Michelle
“What if we could take actions to understand our body, to help it align with God's Word completely in the way that He intends?” - Alicia Michelle
“This process of managing emotions is that it's important to connect with God, not just on a Sunday morning or when we're having these moments of dealing with a difficult emotion. The foundational truths of who we are in God, that's established mainly through that everyday interaction with the Lord, with time in His Word.” - Alicia Michelle
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’re delighted to welcome back author and speaker Melanie Shankle. Through her reflections on overcoming a challenging childhood and breaking generational cycles of dysfunction, Melanie shares profound insights on motherhood, the power of faith, and how to turn painful histories into lasting legacies of hope and resilience.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Lisa Steven, founder of Hope House Colorado, a nonprofit dedicated to uplifting and empowering teen moms. Lisa recounts her beginnings with a difficult childhood and teen motherhood, all the way to leading an organization that helps young moms rewrite their stories and find stability through faith.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Dr. Sarita Lyons
Upcoming interview: Ian Morgan Cron
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Melanie Shankle
www.thebigmamablog.com
Here Be Dragons: Treading the Deep Waters of Motherhood, Mean Girls, and Generational Trauma
Lisa Steven
Hope House Colorado
Mothers of Preschoolers
MOPS International
Teen MOPS
www.hopehousecolorado.org
A Place to Belong
Interview Quotes:
“Having a daughter of my own made me realize I want to do what I need to do to be spiritually and emotionally healthy, to be able to raise her to be everything that God created her to be.” - Melanie Shankle
“I'm a very flawed person trying to raise a flawed person. That’s just life. What I realized was I've got to depend on God if I'm going to do this in a healthy way. And He's going to give me the wisdom and discernment I need to know how to be the best mom.” - Melanie Shankle
“The things that we want to protect our kids from as parents are the very things that God is putting in their lives to give them that grit and that resilience and that strength that they're going to need.” - Melanie Shankle
“Jesus is the thing that will carry you through, and He will give you the strength to fight what you have to fight. He will give you the wisdom to know how to deal with different situations. He will give you the discernment that you need, and He will always love you back to emotional health.” - Melanie Shankle
“There is something so incredibly powerful about being willing to say yes to God when you are the least equipped person, and then watching to see what He does with that.” - Lisa Steven
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from Bible teacher and author Rachel G. Scott. Rachel shares the five different types of leaps of faith she’s identified, and the truths we can hold onto during times of transition as we get to where we’re supposed to be.
Guest’s LinksFacebook: @iamrachelgscott
Twitter: @iamrachelgscott
Instagram: @iamrachelgscott
Watch this interview on our YouTube channel!
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Jesus Calling Website
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This content may be triggering for some listeners.
This week, we’ll hear from Steve Moore, a lifelong music industry professional whose career trajectory took a sharp turn after a life-changing trip to Guatemala. After a storied career managing legendary artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan and George Strait—and serving as CEO of the Country Music Association—a simple journey to help build a school became the spark for a deeper passion, one that led him to establish The Shalom Foundation and open the Moore Pediatric Surgery Center, bringing life-changing medical care to children in need.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Sue Corl, a missionary with over forty years of ministry experience, mostly with Campus Crusade for Christ. Growing up, Sue had to face the physical and emotional challenges of a severe cleft palate through her faith and the unwavering support of her mother. As the founder of Crown of Beauty International, her mission is to aid individuals, families, and communities to experience renewal, transformation, and hope.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Luke Sherman
Upcoming interview: Melanie Shankle
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Steve Moore
Country Music Association
Lamar University
ZZ Top
Stevie Ray Vaughan
George Strait
The Shalom Foundation
Moore Pediatric Surgery Center
Sue Corl
Campus Crusade for Christ
Crown of Beauty International
Cleft palate
John 15 NIV
Psalm 139: 13-14 NIV
Interview Quotes:
“God had motivated me to [go to Guatemala]. I didn't do it under my own volition. I didn't pick Guatemala. I probably didn't even know where it was at the time, but God picked Guatemala for me. And it was one of the most amazing things that ever happened to me.” - Steve Moore
“God doesn't call the qualified. He doesn't wait until you're ready to do something. He qualifies the ones who He's called. So when you're called to do something, even though it seems a bit scary, He will provide what you need to do it.” - Steve Moore
“God has a plan for you. It's the best kept secret in most people's lives.” - Steve Moore
“When I was born, my mother really believed and she prayed, ‘Lord, save my baby.’ And as she prayed, she really sensed God saying, ‘No, she will not die, I have a purpose for her.’” - Sue Corl
“I started to believe their lies of saying that I was ugly. I was rejectable. I was a freak. And it got to the point where I really put a protective wall around myself that honestly stayed with me throughout my childhood and into my adulthood. It led to me walking away from God because I felt so much shame.” - Sue Corl
“We're created in the image of God. And that's why I could know that I am beautiful and that I have talents.” - Sue Corl
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Johnny and Donnie Van Zant, brothers who share a rich legacy rooted in music, faith, and resilience. Renowned for their roles in the iconic bands Lynyrd Skynyrd and .38 Special, the Van Zant brothers reflect on their humble beginnings shaped by family and music, and how they faced personal and professional challenges, including the tragic plane crash that took the lives of several members of Lynyrd Skynyrd, including their brother, Ronnie Van Zant.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Alexandra Osteen, daughter of Joel and Victoria Osteen and Worship Director at Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas. Growing up surrounded by music and ministry, Alexandra developed a deep passion for inspiring others through worship and storytelling. Now leading Lakewood’s worship team, she uplifts her community with songs that carry messages of hope, faith, and resilience.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Matt Redman
Upcoming interview: Steve Moore
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Johnny and Donnie Van Zant
Lynyrd Skynyrd
.38 Special
Hee Haw
The Ed Sullivan Show
Always Look Up
www.vanzantband.com
Alexandra Osteen
Joel and Victoria Osteen
Lakewood Church
Matthew 6:33 NIV
Oh How Worthy
“Outnumbered”
Pastor Steven Furtick
Brandon Lake
Mitch Wong
Interview Quotes:
“We're at an age where I guess we don't have to make any new music. But you know what? It's part of our life. And what better way to make music than to sing about Jesus and our good Lord above and our Father in heaven, the Holy Spirit.” - Johnny Van Zant
“I think as you go through these storms in your life, you really realize how much you need Jesus. And you really have to lean on that cross. He wants us to come to Him. If you ask, you shall receive.” - Johnny Van Zant
“Through this journey and through this life, I’ve just grown so much closer to God and I realize, in every aspect, how I cannot do this without Him, and how I don't want to do this without Him.” - Alexandra Osteen
“Our job matters, our career matters, our family matters. But God will align all of those things if we seek first His kingdom.” - Alexandra Osteen
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’re joined by Kent Chevalier and Johnny Shelton, two remarkable men who serve as NFL team chaplains, providing spiritual guidance, encouragement, and support to players, coaches, and their families. Kent serves with the Pittsburgh Steelers, while Johnny works with the Baltimore Ravens. They each offer a glimpse into the challenges NFL athletes face both on and off the field, and the transformative power of compassion and understanding in high-pressure spaces.
Later in the episode we’ll hear from Earl McClellan, the founder and lead pastor of Shoreline City Church in Dallas, Texas. With a deep faith that began in his teens, Earl shares the story of discovering his spiritual heritage, battling negative self-talk, and learning to live fully in his true identity.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Diane Chew
Upcoming interview: Johnny Van Zant and Donnie Van Zant
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Kent Chevalier
Johnny Shelton
Pittsburgh Steelers
Baltimore Ravens
Geneva College
Fellowship of Christian Athletes
www.kentchevalier.com
Johnny Shelton’s Instagram
Earl McClellan
Shoreline City Church
Get Your Spirit Back
Interview Quotes:
“To be able to serve the team that we grew up rooting for in this capacity is absolutely incredible, and one of those God winks that He gives to us.” - Kent Chevalier
“We're ministering to the players and our coaches that God has called us to, but we need to minister to each other. We need each other because we are the only ones who know what the other chaplain is dealing with.” - Johnny Shelton
“We, as chaplains, are called to be in this space with [the players and their families] side by side, walking with them. It is definitely a privilege.” - Johnny Shelton
“Yes, the Ravens and the Steelers are rivals. But what I love is that moment after the game where we all come out—coaches, players, staff—and we come to that moment at the fifty after the game and we join hands and we kneel before God. And I love that players and coaches from both teams come together and recognize the unity of the brotherhood of faith in the NFL.” - Kent Chevalier
“If your foundation is in your job, in your paycheck, if your foundation is in relationships, all of those things are easily shoved when they're taken away or they start to crumble. The only foundation that we can encourage these men to have is God at the center and at the foundation of their life.” - Kent Chevalier
“When you're watching these players and coaches on Sundays during those games, at one point, would you just stop and would you pray for that player? Would you pray for their wife or their girlfriend? Would you pray for their families? Because let's remember that behind these players, these entertainers, these coaches, are incredible families that God loves deeply and He wants to reach them with His love.” - Kent Chevalier
“God has not given us a spirit of fear. He has given us a spirit of power, love, sound mind, self-discipline. That's the spirit that He's given us.” - Earl McClellan
“I was maybe accustomed to trying to win this thing on my own, like, ‘God, I'm sorry. I don't have it all together. Once I get it all together, then you'll really be pleased with me.’ And God's like, ‘Wait, where did you get that erroneous theology? I want to be in the fight with you. I'm actually the one that gives you the victory.’” - Earl McClellan
“If we can get to that place where we begin to put Christ at the center and our connection with Him at the center, I think a lot of other problems would be answered.” - Earl McClellan
“I love knowledge, I love growing, I want that to happen. But what I really need is that surrender and that connection and that intimacy with Christ. And then allowing my identity in everything I do to flow from that place, rather than it being an add on.” - Earl McClellan
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’re joined by Ken Abraham, a master storyteller known for his ability to capture the hearts and stories of some of the world's most notable figures, including Buzz Aldrin, Chuck Norris, Stephen Curtis Chapman, Payne Stewart, and many others. His latest book, No Address, highlights a deep empathy and commitment to honor the stories of those dealing with homelessness, and reminds us of the power of understanding in every person’s story—whether they are in the spotlight of fame, or in the streets of our cities.
Next, we’ll hear from Susan Binkley, the founder and president of Blue Monarch, a long-term residential recovery program. For nearly two decades, Susan has dedicated her life to helping women and their children break cycles of addiction, abuse, and trauma. Susan shares her remarkable journey from an unexpected dream that guided her steps to the profound impact her organization has had on many lives.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Lauren Casper
Upcoming interview: Johnny Shelton
Ken Abraham
Buzz Aldrin
Neil Clark Warren
Chuck Norris
Bob Dole
Bill Gaither
Stephen Curtis Chapman
Payne Stewart
No Address
Lisa Beamer
Todd Beamer
Randy Travis
Galatians 2:20 NIV
Romans 3:23 NIV
No Address movie
Susan Binkley
Blue Monarch
www.bluemonarch.com
From My Front Row Seat: A Collection of Stories from My Time Working Alongside Women in Recovery
Interview Quotes:
“The church and we as Christians really have an answer that is such a benefit to people not only living in homeless situations, but to our whole society. We can help people find hope.” - Ken Abraham
“Empathy makes an incredible difference in our prayer lives.” - Ken Abraham
“Looking back, it was really pretty incredible how God pieced this whole journey together like a big puzzle. And now that I've been [working with Blue Monarch] for almost twenty-two years, I can look back and see how every single piece played an important part. I feel like I have a front row seat at the greatest show on earth, and I get to see God work in powerful ways that literally take my breath away.” - Susan Binkley
_______________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from Grammy Award-winning musician and songwriter Ron Block, of Alison Krauss & Union Station. Ron shares how, through all the ups and downs of a music career, he’s learned to depend on God.
Guest’s Links
Ron Block’s Facebook: @RonBlockMusic
Ron Block’s Twitter: @ronblockakus
Ron Block’s Instagram: @ronblockakus
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Jesus Calling Website
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week we’re joined by Ellen Skrmetti, a stand-up comedian and author whose journey to the stage was peppered with many moments of overcoming fear and finding humor in unexpected situations. From conquering those fears to redefining what it means to connect with audiences through comedy, Ellen uses her storytelling to bring laughter, healing, and a deeper connection to faith.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Justin Stuart and Andrew Scites, the creative minds behind JStu, a YouTube channel bringing laughter and joy to millions through family-friendly adventures, daring challenges, and hilarious pranks. Guided by their motto “Laugh Daily,” Justin and Andrew aim to inspire others with the simple yet profound message that joy is a powerful force for good.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Chonda Pierce
Upcoming interview: Susan Binkley
Ellen Skrmetti
Second City
www.ellenskrmetti.com
Hey, Jesus, It’s Me: I Have Questions, Comments, and Concerns
Justin Stuart and Andrew Scites
JStu YouTube channel
Proverbs 17:22 NIV
The JStu Survival Guide
Interview Quotes:
“It wasn't until I was an adult that I realized that the Lord does not make bets with His children, He does not make deals with His children. He's a way maker, not a deal maker.” - Ellen Skrmetti
“The prayer was, ‘Lord, do something so big it could only be You.’” - Ellen Skrmetti
“What I have had to diligently learn is to never take back the pencil and never say, ‘Oh, thank you, I can take it from here.’ We need God with us every step of the way.” - Ellen Skrmetti
“It's very important to expand your limits. You always want to grow.” - Justin Stuart
“God made a way for us to be able to make content, and obviously has had His hand on every part of our business ever since the start of it. I'm really thankful for that.” - Justin Stuart
“Anybody has the opportunity to be able to provide joy.” - Justin Stuart
“God is involved in every detail of our lives. If we just look for it, we can see how He's impacting our lives.” - Justin Stuart
“You can make an impact right where you are by being a difference to those around you, by adding value to those around you.” - Justin Stuart
“Being a force for good doesn't have to be a million people on Instagram. It could just be one person.” - Andrew Scites
“I get to step into moments and trust that God is going to use my fear and my experience to impact somebody else, if I trust Him and rely on the Holy Spirit moment by moment.” - Justin Stuart
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we welcome Mart Green, the founder and CEO of Mardel Christian & Education and of Every Tribe Every Nation, and the Ministry Investment Officer for the Hobby Lobby family of companies founded by his father, David Green. Mart opens up about a pivotal trip he took to Guatemala that showed him the power of God’s love in a highly personal way that he never really had grasped before, and how life’s wounds became a pathway for him toward healing and deeper connection with God and others.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Clarissa and Fiona Moll, a mother/daughter duo navigating the complexities of grief after the unexpected loss of husband and father, Rob. Facing life as a single mother, Clarissa—now a bereavement advocate and author—shares how she and Fiona worked toward a new normal without Rob by their sides. Together, they share how they deal with the pain of loss, and the small steps they’ve taken toward healing.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Joni Eareckson Tada
Upcoming interview: Ellen Skrmetti
Mart Green
Hobby Lobby
Mardel Christian & Education
Learning To Be Loved
Clarissa and Fiona Moll
Rob Moll
Christianity Today's The Bulletin Podcast
Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
Psalm 118:17 NIV
Jesus Calling for Kids
Hurt Help Hope
Other Jesus Calling interviews about grief
Interview Quotes:
“Sometimes I'd go back and tell where God did something amazing in my life, and just being able to share that, I got closer to the Lord because I remembered it.” - Mart Green
“As I look back on my life, the broken spots, the wounds that I have had, not understanding the emotions of my family, having one of my best friends die of COVID-19, you know, the suffering; those are times that are painful and they hurt, but they are also times that we get closer to the Lord.” - Mart Green
“If you allow God to heal you of that deep wound, then God will use you and bring others alongside you...God is there with us. He never leaves us. He helps us go through this.” - Mart Green
“Overnight, I became a widow with four children. I was faced with learning to parent alone, to become a breadwinner all on my own. Meanwhile, I was trying to shoulder my own shock and grief as I learned to live with this gaping hole that had entered my life through his death.” - Clarissa Moll
“In those moments when I felt like I was most alone, God gave me the grace to see that He had been sufficient for me all along.” - Clarissa Moll
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
The beloved historical drama television series The Chosen has burst onto the scene with its real, raw, and accurate depiction of the life of Jesus. As the first multi-season series about the life and ministry of Jesus, the show focuses on the people who met and followed Him, giving viewers a personal perspective through the eyes of those who knew Him—bringing out an emotional, personal, and intimate side of the life of Christ.
This week, we’re joined by the creative mind who brought The Chosen to life, Dallas Jenkins. Accompanying him are actors and actresses Elizabeth Tabish, Paras Patel, Shahar Isaac, Abe Bueno-Jallad, and Jonathan Roumie—who each share what it means to them to be able to portray these iconic characters, and how they work together as a team to lift each other up in telling this important story.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Priscilla Shirer
Upcoming interview: Mart Green
The Chosen
Dallas Jenkins
Elizabeth Tabish
Paras Patel
Shahar Isaac
Abe Bueno-Jallad
Jonathan Roumie
5&2 Studios
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
www.thechosen.tv
Interview Quotes:
“I really did say to myself, and to God, ‘Okay, I'm willing to give up [my career]. I truly care more about being in Your will and doing what You want me to do than I care about achieving anything or getting certain affirmation.’” - Dallas Jenkins
“My hope is that I'm making the best show [through The Chosen] I can that honors God and accurately captures the character and intentions of Jesus in the Gospels.” - Dallas Jenkins
“If you look at the Gospels, there are women at really pivotal moments of Jesus's ministry.” - Elizabeth Tabish
“I knew the only thing that I had left to do—which I really hadn't done—was to get on my knees and completely and wholly surrender myself, my career, and my circumstances to God.” - Jonathan Roumie
“Playing Jesus, there's a reason that God put me in this role and not somebody else. And so I had to recognize that and take up that mantle and know that I was where I was meant to be.” - Jonathan Roumie
“One thing that I take away from [the biblical life of] James is the conviction, and the will that you have to have to stand by your convictions. For me, taking on the character has deepened my understanding of what it truly means to be convinced about what you believe.” - Abe Bueno-Jallad
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we talk with two highly creative individuals who have been able to bring positive, uplifting, and spiritually striking stories to the world through the mediums of television, film, and animation.
Nika King is an actor and producer who is best known for her comedic abilities and her breakout role as Leslie on the HBO series Euphoria. King honestly shares about her early life watching family members battle addiction, and how they ultimately overcame through faith and determination—which had a great impact on the direction Nika’s life would take as an actress. She also lets us in behind the scenes to her newest film role in Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot.
Chris Wall is the executive producer and showrunner on The Wingfeather Saga animated series, and co-founder of Shining Isle Productions. Chris shares his early love of storytelling and how he chased his dreams through animated children’s stories, including directing shows for the popular children’s animated series VeggieTales.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Stephanie Quayle
Upcoming interview: The Chosen | Jonathan Roumie
Nika King
HBO series Euphoria
Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot
First Lady Donna Martin and Bishop W.S. Martin
www.nikaking.com
Chris Wall
The Wingfeather Saga
VeggieTales
Cray supercomputers
Little House on the Prairie
Raiders of the Lost Ark
The Little Mermaid
Oral Roberts University in Tulsa
Max Lucado
You Are Special
“The Search for Samson’s Hairbrush”
Andrew Peterson
The Chronicles of Narnia
www.shiningisleproductions.com
www.wingfeathersaga.com
Interview Quotes:
“I just realized that God was always directing my life. The Holy Spirit was always guiding me, preparing me for something greater.” - Nika King
“When I am performing, that's what the human experience is. It's allowing oneself to be vulnerable, but also know that that's not a weakness.” - Nika King
“The world is hurting right now. We have to show them that God is still on the throne and He's still moving. No matter what you're going through in life, it's going to get better.” - Nika King
“You have to face the unknown. What's next? Will there be another creative idea ever? Will I ever get to be involved in something like this ever again? And just kind of sitting back and saying, ‘All right, God, you have led this journey. What's next?’” - Chris Wall
“I think that endless discovery, curiosity, is something that I believe God and His Holy Spirit does in us if we're willing to patiently listen. I think when we're patient to listen to His leading, we can go to places that are really beautiful and change the world. And I believe stories can really do that.” - Chris Wall
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from author Marie Chapian, who shares about her practice of quiet prayer, and how we can go to that still, peaceful place in the presence of God to keep the chaos of the world from taking us over.
Guest’s Links
Facebook: @marie.chapian.9
Twitter: @mariechapian
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TikTok
Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
*This episode mentions suicide and may not be suitable for all listeners.*
This week, we’ll hear from BeBe Winans, a celebrated figure in gospel and R&B music from the renowned Winans family, known for their deep-rooted musical legacy. Raised in a household steeped in gospel traditions and surrounded by the influences of Motown, Bebe experienced some of the ups and downs of the music scene as he and his sister, CeCe Winans, ultimately rose to fame as a beloved singing duo.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Tasha Cobbs Leonard, a powerful worship leader, pastor, and entrepreneur. Raised in a faith-filled family, Tasha was encouraged by her father, a pastor, to embrace her gifts. A “divine setup” led to her first album, and she went on to inspire millions with songs like "Break Every Chain," which grew from her own battle with depression.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Gloria Gaynor
Upcoming interview: Nika King
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
BeBe Winans
CeCe Winans
Motown
Mighty Clouds of Joy
Shirley Caesar
Andraé Crouch
Smokey Robinson
Stevie Wonder
Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker
The PTL Club
Bebe and CeCe
Keith Thomas
“Father In Heaven [Right Now]”
Luke 12:48 NIV
Tasha Cobbs Leonard
“Break Every Chain”
Naomi Raine
Luke 14:23 NIV
www.tashacobbsleonard.com
Do It Anyway
Interview Quotes:
“Your gift will make room. What you have to go through is okay. It does work out if you believe and continue to have faith in what God has called you to do.” - BeBe Winans
“I'm amazed at the doors that God opens. I find myself in places that I never dreamed of and working with people I never thought I would.” - BeBe Winans
“There's such a roller coaster of emotions that we are blessed with because of what God has done through us, through music. It really never gets old to hear what our music has done for others.” - BeBe Winans
“We live in a world where we are consumed with, ‘Hey, this is the beginning, and this is the end.’ A lot of people don't really embrace the process in the middle. But I think in the process is when we gain all of the knowledge, all of the wisdom that we need in order to be great stewards of what God entrusted us with.” - Tasha Cobbs Leonard
“I believe it's always intentional on God's part to place people in your life who see things in you that you may not see in that season.” - Tasha Cobbs Leonard
“Though many days I was discouraged and I didn't know what I was doing, I know that God was with me every step of the way.” - Tasha Cobbs Leonard
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Dr. Chris Rappazini—a professor of leadership and former pastor—as he shares a deeply personal story through the lens of grief and recovery. Chris reveals how his father's death propelled his brother into a downward spiral of addiction and estrangement. Yet, amidst the chaos, a narrative of hope and forgiveness emerges, highlighting the profound realization that our past does not define our future.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from author, editor, and speaker Lisa-Jo Baker. She discusses her awakening to the cycle of anger she risked repeating from her father if she continued to live on autopilot. Through her journey of healing and reconciling with her father, Lisa-Jo illustrates how we can all seek reconciliation and live life to the fullest.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Rosie Rivera
Upcoming interview: BeBe Winans
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Dr. Chris Rappazini
Anderson University
www.faithfulstepsforward.com
Moving Forward After Messing Up
Lisa-Jo Baker
Apartheid
Zululand in South Africa
Dr. Christiaan Barnard
www.lisajobaker.com
It Wasn't Roaring, It Was Weeping
Interview Quotes:
“God is in the business of fixing broken relationships, and that's what He's been doing in our relationship for the last several years.” - Dr. Chris Rappazini
“For us to be able to ask forgiveness from those that we've hurt the most, I mean, it's hard to do. And I think the only way you can do it is somehow with the grace of God, with the power and the strength of the Holy Spirit.” - Dr. Chris Rappazini
“If we're going to have a future that God wants for us, we have to keep our eyes moving forward. We have to keep our eyes on what we want that relationship to look like, not what it has looked like in the past.” - Dr. Chris Rappazini
“Oftentimes, the hardest person to get forgiveness from is ourselves. The hardest person to forgive is the person that we see in the mirror every morning, because we feel so guilty and we feel so shameful for what we've done and how we've hurt people.” - Dr. Chris Rappazini
“The beauty of Jesus that I've discovered is that, as we know, God is not limited by time. This is what's so powerful about Him.” - Lisa-Jo Baker
“I needed to stop and pull off onto the side of the road and figure out the story I had inherited, because I was really determined to write a new one.” Lisa-Jo Baker
“I think for family trees to heal, we have to be willing to lay down our defenses. It doesn't happen all at once. It happens slowly over years between generations, because we have a God who is so adamant, passionate about forgiveness, about reconciliation, about redeeming generations, who wrote a new plot line out of an old bloodline.” - Lisa-Jo Baker
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
*This episode mentions violence and may not be suitable for all listeners.*
This week, we’ll hear from Davey Blackburn, founder of Nothing Is Wasted Ministries, who shares his heart-wrenching story of love, loss, and finding life again after profound pain. After planting a new church, Davey faced unimaginable tragedy when his wife, Amanda, and their unborn child were killed in a home invasion. Through his journey, he discovers a path forward—one that blends sorrow with a powerful hope, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, truly, nothing is wasted.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Allyson Golden, an author, speaker, and pediatric nurse. From bringing hope into the difficult moments she faces as a nurse, to reflecting God’s love on social media, Allyson actively seeks to be a light to those who are trying to overcome darkness.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Amy Downs
Upcoming interview: Dr. Chris Rappazini
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Davey Blackburn
Nothing Is Wasted Ministries
Elevation Worship
“Nothing Is Wasted” by Elevation Worship
Romans 8:28 NIV
Romans 12:19-21 NIV
www.nothingiswasted.com
Nothing Is Wasted: A True Story of Hope, Forgiveness, and Finding Purpose in Pain
Other Jesus Calling interviews about coping with grief
Other Jesus Calling interviews about healing
Other Jesus Calling interviews about wrestling with God
Allyson Golden
pediatric nurse
Aloha Church
San Diego Prayer House
www.wordsaregolden.com
Arise and Shine: How to Be the Light That Ignites Hope in a Dark World
Other Jesus Calling interviews about loneliness
Interview Quotes:
“It feels like the bottom had just dropped out and we're going, ‘How in the world, God, is this at all working for good?’” - Davey Blackburn
“God reached into that hospital room in the darkest moment of our lives, and filled it with His presence and whispered to our souls.” - Davey Blackburn
“When we wrestle with God, we begin to realize how big God is, how sovereign God is, and how good God is.” - Davey Blackburn
“It's so hard at times to find the light or have hope. It's really easy to ask the Lord, ‘Where is Your light? You say You're the light of the world, but why am I still seeing all these hard and dark things?’” - Allyson Golden
“As a nurse, prayer plays a huge part in my life. I am praying before and on every shift, asking for strength, asking for grace. It makes me feel connected to the Lord and like I'm not alone.” - Allyson Golden
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from Alyssa Bethke, who’s a mom of three, a blogger, YouTuber, and co-host of the Real Life Podcastwith her husband, Jeff. Alyssa reflects on the overwhelming pressures women face to excel in every area of life, and the need for honesty and grace toward ourselves, others, and God about our struggles.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from author and content creator Chelsea Damon, who takes a closer look at the inner workings of marriage. She offers valuable insights into communication, conflict resolution, and seeking the power of grace for couples, with practical advice to keep their relationships thriving.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Christa Hardin
Upcoming interview: Davey Blackburn
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Alyssa Bethke
Real Life Podcast
Psalms
www.jeffandalyssa.com
When Doing It All Is Undoing You
Chelsea Damon
Living the Sweet Wife
Liberty University
Jesus Calling blog post about prayer in marriage
www.chelseadamon.com
I Thought This Would Make Me Happy
Interview Quotes:
“I came to this place of feeling completely undone. It wasn't that I needed to find the solution or that the outcome was the answer, but it really was meeting God in those moments. How do I bring my real life to Him? How do I really work through those disappointments with God? How do I still have hope in my life that doesn't look the way I want?” - Alyssa Bethke
“I think that as a church, we need to know how to lament, because this is such a part of being human.” - Alyssa Bethke
“First and foremost, we are not what we do. We are children of God, and we have to learn to rest and to be and to know that our value is not based on our performance, but our value is based on that we're image bearers of God.” - Alyssa Bethke
“He has this way of increasing our capacity, increasing time, helping us get the things done that we need to get done. But learning to do it out of a place of rest and peace instead of this anxious, stressful spirit. And we can do that when we invite Him into it.” - Alyssa Bethke
“Eventually, we found ways to manage our disagreements in loving and respectful ways that gave each other the benefit of the doubt. And we couldn't have done that without looking at how much grace we've been given by Jesus Christ and then learning how to mirror that same grace in our lives with each other.” - Chelsea Damon
“I wholeheartedly believe that if you really want to see change in your marriage, you need to be willing to be the first one to step up and make a change.” - Chelsea Damon
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
As we enter the season of Advent and Christmas, we’re bound to be overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle. The list of dishes to prepare, gifts to buy and wrap, cards to send, and parties to attend feels never-ending… which often results in the real reason for the season getting pushed aside. But when we set time aside to properly prepare our hearts to honor the birth of Jesus, the experience of Christmas can take on a whole new meaning—becoming a season of hope, rest, and renewal.
For this special holiday bonus episode, we’re joined by Lanier Ivester, a writer and homemaker who has taken time-honored holiday traditions and shaped and molded them to fit her family—keeping restful intentionality at the center of it all. Lanier shares how to let go of what doesn’t serve your soul, how to embrace the imperfection that makes gathering with our communities more authentic and real, and how to find glimmers of joy when you’re celebrating Christmas with a grieving heart.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Jesus Listens for Advent & Christmas
Jesus Calling for Christmas
Lanier Ivester’s website
Glad & Golden Hours by Lanier Ivester
Lanier Ivester’s Facebook
Lanier Ivester’s Instagram
Lanier Ivester’s Twitter
Interview Quotes
“We can burden ourselves even with wanting to bring intention into the holiday season. But the fact is that very turning of our hearts towards intention is itself intention. And that's honoring to God.” - Lanier Ivester
“In Christ, we can serve and prepare for the holidays and love our people and do all the things from a place of unconditional love. And that is a resting place. We don't have to do it all. We can step in, out of the wind of our culture, and just take refuge under His wings and really ask Him for wisdom.” - Lanier Ivester
“Scientists will tell you that taste and scent really create these pathways in our brain. They are what's known as memory bridges that can connect us to a place and a people and a time really effortlessly. And it's for that reason I've subconsciously carried forward a lot of my favorite meals and recipes from my childhood and brought them into my celebrations to this day with my husband and our friends.” - Lanier Ivester
“It's definitely a combination of anticipation and savoring. We need both, and there's so little room in our culture for either one of those.” - Lanier Ivester
“The reality is, many times the holiday season can be extremely difficult. Whatever we're walking through—whether it's grief, whether it's loss, whether it's deferred hopes or unanswered prayers, or things just not being the way that we want them to be—the holidays really amp that up, because it's easy for expectations of what a happy holiday is supposed to look like to slam up against our reality and make us feel a sense of lack in the light of what seems to be going on in the world around us.” - Lanier Ivester
“Traditions serve our relationships. The traditions that we love are a container for our relationships—they were not the thing. The people are the thing, and the traditions hold the people.” - Lanier Ivester
“We serve a God who is in the details of our lives, and it's very easy to overlook that or think something is not large enough or important enough for His notice. But when we sit down with our plans for our holidays, our plans for our gatherings, and invite Him first before we invite anyone else into this space—asking Him to create a welcoming atmosphere—I think that that brings our holidays into a much more sacred space.” - Lanier Ivester
“Advent makes space for our grief. It gives us freedom to name our sorrows, our longings, our yearnings to the One who will set them right, ultimately. But the flip side of that is if Advent makes space for our grief, Christmas makes space for our joy.” - Lanier Ivester
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
*This episode mentions violence and may be triggering for some listeners.*
This week, we’re joined by Demi-Leigh Tebow, a South African native, former Miss Universe, and wife of NFL superstar Tim Tebow. Demi-Leigh is a passionate advocate for individuals with special needs and disabilities. She discusses how her faith helped her overcome personal challenges, including a life-altering carjacking, and how it now fuels her mission to empower women through her Unbreakable Women’s Workshop.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Kendall Vanderslice, a baker, writer, and teacher, who takes us on a profound dive into the practice of bread making. Kendall shares how she discovered baking as her calling, explores the rich symbolism of food in scripture, and reveals how the kitchen can become a sacred place for encountering God.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Molly Stillman
Upcoming interview: Alyssa Bethke
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Jesus Calling app
Demi-Leigh Tebow
Tim Tebow
Unbreakable Conference
A Crown That Lasts
cerebellar agenesis
The Tim Tebow Foundation
Night to Shine
Miss Universe
human trafficking
1 Corinthians 9:25 NIV
www.demitebow.com
Kendall Vanderslice
Genesis 1 and 2 NIV
Genesis 3 NIV
www.kendallvanderslice.com
Bake & Pray: Liturgies & Recipes for Baking Bread as a Spiritual Practice
Interview Quotes:
“I eventually realized that I had a choice to make. I could choose to question God for the rest of my life, or I could choose to trust Him for the rest of my life. I knew choosing to trust Him also meant making peace with knowing that I was not going to have all of the answers, and that that was going to be okay.” - Demi-Leigh Tebow
“I don't like being interrupted. I don't like being taken off the course of my day. I don't like stopping to help somebody else in need. Right? That's uncomfortable. Well, I think that there can be so much blessing in obedience in those moments where we are willing to be interrupted for the sake of somebody else.” - Demi-Leigh Tebow
“I had to learn that if I truly wanted to have real confidence in my identity, I had to root my confidence in something other than myself. Something that is fixed. Something that is never changing. Something that is always trustworthy and something that is bigger than myself.” - Demi-Leigh Tebow
“My diamond and pearl crown did not last. But do you know what will last? The impact that I get to have with that crown, living out my God-given purpose, maybe using that crown as a vessel.” - Demi-Leigh Tebow
“I am thankful for my plans that have been ruined. I am thankful for the wrenches that have been thrown in my plans. Because His plans have been better and bigger and more perfect for me every single time.” - Demi-Leigh Tebow
“It is such a joy to get to share what I have learned through the process of baking with others so that they can meet God in the kitchen with dough between their fingers.” - Kendall Vanderslice
“The simplicity of baking itself is, I think, a really holy calling.” - Kendall Vanderslice
“We have this picture of death and resurrection all woven into the process of baking bread. I think it is no small matter that Jesus then chose bread as the central element of the communion table.” - Kendall Vanderslice
“We are invited to rest, not as a reward for what we've gotten done, but as a means of delighting in God's creation and being reminded that we were created to take care of and delight in this delicious and beautiful world.” - Kendall Vanderslice
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from country singer/songwriter Paige King Johnson, who first fell in love with music when her grandfather gifted her a guitar when she was just a little girl. Paige shares about her new song, “I Thank God,” a prayer turned into a song that reminds us to be grateful for the gifts God gives us, and how practicing being grateful can change our lives for the better.
Guest’s Links
Facebook: @PaigeKingJohnson
Instagram: @paigekingjohnson
YouTube: @PaigeKingJohnson
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we explore the journeys of two remarkable women who have navigated the complexities of faith, community, and personal struggles. First, we’ll hear from Dr. Sarita Lyons, Director of Discipleship and Women’s Ministry at Epiphany Fellowship Church in Philadelphia. Sarita shares her deep love for Scripture, and how that juxtaposed with her personal, challenging experiences in a church setting. She attempts to shed light on the complexities of church relationships and the importance of healing and restoration within the faith community.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Lisa Victoria Fields, founder and president of the Jude 3 Project. Lisa went from an aspiring Wall Street financier to a passionate Christian apologist. She discusses the significance of wrestling with faith and how her work equips others to explore and affirm their own convictions.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Erwin McManus
Upcoming interview: Demi-Leigh Tebow
Dr. Sarita Lyons
Epiphany Fellowship Church
Pastor Mark Lyons
Pastor Eric Mason
www.saritalyons.com
Church Girl: A Gospel Vision to Encourage and Challenge Black Christian Women
Other Jesus Calling interviews about church hurt
Other Jesus Calling interviews about prayer
Lisa Victoria Fields
Jude 3 Project
John 6:67-69 NIV
When Faith Disappoints: The Gap Between What We Believe And What We Experience
Other Jesus Calling interviews about wrestling with questions
Interview Quotes:
“Before we decide to quickly leave [the church], I would say try to find a way to make connections with leaders to share what your experience was, to see if there's a path created for restoration. Give the house a chance to do the right thing before presuming and assuming that they would not.” - Dr. Sarita Lyons
“Defining clearly what the situation is and getting help from the community and not isolating are really, really key in trying to make good choices and discern what to do next.” - Dr. Sarita Lyons
“God is so good and He's so big that He can handle all of those different seasons of life that we are in as we are healing and working through church hurt. Sometimes the healing that we are looking for is literally one prayer away.” - Dr. Sarita Lyons
“I think you need a space to wrestle with God so He can be the one to give you the answer to the questions you're facing.” - Lisa Victoria Fields
“A faith that cannot be tested cannot be trusted.” - Lisa Victoria Fields
“Part of our healing comes from communicating our frustrations and our doubts and our pains to others, and then taking those in prayer to God.” - Lisa Victoria Fields
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Today, we are thrilled to be joined by Nicholas Sparks, a renowned author whose novels like The Notebook and A Walk to Remember have touched hearts around the world. While many know him for his captivating love stories, few realize that Nicholas’ journey to writing was born out of personal setbacks and unexpected moments of faith. He’ll let us in on his latest book, Counting Miracles, a powerfully emotional novel about wondering if we can change—or even make our peace with—the path we've taken.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Mattie Jackson Smith—author, speaker, and daughter of country music legend Alan Jackson—as she shares about the process of grieving her husband, Ben, and the identity loss that came with it. As Mattie struggled to trust God in the face of unimaginable suffering, she watched as God turned her life story around in a way she never could have imagined.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Willie Robertson
Upcoming interview: Dr. Sarita Lyons
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Jesus Calling app - Premium subscriptions 20% off for a limited time!
Nicholas Sparks
The Notebook
A Walk to Remember
Counting Miracles
Notre Dame
Book of Job
www.nicholassparks.com
Other Jesus Calling interviews about forgiveness
Mattie Jackson Smith
Alan Jackson
Mattie’s first interview on the Jesus Calling Podcast
John 11:35 NIV
www.mattiejackson.net
Through the Valley of Grief
Other Jesus Calling interviews about making peace with our circumstances
Interview Quotes:
“I’ve learned a couple of things about myself [while becoming a writer]. Number one, that I had it in me to finish a story once I started, and number two, there were parts of telling a story that I really enjoyed.” - Nicholas Sparks
“It's the nature of life for challenges to happen. And I think in the end, what is most important to God is that we choose to still believe.” - Nicholas Sparks
“All of a sudden a widow at twenty-eight, it upends everything about your life. The loss and grief of him and our love, but also our future and everything else we had planned for. There is this devastating emptiness of that person not being in your life. But there is also this emptiness in this really painful and unwanted shift of our identity in relation to that person.” - Mattie Jackson Smith
“God didn't design us to hold the weight of death on our own.” - Mattie Jackson Smith
“He is always faithful not to fix our circumstances, but to meet us in them over and over and over again.” - Mattie Jackson Smith
“What's the balance of really asking God for what I want and surrendering it to Him? He keeps writing our stories into more joy and into more beauty and into a more abundant life.” - Mattie Jackson Smith
“You think back to being a kid and If you're afraid of the dark, it's still dark. But when your parents hold you tightly, what's around you doesn't change, but you feel secure. And I think that's the way that I experience the peace of God. And I think that's one of the most miraculous things that we experience as believers.” - Mattie Jackson Smith
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This content may be triggering for some listeners.
This week we talk with Scotty Hasting, a combat wounded Army infantryman turned national recording artist. Scotty’s journey from the battlefield to the stage is nothing short of remarkable. After surviving a harrowing attack in Afghanistan, where he was shot multiple times, Scotty fought to recover physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Through his battles with PTSD and depression, he found healing in music—an outlet that not only brought him peace, but gave him a new lease on life.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Dave Gibbons, a globally connected advisor, author, and senior pastor at New Song Church in California. With a life shaped by diverse cultures and a deep understanding of human struggles, he opens up about his early experiences with faith, the hidden wounds from his past, and his journey through betrayal, forgiveness, and mental health breakthroughs—revealing how forgiveness has the power to heal even the deepest wounds.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Nona Jones
Upcoming interview: Nicholas Sparks
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Scotty Hasting
Black River Entertainment
PTSD
U.S. Paralympic program
“How Do You Choose” by Scotty Hasting
80th anniversary of D-Day in Normandy, France
Dennis Bolt
www.scottyhasting.com
Other Jesus Calling interviews with veterans
Dave Gibbons
www.davegibbons.org
The Shape of My Eyes: A Memoir of Race, Faith, and Finding Myself,
Other Jesus Calling interviews about betrayal and forgiveness
Interview Quotes:
“After going through everything that I've gone through, it truly made me understand that life is precious, that every moment is precious, and that you need to live every second to the fullest. Because as I have seen, life can change very quickly.” - Scotty Hasting
“When it's quiet is when the demons knock the loudest. And for the longest time, I wanted nothing to do with going to church and with God.” - Scotty Hasting
“As someone who suffers from PTSD, depression, and anxiety, it's hard to find a moment to be lost in, because it's hard to not be over there. It's hard to not be back in Afghanistan all the time.“ - Scotty Hasting
“PTSD and depression and anxiety will always be there.My relationship with God makes it a little bit more manageable.” - Scotty Hasting
“It makes me incredibly proud to be able to say that I served my country, that I was a part of something bigger than myself. I'm a part of a brotherhood that will never waver, a brotherhood that will always be there for each other no matter what.” - Scotty Hasting
“Suffering can actually be part of a way to go deeper into your humanity.” - Dave Gibbons
“When you realize how much you've been loved and forgiven, it helps you to love others.” - Dave Gibbons
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
Country music has a rich tradition, inspired by gospel music—sharing a common core of storytelling, emotional expression, and a love of faith and family. Some of today’s brightest country stars embrace those roots, and sing their faith to the thousands of listeners who come to their shows and buy their music. Today, we have a special bonus episode featuring some of those artists, all who have contributed to a brand new collection of music from Jesus Calling, called “Songs for Sundays.”
Links to Full Episodes
Anne Wilson
Jordan Davis
Mattie Jackson Smith
Reba McEntire
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
*This episode mentions suicide and depression and may not be suitable for all listeners.*
Our first guest is Sabrina Greenlee—the mother of NFL star DeAndre Hopkins, a grandmother, and a survivor—whose faith was the lifeline that broke the cycle of violence that followed her throughout her life.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from professional IndyCar driver Sting Ray Robb, who shares how his childhood passion evolved into a lifelong career, and how his faith has guided him through life’s most uncertain times, both on and off the track.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Mary Marantz
Upcoming interview: Scotty Hasting
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Sabrina Greenlee
DeAndre Hopkins
Other Jesus Calling guests talking about domestic violence disputes
Augusta Burn Center
Philippians 4:13 NIV
www.sabrinagreenlee.co
Grant Me Vision
Sting Ray Robb
NTT IndyCar series
Skip Barber series
James 1 NIV
Ecclesiastes 4 NIV
Proverbs 16:9 NIV
Other Jesus Calling guests talking about achieving their dreams
www.stingrayrobb.com
Interview Quotes:
“I began to start repairing my life. What that looked like, I had no idea. I just knew that I couldn't allow my children to be captivated by the streets or people. I made up my mind that what happened to me, I didn't want them to use as an excuse for them not succeeding in life.” - Sabrina Greenlee
“There were so many different things that happened to me, and each time I got up. No matter what happened, I stood for myself. I stood in my truth.” - Sabrina Greenlee
“Once I found the presence of God and He met me where I was, everything turned around. But you first have to surrender and give God your life. In the end, He'll give you the glory for your story.” - Sabrina Greenlee
“It kind of seems that how I was challenged in the racing world, I was also challenged in my faith. I said a long time ago that I would not be a racer if it wasn't for my faith. It's my foundation that I lean on, and it's the thing that I call to and find purpose in.” - Sting Ray Robb
“I had the realization and clarity and peace that came from knowing that [the race] wasn't in my control. I could trust God's sovereignty.” - Sting Ray Robb
“I'm doing my best with racing to glorify Him and use this as a platform to reach others and provide some form of excellence that people can see a reflection of God through.” - Sting Ray Robb
“God has called us in a direction, and it's our job to hitch ourselves to that direction and go with what He's telling us to do.” - Sting Ray Robb
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this episode of Jesus Listens, we hear from Dr. Jim Burns, the president of HomeWord and a renowned author and speaker. Dr. Burns shares his passion for empowering families to succeed by helping parents and children navigate the challenges of today's culture.
Guest’s LinksFacebook: @jim.burns
Instagram: @drjimburns
Twitter: @drjimburns
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
*This episode contains mature content and may not be suitable for all listeners.***
This week, we’re joined by Sherry Hoppen—author, speaker, recovery coach, and founder of She Surrenders. Sherry recounts her family history of alcohol abuse, and how she herself descended into a secret addiction to alcohol, all the while trying to paint the perfect picture of her life as a wife, a mom, and a Christian.
Later, we’ll hear from author and advocate Tanya Glessner, who also struggled with addiction's grip, one fueled by the trauma and violence she experienced in her childhood. Spiraling into a life filled with drugs and crime, Tanya eventually went to prison, where unexpectedly, she had a personal and spiritual awakening.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Ryan Sheckler
Upcoming interview: Sabrina Greenlee
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Sherry Hoppen
She Surrenders
addiction to alcohol
addiction grows in the dark
Ride 4 Life
“Revelation” by Third Day
Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
www.shesurrenders.com
www.selahhouserecovery.org
Sober Cycle: Pedaling Through Recovery One Day At A Time
Tanya Glessner
Fort Scott Compassionate Ministries
The Light You Bring
Interview Quotes:
“From the outside, yeah, it all looks pretty good. I wore the mask of everything: Christian, mom in the community, my husband was an elder. There was no place for me to stand up and say, ‘I'm an alcoholic and I need help.’” - Sherry Hoppen
“I knew that [alcohol] had the power to take away everything I love, every single thing. So I raised one hand in the air to God and with the other unscrewed the bottle over the sink. And I said, ‘God, take it. I surrender my life and I give it to you. I'm yours. I'll do whatever you want.’ And I poured it down the sink.” - Sherry Hoppen
“The grace that God showed me each and every day, even while I was drinking, was the only thing that rescued me from complete self-destruction and saved my life.” - Sherry Hoppen
“I'll always cherish the memories of how God started to mend my brokenness.” - Tanya Glessner
“I am living proof that no one is too far gone to be saved. God never wastes a hurt. He is using my past to write others' futures.” - Tanya Glessner
“Prayer is like picking up the phone and calling the one person you know you can count on in any situation, no matter what time it is.” - Tanya Glessner
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
*This episode mentions violence and may not be suitable for all listeners.*
This week, we’re joined by two remarkable guests: former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and evangelist Preston Perry. Both have navigated complex challenges, from political arenas to personal struggles, all while remaining deeply committed to their faith in God.
Scott Morrison reflects on his time as Prime Minister of Australia, leading through natural disasters, global crises, and the balancing act of being a husband and father. He offers a candid glimpse into how his relationship with God sustained him during his years in public service.
Later, we’ll hear from Preston Perry, a poet, author, teacher, apologist, and evangelist from the South Side of Chicago. Growing up in challenging circumstances, Preston’s life took a transformative turn through a series of encounters with mentors and personal tragedies, guiding him to discover God’s purpose and use his gifts to reach others through his powerful words.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Terence Lester
Upcoming interview: Sherry Hoppen
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Scott Morrison
Jesus Calling App
Plans For Your Good
Preston Perry
With The Perrys
1 Peter 3:15 NIV
Moody College in Chicago
www.preston-perry.com
How To Tell The Truth: The Story of How God Saved Me To Win Hearts, Not Just Arguments
Interview Quotes:
“In our home, it was not about what you accumulated as what you contributed.” - Scott Morrison
“I don't know how people do politics and don't have faith. Frankly, I don't know how they survive it. You've got to be able to know what you're about and what you're trying to achieve. And that can't be about you.” - Scott Morrison
“I really drew on my faith to give me that strength, to give me that endurance, to give me that resilience, to give me the hope and the optimism that I so often needed. And it was a refuge. It was a storehouse.” - Scott Morrison
“By all means, stand up for the principles of God, and then the Word of God and what His eternal standards are. Hold fast to those things. Let's not forget what the goal is. The goal is to honor Him and glorify Him.” - Scott Morrison
“You are, as a human being, created by His hand, in His image, for His glory. That means you're special. He had His designs for you before you were even born. And when you ground your identity in that, then the storms come and you can weather them.” - Scott Morrison
“I think what my grandmother's words showed me was that this God that she served was real and tangible. It wasn't just behavior modification. It wasn't just duties. It wasn't just standing outside, passing out your literature. This real God was able to come and give her strength and joy and comfort her in her time of need.” - Preston Perry
“Jesus came for souls. He didn't come to look smart or intelligent or to look like He knew better than the next man, or just win arguments. He wanted to win people. And so if the information we know is what we find our identity in and not the God that we know, we'll always treat people like projects and not image bearers.“ - Preston Perry
“I've learned in evangelism to ask good questions. Because when you ask good questions, people teach you how to serve them.” - Preston Perry
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we explore how two individuals answered the call to serve those in need, and how their actions have sparked movements of care and compassion that are changing lives one small step at a time.
We’ll hear from Adrien Lewis, a devoted husband, father, and founder of CarePortal, an innovative platform that connects churches and communities to families in need. Adrien shares how a mission trip to Haiti transformed his life, shifting his perspective and leading him to put his faith into action.
Later in the episode, we'll hear from Cara Finger, a foster and adoptive mom who—after witnessing children in foster care carry their belongings in trash bags—felt compelled to create My Bag My Story. This ministry provides quality bags for these children, giving them dignity and a sense of belonging during their most challenging transitions.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:Evan Dougoud
Upcoming interview: Scott Morrison
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Adrien Lewis
CarePortal
Global Orphan Project
Matthew 25:40 NIV
Cara Finger
My Bag My Story
Interview Quotes:
“I think God just gave us a bigger vision for our lives, a bigger purpose than we had before. We started to think about ourselves and what we could be part of to change the world, and how much that mattered to us, how much we wanted that, and how much we knew that Jesus wanted that for us.” - Adrien Lewis
“Everybody has a chance at transformation. And connection is the thing that changes everything.” - Adrien Lewis
“When we became foster parents, every child that came to us came through our door carrying their belongings. We were handed either a grocery sack, a trash bag, or nothing carrying the children's belongings, and it kept bothering me.” - Cara Finger
“Having a bag to carry your stuff in, to carry your belongings in is so important. It is very, very important for kids. If you are made to leave your home in the middle of the day or in the middle of the night, how some of these kids do, it's one simple thing that can make a child feel valued and seen.” - Cara Finger
“Even though a bag seems really small, it makes a huge difference in a child's dignity and their organization and feeling like they have something to call their own, to carry their belongings in.” - Cara Finger
“It is very important to give our life away somehow. We were not meant to not live in community. Everybody needs everybody.” - Cara Finger
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
This week, we’ll hear from two influential voices in the Christian community, Joe Dobbins and Aimee Byrd. Joe Dobbins, pastor of Twin Rivers Church in St. Louis, Missouri, and author of Hope After Church Hurt, shares he and his wife's painful experiences with their church and the healing process that followed. His insights provide a roadmap for those struggling with similar wounds, offering steps toward restoring faith and re-engaging with the church. Following Joe's story, our next guest is speaker, blogger, and podcaster Aimee Byrd. Aimee opens up about her lifelong journey of searching for belonging in the church, and how she learned through trials and painful hurts that God wants us to ask questions, and even though we might be scarred by those who twist truths to facilitate how they think we should live, we can find our way back to God and what He says about how we were meant to live.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Levi Lusko
Upcoming interview: Adrien Lewis
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Joe Dobbins
Twin Rivers Church
Luke 6:28 NIV
Romans 8:29 NIV
Psalm 103:13 and 14 NIV
Hope After Church Hurt
Aimee Byrd
Recovering from Biblical Manhood and Womanhood
John 12:24 NIV
www.aimeebyrd.com
The Hope In Our Scars
Interview Quotes:
“The season that followed that painful experience was one where we physically attended church, but we withheld our hearts, and the rejection we felt caused us to lose confidence in leaders. It created a distrust for people, and it did cause us to question our place in the community…God is omnipresent, meaning He's everywhere that we are at all times. But just because you are in His presence doesn't mean you have entered His presence. To enter God's presence, meaning to receive Him, your heart has to be open. And pain had caused my heart to close.” - Joe Dobbins
“Healing begins by knocking your feelings off the throne of your heart and allowing Jesus to retake His proper place.” - Joe Dobbins
“Forgiveness is never a one-time event. It's a daily exercise, that every time you remember how they hurt you, you're going to have to decide to release it and forgive it again. And eventually what happens is that practice causes the decision in your head to move into the feelings in your heart. And if you'll do it enough, you'll eventually find the pain you've been carrying from rejection is replaced with God's peace.” - Joe Dobbins
“Jesus said, ‘Follow me,’ not follow my followers. And I believe that a lot of church hurt is wrapped up when our expectations are not met from a person we esteem, or see that they should be further along in their journey.” - Joe Dobbins
“I think it's interesting today how Christians are really known more for the points they want to make. But yet Jesus was known for asking questions…the church would do well today to remember listening is loving, because often we too quickly jump to trying to tell people what they need to do before we understand the pain they've been through.” - Joe Dobbins
“I still had this vigor to learn more about God and who He was. And I started learning like, Oh, there's a word for that. It's called theology, just the study of who God is. And that fascinated me.” - Aimee Byrd
“I was traveling all over the place, meeting so many different women in the church, and realizing that there are many like me who are struggling as thinking women in the church who want to be more engaged theologically, who want to get into deeper Bible study, to be able to be invested in the whole heart of the church.” - Aimee Byrd
“There were so many things I needed to die to myself in this process of disillusionment and healing. But you look to the left and you look to the right and you realize there's a whole crowded underground of people doing the same thing, and that's what church should be.” - Aimee Byrd
“God wants us to come with our questions.” - Aimee Byrd
“We're here to tell our stories, to hold one another's stories. And as we look at our wounds and the scars as they're healing, they bear testimony to where we've been, what we're going through, where Christ has met us.” - Aimee Byrd
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Sometimes life hands us a situation, or an experience, that we never expected. Maybe it’s something exciting, like a new relationship or adventure, but sometimes it can be full of sorrow, too, like the loss of a job we loved or an unexpected illness that derails everything. But it’s in those moments that we find out who we are, and what God has made us capable of, giving us an opportunity to really show up for others.
This week, we sit down with Josh Baldwin, a worship leader, songwriter, and artist with over two decades of experience. Josh opens up about walking through a challenging season of mental health in his family, and how he turned to music for comfort and direction from the Lord, which he now uses to bring comfort and peace to his listeners.
Later, we’ll hear from Diane Chew, known as Dementia Coach Diane, a life coach and caregiver for her husband, Ben, who has Lewy Body Dementia. Diane shares practical tips for dementia care and emphasizes self-care for caregivers, drawing from her experiences of over fifty years with Ben and the challenges of his cognitive decline. She finds solace and community through social media and discusses the crucial role of faith in navigating these challenges.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Jennie Finch
Upcoming interview: Joe Dobbins
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Josh Baldwin
“History Maker” by Delirious?
www.joshbaldwin.com
Diane Chew
Dementia Coach Diane
Lewy Body Dementia
Matthew 6:25 NIV
Philippians 4:6-7 NIV
Emotional Freedom Technique
www.dementiacoachdiane.com
Song permission: Prince of Peace
Josh Baldwin, Hank Bentley, Ben Fielding
© 2023 Bethel Music Publishing (ASCAP) / Glory Ghost Publishing (ASCAP)
(admin by Bethel Music Publishing). All Rights Reserved. Used by
Permission.
Interview Quotes:
“Wherever He's given permission to reign in my life, then the peace just automatically is there because the peace follows Him.” - Josh Baldwin
“I feel like it's hard for me to be anxious about things and grateful to the Lord for all He’s done at the same time.” - Josh Baldwin
“I felt like all I could do was kind of react to one mini crisis after another. I was just responding and reacting to what felt like a constant emergency.” - Diane Chew
“I needed somehow to process everything that was happening every day. I wanted to find the blessings, but I was often trapped in my own head, and I was isolated and alone and scared and I didn't know what to do.” - Diane Chew
“We have three choices in life when we face circumstances that we didn't expect. We can change them, we can accept them, or we can suffer.” - Diane Chew
“It takes constant practice to look for the blessings, and to stay connected to something bigger than my thoughts and feelings.” - Diane Chew
“It takes stubbornness, I think, to not go down with the ship. I am not going to give up my life. Ben wouldn't want me to do that.” - Diane Chew
“The Holy Spirit will give us the wisdom to know what I just need to let go of, and what I can act on, and to give me that strength and faith to act when I can and let go when I can't.” - Diane Chew
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this episode of Jesus Listens, we hear from Petrina Pacheco, a singer-songwriter from Biloxi, Mississippi. She reveals a season of her life when she was in an abusive relationship and how she found freedom and healing from that situation. Today, Petrina has transformed her struggles into a source of hope for others facing abuse; creating healing music and sharing at outreach ministries.
Guest’s Links Facebook: @PetrinaPachecoMusic
Instagram: @PetrinaPacheco
Twitter: @petrina_pacheco
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
This episode mentions suicide and depression and may not be suitable for all listeners.
In an era where the pressures of modern life can feel overwhelming, two remarkable stories offer a unique perspective in our increasingly digital world.
Our first guest, mental health counselor and advocate Faith Broussard Cade, embarked on a path to self-discovery following a traumatic brain injury. Diagnosed with post-concussive syndrome after a severe car accident, her journey underscored the critical importance of self-care and the necessity of prioritizing mental well-being in today’s fast-paced world.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Hannah Brencher—an author and educator—who delves into the impact of constant digital connectivity on mental health and personal well-being, drawing from her own experiences. Hannah shares her journey toward unplugging, which began as a personal revelation on her birthday and led her to set a goal of 1,000 hours of disconnection over the course of a year.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Dusty & Erin Loechner
Upcoming interview: Josh Baldwin
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Faith Broussard Cade
post-concussive syndrome
Baby-Sitters Club
Hardy Boys
The Boxcar Children
Dr. Seuss
University of the South
www.fleurdelisspeaks.com
Shine Bright Anyway
Hannah Brencher
The Unplugged Hours
www.jesuscalling.com/blog
Interview Quotes:
“I had a decision to make. Do I keep up the facade that I've always kept of being the superwoman who can always do everything and be everything to everyone? Or do I give up that facade for the hope of being able to have a future?” - Faith Broussard Cade
“What was supposed to be fifteen days of me kind of jump-starting my own healing journey has now turned into six and a half years of writing notes and encouraging this community collective healing journey for a lot of other people, not just myself.” - Faith Broussard Cade
“I found my hero. She's been inside of me the entire time, and I am so proud of who she has become.” - Faith Boussard Cade
“Just because it's not a good fit for someone else doesn't negate the goodness–the innate goodness–of who I am and who I try to be, and how I try to show up for others.” - Faith Boussard Cade
“What I really wanted to do in that unplugged year was just be present to it for myself, for that part of myself that was exhausted, for that part of myself that needed to get back these vital parts of herself.” - Hannah Brencher
“What would it really look like to check in with myself, and what would it really look like to take care of myself at the end of a long day?” - Hannah Brencher
“I can actually experience peace just by taking these little ordinary moments throughout my day and seeing them as an opportunity to meet with God and hear from God.” - Hannah Brencher
“He's a God of peace. He's a God of goodness. He's a God that wants good for your life, and He's a God that just wants you to be near. Not for any other motive, but the fact that He loves you and He wants to be with you, and He wants to show you daily life through a lens that maybe you haven't looked through before.” - Hannah Brencher
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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This episode mentions violence and may be triggering for some listeners.
This week, we talk with Matt Forté, a former NFL running back who played ten years with the Chicago Bears and the New York Jets. Beyond his impressive career on the field, Matt has transitioned into roles as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and ministry worker. Matt shares his inspiring story, from his early days in football to his work in gun violence prevention and support for at-risk families.
Later in the episode, we’ll also be joined by comedian Jonnie W., who shares why he believes in the value of laughter. Known for his unique blend of stand-up comedy and music, Jonnie’s approach to comedy is not just about making people laugh, but also about bringing light and positivity into the world.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Bethany Hamilton
Upcoming interview: Hannah Brencher
Jesus Calling commemorative edition
Matt Forté
Hurricane Katrina
Tulane University
What's Your Forté Foundation
Tuskegee Next
My Hair Can
Jonnie W.
Carol Burnett Show
Tim Hawkins
Anita Renfroe
Michael Jr.
Mother Teresa
www.jonniew.com
Talk About That
Interview Quotes:
“I just knew I had a calling on my life to be an athlete.” - Matt Forté
“Every day, marching up eight flights to get books and to go to practice and get back home, all of that really taught me never to complain about the luxuries that you get in life that we often overlook or take for granted. It taught me a lot.” - Matt Forté
“Put in a lot of hard work, but also have faith in yourself and really have faith in God that He is a good God, that He has good plans for you as well.” - Matt Forté
“Had it not been for Jesus coming down and dying for our sins and living a sinless life and paying the debt for what we've accumulated, there would be no hope. And in return, we have to reflect the hope that He's given us.” - Matt Forté
“I think there's something formative about that that kind of clicks in a comedian's brain, that extra little bump of attention that you get from someone laughing or you kind of push someone's buttons in a way. There's something about that that is pretty remarkable.” - Jonnie W.
“I like to think about the people that are coming to my shows and what private pain they might have, what they might need release from. My comedy comes from a place of faith. I feel like it's such a gift that I discovered that I could do this and that God's opened doors for me to go do it, so I never take it for granted.” - Jonnie W.
“I think you're missing out on something that God wired inside of you if you're not laughing.” - Jonnie W.
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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This episode contains content that may be triggering for some listeners.
Our guests this week went through circumstances that could potentially cause someone to want to give up. But instead of descending into panic, or utter hopelessness, they re-centered their focus on their faith, and trusted God that He would provide a way forward.
Blind speaker Michael Hingson faced the unimaginable as a survivor of 9/11, escaping from tower one with the help of his guide dog, Roselle, and the spirit of calm he inhabited became a beacon for others in the middle of the panic and chaos. Singer Eve Selis openly shares about the tragic and devastating loss of her brother Pete, and what her journey of healing looked like. By journaling and praying her way through the darkness, Eve became her most vulnerable self, which resonated with others and helped her find a renewed sense of hope when she’d been hopeless for so long.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Luke Pell
Upcoming interview: Matt Forté
Not That Fancy by Reba McEntire
Michael Hingson
World Trade Center
www.michaelhingson.com
Live Like A Guide Dog
Eve Selis
Dark Sky Blue
“Somebody's Brother”
www.eveselis.com
Call 988 for the suicide and crisis lifeline
Interview Quotes:
“I knew that if Roselle wasn't feeling fear, whatever was going on wasn't such an imminent threat to us that we couldn't try to evacuate in an orderly way, because dogs have a very greatly heightened sense of those kinds of things.” - Michael Hingson
“When we started to run, I remember the first thought I had was, God, I can't believe you got us out of a building just to have it fall on us. And when I thought that, I immediately heard in my mind a voice that said—as clearly as you're hearing me now—‘Don't worry about what you can't control. Focus on running with Roselle and the rest will take care of itself.’ I felt this absolute calm and certainty that if we worked together, Roselle and I would be fine.” - Michael Hingson
“There are a lot of things that happen to us that we don't necessarily have any control over. But what we absolutely and totally have control over is how we deal with it and how we react to it.” - Michael Hingson
“We need to learn how to listen to God, and we need to recognize that all the answers that we need are always available to us if we only really look for them.” - Michael Hingson
“When something tragic happens, you are in shock. And your trauma… you can't breathe. You go into hiding. There's so much shame involved. And there's literally nobody to talk to.” - Eve Selis
“If I did not believe in God and have my faith, I would not be here right now. It was the only thing that got me through.” - Eve Selis
“It's a spiritual job to be a musician, and music connects us to something bigger than us, and I believe that it's the closest thing to the divine that we have.” - Eve Selis
“I can tell you that there is nothing more powerful that you can do for somebody who is hurting than to pray for them or send them a positive thought or text them, ‘I love you.’ That's a prayer.” - Eve Selis
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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This week, we explore stories of service from two guests who have made it their life’s work to help others.
Dr. Ming Wang is a renowned, cutting-edge laser eye surgeon who grew up with a dad in medicine, so it was ingrained in him from an early age to help people. Dr. Wang shares his incredible life experiences—including how he narrowly escaped a life of hard labor while living in China—how his atheist worldview was shaken while in medical school, and how he now helps people living in darkness see light for the first time.
Raeanne Newquist works in marketing for Mercy Ships, an international charity which consists of two state-of-the-art hospital ships that bring hope and healing to the people of Africa who lack access to safe and reliable healthcare. Raeanne shares the transformations she’s seen in patients not only physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Andy Dooley
Upcoming interview: Michael Hingson
Not That Fancy
Dr. Ming Wang
Wang Vision Institute
Hangzhou
Cultural Revolution
University of Science and Technology of China
Harvard Medical School
www.angel.com/sight
Raeanne Newquist
Mercy Ships
Don and Deyon Stephens
The Africa Mercy
The Global Mercy
cataract surgery
cleft lip and palate surgery
fistula
www.mercyships.org
Interview Quotes:
“In 1982, with $50 borrowed from a visiting American professor, with a Chinese English dictionary, I came to America, even though I did not know the language, and even though I did not know anyone, even though I was very poor. But I was happy because I was free.” - Dr. Ming Wang
“From a very young age, I was imprinted [with] the attitude of working hard, studying hard for knowledge, and also the heart to help others.” - Dr. Ming Wang
“I realize that science is still important and necessary, but not sufficient. I realize there's science giving me the tools. But a faith in Christ gives me a purpose for what I'm going to use the tools for.” - Dr. Ming Wang
“[Mercy Ships] is really an extraordinary community to be a part of because our crew come from all over the world. At any given time, there's over fifty nations represented on board our vessels. So it is this multicultural, Jesus-loving community that all come together with one purpose, and that is to bring hope and healing to the world's forgotten poor.” - Raeanne Newquist
“I think the healing oftentimes comes through the surgery, but it also comes through the emotional healing that these people who've been outcasts receive when we look them in the eye and we hug them and touch them and tell them they're valuable and they're worthy.” - Raeanne Newquist
_______________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this episode of Jesus Listens, we hear from Daniel Maritz, a Youtuber and author, who shares how aspects of his life mirror the story of the prodigal son. He opens up about the pivotal moment when the pain of loss brought him to his knees, and how he found his way back through prayer.
Guest’s Links Daniel Maritz’s Facebook: @MaritzDaniel
Daniel Maritz’s Instagram: @Daniel_Maritz
Daniel Maritz’s YouTube: @DLMChristianLifestyle
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
This week, we talk with multi-talented actor Tahj Mowry. Known for his roles in beloved TV shows like Smart Guy, Full House, and Disney's Kim Possible, Tahj shares his journey from a child actor to an adult in the industry, how he stays grounded in a sometimes chaotic environment, and the joy and gratitude he taps into through his faith.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Melvin Crispell III, a remarkable gospel recording artist who grew up immersed in the church and followed in the footsteps of his talented gospel music singing parents. He opens up about losing his mom and dad, how prayer became his solace and strength, and how he continues to honor his parents' legacy and spread joy to others through music.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Kathie Lee Gifford
Upcoming interview: Dr. Ming Wang
Not That Fancy
Tahj Mowry
Smart Guy
Full House
Kim Possible
Tia Mowry
Tamera Mowry-Housley
Who's the Boss?
Debbie Allen
Out All Night
Patti LaBelle
Are We Done Yet?
Baby Daddy
Muppets Mayhem
Mark Wahlberg
Kevin Hart
Melvin Crispell III
diabetic neuropathy
CeCe Winans
“He's Never Failed Me Yet” by CeCe Winans
“He's Never Failed Me Yet” by Melvin Crispell III
Covered Vol. 1
Interview Quotes:
“Acting has always been that comfort for me and that is the true passion for me that I don't think I'll ever get away from or stop. And I'm thankful that I still love it to this day and that I'm able to continue to do what I love to do.” - Tahj Mowry
“That's one of the reasons why I do what I do, to make people smile, to make people feel, to make people see themselves in me. And that's beautiful. That's one of the most beautiful parts of my job.” - Tahj Mowry
“We're called to die every day to our flesh, to ourselves, and to surrender to Christ daily, to take up our crosses daily. It's not just like a one time thing. It's a choice that we should make every day.” - Tahj Mowry
“I think an attitude of gratitude, a heart of thankfulness, is where worship begins. If we stay thankful, we're never ungrateful.” - Tahj Mowry
“God didn't fail me. He literally answered my prayer and He placed so many people around me to make sure I was good, to make sure that I stayed on my feet, to make sure I didn't go without. That's just one example of God's goodness.” - Melvin Crispell III
“People are listening to music and it is really changing lives. And I'm grateful that God saw fit to use me because I'm nowhere near perfect. I really have such a long way to go in my walk, in my journey. But I'm grateful. And I'm honored that God decides to use me in the way He does.” - Melvin Crispell III
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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This week, we have the privilege of hearing from Dr. Alan Weissenbacher, the managing editor of the journal Theology and Science and a teaching pastor in Berkeley, California. Deriving from his work with those who struggle with addiction, he illustrates how we can harness the power of neuroscience to change our habits, emphasizing the importance of replacing negative thoughts with positive ones, and how our focus can reshape our brain's pathways, which includes the disciplines of prayer and studying Scripture.
Later in the episode, we'll hear from Carolyn Weber, an acclaimed author, speaker, and professor who experienced a profound spiritual awakening during her time at Oxford University. Initially an agnostic, Carolyn's encounters with diverse Christian communities and her thorough reading of the Bible led her to embrace Christianity. Her memoir and its subsequent film adaptation chronicle her journey from skepticism to faith.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Tom Rudelius
Upcoming interview: Tahj Mowry
Not That Fancy
Dr. Alan Weissenbacher
Theology and Science
Denver Rescue Mission
www.brainchangeprogram.com
The Brain Change Program
Carolyn Weber
Oxford University
The Wizard of Oz
Genesis
Michael W. Smith
www.carolynweber.com
Surprised by Oxford
Interview Quotes:
“If I didn't have those years at the Denver Rescue Mission, I wouldn't have been inspired to research the brain and how God designed that brain to learn and grow. And then by knowing that, how I could improve rehabilitation programs and help people improve their spiritual lives in the church as a whole.” - Dr. Alan Weissenbacher
“Replacing unhealthy thoughts with healthy ones impacts the brain's structure and function. Replace the problem thoughts with good ones, turning yourself in that direction.” - Dr. Alan Weissenbacher
“Don't pray to the problem. Pray to get the solution.” - Dr. Alan Weissenbacher
“In a way, I didn't realize how much that template of my earthly father influenced any concept of a heavenly one.” - Carolyn Weber
“I think that those earlier life experiences in which I had felt very cherished and loved—but that the rug had been pulled out from under me—shaped my earlier initial views of faith in that it was very difficult to trust anyone but myself. I think sometimes we don't want to admit the things that hurt the most.” - Carolyn Weber
“I began to realize that faith and intellect are not opposites. They're not incompatible.” - Carolyn Weber
“Our souls are restless, our hearts are restless, until they find their home in God, and I identified with that longing.” - Carolyn Weber
“His love for us, it just endures. And that's still incredibly mind-blowing and soul-filling.” - Carolyn Weber
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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This week, we are delighted to have Sarah Kroger, a talented singer/songwriter and worship leader from Nashville, Tennessee. Sarah shares the early days of her creative exploration while facing bullying, and how when she attended a transformative youth conference, she realized that faith could be something that was alive in your life, not just a box to be checked off on Sundays.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Clare McCallan, an accomplished author and creative director of St. Joseph's Home for Artisans in Boston. Clare shares her experience of taking a leap of faith, banding together with the local artist community, and restoring an old convent to become a vibrant place that nurtures and cultivates young artists.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: David & Tamela Mann
Upcoming interview: Dr. Alan Weissenbacher
Not That Fancy
Sarah Kroger
Simon & Garfunkel
“No Filter”
www.sarahkroger.com
A New Reality
Clare McCallan
St. Joseph's Home for Artisans
This Is The Day
The Renaissance Room
St. Leonards
Courage to Create
Interview Quotes:
“I refused to sing in front of my family for years. I just kind of locked away this gift and threw away the key and was like, I will never, ever sing in front of anybody. It'll just be something that I do for myself.” - Sarah Kroger
“I felt like God was lovingly tapping me on the shoulder and just saying, ‘Sarah, I gave you this gift not just for yourself. I gave you this for my kingdom. I gave you this gift for my glory. And by you hiding it, it's not doing anyone any favors. So will you step out in faith? Will you say yes to me?’” - Sarah Kroger
“In a lot of ways, it's like being being able to create spaces where people feel safe enough to come to God just as they are, and feel safe enough to bring their questions and whatever they're walking through into a worship set, into a session that we're having, into whatever it is that we're doing, to be able to foster that kind of environment through music.” - Sarah Kroger
“If we can't be brutally honest with God, then who can we be honest with?” - Sarah Kroger
“We are never alone. He says, ‘I am with you always.’ That's a promise of God, even in the midst of the darkness.” - Sarah Kroger
“My life has been much happier ever since I've decided to just go all in on the way God made me and just live in pure creativity, both in my personal life and in my professional life.” - Clare McCallan
“Everybody wants the product, nobody wants the process. We serve a God born in a manger. Humble beginnings are not a bad thing.” - Clare McCallan
“God has equipped you with a unique set of gifts and a power for prolific love to create things that will change your world, the world around you, and the world as a whole. And your gifts as a craftsman, your ability to create, has the power to save souls around you. Your witness matters. Your gifts—even if you aren't aware of them—matter, and the world needs what only you can create.” - Clare McCallan
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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If there is one thing we all desire as human beings, it is to be known—truly, deeply known—and loved just as we are. Psalm 139 says “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me… you are familiar with all my ways,” reminding us that we can experience the joy of being known to our core when we look to the Lord.
Ainsley Britain is an Enneagram coach who delves into how we were individually and uniquely made by God, and how we can apply the knowledge of how we were created to our relationships with others—especially while navigating the challenges of high school. Ali Gilkeson is a member of the beloved band Rend Collective, which was initially designed as a welcoming place for people who didn’t always feel like they belonged in the church. Through recognizing our individual roles in life, Ali shares how a raw, honest relationship with God can help us find our way home.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Steve Wariner
Upcoming interview: Sarah Kroger
Psalm 139 NIV
Ainsley Britain
Enneagram coach
Enneagram type two wing three
Enneagram three
www.ainsleybritain.com
The Enneagram for Teens: A Complete Guide to Self-Discovery and Spiritual Growth
Ali Gilkeson
Rend Collective
“My Lighthouse” song
Sole Survivor
My Lighthouse children’s book
Interview Quotes:
“One of the things I love about the Enneagram, specifically how it relates to teens, is that not only do you understand your strengths and weaknesses, but you understand the motivations behind your actions.” - Ainsley Britain
“If we can have the knowledge and understanding that all of the root fears, the root motivations, the root trauma, all of these wounding childhood messages can be healed with the Lord. And I believe that the Enneagram is just that helpful tool to kind of uncover that.” - Ainsley Britain
“I think it's so important to connect with God daily because just like any of your other relationships, that's where the depth is. That is where the intimacy is. It's how you maintain and foster a friendship with the Lord.” - Ainsley Britain
“All we care about is connection with God and connection with each other in a real, authentic way.” - Ali Gilkeson
“Authentic worship isn't really even about the sound of a song. It's about the state of your heart.” - Ali Gilkeson
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we hear from TV personality Lydia McLaughin. Lydia leaned on God throughout her experience on the Real Housewives of Orange County. She also talks about how her faith held her up during her mother’s sickness.
Guest’s Links Lydia McLaughlin’s Facebook: @oclydia
Lydia McLaughlin’s Twitter: @oclydia
Lydia McLaughlin’s Instagram: @oclydia
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Our first guest, Patsy Clairmont, is a renowned author, speaker, and one of the founding speakers for Women of Faith. Patsy’s early years were marked by severe anxiety and depression. Whispering prayers of desperation for anything to help her through this time, she was surprised by the small, simple steps God gave her that helped her emerge from the darkness. The surprises would continue to come as she moved from barely being able to leave the house to speaking to millions of people—inspiring them with her humor, wisdom, and stories of overcoming.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Gil Schaenzle, known as the National Park Mom. After her daughter, Anna, passed away from neuroendocrine cancer at the young age of twenty-one, Gil embarked on a heartfelt mission to raise awareness for this rare disease. Through her campaign to run in all the national parks, and her more recent journey of cycling along America’s historic canals, Gil honors Anna's memory and brings hope to others facing similar battles.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Jeremy Cowart
Upcoming interview: Ainsley Britain
Patsy Clairmont
Women of Faith
Florence Littauer
Focus on the Family
Barbara Johnson
Luci Swindoll
Marilyn Meberg
www.patsyclairmont.com
Gil Schaenzle
neuroendocrine cancer
Healing NET Foundation
Interview Quotes:
“God brought me to a point of desperation where I realized that if something didn't change, I wouldn't survive myself. And it was at that point that I cried out from the depths of my being, ‘Lord, I'll do whatever you ask of me.’” - Patsy Clairmont
“I became hungry for saying God's Word. And then I became absolutely committed to walking in and understanding the truth as it was laid out in His council.” - Patsy Clairmont
“Finding a way to use my words that were constructive and helpful gave me a personal sense of dignity. It gave me an understanding that I could be worth something, I could be of value to another human life.” - Patsy Clairmont
“Know that God has a divine plan. And if you will listen carefully to what other people say you do well, you have probably found a gift that is placed within you that is so common to you, because you've lived with that ability, that you didn't even recognize it for what it is and what it could be under His tutelage.” - Patsy Clairmont
“God had kind of given me enough humility to understand it's never been about who I was. It's always been about who He is and wants to be for us all.” - Patsy Clairmont
“I don't know what I would have done without God throughout this whole thing.” - Gil Schaenzle
“I like to say that grief is just the other side of the coin of love. We get to live with the head side, the love side, for as long as God deems right. And then the other side of that coin is tails, and that’s grief. And I think that we just have to learn to sit and recognize that when grief comes to sit with us, we have to start looking at it differently.” - Gil Schaenzle
“We depend on God for our perspective in life. And when we don't talk to God, we tend to lose that perspective. We need His eyeglasses, if you will. He has His glasses on our face to be able to see the world and treat people the way that He would treat them.” - Gil Schaenzle
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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In this week’s episode, we have the opportunity to listen to John Michael Talbot, a legendary musician and founder of the monastic community Brothers and Sisters of Charity. He shares the intense evolution of his faith: from expressing himself through music, to finding his community in Catholicism, to a moment in a hospital room where he experienced a forgiveness so deep it changed him forever.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from John Andrew Bryant, a chaplain and author. Bryant shares his battle with a mental health condition that not only revealed the inner workings of his mind, but a deeper understanding of his faith.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Jesus Listens Notetaking Edition
Past interview: Emily P. Freeman
Upcoming interview: Patsy Clairmont
John Michael Talbot
Brothers and Sisters of Charity
Mason Proffit
The Imitation of Christ
Luke 23:43 NIV
John Andrew Bryant
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
A Quiet Mind to Suffer With
Interview Quotes:
“I was reading my revised standard Bible that my grandma had given me. And those red letters of Jesus seemed to be jumping out. He seemed to be able to say so much more by saying less.” - John Michael Talbot
“Suddenly I could see all of my sins. Not just the number, but the depth of them, in a flash. And in that same flash, I could see all of God's forgiveness, all of His mercy. And my response to that was to weep.” - John Michael Talbot
“Taking a good twenty to thirty minutes of prayer once or twice a day is vital to our spiritual life. We eat two or three meals every day. It's vital to our physical bodies to stay healthy. Well, our spiritual body is just as important.” - John Michael Talbot
“As you get older and stressors compound and there's more stuff to be worried about, or there's more things that feel unmanageable, your brain can just say, ‘Look, timeout. I can't handle this.’ And I think that's what my brain was telling me.” - John Andrew Bryant
“As much as your mind and body may feel like they're your enemies, you have to love these enemies you have now. Your mind is turning on you, your body is turning on you, and you have to love them back to health because they're yours and because you're shepherding your body and mind.” - John Andrew Bryan
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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This week, we’ll visit with two musicians who found their love for music early on, but took some devastating detours along the way to their dreams of full-time music careers.
Darren Mulligan is songwriter and lead singer for the Dove Award-winning Christian music group We Are Messengers. Early in his music pursuits, Darren found himself indulging in other things that caused damage to himself and to those he loved—admitting that he was, “manipulative and just very broken.” He shares the story of attending a little church in his hometown in Monaghan, Ireland, and what happened that altered his course—and his music—forever.
Joseph Habedank is a two-time time Grammy nominated singer and songwriter who traveled for many years with the legendary southern gospel group The Perrys. Dealing with an ailment on the road, Joseph unexpectedly fell into addiction and found himself trading his dreams of singing for the pursuit of his next high. He shares what reaching rock bottom meant to him, and how he sought help in prayer, rehabilitation, and therapy.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Russ Taff
Upcoming interview: John Micahel Talbot
Darren Mulligan
We Are Messengers
Ballinode
Johnny Cash
Willie Nelson
Romans 5:3 NIV
www.wearemessengers.com
Where The Joy Is
Joseph Habedank
The Perrys
“He's Still Working on Me”
The Crabb Family
Porter's Call in Nashville
Cumberland Heights
Grammys MusiCares program
Russ Taff
Autobiography
“The Basement”
Interview Quotes:
“I remember selling all my guitars because I assumed that guitars were the things that had led me into all of this sin in my life. It was a very small view of God that He couldn't use the gifts He had given me, and He couldn't keep me from my sin.” - Darren Mulligan
“Misery loves company. But what I later found out in life is that joy needs a friend too, you know?” - Darren Mulligan
“There's a lot of areas in my life that I've messed up, nearly every area—being a father, being a husband, being a follower, being a man. And it's the grace of God that I rely on so heavily.” - Darren Mulligan
“My joy could only be found in walking close enough to Jesus that I learn to love what He loves.” - Darren Mulligan
“I was a Christian music artist, and I was chasing dope. That was my full time job, and I was exhausted. It was probably the darkest time in my life. I really thought I'd never sing again.” - Joseph Habedank
“When I lost my job doing what I've always wanted to do, which is sing about Jesus, that was my rock bottom. I thought, "If I can no longer do what God put me on this earth to do, I need help.” - Joseph Habedank
“So much of our addiction is tied up in lies. And once we bring something from the darkness into the light, it loses its power.” - Joseph Habedank
“It's so amazing to me that we base our whole Christianity on this word called faith. And the reason we do that is because we literally have to talk to someone that we have never seen. We have to lean on that word, faith, and believe that not only is He there, but He's listening and He cares and He loves us.” - Joseph Habeank
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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In this week’s episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Ricky Dickson, a man whose faith has guided him through a fulfilling career and the trials of leadership. Throughout his forty-three years with Blue Bell Creameries, the beloved ice cream maker, Ricky rose to become the president and CEO, navigating the company through both successful and challenging times.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Mark Tappan, a police officer whose life took an unexpected turn through his bond with a remarkable police dog named Mattis. Mark shares how his lifelong connection to dogs has taught him lessons in faith, loyalty, and unconditional love.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Erica Campbell
Upcoming interview: Darren Mulligan
Ricky Dickson
Blue Bell Creameries
Baylor
One Scoop At A Time
Mark Tappan
Belgian Malinois
Colossians 3:23 NIV
A Dog Named Mattis
Interview Quotes:
“My prayer growing up was, ‘God, wherever you want me, I want to not only be open and recognize your call, but also put within me the passion to do whatever that is and to be the best I can be at it.’” - Ricky Dickson
“My prayer was consistently like, ‘Please God, give me the strength and the wisdom to walk and to lead in the way you would want me to lead.’” - Ricky Dickson
“Faith seems easy until it gets hard.” - Ricky Dickson
“God was in control of it all. Even though I couldn't see the end.” - Mark Tappan
“Colossians 3:23 says, ‘Everything you do, do with all of your heart, as if working for the Lord, not for men.’ And when I looked at my dog, I saw that in everything he did and the work that he did as a police dog and the friendship that we had. He gave everything to it.” - Mark Tappan
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Old habits can be hard to break, whether it’s the foods we eat, the media we consume, or any pattern that may not serve us in the way that gets us where we want to be. Our guests this week took a look at their lives and found that doing the hard work of change was key to breaking unhealthy patterns and through faith and prayer, they kept at it, which ultimately produced lasting and rewarding results.
Our first guest, Erin Loechner, discusses how we can reverse engineer some of the ways that social media and technology hold our undivided attention and how she personally applied these principles to her own life and to the lives of her children, resulting in more connectivity with each other and the world around them. Later, we'll hear from Dusty and Erin Stanczyk, of www.EatMoveRest.com, who discuss what it means to be more intentional in our approach to the foods that we eat, and how they overcame troubling health issues and found physical and spiritual healing.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Natalie Grant
Upcoming interview: Ricky Dickson
Erin Loechner
Opt-Out Family
www.HGTV.com show
Waldorf elements
www.optoutfamily.com
The Opt-Out Family
Dusty and Erin Stanczyk
www.EatMoveRest.com
Jesus Calling App
Interview Quotes:
“We kind of made this very intentional decision that we as a family were going to be more engaging than the algorithm, and we were going to not only say no to devices, but we were going to say yes to something better. And if we were going to do that, we were going to need to model that for our kids.” - Erin Loechner
“Something we started really early on with our children was looking around and looking in our community and finding those natural influencers in our lives, and recognizing that they offer and hold deep experience that we might never encounter otherwise.” - Erin Loechner
“Everyone holds a story. Everyone holds so much knowledge and wisdom at their fingertips just through lived experience, and we are constantly pointing our kids to people in real life, rather than Google or Siri or Alexa.” - Erin Loechner
“Let's learn from the best. Let's grow from the best. Let's find those people in our lives that have things to share that will add value in a way that screens really can't.” - Erin Loechner
“Rather than filling our medicine cabinet with orange vials, we started stocking up on new superfoods every time we'd come home from the grocery store and figuring out how we could implement them. And realizing every colored food has a different benefit. It was just really exciting for us.” - Erin Stanczyk
“We only have one body. And God created us in His image, in His likeness. So why would we not do everything within our power to nurture it and nourish it? So eat, move, rest your best, essentially.“ - Erin Stanczyk
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’ll hear from comedian Chonda Pierce. Chonda’s ability to bring laughter to others is renowned, but as we know, life’s circumstances can threaten to steal our joy. The loss of Chonda’s sisters and then her husband were crushing blows, but through prayer, therapy and the support of others, she shares how she was able to find light again after facing the worst kind of darkness.
Guest’s Links Chonda’s Facebook: @chondapierce
Chonda’s Twitter: @chondapierce
Chonda’s Instagram: @chondapierce
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
When kindness is shown to us—whether it’s as small as a smile from a stranger, or as big as someone meeting a need at a desperate time in our lives—we see and feel goodness that is often unexplainable. If we look for them, we can find these divine kindnesses each day, those big and little nods from God that bring us hope and comfort, even in the darkest of hours. These moments are powerful reminders of the sustaining force of divine kindness and the enduring faith it nurtures.
Founders of the ministry Bottle of Tears Chris and Lindsey Wheeler share the challenges they faced after adopting their daughter, Eliana, from Guatemala, all while navigating Lindsey's development of a rare autoimmune disease, and how the kindness of God kept them from despairing.
Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Bryan Crum, a hospice chaplain, who shares what he has learned from spending time with people in their final days and how God shows up in their last moments to demonstrate His sustaining kindness.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Linda Davis and Lang Scott
Upcoming interview: Erin Loechner
Jesus Listens Notetaking Edition
Chris Wheeler
Lindsey Wheeler
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
Lyme Disease
Jennie Allen
Psalm 56 NIV
Bottle of Tears
www.bottleoftears.com
Kit and The Missing Notebook
Bryan Crum
www.bryancrum.com
Neighbor, Love Yourself
Interview Quotes:
“I remember at the beginning of my diagnosis, just really fighting with the Lord, honestly, and going, God, why? Why is this my story? Why have you chosen us to be Eliana’s parents? We are not capable of this. Why did you choose me to have a disease at the same time? It just felt so unfair.” - Lindsey Wheeler
“I laid on my bed crying and asking God, ‘How do I do this? How do I run this race when I am homebound?’” - Lindsey Wheeler
“God was so cool that I got a front row seat to watch people comfort their friends and family, and I was able to read their letters of encouragement and hope to their friends and family, and it gave me encouragement. It helped me to push forward.” - Lindsey Wheeler
“My body continues to fail me, but God hasn't. He has not failed me. And I feel just more confident and more alive than I have in a long time, knowing that He is using me still in the midst of my pain.” - Lindsey Wheeler
“My prayer in those moments is, ‘Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, Jesus.’ Because sometimes that's all you got.” - Chris Wheeler
“It's humbling just to be invited into people's homes, into their lives at a time when each moment, each minute is just more valuable because you know they're the final ones.” - Bryan Crum
“We let unsaid words hold us in place. And it's almost like this ancient, heavy anchor that ties us down. I've learned that we often need a little nudge to remind us we can untie our boats from that anchor and float away at any time.” - Bryan Crum
“We don't have to wait to see what our lives will be like at the end of our stories. Imagine now what you think that final scene of your life is going to be like. And if you don't like what it looks like, make course corrections today. Make the changes now. There's a welcoming home waiting for us.” - Bryan Crum
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Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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When we face self-doubt, we may find ourselves not believing in our own innate abilities, or we might even decide to turn away from our aspirations in the belief that we’re not “good enough” to get where we want to be. When we willfully stop listening to the voices that tell us we can’t do it, and replace our fears with faith, a transformative effect takes place that allows us to believe in ourselves again and realize that our dreams are worth chasing.
Our first guest is the multi-talented Taraji P. Henson. Taraji is not only a renowned actress but also a dedicated mother, philanthropist, author, director, and producer. Though Taraji had dreams of becoming an actress, early rejection caused her to question herself, and move in a different direction. It took the words of her trusted father to remind her what she was made for, and to find the courage to chase her dreams. Later in the episode, we’ll hear from actress and filmmaker Sope Aluko. For over two decades, Sope built a successful corporate career. However, the passion for acting never left her. After the loss of her parents, and a time of personal reassessment, she awakened the dream in her heart and decided to pursue her first love of acting.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Brett Young
Upcoming interview: Chris and Lindsey Wheeler
Jesus Listens Notetaking Edition
Taraji P. Henson
Duke Ellington High School of the Performing Arts
North Carolina A&T
The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation
You Can Be A Good Friend
Sope Aluko
Black Panther
Parkinson's Disease
Chadwick Boseman
Interview Quotes:
“I could go anywhere and make friends with anyone, because I came from a great foundation of love. And when you have that foundation, you can turn negatives into positives.” - Taraji P. Henson
“God did an amazing thing by putting us on this earth. We're all humans and we all look different. And it is our charge, as humans on this earth, to learn how to get along.” - Taraji P. Henson
“I keep God close to me at all times, and I'm constantly in communication with God at all times. I'm nothing without God, like, the fact that I'm here? I'm blessed and I know why.” - Taraji P. Henson
“These roles that I booked, every single time I would pray to God, I said, ‘Lord, let it be a role that really speaks to me, that resonates with me.’” - Sope Aluko
“It's amazing how God works because He is a planner and He planned every single detail ahead of me.” - Sope Aluko
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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The most valuable life lessons often emerge from our most difficult circumstances. While these experiences give us insight into our own lives, they also provide meaningful stories to share with others and point them towards God, who can ultimately give them comfort through their darkest moments.
This week, we’ll hear from Jesse Hutch, a Canadian-born American film and television actor, who recalls how a near-death experience taught him the peace that comes from fully trusting in God’s control and the importance of using scripture and prayer to ground your beliefs. Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Randy Frazee, author of The Story, which arranges the Bible chronologically so that readers can experience it as one, whole narrative. He shares how his journey through depression deepened his empathy and reliance on God, and how he now uses this experience to support others facing similar struggles.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Jeff Allen
Upcoming interview: Taraji P. Henson
Jesse Hutch
Hebrews 4:12 NIV
Randy Frazee
The Story
Philippians 1:3-6 NIV
www.randyfrazee.com
The Joy Challenge
Interview Quotes:
“It really is a miracle that I'm alive, and I owe all that to God.” - Jesse Hutch
“You still have an option. If you're still breathing, if you're still above ground, you have an option, and that option is to completely give it all over to God, because that honestly is the most peaceful place you can be.” - Jesse Hutch
“I'm very interested in the human heart. I think God made it very unique and it's awesome and it's amazing and special. And so I can go play a character that I've never done in real life, and yet I can understand hurt and pain and sadness, joy, jealousy, and all these different emotions that we all go through at times, and you bring that to the table.” - Jesse Hutch
“God has this beautiful way of never taking you back on the same trail you walked on. He always brings you back to Him in a new, fresh way.” - Jesse Hutch
“I really am mindful to stop and to speak into the life of somebody, whether it's a kid or an adult, a person who is discouraged, because that speaking vision into them, what you see, could really change the outcome of their life.” - Randy Frazee
“I think it's important for people to realize that the feelings of anxiety or depression are not sinful. These are emotions that God has given us to alert us and to allow us to go through seasons of difficulty.” - Randy Frazee
“He is going to carry us along. He's going to encourage us. He's going to walk us through it. And He factors in our weakness in selecting us.” - Randy Frazee
“God offers us in our relationship with Jesus, a joy that's despite our circumstances, despite other people, despite our past, and a level of joy that can actually defeat worry in our lives.” - Randy Frazee
“God is writing a story. And you are a character in that story, He deeply loves you and He wants you to look up. And if you look up, He promises that everything is going to turn out just all right for you, it’s going to turn out great for you, and He wants to give you His joy.” - Randy Frazee
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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There is an intricate dance between the difficulty of making changes in our lives and a profound trust in God to guide us through. When we have to make the decision to leave something behind and start anew, there is an emotional toll and a fear of the unknown. However, there is much to be learned from endings and new beginnings, and how sometimes we end up finding peace in the midst of our turmoil.
Emily P. Freeman is a spiritual director and author who hosts The Next Right Thing Podcast. Emily shares practical thoughts on how to navigate change, taken from her new book, How to Walk Into A Room: The Art of Knowing When to Stay and When to Walk Away. Stephanie May Wilson is a Tedx speaker, author, and podcaster who speaks to young adults who are facing crucial years where they will make some of their biggest life’s decisions, and advises them on how they can faithfully move forward by trusting God with their questions and their fears.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Reba McEntire
Upcoming interview: Jesse Hutch
Emily P. Freeman
The Next Right Thing Podcast
How to Walk Into A Room: The Art of Knowing When to Stay and When to Walk Away
Stephanie May Wilson
Tedx speaker
Create A Life You Love
Interview Quotes:
“I have a lot of compassion for anyone who is standing in the threshold of a room that they have been in for a really long time, and maybe feel a really deep sense of belonging, to walk out of that room into something that could be amazing and beautiful, but something that also might come with some risk.” - Emily P. Freeman
“In reality, there is both beautiful and terrible in probably every space that we're in. And so if we decide to walk away, I think it's so good to do it with our eyes wide open, not just at the hesitations, but also to the gifts, so that we're having a truer experience of not only the room, but also our leaving of it.” - Emily P. Freeman
“I truly believe God is always aware of us, that God is fully love and fully attentive and and God will not let us miss our own future. Which means that as I make my decisions, I'm not making them in a room by myself.” - Emily P. Freeman
“Even if I make a move in a direction that turns out terrible and I learn something from it, God was still with me. And in that move, I am becoming someone. Because what is infinitely more important than the decision that I make, ultimately, is the person who I am becoming as I make my decisions.” - Emily P. Freeman
“True peace is not the absence of discomfort or conflict, but it is an inner brokenness and an inner wholeness and an inner knowing that even though chaos may be all around me, I can still be aligned with what I know and who I am, I can live in congruence with my own core values, with my true identity, with the common good, with my life and God.” - Emily P. Freeman
“The ‘everything era’ really is this super tricky period of time where a bunch of different forces are pushing and pulling us in different directions, and where I think it leaves us constantly feeling like we're falling short and falling behind.” - Stephanie May Wilson
“I don’t know that I knew that I got to participate in my life. I felt like there was one exact right way to do it, and I had to figure it out. And if I couldn't figure it out, then I was going to mess it all up. And I think that that's a really big lie that I had to combat.” - Stephanie May Wilson
“I started to learn that a beautiful life isn't one size fits all, and that there are a whole bunch of different ways that life can be lived, that are all right and beautiful and good and God-approved.” - Stephanie May Wilson
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this episode of Jesus Listens, we hear from Evan Craft, a singer-songwriter who discovered the importance of loving and serving others during a mission trip to Mexico. Through his music, Evan now spreads messages of hope and love while raising awareness for causes like homelessness.
Guest’s Links Evan Craft’s Facebook: @evancraftmusic
Evan Craft’s Twitter: @EvanCraft
Evan Craft’s Instagram: @evancraft
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Content Warning: This episode mentions suicide and depression and may not be suitable for all listeners.
We all carry scars, both visible and invisible, that life's challenges leave behind. Far from permanently marring us, our scars can become sites of incredible healing and strength when we open ourselves to faith.This faith doesn't erase the pain or revert the past, but transforms our relationship with our scars. It encourages us to see them not as symbols of hurt but as markers of healing and resilience: vibrant signs of what we've overcome through faith.
Lauren Green is a seasoned journalist and the chief religion correspondent for Fox News Channel. Exploring the intricate intersection of religion and journalism, Lauren found herself reporting on stories ranging from everyday news to the profound mysteries of faith that shaped her perspective on communication and human connection. Later in the episode, we’ll hear from Carrie Sheffield, whose troubled, nomadic childhood eventually gave way to a season of academic success and achievements, where her agnostic beliefs were challenged by a quest for deeper meaning.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Jana Monroe
Upcoming interview: Emily P. Freeman
Jesus Calling for Graduates
Lauren Green
Fox News Channel
Miss America Pageant
Medill School of Journalism
AME church
Light For Today
Carrie Sheffield
Harvard Kennedy School of Government
You Are The Universe
Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
Curt Thompson
Motorhome Prophecies
Interview Quotes:
“When I became a journalist, it was as if I was trying to translate from one language to another. I was trying to find words to communicate something that I only felt in music.” - Lauren Green
“That is one of the challenges for living in a very secular world, is understanding and seeing God in the everyday.” - Lauren Green
“Everyone is made in God's image. So first and foremost, whoever they are, whatever they've done, you have to see them first as someone made in God's image.” - Lauren Green
“You cannot know God's will for your life unless you read His words.” - Lauren Green
“I kind of took pride in what I thought was being humble about being a shoulder shrugger, but part of why I did not believe in God was because I just felt anger toward if there was a God, why would He put me in such a horribly abusive family that eventually led three of my siblings to attempt suicide? That I would think about suicide and have depression and PTSD and anxiety for many years? Why would God do that?” - Carrie Sheffield
“Mathematically and statistically and probabilistically, it actually takes a lot more faith to believe in random chance than in some type of divine order.” - Carrie Sheffield
“I think trusting that God can help us to do differently and to choose differently, and to know that He wants differently for us, that takes faith.” - Carrie Sheffield
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Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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When things get tough, and it feels like hope is barely hanging on, it always helps to remember we’re not alone. Haven’t we all benefited from a friend or a loved one who reached out, was able to lend an ear, or who was just there for us when we were going through a rough patch? It's amazing how a little kindness and understanding can bring us back to life. In Ephesians from the Bible, we are instructed to “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. [Ephesians 4:32]” We might never know how the smallest kindnesses we show could have a life-changing impact on those who receive it.
Our first guest is Willie Robertson, the CEO of Duck Commander and a familiar face from the Duck Dynasty television series. Willie shares a story about the transformative power of being there for one another—about a minister who showed up for his father, Phil, in one of his darkest hours—and how it inspired a new found faith that would eventually turn his life, and the lives of his family, in a new direction. We’ll also hear from Ben Fuller, a Nashville-based singer/songwriter, who faced addiction in his youth and early twenties. When he lost a close friend to addiction, Ben’s future seemed destined for a similar, dismal outcome. But a family who’d known Ben as a child decided to take him under their wing, invited him to church, and Ben found the hope he’d been looking for all his life.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Delilah
Upcoming interview: Lauren Green
Ephesians 4:32 NIV
Jesus Calling for Moms
Grace for the Moment for Moms
Jesus Calling for Graduates
Willie Robertson
Duck Commander
Duck Dynasty television series
John 4 NIV
fruit of the Spirit
Gospeler
Ben Fuller
Romans 10:9 NIV
“If I Got Jesus”
Interview Quotes:
“If you talk to someone and they change their lives, all that could be generational change for them, for their children, for their grandchildren. And all that could take place just by telling someone a story.” - Willie Robertson
“Whether I'm studying the Bible with someone and trying to teach someone, or if I'm just literally trying to figure out some of the answers to life, I always just go into the Bible and see what it says.” - Willie Robertson
“What I find is when you share your faith, when you do that a lot, it starts fixing a lot of the other problems that you may have in life anyway.” - Willie Robertson
“In a moment [during my first time at church] hearing music and worship and seeing everyone's hands in the air and just feeling the Holy Spirit tangible in the room, it was like, This is what I've been looking for.” - Ben Fuller
“My Savior, His last few days on earth, He's washing filthy feet and He's spending His night with a leper. That's the Savior that saved my life.” - Ben Fuller
“It's amazing how when I don't open the Word of God, or if I'm not constantly seeking His presence, if I'm not constantly asking Him to guide me, to lead me, to just walk with me, it's amazing how upset I'll get, how short tempered I'll get, how quick I am to forget.” - Ben Fuller
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Traveling far from home can reframe our perspectives on the world, ourselves, and our faith. But more than the places we go, the people we surround ourselves with, and the stories we share with one another, will profoundly shape our lives.
Country singer/songwriter and author Stephanie Quayle shares her journey from growing up in Montana to traveling to Switzerland and California before settling in Nashville. Tragic loss in a plane crash compelled her to confront grief and forgiveness, shaping both her life and her music and ultimately, strengthening her faith. We’ll also hear from Anna Broadway, an author who traveled the globe to gain new perspectives on singleness in the church, advocating for a more inclusive and understanding approach.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Glo Atanmo
Upcoming interview: Willie Robertson
Jesus Calling for Moms
Grace for the Moment for Moms
Jesus Calling for Graduates
Not That Fancy audiobook
Stephanie Quayle
Godwinks
On the Edge
Why Do We Stay?
Anna Broadway
Solo Planet
www.annabroadway.com
Interview Quotes:
“I had so many questions of God; why? Why would You let this happen to me?” - Stephanie Quayle
“I went into the water one way and I came out different. It was immediate. I'd already been forgiven by God; I didn't get that forgiveness of myself until that moment.” - Stephanie Quayle
“What I love about country music is its storytelling and it’s a very simple version when it comes to complex conversations. I think that sometimes in the way I structure my songs, I can take something that's very heavy and give it a little bit more softness around the edges.” - Stephanie Quayle
“Forgiveness, that is such a powerful word. Because you only get forgiveness through faith.” - Stephanie Quayle
“We need each other to be different, but we have to figure out how to love and support each other in our differences.” - Anna Broadway
“When you do study the Bible for yourself, I think that's the first and most important place to see, Wow, singleness is not necessarily what I make of it.” - Anna Broadway
“When we reshape our narrative for life from one that's about finding a relationship or not, and having children or not, to one that's about following Jesus and seeking first God's kingdom, it really changes how we think about singleness.” - Anna Broadway
“God can show up where you think it's almost impossible. There is no limit to how and where God can meet us.” - Anna Broadway
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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The content in this episode is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your physician to see what works best for you.
During times of pain, loss, and grief, faith and a close relationship with God can serve as a profound source of comfort, strength, and hope. Prayer, meditation, and the study of scripture can be vital practices in nurturing our spiritual resilience, offering a refuge and a sense of peace. In these ways, our faith acts not only as a beacon of light amidst the shadows, but also as a foundation upon which we can rebuild and heal.
Dr. Josh Axe, a functional medicine doctor, shares his personal health experiences that have shaped his approach to health and wellness. He recounts his mother's battle with cancer and her successful remission through natural approaches. When Josh had a back injury that turned into a serious infection, his connection to God provided faith and hope that he would make a full recovery. J.S. Park, a hospital chaplain, discusses the importance of being present for people in their most difficult moments and the profound impact of grief support and crisis assistance. J.S. also opens up about his struggle with faith and finding comfort in difficult times.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Leslie Schilling
Upcoming interview: Stephanie Quayle
Jesus Calling for Moms
Grace for the Moment for Moms
Jesus Calling for Graduates
Dr. Josh Axe
www.draxe.com
functional medicine
hyperbaric chamber
Think This, Not That
J.S. Park
As Long As You Need
Interview Quotes:
“One of the things I know that God always does is He can turn pain into purpose.” - Dr. Josh Axe
“I've found that sometimes if people just break through one limiting belief, it can radically change their life.” - Dr. Josh Axe
“If we're having right and positive thinking, it's a major, major contributor to us healing and achieving our optimal level of health.” - Dr. Josh Axe
“It was the love of this small, little church that invited me–despite us believing different things, despite the life that I was living at that time–and just kept loving me. And that's how I came to understand God and God's love.” - J.S. Park
“It's such a rare thing in life to be in a room where suddenly all the pieces—your experience, your pain, your story, your gifting, your calling, all of it—somehow clicks into place. What a rare and beautiful thing that is.” - J.S. Park
“Chaplains fit the space between the sacred and the system, between the medicines and the machines. And so I do my best to be there for anything that my patient needs.” - J.S. Park
“Can we pause to take a moment to sit with someone? I think if we paused and offered empathy and compassion–really listening–and then maybe ask that question, ‘What do you need right now?’ we'd hear [others’] stories and be able to connect.” - J.S. Park
“Being a loving presence through grief makes the unbearable a little bit more bearable…I don't want a faith that I need to hold up, but a faith that holds me—not one where I feel like I need to prove that it's right, but instead rather one that is going to be able to wrap around my questions and continue to hold me.” - J.S. Park
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Do you ever feel like life has passed you by, or that the best days of your life are gone and done? Self-proclaimed “joyologist” Dawn Barton has experienced those same feelings, but even through the worst heartbreaks and devastating losses, she believes there’s always time to write a new story.
Guest’s Links Dawn’s Facebook: @dawnrbarton
Dawn’s Instagram: @DawnRBarton
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
It’s often said that hindsight is twenty-twenty, and our guests this week look back on how God has shaped their own lives in profound ways—though it might’ve been hard to see at the moment.
Former boxing champion Andre Ward shares his life story, both inside and outside the ring, marked by struggles with family addiction and a sense of aimlessness. He reveals how he turned his life around and reignited his faith after the passing of his father, and became determined to become a warrior for God. John Burke shares insights he gained from researching over a thousand near-death experiences. These firsthand accounts convinced him—as an agnostic at the time—of the existence of God, and of the notion that God hears us and is answering our prayers.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Tamera Mowry-Housley
Upcoming interview: Dr. Josh Axe
Jesus Calling for Moms
Grace for the Moment for Moms
Andre Ward
Killing the Image
John Burke
Acts 14 NIV
2 Corinthians 12 NIV
1 Corinthians 15 NIV
Guillain-Barré syndrome
Canadian Royal Mounted Police
Imagine The God of Heaven
Interview Quotes:
“Instead of me trying to lean into my faith and let God be my outlet and communicate with Him, I shut down, I went inward. I didn't speak to Him, I didn't speak to the ones around me.” - Andre Ward
“It's just amazing to me that God will take people and put them in these different spheres and use them even in spite of where they are, and what the atmosphere is calling for.” - Andre Ward
“My rags were filthy, I was dirty, I was in the thick of my mess. But the fact that I called out and said, ‘Can you help me?’—that's when my life started to change for the better.” - Andre Ward
“We love putting God in a box and saying, ‘He will do this. He won't do that.’ He can do what He wants to do. And if He’ll take someone like me who's flawed, messed up, and is no good without Him, and put me in a flawed sport like boxing, and say, ‘I want to use this for my purpose. I want to use you as a light,’ He not only can do it, but He will do it.” - Andre Ward
“I'm really focused on helping people understand how God is raising up near-death experience testimonies all over the world that are pointing not only to the reality of the life to come shown in the scriptures, but also the reality of this amazing God of light and love who is personal and who revealed Himself through Jesus.” - John Burke
“We learn to listen to those quiet, prompting thoughts, and the way we know we're hearing is when we act in faith.” - John Burke
“You are unique and you have a unique purpose. And it has to do with love, with loving God, and following His voice throughout the day to love and serve others with all that you've been given.” - John Burke
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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This episode contains content that may be triggering for some listeners.
Have you ever had a moment where you plastered on a smile, carried on through your day as if everything was perfectly okay, but really on the inside you were hurting? It’s okay to have sorrow, and it doesn’t mean we are cut off from joy in the midst of it. In the Psalms, David reminds us that God reveals joy during all the ups and downs of our lives. “You make known to me the path of life,” David prays, “in Your presence there is fullness of joy.” [Psalm 16:11]
Molly Stillman is an author, speaker, blogger, and podcast host who leans toward the brighter side of life and wants to bring that joy to others. The daughter of a nurse who served in Vietnam, Molly’s mother championed for the rights of women veterans all while battling alcoholism and addiction. Molly witnessed her mother’s powerful influence, despite her afflictions, and would come to know what it was like to hold both joy and grief in her heart as she navigated life after her mother’s death. Jeanine Amapola is a speaker and influencer who battled alcohol addiction and toxic relationships. At her lowest point, she wasn’t sure she’d ever feel joy again, but the healing began as she connected with a community of women who had experienced some of her same hardships.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Jen Lilley
Upcoming interview: Andre Ward
Psalm 16:11 NIV
Molly Stillman
Vietnam veteran
Alcoholics Anonymous
Sharon Ann Lane
PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
Vietnam Veterans Association
Home Before Morning
pulmonary edema
collagen vascular autoimmune disease
Proverbs 17:22 NIV
If I Don’t Laugh, I’ll Cry
Jeanine Amapola
Ecclesiastes 4:9 NIV
Becoming Happy and Healthy
Interview Quotes:
“A lot of veterans today say that women veterans have access to a lot of the things that they have access to because of the advocacy and trail that my mom blazed. And I got to be a front row witness to all of this.” - Molly Stillman
“I wasn't walking with Jesus in any way, shape, or form, so I had no solid foundation on which to place anything in my life. And so everything I had built and was continuing to build, was just on very, very loose sand that had no firm foundation.” - Molly Stillman
“The shame and the embarrassment, the guilt, that washed over me felt like I had a ton of bricks on my chest and my shoulders. It was devastating to find myself in this position and to just feel that level of condemnation towards myself.” - Molly Stillman
“I walked through the doors of a church and I heard that there was a God in heaven who created me on purpose, with a purpose, for a purpose, that He loved me just as I am, that He’d forgiven me of the mistakes that I made, and that there was hope to be found in Him. And so I walked out of those doors that day with hope. And that is a powerful, powerful thing when you are hopeless.” - Molly Stillman
“People that say that God doesn't have a sense of humor clearly don't read the same Bible I do, or have the same relationship with God that I do.” - Molly Stillman
“I found myself floating around and just looking for affirmation in all the wrong places. And because I had such a severe, severe disdain for myself and a low self-worth, I went to all these other places to try and find confidence and identity and worth and value.” - Jeanine Amapola
“I just remember feeling, Man, there's got to be more. I'm not happy. I'm trying to connect with God. I keep going back to my old ways. I keep making bad decisions. I hate my body. I don't like myself.” - Jeanine Amapola
“God did not design us to be alone. He literally says, ‘It is not good for man to be alone,’ and so we should pay attention to that. If God says that, then why are we surprised when we're alone, and all of a sudden we're facing all this insecurity and anxiety and depression and doubt and all these lies, and we're feeling lackluster and lukewarm in our faith? Why are we surprised?” - Jeanine Amapola
“If you're wanting to have a good friend, you should also be a good friend. I think it's important to surround yourself with people that inspire you, that are also places that you want to be, that are going to live life in such a way that you're like, Wow, that motivates me to want to look more like Jesus.” - Jeanine Amapola
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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In all the moments of our lives, whether we’re dealing with depression or anxiety, or navigating the responsibilities of taking care of other people, or simply trying to make our days have more depth and meaning, our connection to others is key to our well being. Through prayer, intentionality, and consideration, we can strengthen that cord that ties us to others and build relationships that become a lifeline when things get hard.
This week, we're joined by Dansby Swanson, a major league baseball player for the Chicago Cubs. Dansby shares the ups and downs of being a major league baseball player, including the stress and anxiety that comes with the job–and how his connections to his family, caring coaches, friends, and to God, made all the difference in getting a handle on his depression. Later in the episode, we'll hear from John Inazu, a professor of law and religion, who discusses how we can foster healthier conversations around challenging topics, creating understanding and connection even with those who disagree with us.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Jordan Davis
Upcoming interview: Molly Stillman
Thank you to our sponsor: www.give.cru.org
Dansby Swanson
Chicago Cubs
Vanderbilt
Atlanta Braves
John Inazu
Washington University
ROTC scholarship
Interview Quotes:
“God created us to live in community with one another, because there's such a level of His love and connection that comes with that.” - Dansby Swanson
“God does a lot of things through people for me, and I'm just so grateful that I'm able to keep that perspective, to just trust in Him and His plan, and just be able to realize what He's done for me along the way.” - Dansby Swanson
“Our identity is secure in Christ and what He did for us and no matter how great we are, we're still never going to be perfect. Jesus is the one that lived a perfect life so that He could sacrifice Himself for our shortcomings.” - Dansby Swanson
“I think the way we respond to hostility or adversaries, even if we don't win the point, we might actually still model a kind of relationship or model the fruits of the spirit in a way that will make that other person pause.” - John Inazu
“I think we are formed by the people around us most deeply when we give them permission and find the time to sit with conversation and listen and pause.” - John Inazu
“There will be times in life and roles that you have where you're not equipped yet to jump into that hard conversation. Prayer has to be the anchor of this; that you wake up and you thank God for the part that you get to play in His story, and then you ask for more of the fruits of the spirit.” - John Inazu
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Content warning: This episode contains mature content and may not be suitable for all listeners.
When we face darkness in our lives that threatens to overwhelm us, it can feel like it’s harder and harder to find any light. But in Hebrews 6:19, it says “We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” That anchor is Jesus—and He is waiting to hear our cares and concerns, and is present to be that Rock we can cling to in every trial we encounter.
This week, our guests talk about how they turned to Jesus when they started to lose hope in humanity. Talk show host and author Tamron Hall had periods in her life where her job took a toll on her mental health, and when she asked God to help her see the good in humanity again, she was able to find a renewed passion for helping others. LaRae Quy, a former FBI agent and spokesperson, faced the harsher side of humanity during her twenty years as an undercover and counterintelligence agent. Hearkening back to the lessons of patience and perseverance she learned growing up on a Wyoming ranch, she reached out to God to bring peace to her mind, which was haunted by the hurts she had seen perpetrated on so many victims in the cases she covered.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Jay Hewitt
Upcoming interview: Dansby Swanson
Hebrews 6:19 NIV
Thank you to our sponsors: www.give.cru.org | BetterHelp.com/JesusCalling
Tamron Hall
Jordan Manning series
Watch Where They Hide
Deadline Crime
Exodus
www.tamronhallshow.com
LaRae Quy
Romans 5:3 NIV
www.laeraequy.com
Interview Quotes:
“There's no school that can prepare you for a parent handing you the kindergarten photo of their child who's just been found dead and looking to you for comfort, but also believe that you are going to care for them while telling their story and not use it as an opportunity just to get people to watch TV.” - Tamron Hall
“I lost my dream job before the public nationally, but I knew it was in God's hands, and I knew that I didn't need to do anything other than find peace with it and find my lane.” - Tamron Hall
“The win is in the loss. Faith is in the challenge. The uncertainty is supposed to bolster the faith and the belief that it is going to happen in God's time.” - Tamron Hall
“When I'm on set, before I walk out of the doors of the show, I ask God to guide me in my words and let me be a comfort if I need to be that for someone, allow me to bring a smile to someone's face if that's what they need.” - Tamron Hall
“God opened the door and I have no doubt it was the right path for me, because the values of the FBI closely aligned with the values I developed on that Wyoming ranch.” - LaRae Quy
“We need to have faith in something. We need to find value somewhere. It's how we psychologically survive and thrive.” - LaRae Quy
“Through prayer and self-awareness, we get to the truth of who we really are, and the journey of self-discovery can be hard because we’re asked to look at the good, the bad, and the ugly. It doesn't do any good to try to hide all of that from God, because God knows us better than we know ourselves.” - LaRae Quy
“Anytime we connect with God, it brings hope back into our lives. Without hope, we cannot be brave.” - LaRae Quy
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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The Bible reminds us over and over what a gift from God children are. As parents, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the different worries when it comes to raising a child: Are they healthy? Are they happy? Are they kind to other people? One essential element of parenting that sets a great foundation for a child’s well-being is modeling a spiritually healthy life for our kids, so that they know there’s a God who cares for them, and listens when they pray.
This week, we get to hear from three experts on how we can mentally and spiritually nurture the young minds of tomorrow. Dr. Daniel Amen is the founder of Amen Clinics, and a leading expert in brain health and mental health. Charles Fay, PhD, is an nationally recognized author and president of the Love and Logic Institute, which joined Amen Clinics in 2020, offering practical solutions for educators, mental health professionals, and parents dealing with challenging behaviors in youth. Melina Luna Smith is the Executive Director of Storymakers NYC, who works with parents to reach their children through storytelling, and gives tips on how to incorporate story into the everyday life as a family, as a way to connect and teach faith values as well.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Dr. Meg Meeker
Upcoming interview: Tamron Hall
Thank you to our sponsor: www.give.cru.org
Jesus Calling for Easter
Dr. Daniel Amen
Amen Clinics
Charles Fay, PhD
Love and Logic Institute
Brain SPECT Imaging
active listening
Raising Mentally Strong Kids
Melina Luna Smith
Storymakers NYC
www.storymakersnyc.com
Interview Quotes:
“The good habits that our kids have to start with are our good habits.” - Dr. Charles Fay, Ph.D.
“Write down the mistakes you hope and pray that your kids make.” - Dr. Charles Fay, Ph.D.
“When do we really have the closest, deepest faith encounter with our Lord? Is it when things have gone really well and we've made really good decisions, or is it maybe when we've exercised some free will and we haven't made such a good decision, and then we look up and we say, ‘Oh, please, Lord, I know that I can trust you’? That’s a faith exercise. We all need those.’” Dr. Charles Fay, Ph.D.
“If you want to give your child the greatest gift, which is the gift of faith, you need to work on your relationship with God, of course, but also with your kids.” - Dr. Daniel Amen, MD
“When [children] connect with us, they put our values inside of their heart, and those values travel around with them.” - Dr. Charles Fay, Ph.D.
“We want kids to be engaged with [Bible stories], and we really want them to walk away with information and an experience that is meaningful and that is going to shape and form them, so that they know that God is with them, for them, now and always.” - Melina Luna Smith
“God is the ultimate story maker, and we are story makers too.” - Melina Luna Smith
“Just as Jesus would always bring the parables to the listeners, He was drawing a story. He was drawing a picture of what was heavenly truth for us to hear.” - Melina Luna Smith
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we hear from musician Colton Dixon. From his American Idol days to the unexpected challenges in the music industry, Colton shares how his unwavering faith in God has served as his guiding light through every circumstance–enabling him to be a light to others facing their own storms.
Guest’s Links Colton’s Facebook: @ColtonDixonMusic
Colton’s Twitter: @ColtonDixon
Colton’s Instagram: @ColtonDixonMusic
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Sometimes, our dreams seem so far-fetched that even we don’t believe we’ll ever achieve them. But in Romans 12:2, it says “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” When we train ourselves to look for the good, to see God’s opportunities around every corner, we’ll find that the life of our dreams isn’t so far away after all.
As we celebrate our 400th episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, we’ll hear from Savannah Guthrie and John Tesh, who both had unconventional and unexpected breakthroughs into television. Savannah, co-anchor of the Today Show on NBC, shares how her greatest dream of being in journalism came only when she made peace with leaving it behind. Musician and former host of Entertainment Tonight John Tesh shares about the challenging road to his career in television; including being expelled from college to living in a tent, wondering if he’d ever have a career in any kind of media. Until one night, during a desperate prayer to God, he got the answers he was looking for.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Ainsley Earhardt
Upcoming interview: Dr. Daniel Amen and Dr. Charles Fay
Jesus Calling for Easter
Romans 12:2 NIV
Savannah Guthrie
Today Show on NBC
Michael Feldman
Down Syndrome
LSAT
Court TV
Hoda Kotb
Psalm 121:1-2 NIV
Mostly What God Does
John Tesh
Entertainment Tonight
Juilliard School
The Dave Clark Five
The Beatles
Jimi Hendrix
NC State
Matthew 6:9-13 NIV
Mary Hart
The Moody Blues
Red Rocks
Philippians 1:21-26 NIV
The Purpose Driven Life
www.tesh.com
***Thank you to our sponsor: www.give.cru.org
Interview Quotes:
“When you get really discouraged about the world and the state of the world, for me that really indicates that you could benefit from a different perspective and a higher perspective. And that's why my faith is so important to me.” - Savannah Guthrie
“In this business, we cover so many sad stories and you don't want to get a thick skin. I don't want to get a thick skin. I don't ever want my heart to be hard and cold toward the suffering that we sometimes talk about or witness firsthand. It's okay to show that you have a heart and that you care.” - Savannah Guthrie
“When we are consumed by the grief of the world, our own griefs, we are usually looking inward, and sometimes we need to look up and out for help, for help coming on the horizon, for perspective, for sunshine, for a belief that not only is help on the way, but help is coming from God Himself, who is all-powerful and all-seeing and has a perspective that I cannot possibly have as a human being.” - Savannah Guthrie
“The only prayer that I could remember was the Lord's Prayer. And I would pray that prayer and I would just ask God to save me. And I woke up in the middle of the night, it was like 2:00 in the morning. And the answer came to me, it was basically God saying, ‘Do something.’” - John Tesh
“In the Bible, there was never a promise that you were instantly going to be happy, and that you were instantly going to be devoid of any of any hardships. You understand that there's really only one choice, that is to tough it out, shoulder to shoulder with God, and get through it. And when you do get through it, it's an amazing place to be.“ - John Tesh
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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This week’s stories are set an ocean apart, but share a common thread of two individuals placing their trust in God to be a lighthouse in the dark while mapping a new course for their lives.
Joseph Rojas, the lead singer of the Christian rock band Seventh Day Slumber, candidly shares a background where abuse, addiction, and suicidal ideation haunted his days, and how that led to a rock-bottom moment in the back of an ambulance, where he had a life-changing encounter with God. Author and podcaster Monica Swanson is a mom to four boys who she decided to start homeschooling when they were elementary age. Though Monica and her husband initially had doubts about handling the boys’ education, they leaned into the task and discovered some of the benefits of this type of education, and now help others who desire to choose this route for their own families.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Brandi Rhodes
Upcoming interview: Savannah Guthrie
Thank you to our sponsor: www.give.cru.org
Jesus Calling for Easter
Joseph Rojas
Seventh Day Slumber
Third Day
Skillet
Prayer Chain
Bleach
Unveiled Skies: Conquering Emotional Battles
Monica Swanson
Deuteronomy 6 NIV
www.monicaswanson.com
Becoming Homeschoolers
Interview Quotes:
“It was hard to believe that if there really is a God and He's holy and good, what would He want with someone as messed up as me?” - Joseph Rojas
“I gave my heart to Him. I was talking with my heart to God. I don't remember exactly what I prayed, probably something along the lines of, God, if you'll still have me, if you still want me, I'll give my life to you.” - Joseph Rojas
“When I saw the people come forward and give their hearts to the Lord, I said, ‘That's what I want to do.’” - Joseph Rojas
“I wish that someone would have told me earlier on that I need to quit looking to everybody else to try to tell me who I am…At the end of the day, if you want to know who you are, you should ask the One who created you, and He will tell you that you're not a throw away, that you're not a lost cause, that you're not too fat, that you're not stupid, that you're not worthless. He'll tell you that you are loved beyond measure.” - Joseph Rojas
“Faith has been a huge element of our homeschool experience, mostly because we've been able to live out the Deuteronomy chapter six idea of talking about God's commands as we get up, as we walk along the road, as we lie down.” - Monica Swanson
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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This week, we speak with Navy veteran Michael Hyacinthe, who is also an artist and sculptor. Michael recounts the profound impact of his time in the military, and how, after he returned to civilian life, he wanted to use his talent in the arts to support veterans, and eventually children through his company Wimage, who created a toy robot named Wimee, featured on the PBS children’s show called Wimee’s Words. Our second guest is climate scientist and speaker Katharine Hayhoe, whose work bridges the gap between science and faith. Interpreting complex climate data through the lens of religious stewardship, Katharine educates faith-based communities on their role as protectors of creation. Both individuals exemplify how unconventional talents can spark change and encourage others to utilize their own unique gifts for the greater good.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Elisabeth Hasselbeck
Upcoming interview: Joseph Rojas
Thank you to our sponsor: www.give.cru.org
Jesus Calling for Easter
Michael Hyacinthe
Has Heart
U.S. Navy Seabee
Wimage
Wimee’s Words
Navy Mobile Construction Battalion 40
ArtPrize
Katharine Hayhoe
climate change
Saving Us: A Climate Scientist's Case for Hope and Healing in a Divided World
Interview Quotes:
“We're using art as a bridge for the veterans to express themselves and to connect and be a part of the community that they live in.” - Michael Hyacinthe
“There are a lot of ups and downs in this journey of life, which sometimes are completely out of our control, but knowing that ultimately I'm doing God's will and I need His strength, I know that I am not alone, that I have someone—the Creator—that is with me and that is guiding me through good and bad.” - MichaelHyacinthe
“I need to do everything I can to help fix this problem, because otherwise, how can I truly feel that I am expressing God's love and using the gifts that God has given me to love and to care for others? You don't often think of physics as being a way to love others, but this was a way that I could use my skills to do this.” - Katharine Hayhoe
“More than 70% of scientists at research universities in the U.S. identify as spiritual people, but surveys have shown that most of us don't engage in our local churches just because we feel like we wouldn't be accepted if we talked about our science.” - Katharine Hayhoe
“Just initiating conversation from the heart rather than the head, talking about what we have in common rather than what divides us, and connecting it to our hands—what we can do to make a difference.” - Katharine Hayhoe
“It's just about having that conversation and expressing how you feel, whether it might be joyful, whether it might be sad, whether it might be stymied, not knowing where to go.” - Katharine Hayhoe
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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People of faith have many opportunities to demonstrate how that faith leads and guides them. As a star athlete recognizes where their gifts and talents come from on a platform for all to see, we can also be faithful in our normal daily interactions with others, demonstrating grace—especially when we disagree—and showing kindness, understanding, and humility, all which reflect the love of Christ in our lives.
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, an American hurdler and sprinter, competes in the 400 meter hurdles. She is the 2020 Tokyo Olympic champion with the Games record, and 2022 World champion with a world record time of 50.68 seconds. It takes work to be the kind of athlete Sydney has become, but she always acknowledges the One who gave her the talent and the strength to persevere in her sport. Eugene Cho is a pastor, author, and the president of Bread for the World, a Christian advocacy organization that is committed to ending hunger. Many years ago, while pastoring a church, Eugene noticed a tension that was sweeping through his congregation—and it involved groups of people who disagreed strongly over faith and politics. Over time, he began to look at these situations, drawing parallels from the life of Jesus and how He handled those who disagreed with Him and His work.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Emily Chang
Upcoming interview: Michael Hyancinthe
Thank you to our sponsor: www.give.cru.org
Jesus Calling for Easter
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone
2020 Tokyo Olympic champion
Doha World Championships in 2019
Far Beyond Gold: Running From Fear to Faith
Eugene Cho
Bread for the World
Luke 10:25-37 NIV
John 10:10 NIV
Thou Shalt Not Be a Jerk
Interview Quotes:
“God really helped to rework my mind and my heart to truly put Him on the throne of my life. And because of that, I was able to reprioritize how I viewed track and field and how I prepared for races, how I viewed wins versus losses.” - Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone
“I can show up to the track every day and understand that this is a gift He's given me that win, lose, or draw, it's an opportunity to glorify Him, and my value is already secure in Christ.” - Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone
“I want to make sure that I'm keeping company with people that are not just people that will agree with everything that I will say, that are willing to challenge me, but also making sure that I'm rooted and guided in the gospel through Jesus Christ.” - Eugene Cho
“I just think it's really important that we be wise, cautious, careful not to dehumanize those that we disagree with, because in our self-righteousness, we can become the very things that we criticize in others and not even know it.” - Eugene Cho
“We have to understand that the ultimate call for us as followers of Jesus is not to be successful. It's not to be outrageous. It's not to be the loudest. It's not to be the one that's most heard, but the one that's rooted in Christ, who seeks to be faithful, who walks with integrity, who seeks to love like Jesus loved, including making sure that we're mindful of the lessons of the Good Samaritan.” - Eugene Cho
“I think it's so important that we understand that everything that we do as followers of Christ must be rooted in this commandment to love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. That’s our anchor and our foundation.” - Eugene Cho
“Maybe part of the reason why I have always appreciated the invitation to spend time in God's Word on a regular basis is so that as we go about doing this work, we don't lose ourselves in the blustery winds of our culture and times.” - Eugene Cho
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we hear from author and podcaster, Rebekah Lyons. Rebekah opens up about her experiences with anxiety, raising her beloved son who has Down Syndrome, and how faith and prayer got her through some uncertain moments.
Guest’s Links Rebekah’s Instagram
Rebekah’s Facebook
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
This week, we’re talking to two women who grew up checking off the boxes to be the best Christians they could possibly be, and who would learn later in life would come to know a God who was more concerned with their hearts than with their behaviors.
Comedian Anita Renfroe grew up in a church that didn’t consider laughter to be appropriate within its walls. As a person who always had something funny running through her head, it took her years to realize that joy, which bubbles over into laughter, is actually something that pleases the heart of God. Writer and teacher Hollylu Jostes also grew up in an environment that had very specific notions on what it meant to be a “good Christian.” Basically playing a role that ran counterintuitive to who she was as a person, she struggled to find her authentic self until she learned to know the God who loved her madly, who gave her the freedom to be exactly who she was meant to be.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Rachael Lampa
Upcoming interview: Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone
Thank you to our sponsor: www.give.cru.org
Jesus Calling for Easter
Anita Renfroe
Women of Faith
“The Mom Song”
Good Morning America
Modern Family
The Middle
www.anitarenfroe.com
Hollylu Jostes
Salty: The Deconstruction of a Good Christian
Proverbs 31 NIV
Matthew 5:13 NIV
www.hollyluspeaks.com
Interview Quotes:
“One of my favorite things about how the Lord led me into this is that it takes, sometimes, other people to point out things that should be obvious to you, but are not.” - Anita Renfroe
“I feel it's a gift when the body of Christ can call out [talents] in each other.” - Anita Renfroe
“I like to sign up for things I don't know how to do and do it, and I think that's how I communicate with God the best, is when I'm pushed way out on a limb.” - Hollylu Jostes
“I chose Him because He's God. He is the only rational choice, and then everything falls under that. And once that is in the right place, then you are free to be who God created you to be.” - Hollylu Jostes
“I think it's important to connect with God daily because He is the fuel. He is what gets us through our day. He's what gives our day meaning and He's what infuses our day with joy. He will meet you in these meager little moments that we offer Him and He will grow them.” - Hollylu Jostes
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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This week, we’ll hear the stories of two individuals who were tragically separated from their families at an early age. Though they faced unimaginable losses, they fought to hold onto what was left of their families, and continued to seek God as they also searched for their belonging in the world.
Jochen Wurfl has seen more than his fair share of suffering. As a Holocaust survivor who experienced firsthand Hitler’s persecution of the Jewish people, and separation from his parents, Jochen clung to his brother to survive, and held onto faith that they would make it through. Holly Marie’s parents were members of a cult, who compelled them to give Holly Marie up for adoption when she was just a baby. When members of her biological family connected with her years later, there was an emotional reunion, and revelations that would forever change her life.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Ellie Holcomb
Upcoming interview: Anita Renfroe
Thank you to our sponsor: www.give.cru.org
Jesus Calling for Easter
Jochen Wurfl
Holocaust survivor
Anschluss
Hitler Youth
Sachsenhausen
Czechoslovakia
Mauthausen
D-Day
My Two Lives
Holly Marie
Genealogy for Justice
Dean and Tina Linn Clouse Memorial Fund
Finding Baby Holly
babyhollytips@oag.texas.gov
Interview Quotes:
“We found the cell where my mother was, and she said, ‘Boys, be good at school. Learn as much as you can. Pay attention. I know you love me and I love you. I want you to leave right now because I am afraid you're going to be arrested and you're going to be sent along with me.’ We never talked to our mother again. We never saw her again. She was taken to Auschwitz and she was killed there.” - Jochen Wurfl
“Eventually, our entire family was killed in the concentration camps, or somewhere by the Nazis. Everybody. My brother and I were the only two people who survived.” - Jochen Wurfl
“That was probably the happiest day of my life when we landed in LaGuardia and I knew that I was in this country, a country where we had freedom, where you had democracy. Coming from Germany, from the Second World War, the difference was so immense.” - Jochen Wurfl
“I still remember when I was twelve years old back in Germany, and we heard then on the BBC that the troops had landed successfully in Normandy. And here all these years later, I was in the color guard in Normandy to celebrate the success of the invasion. The sun was rising over the channel, and we stood there lowering the flags, listening to the tides. It was just an unbelievable experience.” - Jochen Wurfl
“I was so blessed in this country and by my life as a whole.” - Jochen Wurfl
“I felt overwhelming joy that my biological family actually searched and prayed for me to be found and wanted to meet me.” - Holly Marie
“I praise God every day for blessing me with an adopted and biological family who both loved me and prayed with me, and always have my whole life.” - Holly Marie
“I praise God for the platform He has opened up for me to share my story. This is an honor that I don't deserve, but shows how great our God is, and that He bestows His greatness upon all those who call upon His name, not because we earn it or deserve it, but because He loves us that much.” - Holly Marie
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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God's love transcends human understanding and surpasses any love we could envision for ourselves. It is pure, unconditional, and ceaseless, unlike human love, which can be influenced by imperfection and self-interest. This divine love serves as an unfaltering source of comfort, healing, and transformation, exceeding any form of love we could dream of in its depth, breadth, and constancy.
You may recognize actress Jen Lilley from her appearances on Criminal Minds, General Hospital, Days Of Our Lives, and several Hallmark and Great American Family movies. Her road to becoming an actress had its fair share of challenges, but her faith that God cared about the outcomes of her decisions kept her pushing forward. Authors and influencers Christian and Sadie Huff have learned firsthand that their relationships with friends, family, and as husband and wife dramatically improve when Christ’s love is at the center.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Kerry Washington
Upcoming interview: Jochen Wurfl
Thank you to our sponsors: www.give.cru.org | www.ReadRelief.com
Jen Lilley
Criminal Minds
General Hospital
Days Of Our Lives
Bulimia
www.jenlilley.com
Christian and Sadie Huff
How to Put Love First
4:8 Men Podcast
Live Original
1 Corinthians 13 NIV
Galatians 5 NIV
Interview Quotes:
“I think anytime you are choosing to center your day around Jesus, you're gonna get through life easier, you're going to get through life with the fruit of the spirit, and you're going to get through life in a way where God really is the author and finisher of your faith.” - Jen Lilley
“If your relationship with God is first, how to put love first essentially is saying how to put God first, because if God is first, then love will flow into all your other relationships from there and it'll bless every relationship that you touch.” - Sadie Robertson Huff
“Your relationship with God does not have to look one certain way.” - Sadie Robertson Huff
“I think that if you do put love first, meaning if you put God first in your life, then you will see these things produced in your life; you will see love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, self-control.” - Christian Huff
“Before [the Bible] says ‘love your neighbor as yourself,’ it says, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, with all your strength.’ You’ve got to love God first so that you can love who He created–you–-so that you can love people, be a good person in your community and love others in your community well.” - Sadie Robertson Huff
“I think connecting to God, prayer and reading; it does make you feel less alone. The Bible and Scripture says that ‘God's always with you,’ it says ‘He will never leave you and never forsake you.’ And I think if you're constantly aware that He's with you in all those moments, it is easier to not go it alone.” - Sadie Robertson Huff
_______________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Of all the languages in the world, music is one of the most profound. Its many shapes and forms can stir up a vast spectrum of emotions and tell stories in a way like no other.
Candi Staton is a legendary, 4x Grammy nominated R&B and gospel singer. Candi vulnerably opens up about how her music was a direct reflection of things she was facing, including an absent father, an abusive marriage, and a battle with alcoholism, and how the music helped her build a bridge to God for herself and others. nobigdyl. found his way into the music industry at an early age, and stumbled upon an unexpected blessing when his mentor, Christian rapper Derek Minor, fired him so that he would be “pushed out of the nest.” Now, in his music, he addresses difficult topics like mental health problems in order to help listeners feel less alone.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Gloria Gaynor
Upcoming interview: Jen Lilley
Thank you to our sponsor: www.give.cru.org
Candi Staton
Nashboro Records in Nashville
Sam Cooke
Lou Rawls
Aretha Franklin
Five Blind Boys
Matthew 11:28-30 NIV
www.candi-staton.com
nobigdyl.
Holy Smoke Festival in Nashville, Tennessee
MTSU
Reflection Music Group
Lecrae
Kirk Franklin
Interview Quotes:
“The passion that I have for music, the sincerity… when I sing, I sing from my heart, not because I know a song. I put everything in that song that I would do if I was singing it for the first time.” - Candi Staton
“Difficult times always come, you just trust God. He knows the ending from the beginning and the beginning from the ending. He knows all of that. He's already been there. He's already paved the way out. And if you keep those kinds of things in mind, knowing that God has got your back and He's going to lead you into the path of righteousness for His namesake, you can make it through anything.” - Candi Staton
“Whatever job you have, whatever career you have, that amount of hours and those setbacks and changing direction and second guessing yourself and redoing it and failing and then succeeding, it's the same thing for artists.” - nobigdyl.
“I think that being a believer, a follower of Christ, no part of our life is exempt from caring and honoring for the other person.” - nobigdyl.
“He has created us in His image, we are very complex creatures, and I think that an honest look at the Scriptures suggests so much of what we need in these situations where we feel depressed or we feel anxious or we're hurting in any way. We need people to sit with us, to walk with us, to care for us tangibly.” - nobigdyl.
“Prayer is essential for me, and one thing that I learned about prayer was that the less I thought of it as a kind of rigid ritual and the more I thought about it as meeting with a Father who loves me, that kind of opened up my prayer life in a whole different way.” - nobigdyl.
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Life is a tapestry of dreams and aspirations, yet sometimes, despite our best efforts, we fail to see our dreams come to life. In these moments, we might feel engulfed by a sense of loss and disappointment. But we can find solace in a promise from God; when one dream fades, a new one is waiting on the horizon, ready to infuse our lives with renewed hope and purpose.
Bryce Kenny is a professional Monster Jam driver who is known as the Great Clips Mohawk Warrior. Bryce always dreamt of being a professional racer, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, who was a professional drag racer. Before reaching his dreams, and eventually setting a World Record in 2021 for the fastest speed in a monster truck, Bryce encountered many roadblocks, and felt he was seeing his dream die before it could even begin—but he would eventually realize that God was working to bring a new dream alive, all in His perfect timing. Also featuring a special segment from the Jesus Calling YouTube Channel: an interview with Susie McEntire Eaton talking to actress Charlene Tilton as recorded for our YouTube monthly video series, Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer!
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Emily Chang
Upcoming interview: nobigdyl
Bryce Kenny
Monster Jam driver
Great Clips Mohawk Warrior
Guinness World Record in 2021
Live Like Warriors
Monster Jam University
www.brycekenny.com
Geared For Life: Making the Shift Into Your Full Potential
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer YouTube series
Charlene Tilton
Interview Quotes:
“I made that faith jump and said, ‘Look, I don't know what's on the other side of this jump. I don't know where I'm going to land here, but I do know, God placed a calling on my life and the circumstances of my life do not change the calling of my life.’” - Bryce Kenny
“I want people to begin to understand that your purpose, that God-given dream that you've had, every God-given dream goes through three stages: a birth, a death and a resurrection.” - Bryce Kenny
“God wants to watch us in the skill sets that He gave us. He gave us passions for a reason and it's not just to use us, it's to be in relationship with Him.” - Bryce Kenny
“There's no better joy in the world for me than to know that the Heavenly Father is using me somehow to put those smiles on people's faces. I'll never get used to that. And I've never had more fun watching God move His hand over an environment that I couldn't have impacted if it was just myself trying to make it happen.” - Bryce Kenny
“No matter how bad it is, I know that God is going to take my situation, even the dire situations, and bring something amazing out of it, whether I get to see it now or twenty years from now. And when you operate with that level of faith, you cannot help but act on that belief, and that is what faith truly is.” - Bryce Kenny
“God is the one that is in control and He still has the creative power that He brought all of this into existence with the spoken word—He still has that same creative power to create the life that you have always believed that God has called you to.” - Bryce Kenny
“God really had His hand on my life.” - Charlene Tilton
“If you are in depression or anxious or in grief or feeling sorry for yourself, what do you do? You go help somebody else. Because that's the best thing.” - Charlene Tilton
“It's just a blessing to be able to start every day in the Word of God and in prayer.” - Charlene Tilton
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Do you find it difficult to believe that you have a life that could be used for good in the world? We tend to minimize the gifts and talents God gave us, wondering how we—just one individual—could ever make a difference. Nature gives us a beautiful example in the way a small, unassuming caterpillar is eventually transformed into a colorful, winged butterfly, bringing joy to others by simply being viewed. When we believe in ourselves and the unique abilities God has given us, and open ourselves up to sharing those gifts with the world, we create impact in a way that might touch lives for years to come.
Actress and comedian Yvonne Orji was raised in a Nigerian family, and she was shaped by traditional views on family life: a hard drive for pleasing people, and a fear of failure. When her dreams of becoming a doctor didn’t pan out, Yvonne began looking at her own unique gifts and leaned into those, which led her to becoming an actor, writer, and producer. Advocate Naghmeh Panahi made headlines when her husband, Saeed, was arrested in Iran for his Christian beliefs. As a missionary herself, Naghmeh had seen many of her friends persecuted for their faith, and was determined to get her husband released—despite the abuse she faced in their marriage. Naghmeh found herself with a huge platform she had dreamed about as a child, and the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives all over the world.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Damon West
Upcoming interview: Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone
Thank you to our sponsor: BetterHelp.com/JesusCalling
Yvonne Orji
George Washington University medical school
DC Improv
Luke 1:45 NIV
Bamboozled by Jesus
Naghmeh Panahi
Saeed Abedini
Tahrir Alnisa Foundation
Islamic Revolutionary Guards
I Didn’t Survive
Interview Quotes:
“I was like, Could it be that God sees something in me that I don't even yet see in myself?” - Yvonne Orji
“For the first time in my life, somebody was giving me the luxury, the privilege, of potential failure. And that's not a thing that I was accustomed to.” - Yvonne Orji
“Like food poisoning, fear is one of those things where if you push past it, you might throw up, you might move about, it doesn't feel good in the moment, because you are not on the other side of it to see, What if God has something? But then you do it and you overcome it. And now you can't see yourself without it.” - Yvonne Orji
“One of the most confusing things to me, or interesting things to me, was in elementary school when they asked me, ‘What do you want to be when you grow up?’ Which is a normal thing that children say to each other. And I remember thinking, Wow, I've never thought about this. Growing up in war and revolution, you don't really think about growing up.” - Naghmeh Panahi
“I got to see the plight of the persecuted church for the first time, and the fear of gathering in homes just to pray together, just to worship together, just to read the Bible together. The fear of being caught with a Bible; it carries the death penalty. And I couldn't wrap my mind around it.” - Naghmeh Panahi
“How was I going to get my husband out of one of the worst prisons in the entire world, in one of the most radical countries in the world? I didn't know. The only way I knew was to get on my knees and pray.” - Naghmeh Panahi
“I stepped out in faith, and I saw God telling me to do that as I was reading His word and I was praying, God was encouraging me and building up my confidence to step out.” - Naghmeh Panahi
“I got to be a voice for the persecuted church. The people I had seen get arrested and beaten and killed because they simply follow Jesus, I got to advocate for them and be a voice for them. And that was encouraging to me.” - Naghmeh Panahi
“I cried out to God and said, ‘God, what are you doing? My life's already hard. You're making my life harder.’ But I didn't know at that time that what God was doing was He was setting me free. He was separating me from my abuser so that the fog of confusion, of abuse, was lifting and He was setting me free as His daughter.” - Naghmeh Panhi
“The joy and peace can be there in any of our lives as His children, no matter the situation, no matter the loss.” - Naghmeh Panahi
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Living with a negative worldview, often born out of childhood trauma or difficult experiences in one's life or workspace, can feel as if you're perpetually shrouded in a bleak fog. The world may seem unkind and unfair, every experience tainted by the shadows of your past. Sometimes it can feel like there’s danger around every corner, stealing our joy and our ability to live without constant fear.
Former FBI investigator Jana Monroe worked on some notorious and heinous murder cases, including those of Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer. She shares about the demanding challenges of interviewing serial killers and how it affected her mindset and her view of the world–and how prayer and daily reflection with God was a lifesaver in rescuing her from fear. Ike Miller, a pastor and author, shares about the hurdles he faced during his formative years, navigating the difficulties of growing up with an alcoholic father and overcoming unhealthy coping mechanisms.
Content Warning: This episode mentions violence and may not be suitable for all listeners.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Herman Mendoza
Upcoming interview: Yvonne Orji
Jana Monroe
Quantico behavioral science unit
Hearts of Darkness
Ike Miller
Bright City Church
alcoholism
Codependency
Good Baggage
Interview Quotes:
“I would pray and I would have conversations with the Lord, and always there would be this overwhelming sense of calmness.” - Jana Monroe
“I began my journey, or He began that journey for me, of starting to look at the good in other people. It was a process. It was certainly nothing that happened overnight, but by having those conversations, He opened up my heart and mind to a whole different perspective and optic of looking at things.” - Jana Monroe
“I have faith that the Lord is going to show me the way out of this and show me a different path, and I was never disappointed.” - Jana Monroe
“I began to rid myself of some of these unhealthy behaviors when I honestly started paying attention to the pain that these things were causing me: anxiety, depression, emotional exhaustion, and being able to do the work to connect those back to childhood experiences and that environment so that I could begin to disarm the impact of some of those things on me as an adult.” - Ike Miller
“One of the things that I often tell people, whether that is in my congregation in preaching or in one-on-one conversations, is pain in the past doesn't die just because we bury it.” - Ike Miller
“One of the things that I often tell people, whether that is in my congregation in preaching or in one-on-one conversations, is pain in the past doesn't die just because we bury it.” - Ike Miller
“Connecting with God in prayer can help us feel less alone because it creates space for us to understand what pain and fears prevent us from connecting and experiencing intimacy now.” - Ike Miller
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Perhaps you are facing a time in your life where the world around you seems to be crumbling, and your heart is heavy with the weight of unexpected trials. How, in the midst of our struggles, can we remain steadfast, continue to show up, and face each day with courage and resolve when the pain and fear threaten to steal any last shred of hope we have? Our guests this week believe that every challenge, every hardship, is a part of God's grand design. They found strength in the belief that their trials were not random occurrences, but purposeful events, shaping them, refining them, and guiding them toward a deeper understanding of God’s love for us.
Jay Hewitt, a pastor in Southern California, found out at 37 years old that he had a malignant brain tumor. What could have sent him into a tailspin fueled him to do something that seemed counterintuitive to someone who would face months of chemo and treatments that would weaken his body: he decided to run an Ironman race. What he learned in this process about his faith and his relationship with God changed his perspective and gave him an appreciation for how God works through our suffering like he’d never had before. Amanda Held Opelt, a seasoned author, speaker, and songwriter, focuses on faith, grief, and creativity. With fifteen years of experience in non-profit and humanitarian work, she’s seen the human love that rises above and surrounds a hurting community—and the hope that gets rediscovered after seemingly, your life is destroyed.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Meg Apperson
Upcoming interview: Jana Monroe
Jay Hewitt
IRONMAN race
Grade II Astrocytoma
2 Corinthians 12:9-10 NIV
ABC’s Wide World of Sports
Nehemiah 8:10 NIV
I Am Weak, I Am Strong: Building a Resilient Faith for a Resilient Life
Amanda Held Opelt
Matthew 26: 36-46 NIV
www.amandaheldopelt.com
Holy Unhappiness
Interview Quotes:
“I’d wrestled with God plenty of times before, and I think that real strength comes from wrestling. When you wrestle with God, He strengthens your inner being.” - Jay Hewitt
“I've got the grace that I need to get through this. Somehow, I'm going to get to experience God's power being demonstrated through my weakness. And not only that, but I'm going to get to experience the paradox of faith that it's when I'm weak, that I'm strong.” - Jay Hewitt
“Any time there's a large obstacle ahead of you, there's great opportunities within that obstacle.” - Jay Hewitt
“In His power, get up, stay strong, and press on and see the dreams that God has given you be fulfilled in your life.” - Jay Hewitt
“I'm passionate about how the experience of loss or hardship becomes integrated into a person's story—how it makes them who they are, how it impacts their relationship with God and with others, and how people rise up and move forward in the aftermath of grief or a disaster.” - Amanda Held Opelt
“I got to witness what happens when people show up for other people when we live as neighbors and offer ourselves and offer resources to one another and come alongside one another in those spaces of lack.” - Amanda Held Opelt
“We are given these holy songs of lament as a form of worship, because part of being human made in the image of God, is to suffer pain, and in fact, God Himself is a highly emotive God.” - Amanda Held Opelt
“I think part of the reason I believe lament is such a high form of worship is that to me, worship is just any time we stand in agreement with God about what is true, about who He is, and who we are, and when we cry out to Him because the world is not as it should be, when we lament injustice and violence, or when we weep over death.” - Amanda Held Opelt
“I think what God really wants with us, where He knows the blessing is, is in intimacy. He wants a relationship with us, and that's where we find the blessing. Relationship with God, intimacy with God, is something He offers to all of us, and sometimes it's actually the path of pain or those uncomfortable emotions. It's the path of lack that brings us into a deeper, richer intimacy with God.” - Amanda Held Opelt
“I love committing to rhythms of prayer and scripture reading, because those practices serve as a safeguard to us when our emotions aren't really feeling connected to God. When we have these habits, they make space for our faith, even when our faith feels small.” - Amanda Held Opelt
“I think grief will still feel like grief, loss is still going to feel like loss, no matter our commitment to the spiritual disciplines. God doesn't always take away that heavy burden we are carrying, but I do believe He gives us the strength that we need to carry it.” - Amanda Held Opelt
“My prayer is that as a Christian, I would not be someone who's just marked so much by my happiness, but more that I would be a person who is marked by hope.” - Amanda Held Opelt
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. The Enneagram system is a widely accepted personality model that offers deep insight into our core driving motivations, opening up exciting possibilities in the prediction and understanding of human behavior. As a doorway to self-discovery and self-awareness, the Enneagram is also a powerful tool for spiritual transformation that can replenish our energy toward our relationship with God and others.
This week podcaster and counselor Christa Hardin shares how she’s used the Enneagram as a tool to help couples communicate better and learn more about each other so that they can learn to grow together. Doctors of psychology, Bill and Kristi Gaultiere, share how we can use the Enneagram to deepen our relationship with God by learning more about emotions and personalities.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Enneagram video series
Upcoming interview: Jay Hewitt
Enneagram
Christa Hardin
Enneagram Type 7
Wheaton College
The Enneagram in Marriage: Your Guide to Thriving Together in Your Unique Pairing
Bill and Kristi Gaultiere
Soul Shepherding
Healthy Feelings, Thriving Faith
Enneagram 6
Interview Quotes:
“I think that it's important that couples realize that they can shine even more beautifully as they walk through these seasons together with faithfulness and learn about one another's [Enneagram] types, learn about how one another thrives, what makes each other feel safe and secure, what makes one another feel like a bit of a basket case.” - Christa Hardin
“It's so lovely to have time and space with God every day to journal, to pray, to be in the Word, to really allow God's Word to refresh us, to trust Him that though pain lasts through the night, joy comes in the morning.” - Christa Hardin
“As we bring our emotions honestly, intimately into relationship with Jesus, it results really in us growing in our emotional intelligence and experiencing the positive emotions of the gifts He's given us, which emotions they move us, they motivate us, they enable us to thrive in our life with Jesus.” - Kristi Gaultiere
“Cultivating healthy feelings is such an important key to a healthy faith, and the Enneagram is just a great tool to help us be healthy in our emotions, relationships, and spirituality, particularly when we take a Jesus-centered and a Biblical approach to the Enneagram, that's when God can really use this tool to bring transformation in our lives.” - Bill Gaultiere
“We've come to blend our personalities together, we've learned that we're better together.” - Kristi Gaultiere
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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For so many, the holidays don’t always represent a time of joy, but trigger memories of painful past trauma, or reminders of deep loss. Whether we greet the holidays with anticipation or dread, we can all be a part of helping each other heal during the holidays. Small acts of kindness, beyond traditional Christmas gifts, can have a big impact in spreading love and creating positive change, especially during a time that brings mixed emotions for so many.
Our first guests this week are digital creators Stevie and Sazan Hendrix. They share some tips about how to navigate the holidays, even when they are hard, and how to find hope even when things feel hopeless. Dr. Emily Smith, who is an epidemiologist at Duke University. Emily’s love for both science and people inspired her to help others answer some difficult questions.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Bo Stern
Upcoming interview: Christa Hardin
Thank you to our sponsor: BetterHelp.com/JesusCalling
Stevie and Sazan Hendrix
Leukemia
Bible
A Real Good Life
Dr. Emily Smith
Duke University
Friendly Neighbor Epidemiologist
Luke 10:25-37 NIV
Mercy Ships
COVID
Ephesians 3 NIV
Hebrews 12:2 NIV
Psalm 27:4 NIV
The Science of the Good Samaritan
Interview Quotes:
“Sometimes life happens in the midst of holidays and exciting things and all the happenings and these unexpected, chaotic things happen, but you're still able to stop and see the good, find that hope in the hopeless moments.” - Sazan Hendrix
“It's not these larger than life things, it's just these small little tokens of appreciation that you can pour into your community and it just is one little thing at a time. And what is that one thing you can do when you look around to help spread God's kingdom and His love?” - Sazan Hendrix
“As an epidemiologist, my job is to quantify the need for children in very low income, impoverished areas and then using that data to choose not to walk by. It's like the Good Samaritan story of where we see someone helping the person on the side of the road in some really tangible ways.” - Dr. Emily Smith
“I think that what it looks like to be a good neighbor in today's world is just wherever you are, be a good human.” - Dr. Emily Smith
“We don't have to do it all, but we can do what our great work is. I think if people can discern where they are and what great work they are doing, I think it helps not get so paralyzed.” - Dr. Emily Smith
“During Christmas, take some time to just breathe and maybe remember who has neighbored us well, to tell them thank you…it cost Jesus so much to be a Good Samaritan, but it gives us courage now to do the same.” - Dr. Emily Smith
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’re talking to author, singer/songwriter and multiple Dove Award winner Ellie Holcomb, who shares about the humbling experience of singing on a stage for an audience, her Christmas family traditions, and the hopes she has for the season.
Guest’s Links Facebook: @ellieholcombmusic
Twitter: @ellieholcomb
Instagram: @ellieholcomb
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
The Bible is filled with stories of people who faced uncertain times; like Joseph who was betrayed by his brothers and was sold as a slave, or Job who went through unbearable pain and loss. But their hardships didn’t cause them to give up—in fact, their lives went on to have profound impact, despite the challenges along the way.
This week’s guests know what it’s like to feel like giving up after enduring a trying season, but instead, persevered in the hope of making their lives count. South Florida rapper Otis has collaborated with artists such as Rick Ross and Flo Rida. As a youth, Otis was kicked out of multiple schools and made some unwise choices due to peer pressure. Instead of succumbing to a label of being a “problem,” he took the challenges he faced in his youth and turned them into a passion to help all kids succeed. Collegiate softball player Katelyn Pavey was born without a full arm. You might think this could have been an impediment to pursuing a sport like softball, but Katelyn was determined to be the best she could be—and ended up becoming one of the top players in her sport.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Darnell Ferguson
Upcoming interview: Stevie and Sazan Hendrix
www.ReadRelief.com
Otis Kemp
Flo Rida
Katelyn Pavey
Phocomelia Syndrome
FCA
Midway University
Kentucky Christian University
I Can
Interview Quotes:
“I’ll never forget. I said, ‘What am I doing? You know, God, you gave me this gifting or whatever it is,’ I didn't understand it, but I knew that I was supposed to be using it for Him. “ - Otis Kemp
“It was hard, it wasn't easy, and I think that's why God is faithful and He’s blessing me now, because I gave up something at a time where it was just insane to the normal individual.” - Otis Kemp
“It's been ups and downs, but God has been able to sustain us all the way through. He never said it would be easy, but He said, ‘I'll be there with you even until the end of the age.’” - Otis Kemp
“Anything you do for the Lord and you present it to Him in the right heart posture, He will come and consume it and He will dwell there. And so I'm honored that He chose Otis. And that's something no one can ever take from me, that God has smiled on me, and it's just the beginning.” - Otis Kemp
“I ended up recovering in four and a half months from this injury, and it just proved to me that trusting in God and trusting that He has a plan, really pushed me to get better and pushed me to come back and play softball again.” - Katelyn Pavey
“I don't need to play for myself. I need to play for Him in all my playing and all my life, my actions and my words should be glorifying to Him and show others to Him through my play.” - Katelyn Pavey
“He has a plan for me, even though I didn't know what the future held, I just was reminded that I know who holds my future, and that in the end, there's going to be a reason why these things happened.” - Katelyn Pavey
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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As we celebrate the season of advent, it’s a wonderful time to focus on prayer. This dialogue with God can be an avenue leading us to tranquility by enabling us to articulate our deepest fears, hopes, and concerns. It provides an opportunity to let go and surrender our burdens. In the practice of releasing our worries, we open ourselves up to God’s calming embrace of serenity.
Father James Martin is a Jesuit priest who is a student of scripture, helping bring it to life for people in new ways. In his latest book called Come Forth, Father Martin explores the story of Lazarus and how understanding the context for Jesus’ greatest miracle can have meaning for us as we strive to let go of things that no longer serve us, and have faith that Jesus can give us new life, just as He gave His friend Lazarus. After Father Martin walks us through the miraculous story of Lazarus, he brings a special message for us about the meaning of Advent as we celebrate this special time of year. Michael Freeland Miller is the founder and one of the senior leaders of UPPERROOM. In April of 2010, Michael and his wife started a small prayer meeting in an office space overlooking downtown Dallas. From that initial prayer meeting, God birthed a movement of prayer and worship that continues to grow globally.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Ryan Stevenson
www.ReadRelief.com
Not That Fancy
Father James Martin
Come Forth
America Magazine
Lent
Advent
Michael Freeland Miller
UPPERROOM
Deuteronomy 10:8 NIV
www.upperroom.co
Interview Quotes:
“What do we want to let die? What do you want to let go of? What do you want to get rid of? What patterns, what behaviors, what addictions do we want to leave behind in the tomb to let die so that we can hear God's voice inviting us to come forth?” - Father James Martin
“People feel so stressed at Christmas, and what is really a joyful holiday becomes sort of a burden. There's always this temptation at Christmas to want to do everything, visit every person, write every single person you know a Christmas card, buy everyone a gift, sort of go for broke when it comes to Christmas dinner. And I think doing less might be helpful.” - Father James Martin
“What does it mean that God became human? What does that mean for me? What does it mean that God was human in the most vulnerable way possible? What does it mean that God would choose to be vulnerable and little and dependent on human beings, on Mary and Joseph?” - Father James Martin
“Instead of being on Amazon all day and clicking for the next gift, trying to get the right thing—stressing out about it may not be as helpful as just five minutes of prayer. It's about balance, I think. And Advent enables us to slow down a bit.” - Father James Martin
“God becomes human in order that we might relate to God better.” - Father James Martin
“I died a thousand deaths to my various strategies and the resume that I had built up in ministry. And the Lord really stripped me in that season in discovering what it was like to build a church around prayer.” - Michael Freeland Miller
“I think prayer is a means to God's presence, His spirit.” - Michael Freeland Miller
“I find such joy in praying with God's people. I find it encourages my faith to listen to other people pray, and then I love to pray for them and then pray together.” - Michael Freeland Miller
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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God's love knows no borders, boundaries, or limitations. It reaches every person, regardless of origin or language. When we strive to follow Jesus’s greatest commandment, “Love one another,” we can begin to break down the walls that often divide us.
This week, we speak to pastor Eric Costanzo and one of his church members, Yana Sherdis, who have dedicated their lives to serving and supporting refugees and international families through their church’s powerful outreach program. We’ll also speak with the director of a new docuseries, ACROSS, Julie Mirlicourtois who shares the inspiring faith of Christian asylum seekers from Central America.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Anthony Ray Hinton
Upcoming interview: Father James Martin
www.ReadRelief.com
John 13:34 NIV
Eric Costanzo
Yana Sherdis
South Tulsa Baptist Church
English second language program
ESL classes
www.southtulsa.org
Julie Mirlicourtois
ACROSS
Oprah Winfrey Show
CBS News
Maybe God
St. Luke's United Methodist
Interview Quotes:
“The biggest thing that made a difference was when folks who were from our church and had been there for a while really started to interact with their refugee and immigrant neighbors and they realized who they were, and they saw them, just who they truly are.” - Eric Costanzo
“When anyone is looking for a safe place or a refuge—it could be because of physical circumstances or emotional circumstances or legitimate issues of safety or spiritual issues—the church can be that kind of safe harbor, just like a ship comes to the harbor so that it might find safe passage.” - Eric Costanzo
“I think I had this gift of faith all along. I think I could feel God so clearly, I just had no clue who He was.” - Julie Mirlicourtois
“It kind of felt like I had been talking to this person on the other side of a closed door my whole life, wondering if He was real or just part of my imagination, and then He revealed Himself to me in so many undeniable ways.” - Julie Mirlicourtois
“I had believed for so long these lies, lies I'd been told about Christians, about Jesus, and I really became determined to cut through the noise of culture and politics and reach people in those secular audiences where I once was.” - Julie Mirlicourtois
“Following the lives of these asylum seekers for the past two and a half, three years, I've never understood more of what the Bible tells us when it says ‘Blessed are the poor.’ Their faith has enriched and enhanced my faith and countless other people so much. It's taught me to shift my perspective that the hardships are there for a reason. I can't just make my life and my kids’ lives in this comfortable place. I have to really thank God for the good and the bad and keep growing through it.” - Julie Mirlicourtois
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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We all need God’s mercy at some point in our lives. And for singer Jason Crabb, that time came when he was in a rebellious phase; realizing the faith he had was something passed down from his family–not necessarily his own. Ultimately Jason began a relationship with God for himself–and that “mercy moment” began a habit of recognizing God’s mercy through all the phases of his life.
Guest’s Links
Facebook: @JasonCrabbMusic
Twitter: @jasoncrabbmusic
Instagram: @jasoncrabbmusic
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
In today's world, characterized by advanced technology and increasing isolation, there's a pressing need to foster real connection. As technology continues to advance, genuine human connections are taking a backseat. However, in Scripture we find that God recognizes; "It is not good for man to be alone." (Genesis 2:18). As part of God’s unique design, He wired us for meaningful connection where we find strength, love, and support from others.
This week, as we celebrate Thanksgiving and a season of connection and gratitude, we have two pastors to help us navigate a season that also can be lonely and disconnected. Author and pastor Levi Lusko sheds light on the growing loneliness crisis in our highly connected world, and Daniel Darling explains the fundamental aspects of healthy relationships, including forgiveness, reconciliation, and trust.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Larry Randolph and Jennifer Bleakley
Upcoming interview: Eric Constanzo
www.ReadRelief.com
Not That Fancy
Jesus Listens for Advent and Christmas
Genesis 2:18 NIV
Levi Lusko
Fresh Life Church
Surgeon General
Psalms 8 NIV
Neil deGrasse Tyson
Ezekiel 3:15 NIV
Marvel at the Moon
Daniel Darling
National Religious Broadcasters Association
Land Center for Cultural Engagement
Texas Baptist College
1 Timothy NIV
2 Timothy NIV
John 13:34-35 NIV
www.danieldarling.com
Interview Quotes:
“God said, ‘It's not good that man should be alone.’ And so I think there's something of the human experience where our souls will always crave and always be deficient if we're not having those vital exchanges, those conversations, those moments.” - Levi Lusko
“I think when we lift our eyes, we'll be reminded, Hey, the one who made the moon, the one who with His fingers called out the stars, with His voice, with the word of His power, separated light from darkness, He loves you. He has a plan for you. He came in the person of Jesus to this world. He wants to have a relationship with you.” - Levi Lusko
“No matter what you're facing today, God is safe to build your life upon, and the weather and the wind can change in a moment, but God's Word never will.” - Levi Lusko
“Jesus knows what you're going through and He has a plan for you in it. He has a plan to give you power and to give you peace and to give you comfort.” - Levi Lusko
“Paul says at one point in 1 Timothy, he says, ‘To fight the good fight.’ In other words, there are things worth fighting for.” - Daniel Darling
“Paul says to Timothy in 2 Timothy, ‘Avoid stupid and foolish arguments.’ And so there are things that we may have opinions on and that may be important to us, but we should be open handed about them and learn to love and live with people who disagree.” - Daniel Darling
“We should say, ‘I'm going to hold onto you amidst all this turmoil in the world, amidst these raging rapids. I'm not going to let you go as a friend.’ I think this is what God is calling us to do.” - Daniel Darling
“We don't have to be alone. We can be known by God and we can know God.” - Daniel Darling
“Once we understand how much God has forgiven us in Christ, anything that we've done against God is even worse than the worst thing done to us, if we can imagine that. And God gives us that ability to forgive.” - Daniel Darling
“See how God will use you as a witness in your own family and in your own communities.” - Daniel Darling
“We're praying to a personal God. We can ask Him for our personal needs. We can draw on Him for strength in our own personal lives, and what a blessing it has been to my family and to countless other families.” - Daniel Darling
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Do you ever wish you could simply start over, or that you had a second chance? Maybe you feel like your life is “too far gone,” that there’s no hope of ever going back to what could’ve been. But there is good news to be found in 2 Corinthians 5:16-17, which says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: the old is gone, the new is here!”” There is always a chance for a fresh start, as our God meets you with compassion, grace and beautiful mercy.
Pastor Herman Mendoza came up through some tough years growing up in Queens, NY, enduring abuse from his father, and finding it hard to find connection from his peers. He ultimately chose to get involved in gang activity and drug trafficking, which brought him the power and sense of connection he had always wanted, but also ended up with run-ins with authorities, and ultimately jail time that he couldn’t negotiate his way out of. He shares how God changed his path to become a force for good in a place where goodness isn’t easily found. Stephen Arterburn, founder of New Life Ministries, has a focus of transformation with God's truth and a genuine desire to see parents shepherd their children well through the pitfalls of the online world. He shares helpful guidance for parents seeking to mentor their children in this screen-saturated time.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: John & Stasi Eldredge
Upcoming interview: Levi Lusko
www.ReadRelief.com
2 Corinthians 5:16-17 NIV
Herman Mendoza
Promise Ministries International
Powerhouse Kids
Rikers Island
Proverbs 26:11 NIV
Drug Enforcement Agency
www.hermanmendoza.com
Stephen Arterburn
New Life Ministries
New Life Live
Jesus Calling for kids
www.stephenarterburn.com
Understanding and Loving Your Child In a Screen-Saturated World
Interview Quotes:
“This was all God setting everything up. He would have it no other way.” - Herman Mendoza
“For the very first time it wasn't about me. It wasn't about excuses. It wasn't about negotiating with God. It was about the wrongs that I've done and that Jesus paid the price for my sins and that He can make it alright, even though the sins that I was committing, there's a price to pay for them, and I had to pay that price.” - Herman Mendoza
“There's hope in Jesus Christ. God is amazing, and when you seek Him, you will find Him. and He will change your life forever.” - Herman Mendoza
“You have to come to that place where you have to know Jesus first. He will navigate you through life’s obstacles and life's challenges. God enables me to have freedom through prayer, to talk to Him and and for Him to remind me that He loves me. He's with me, and the Holy Scriptures are there to guide me each and every day.” - Herman Mendoza
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Experiencing a significant loss or trauma often leads to an identity crisis, a sensation comparable to losing footing on solid ground. You may suddenly feel untethered, as if the person you once knew as "you" has evaporated, replaced by an unfamiliar stranger. Your faith may seem hollow, your relationships distant. It’s like you’re lost in your own life, and you don’t know how to get back.
Our guests this week share how they coped with grief and hardship, and how they found their way back from feeling disoriented and disconnected from themselves. Senior pastor of Fellowship Church Ed Young and his wife Lisa share the heart wrenching story of their daughter, LeeBeth, and her struggle with addiction, and how it forever altered the course of their lives. Dr. Morgan Cutlip looked forward to motherhood, but was quickly faced with the real struggles that come alongside it, and made it her life’s work to help mothers cope with that loss of self, and show them how to remember who they are again.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Dr. Lee Warren
Upcoming interview: Herman Mendoza
Operation Christmas Child
Jesus Listens for Advent & Christmas
Reba McEntire
Not That Fancy
Ed Young
Lisa Young
Fellowship Church
AA [Alcoholics Anonymous]
COVID
A Path Through Pain
Dr. Morgan Cutlip
Philippians 4:8 NIV
Love Your Kids Without Losing Yourself
Interview Quotes
“Through that pain [of losing our daughter], God just surrounded us with His indescribable love. I still can't believe it to this day, but He did, and He has, and I know He will. We had just experienced something together that nobody wants to experience, but it was something that God was walking with us together.” - Lisa Young
“Ed said right after LeeBeth passed away, ‘We will never, ever, ever be the same. We won't do church the same, I won't minister the same, I won't pastor the same.’ And that's in a good way, and so it's continually God showing us new ways to live past this point of grief.” - Lisa Young
“Pour your heart out to God, your anger out to God, your questions out to God, but also realize, Man, God’s got this, He's got me.” - Ed Young
“When things started happening, things that were painful, I was able to draw upon what God had given me, what God had instilled in me, and that's how joy and pain can coincide.” - Lisa Young
“Whatever we face, joy can be ever-present. It seems distant at times, but it's ever-present because of His Presence in my life.” - Lisa Young
“I think that we're in a society right now that is like, ‘Feelings are facts,’ and they’re just not. We put a lot of emphasis on feelings, but feelings are signals. Feelings are a warning bell that are calling you to tune in to you and say, ‘What's going on with me?’” - Dr. Morgan Cutlip
“I just stay in conversation with God all day. I feel like it's a running dialog, and this really is what helps me in so many ways of feeling like I'm never really alone. I am in a relationship with Someone who knows me deeply, who loves me, who doesn't give me more than I can handle; who I can turn things over to.” - Dr. Morgan Cutlip
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Many writers and philosophers have compared the process of living our lives to running a race, or following a path. The Bible, in Hebrews among other places, makes this comparison as well by saying; “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith [Hebrews 12: 1-3].” Much as a marathon runner relies on their faith to complete a grueling race, or a mountaineer looks to the heavens for strength to conquer a strenuous climb, our faith can provide a source of strength and motivation to endure life’s challenges, pushing one's limits beyond perceived boundaries.
With unwavering passion and determination, eight time American Ninja Warrior finalist and competitor Daniel Gil shares how his relationship with the Lord has helped him push through some of the toughest challenges–both mental and physical. Professional tennis player and Deaf World Championship winner Brad Minns lost his hearing at the age of three and shares the challenges that brought when entering the world of tennis, how he found the strength to defy the odds.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Don Wickstrum
Upcoming interview: Pastor Ed & Lisa Young
Operation Christmas Child
Hebrews 12:1-3 NIV
Daniel Gil
American Ninja Warrior
Hebrews 12:2 NIV
Kingdom Ninja
Brad Minns
Never Give Up book
Arnold Schwarzeneggerer
The Education of a Bodybuilder
Deaflympics
Never Give Up movie
Interview Quotes:
“It wasn't until I was chasing wholeheartedly, fully, and completely after my walk with the Lord that these relationships and these doors began to open for what I feel like God had purposed for my life all along.” - Daniel Gil
“I'll put the blinders on, block out all the noise, block out the lights, block out the cameras, block out the audience, and I'll put a smile on my face from ear to ear, because as an athlete and more so as a Christian, I'm grateful for every single opportunity to be there.” - Daniel Gil
“I'll give it everything that I've got, but at the end of the day, I don't find my identity in American Ninja Warrior. I don't find my identity in anything that I do. I find my identity in my walk with the Lord.” - Daniel Gil
“I said, ‘God help me.’ And [as] I said [that] prayer, I left the rest to God. And I came back and won the match.” - Brad Minns
“There's physical training, and there's spiritual training. Physical training has some value, but spiritual training has far greater value because it has benefits, not just in this life, but the life to come.” - Brad Minns
“We all have a gift that God created us for, to use while we are here on this Earth to do what He wants us to do. The only way you are going to use that gift to the maximum is to put God first and let Him have total control in your life.” - Brad Minns
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Naomi Raine from Maverick City Music has been singing since she was just two years old—and the power in her voice comes from a passion to glorify God in her music. Through her life journey, with all its ups and downs, Naomi has kept Christ at the center, allowing Him to shine through in all that she does, which has inspired countless listeners.
Guest’s Links
Facebook: @NaomiRaineMusic
Instagram: @naomiraine
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
When other people's expectations drive our lives, we run the risk of losing our authentic selves, and are subtly steered away from our own unique paths. We’re compelled to show up as others would have us, instead of showing up as our true selves. It can be hard to change our instinct to listen to others and we can get lost in the noise. But when we trust that God will show us who we really are, we are empowered to sift through all those societal expectations and find the courage to stand firm in our truth.
This week, singer and songwriter Rachael Lampa shares how she was thrust into the spotlight at an early age, becoming a number one selling Christian artist at only fifteen years old. After a few years of showing up for her record label, her managers, and her fans, Rachael began to feel her own voice starting to diminish. She shares what brought her back from burnout and how she learned to trust her own voice again. After we hear from Rachael, we’ll talk with Dove award winning rapper KB who shares his own identity crisis as a people pleaser, and whose voice of approval he was really seeking in his quest to feel worthy.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Lauren Alaina
Upcoming interview: Daniel Gil
Operation Christmas Child
Rachael Lampa
People Loving Nashville
www.rachaellampamusic.com
“Perfectly Loved”
KB
www.whoiskb.com
His Glory Alone II
Interview Quotes:
“It was a really special thing to be able to grow in my faith and also grow in music at the same time and watch how the music reflected where I was with my faith.” - Rachael Lampa
“I'm turning my back on the thing that I thought I was going to do for the rest of my life. It was one of those first moments where I was able to say, ‘I trust God right now, I trust God a lot. I don't have a plan for what this is going to look like.’” - Rachael Lampa
“When we give gifts to people, we don't expect them to take that gift and be like, ‘Here you go, world. You can have it, too.’” - Rachael Lampa
“I got to worship [God] in the smallest ways and not always under sound and lights. That is really what brought me to a place where I was able to say, ‘Okay, if music never comes back, I'm okay. I am loved, I still matter, I still have purpose.’” - Rachael Lampa
“I fully trust God, and He has just been honestly blowing me away.” - Rachael Lampa
“I realized that this unhealthiness that was showing up in my life was connected to me working for the approval of a voice that I would never hear.” - KB
“I'm not able to even taste the fruit of my labor because everything I do is always incomplete because I need the approval of my father. That created all kinds of problems in my heart, but what I found was it made me ripe for the Father God.” - KB
“God's glory doesn't take a backseat, it doesn't suspend itself in our brokenness, in our confusion; it is a part of how God shows up and shows out in our weakness. There is strength in confessing our fragility and there’s strength in owning our need for healing.” - KB
“I've been so grateful for the brothers and sisters that God has assigned to me that make up His church, that helped to hold my arms up, helped calm me to repentance and helped to heal the wounds that I've become so acutely aware of.” - KB
“If God is not holding the leash on my desires, if He's not holding the leash on my trauma and what I'm enduring, if He is not holding the leash on my world, I am utterly lost. And I need to break away from that mythical idea that I have the leash in hand and I'm only going to be as happy as I'm in control.” - KB
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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In the bleak aftermath of unspeakable tragedy, it is faith that dawns as our beacon of survival and healing. Faith, by its very nature, is about trust, hope, and a belief that God is in control. It allows us to seek solace and strength in something greater than ourselves, and it provides a comforting balm for our wounded hearts. Both of our guests this week faced heartbreaking circumstances that could have shaken their faith beyond repair, but each of them chose to wait and see what God would do in their lives as they healed from their scars and faced a new way of living through their pain.
Nicole Avant is an author and film producer who grew up around the music business. Her father, Clarence Avant, was known as the Godfather of Black Music, and as an executive in the music business, he furthered the careers of jazz legends like Sarah Vaughn and Jimmy Smith, and was a sought after mentor for artists like Jamie Foxx, David Geffen, Whitney Houston, and others. Nicole’s family life was steeped in music and in faith. It was the faith she would cling to when tragedy struck twice—first, the devastating loss of her mother to the hands of a gunman who invaded their home, and then, the loss of her father shortly after. Author and speaker Gary Miracle unexpectedly found himself on his deathbed in the emergency room, with a 1.7% chance to survive the night. A series of small miracles lined up, and though he ultimately lost all four limbs, Gary’s life was spared, inspiring MercyMe’s hit song, “Say I Won’t.”
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: The Beathard family
Upcoming interview: Rachael Lampa
Operation Christmas Child
Nicole Avant
Clarence Avant
Sarah Vaughn
Jimmy Smith
Jamie Foxx
David Geffen
Whitney Houston
Bill Withers
“Lean On Me”
Philippians 1:11 NIV
Think You'll Be Happy: Moving Through Grief with Grit, Grace, and Gratitude
Gary Miracle
“Say I Won’t”
septic shock
ECMO machine
Depression
www.garymiracle.com
No More Bad Days
Interview Quotes:
“If I need to understand myself, I always go to a song.” - Nicole Avant
“I always go back to the music because you don't feel alone. You never feel alone.” - Nicole Avant
“The first scripture that my mom made me memorize was Philippians 1:11, ‘May you always be doing those good, kind things which show that you are a child of God, for this will bring much praise and glory to the Lord.’ And that was kind of my mantra.” - Nicole Avant
“My faith was everything to me during the experience [of losing my mother]. It does not take the pain away, but it does help you move through the pain. I was taking it day by day, and then it became, ‘Oh, Lord, minute by minute, minute by minute, give me today.’” - Nicole Avant
“Something that took me years to learn, but I'm grateful that I learned it before this [tragedy], is forgiveness really has nothing to do with condonement.” - Nicole Avant
“What a beautiful thing that you could change your thinking and you could use your imagination. And if you use it wisely and ask for help from the divine, you're going to be okay.” - Nicole Avant
“I want to spend my whole life telling people that God is good and begging people to believe that God is good and convincing people of that, and then when something traumatic happens to me, still living my life like He is really, really good.” - Gary Miracle
“I want to fight for life. I want to learn what it means to live and not just be alive.” - Gary Miracle
“I'm still here and I'm still alive and I'm still present, and now I get to gladly say that I am in prosthetic legs and God's grace has been so sufficient and so good for me through this season.” - Gary Miracle
“I get to say that there were only setbacks in my life because I thought they were setbacks in that moment, but looking back, they weren't setbacks at all. Christ was still working out my story and I just wanted it to be a lot faster and happen sooner than He wanted it to. So I had what I call setbacks, but Christ calls them next steps.“ - Gary Miracle
“Be vulnerable enough to tell just one person who you really are, because what I've learned right now in my life is through the sharing of my struggles, both visible and invisible, I've never been more loved in my entire life when I thought I would be judged for all of that.” - Gary Miracle
“I believe that there is going to be a day that I am going to be running down the streets of gold with my brand new legs, with my son Ellis, side by side, and I can't wait to meet him and I can't wait to be there. And I can't wait to meet all of you all there as well. So join me in chasing Jesus.” - Gary Miracle
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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In a big world, we might feel a little lost in the mix, like there’s nothing really special about us. But much like a chef skillfully combines ingredients to create the perfect recipe, God uses challenges, experiences, and talents to give us all a one-of-a-kind design. This week, Food Network personality and author Aarti Sequeira shares how cooking as a hobby turned into a sacred place for her, and how the conversations she would have with God in the kitchen led to a deep and meaningful relationship with Him, and with others who came to dine at her table. Chef Darnell Ferguson came from a place in the inner city where he couldn’t find much to believe in—much less himself. It took a special teacher to see the spark of talent he had, and though he would continue to struggle with feeling forgotten and alone, an encounter with God at church turned his world around. After we hear Aarti’s and Darnell’s stories, be sure to stay with us until the end of the show for a special reading from Reba McEntire herself, straight from her new audiobook, Not That Fancy.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Melissa d’Arabian
Upcoming interview: Nicole Avant
Reba McEntire
Not That Fancy
Operation Christmas Child
Aarti Sequeira
Mumbai
Dubai
Gulf War
Larry King Live
Suzanne Goen
Aarti Paarti
Food Network Star
www.aartisequeira.com
Unwind
Darnell Ferguson
Emeril Live
Superchef Family Cookbook
Interview Quotes:
“Growing up in Dubai, I was like, well, I'm not Arab, I'm not English, I've always felt like I don't quite fit in here. But the beautiful thing about that is that I think it put in me this heart of wanting to connect with people, finding something in common with them so that we could feel connected.” - Aarti Sequeira
“I started to feel really worthless because my identity was so wrapped up in achieving professionally and being a journalist. Once that was taken away from me, who even was I anymore? I felt like a failure.” - Aarti Sequeira
“I felt like God would teach me and meet me in the slicing of the vegetables, the sizzling of the garlic and those things. He would just remind me, ‘I am Creator and you are made in my image, and so when you are cooking, this is you acting out of Me.’” - Aarti Sequeira
“When I cooked, the kitchen became this place of real sanctuary for me, a place where the chaos of my life could turn into order, where I could take a mess of ingredients and turn them into something beautiful, nourishing, helpful, purposeful. It really sort of took me over.” - Aarti Sequeira
“I want people to recognize that when they are in any way impressed by anything I'm saying or doing or cooking or creating, it's not me. If you knew who I was before the Lord took me, I was unremarkable.” - Aarti Sequeira
“The very basic nature of sitting elbow to elbow with someone and talking to them face to face is something that our soul is actually aching for.” - Aarti Sequeira
“I feel so, so grateful that I have this filter of Jesus through which I look at the whole world. I look at every person through it, and I just have so much compassion for people because of that.” - Aarti Sequeira
“I had to learn the hard way. And it also made me understand how much I need forgiveness, how much I need grace, because I know where I came from and I know where a lot of people are at today.” - Darnell Ferguson
“If you can attach yourself to the truth about what God says about who you are, it will change your entire life. You can do way more than you ever imagined.” - Darnell Ferguson
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Music holds an incredible spiritual power that can't be easily defined. It serves as a universal language, connecting people across cultures and experiences, and has a mysterious way of mirroring our innermost feelings and thoughts. The gift God gave us through music can heal, uplift, and inspire, providing spiritual nourishment and a deeper sense of connection to the world around us.
Singer/songwriter Kelly Lang found herself in a dark place after an unexpected and frightening breast cancer diagnosis. As she contemplated her mortality, she started to look at the world with different eyes, and was inspired to write songs about her experiences during a season that would greatly test her strength. Chris Brown, a worship leader and songwriter at Elevation Church, has written amazing songs of worship during his life that help people feel closer to God. Chris describes how music got him through some difficult times, including the loss of his mom, and how God shows up for Him in those challenging places.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Francesca Battistelli
Upcoming interview: Aarti Sequeira
Not That Fancy: Simple Lessons on Living, Loving, Eating, and Dusting Off Your Boots
www.ReadRelief.com
Kelly Lang
The Oprah Winfrey Show
Mammogram
Ascension Saint Thomas Hospitals
“I Think It's Jesus”
Kelly Lang’s latest album ‘Dragonfly’ features the single “I Think It’s Jesus” as well as “I’m Not Going Anywhere,” “Life Sentence,” and more! Lang’s advocacy for breast cancer awareness came full circle with her Grand Ole Opry debut at Opry Goes Pink, the annual event honoring breast cancer patients.
Chris Brown
Elevation Church
Pastor Steven Furtick
“Here Again”
Can You Imagine?
Here Again
Written by Chris Brown, Amy Corbett and Steven Furtick
© 2018 Music by Elevation Worship Publishing (BMI) (admin. at EssentialMusicPublishing.com)
Interview Quotes:
“I survived with an attitude of gratitude and looking at things positively, like, Okay, I've got breast cancer, but at least I'm here. I was just grasping at every little detail because the people that I surrounded myself with taught me that. You could choose to live in a dark place or you could choose to live in a lighter place.” - Kelly Lang
“It's so important to daily set aside time with [God] so that these truths get rooted deeper into my spirit, into my mind, that whatever I'm worried about or facing right now, God is in it with me.” - Chris Brown
“Spending time with Jesus every single day is watering and tending to the garden of my soul.” - Chris Brown
“I need those moments where God can also pull out things in my heart and in my spirit that don't belong there, and He can reveal those things to me.” - Chris Brown
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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It doesn’t matter how much we achieve, or how much we do to show ourselves as worthy, haunting doubts can creep in, making us question our value and undercutting our confidence. Sometimes these feelings stem from an internal comparison with others around us, as we measure our lives against others' highlight reels. However, there is a hope for the dark feelings we have that tell us we’re not enough, or that no one truly cares. The transformative power of God’s love encourages us to shed layers of self-doubt and replace them with an armor of self-acceptance and appreciation. In the face of this love, shame dwindles, losing its power to control our emotions and actions.
This week, actress Kerry Washington plumbs the depths of her family history to vulnerably reveal her own history, and found that she carried shame which made her feel unworthy and unlovable—which manifested into anxiety she would carry into adulthood. Through the help of therapy, prayer, and understanding her story, Kerry began vulnerably sharing her deepest secrets, and learned to love herself by letting go of shame. With a mixture of home design styling, DIY projects, and preaching from God's Word, Anh Lin has created a truly unique space on her YouTube channel, Girl and The Word. Anh recalls one of her darkest moments when she thought to herself, No one truly loves you, when she felt God comforting her and assuring her of her worth. Now, she works to help others transform spaces into healing sanctuaries of peace and reflection.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Carley Summers
Upcoming interview: Kelly Lang
Samaritan’s Purse: https://sampur.se/44HesSt
Kerry Washington
Thicker Than Water
Anh Lin
Girl and The Word YouTube channel
www.girlandtheword.com
Forever Home
Interview Quotes:
“I really have been on a journey to figure out how to take care of myself and provide a sense of safety for myself that helps me stay out of depression and anxiety.” - Kerry Washington
“We are each of us a child of God. We all deserve to be loved unconditionally. We are all worthy. We are no less than or no greater than any other person.” - Kerry Washington
“We don't all have the same journeys, but we do share these common human, unifying experiences of wanting to be loved, wanting to be seen, knowing what it's like to be afraid, knowing what it's like to love, knowing what it's like to have our hearts broken.” - Kerry Washington
“My children and my husband are 100% proof of God to me. Each of us is a crazy, brilliant miracle, just a God blessed miracle to be here.” - Kerry Washington
“My deepest relationships with God have come in my most challenging times. I think those ebbs and flows in life happen to invite us to get closer to goodness, closer to faith, closer to God.” - Kerry Washington
“I had that experience of [God] coming to me when I was at my darkest stage, when I had wanted nothing to do with Him or anything to do with any religion, He still saw His broken daughter and it broke His heart. And He reached out to me.” - Anh Lin
“I generally just look at the things that surround me, such as land or paint or whatever I have within my vicinity, and I really allow the Lord to inspire me in what He wants me to do next, creative wise.” - Anh Lin
“I feel like if we are searching for that next creative project that would really glorify Him, just allow Him to inspire us in unexpected ways, and then open the Bible and see what the scriptures have to say about that.” - Anh Lin
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we hear from author and Enneagram coach Jackie Brewster. Jackie shares with us how the Enneagram personality test can help us learn more about ourselves and how we can apply that knowledge to deepen our relationship with God.
Guest’s Links Facebook: @enneagramwithjb
Twitter: @jb_rewster
Instagram: @enneagramwithjb
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Have you ever been told that you are “too emotional?” Perhaps there are times we feel like we’re failing because we’re feeling. But the truth is, God created us to be emotional beings. Jesus Himself experienced an intense spectrum of emotions—He embraced the sadness, the loneliness, and the anger that all of us feel—and by meeting those feelings, He was able to respond to people in ways that demonstrated emotional maturity and love.
News anchor and host of Big Brother Julie Chen Moonves always prioritized her career, and committed herself to every opportunity in her path, until she began to notice a deep sense of loneliness, and realized that in her pursuit of success she had tuned God out of her life. When she started to tune back into Him, she found the peace she’d been so desperately longing for. Dr. Anita Phillips has studied the intersections of mental health, faith, and culture—and made the discovery that Jesus was an intensely emotional being, and through His example, we can know that there’s an incredible amount of good that can come when we learn to embrace our emotions instead of running from them.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Dr. Gary Chapman
Upcoming interview: Kerry Washington
Samaritan’s Purse: https://sampur.se/44HesSt
Julie Chen Moonves
Big Brother
Little House on the Prairie
CBS News
The Talk
But First, God
Dr. Anita Phillips
Matthew 13 NIV
Hebrews 4:15 NIV
Hebrews 4:16 NIV
www.anitaphillips.com
The Garden Within
Interview Quotes:
“There is no such thing as coincidence. God is in control. God either ordains it or He allows it.” - Julie Chen Moonves
“If you don't put God first, what do you have? Everything you have is because of Him, and I didn't realize that until I was closing in on fifty, because I spent the first forty-eight years of my life ignoring God and having false idols.” - Julie Chen Moonves
“It's easier to be in this world and look at everything just from your lens. Now, I know it's not about my lens, it's about His lens. Everything is about His agenda, not mine. That's what Amen means, it means Thy will be done. Not my will, Thy will.”- Julie Chen Moonves
“God knows how to give you what you need, depending on what you're going through at that moment in your life.” - Julie Chen Moonves
“He has changed how I live, what I prioritize, how I think, how I speak, how I act, how I treat other people, whether I know them or not. Tomorrow is expected, but it is not promised. So having God first in my life has made everyone else in my life have a better relationship with me. It's a trickle-down effect.” - Julie Chen Moonves
“God created gardens to give us an understanding of how He created us. Eden wasn't just about where we lived, it was about how we function.” - Dr. Anita Phillips
“Every time Jesus allowed the full expression of His emotion, power followed, and I never once saw Jesus repent for feeling.” - Dr. Anita Phillips
“We must recognize that emotion is a bodily experience and that we have to allow ourselves to be in its presence, to feel it, and allow it to pass through us just as Jesus did.” - Dr. Anita Phillips
“There is nothing unholy about my emotions, and my emotions matter so much to God.” - Dr. Anita Phillips
“Once we know what we need, then we can get our needs met. But when we refuse to get our needs met, when we refuse to water the soil of our hearts with what it needs, we undermine our entire life.” - Dr. Anita Phillips
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Making mistakes is an inherent part of our human nature, and a crucial element of our learning and growth. It is through mistakes that we come to realize our imperfections, reassess our actions, and strive for improvement. However, when we are shown grace from others amidst our shortcomings, it transcends the simple act of forgiveness. Grace is a potent demonstration of understanding and compassion, a silent acknowledgment that we are all fallible and capable of erring. It serves as a gentle reminder that mistakes do not define us, but rather, it’s how we rise from them, empowered by the grace we've been granted.
Madison Prewett Troutt, a former contestant from ABC’s The Bachelor who is now an author, always longed to be in a relationship. After breaking up with a person she thought might be “the one” and being thrown into the whirlwind of a reality TV show, Madison found grace through her struggle with finding love by a deeper understanding of the foundation of God’s love in her life. Dr. Esau McCaulley is a contributing opinion writer for the New York Times and an assistant professor of New Testament at Wheaton College. After learning of his estranged father’s death, Esau had to dig deep to find the words that he would use for his eulogy, which led him down a path to renewed empathy and believing that every life, no matter the mistakes made, is deserving of grace.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Matthew West
Upcoming interview: Julie Chen Moonves
Samaritan’s Purse: https://sampur.se/44HesSt
Madison Prewett Troutt
The Love Everybody Wants
ABC's The Bachelor
Matthew 22:35-39 NIV
www.madiprew.com
Dr. Esau McCaulley
New York Times
Wheaton College
How Far to the Promised Land
tenant farming
Jim Crow
Interview Quotes:
“Rejection doesn't have to be such a bad thing. Rejection can actually be God's redirection to something better, and it can also be God's protection to keep you from something that you just tried to settle for. He's still in the no’s, just like He's in the yeses.” - Madison Prewett Troutt
“I see what God has done and is continuing to do through me and how He's using my life to just encourage people. And man, just what God can do with a surrendered heart and a yes is truly amazing.” - Madison Prewett Troutt
“It's by the grace of God that I was really able to experience almost all the different versions of relationships in life: the waiting seasons, the heartbreaks, the rejections, the singleness.” - Madison Prewett Troutt
“My goal is to show everybody how to look to God and see ourselves and find deep love amid our culture's shallow ideas about love and romance. Because the truth is, finding love isn't as complicated as we've made it.” - Madison Prewett Troutt
“My mom always told me when I was a kid that, ‘When you get where you're going, don't forget where you came from’ And that's true, but I think it's more than simply remembering where you came from, it’s bringing where you came from with you, and that you bring them through the door of opportunity.” - Dr. Esau McCaulley
“When I began to see my father as a person with his own narrative and his own struggles, it gave me the courage to tell the truth. But telling the truth about my father, both his sins and his successes, gave me space to tell the truth about my past.” - Dr. Esau McCaulley
“I think that if you're a Christian, a person of faith, and you believe that every single life is sacred, then there are no lives that you can throw away.” - Dr. Esau McCaulley
“If God raises the dead, any person's life at any point can change dramatically. Every single life, as long as it's still going on, has a chance to become something beautiful.” - Dr. Esau McCaulley
“I think we owe each other attention. This may seem to be like a relatively small request, but before you can actually help someone, you have to actually get to see them. We need to let what we see change us.” - Dr. Esau McCaulley
“God never abandons His people. The good news is that we don't have to get it right, but that God gets it right. And if we trust Him, we'll find a way home in the end.” - Dr. Esau McCaulley
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Today, we have a very special episode honoring the life of the writer of Jesus Calling and countless other inspiring books, Sarah Young. Sarah left this world for her heavenly home on August 31, 2023. Sarah’s work has had a profound impact, and we’ve been privileged to tell so many stories of that impact here on this podcast with nearly 400 episodes and 700 guests. Nearly 50 million of her books are in the hands of people all over the world, yet Sarah never sought the spotlight for herself. Her sole concern was leading people to a deeper relationship with Christ through her thoughtful and intimate devotionals, which have met so many people in their deepest moments of need. This episode honors her legacy through the heartfelt words of her friend and publisher, Laura Minchew, SVP and Group Publisher of the Children’s and Gift Book Group at HarperCollins Christian Publishing, as well as some special guests whose lives have been directly impacted by Sarah’s work, including:—Lisa Harper, Ainsley Earhardt, Jim Burns, Morgan Harper Nichols, Amy Grant, Margaret Feinberg, and Kathie Lee Gifford.
Links Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Sarah Young
Ryan Sheckler
Lisa Harper
Ainsley Earhardt
Jim Burns
Morgan Harper Nichols
Amy Grant
Margaret Feinberg
Kathie Lee Gifford
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
We all make mistakes in our lives—big and small—and worry about letting people down, or not living up to who we think we should be. But imagine if someone saw our mistakes, no matter how grave, and instead of chastising us, still believed in us and thought we were amazing? That’s what God’s grace is like. It’s a kind of love that forgives us and gives us a fresh start over and over again, without end.
Author and pastor Max Lucado shares his personal journey from soaring to heights of success to rock bottom moments where he questioned why he was doing what he was doing. Max draws parallels between his experiences and the story of Jacob, and how God’s grace overflows to us, even in our worst moments. Veteran comedian Jeff Allen opens up about the struggles in his life caused by addiction, and the rock bottom moment that led him to seek help, and how he ultimately found his way through a relationship with Christ and the unfailing grace that comes with it.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Michael Jr.
Upcoming interview: Madison Prewett Troutt
Samaritan’s Purse: https://sampur.se/44HesSt
Max Lucado
Oak Hill Church
God Never Gives Up On You
Jeff Allen
Alcoholics Anonymous
Proverbs 17:22 NIV
www.jeffallencomedy.com
Are We There Yet?: My Journey From a Messed Up to Meaningful Life
Interview Quotes:
“It was a wrestling with God moment, and just like Jacob was brought to his knees, I was brought to mine. And I realized that apart from God, I can't even make it through the day.” - Max Lucado
“God found Jacob in the Badlands and came to him and spoke to him, and God will do the same for us. I believe that God will meet us in those times.” - Max Lucado
“Be obedient. Acknowledge what you've done. Find help, confess it, go to a circle of friends, begin to get your life in order, because the longer you resist Him, the harder it is to accept Him. Make sure you give problems to God before the problems get to you.” - Max Lucado
“We have a huge advantage. We know the pilot. We know what He has guided the church through or people through. We know He's not intimidated. We know we'll be okay. And so the key is not trying to live a life in which we are escaping turbulence or trying to manage the turbulence on our own. The key is making sure we know the pilot.” - Max Lucado
“If God is big, then our problems are small. But if our problems are big, then it usually means our perception of God is small. So make a big deal out of God.” - Max Lucado
“As you learn in the Bible, anything apart from God that you think will make you whole usually destroys you.” - Jeff Allen
“I loved the whole process of standup comedy, but it really wasn't until I got on my knees and I said to Jesus, ‘I'm yours,’ that it all kind of clicked and made sense to me.” - Jeff Allen
“Unless you're doing it for the glory of God, it becomes a chore. But I consider myself blessed that I had the disease of alcoholism because it got me on a journey that ultimately led to Him.” - Jeff Allen
“God knows the world is broken, and He has charged us with repairing a broken world.” - Jeff Allen
“Pray to Jesus and ask Him to show you what He sees in your heart. ‘What do you see in my heart?’” - Jeff Allen
_______________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Having friends and being part of a community can give us strength, understanding, and inspiration. When we have friends who share beliefs and/or support us, it’s like having a team that’s there to always lift us up whether it is spiritually, emotionally, or physically. Through friendships, we can actually help deepen and strengthen our faith by reminding ourselves that we are a part of something greater.
This week singer and songwriter Jordan Davis shares his experiences and conversations with friends and family that taught him about his faith, and his music. Psychiatrist Curt Thompson discusses what it’s like when we walk with someone through their pain, and how it makes us grow in spiritual thought and understanding.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Victoria Osteen
Upcoming interview: Max Lucado
Samaritan’s Purse: https://sampur.se/44HesSt
Jordan Davis
“Church in the Chevy”
“Buy Dirt”
Curt Thompson
The Deepest Place
Interview Quotes:
“Church is right now, us talking about it. Church is waking up and having a quiet time. It's all around. So you could be in a Chevy on a back road. You could be in a deer stand. You can be going through some tough things at home. You just grab your Bible and talk about it.” - Jordan Davis
“We're called to pray for everybody. Seeing the loneliness and some of the mental health issues in the world, like, the only way that I know to combat that is to pray about it and to just say, ‘Lord, I know you have this, but still help me show how I can help in any area….Lord, put somebody in my life today that could use a light, somebody that's lonely that I could help out, somebody that needs some guidance. Put them in the crowd tonight. Let one of my messages get through to them.’ I've just prayed that I get a chance to actually make a difference.” - Jordan Davis
“The reality is that if we have a pulse, if we are human, we suffer.” - Dr. Curt Thompson, M.D.
“Faith in its most real form is really an act of trust that I place in a real person. So when I say I have faith in a person, whether it's Jesus or somebody else, it is because I am offering things about my life to them that I am entrusting to them in real ways. It’s easy for us to talk about having faith in God, we just don't trust human beings. The degree to which we actually trust God is measured in terms of the degree to which we trust others.” - Dr. Curt Thompson, M.D.
“Suffering is what draws us together in so many ways that shapes, deepens, authenticates the relationship that we have, and so opens our minds and hearts and awareness to what it means for us to share in the sufferings that Jesus experienced.” - Dr. Curt Thompson, M.D.
“Our God's vision was for us to be those who, as His image bearers, steward and create and curate beauty and goodness in the world.” - Dr. Curt Thompson, M.D.
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this bonus episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we hear from southern gospel artist Ben Waites, who was born with arthrogryposis, a condition that causes his joints to be locked up. Ben shares what it means to him to share hope through his music, the life changing moment one of his songs went viral, leading to a chance to audition for American Idol, and how he continues to spread the message of redemption through his music and his life.
Guest’s Links
Facebook: @BenWaitesMinistries
Twitter: @BenWaites
Instagram: @bjwaites
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
One of the most fulfilling aspects of our lives is the opportunity for connection. We were not designed to live life on our own, but today’s world makes it so easy to be self-focused instead of others-focused. John 13 tells us we should love one another as Christ loved us and “…by this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” When we ask God to show us places we can connect to others, we will begin to reap the many benefits of those bonds, and also find ways to bless others as well.
Country music trailblazer Jo Dee Messina is known for her chart-topping hits, but in the process of building her legendary career, she found that everything she’d built was crumbling, mostly because she’d tried to do it on her own. That’s when she found God (or actually, He found her), and she began to see the importance of connection with Him, which in turn led her to see her music as her connection point to the world. Founder of Canines for Christ Larry Randolph and author Jennifer Bleakley found ways to connect with their faith through their animal friends, and they share how help and hope is brought to the world through the gift of therapy dogs.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Walker Zimmerman
Upcoming interview: Jordan Davis
Samaritan’s Purse: https://sampur.se/44HesSt
Jo Dee Messina
Steve Green
“Just To Be Loved”
Larry Randolph
Jennifer Bleakley
National Dog Day
Canines for Christ
American Kennel Club
American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizens certification
Finding Grace
Interview Quotes:
“I think at the very end of myself is where in my spirit, in my soul, I sensed Jesus saying, ‘She's mine.’” - Jo Dee Messina
“For me to connect with the fans is more of a humanities thing, being able to have compassion and empathy for someone else's situation, which just happens to be the same as mine.” - Jo Dee Messina
“I was a hot mess. I built a kingdom on my own, I watched it crumble, and even at the very end of that—when everyone else was running away—[God] was running towards me.” - Jo Dee Messina
“Looking back, I can see how God planted seeds in my heart that day that would one day sprout into a career of writing books and stories about all the beautiful ways God works through animals to direct people's hearts and minds to Himself.” - Jennifer Bleakley
“[God] had planned for me all along to have this dog in my life, this basset hound named Gus, to set up what was going to happen next for me, and that was to create a ministry using therapy dogs.” - Larry Randolph
“[A dog] can just put a little paw up on somebody's hand or in a wheelchair or give somebody a little kiss on the cheek, and wag that tail, and all of a sudden you see the loneliness stop and the sadness just go away. And it's beautiful to see how the dogs can just bring that out. It's just that beautiful way of sharing the powerful love of Christ.”- Larry Randolph
“It's so kind of God to provide dogs to step in when people have been hurt by other people. And then here's a beautiful dog that's able to enter into their heart where maybe another person could not, and help them experience the love of God, the tenderness of God, the faithfulness of God.” - Jennifer Bleakley
“If you listen to God and you obey Him, you take one step forward, God will be there with you through the steps and He will guide you through it and amazing things can happen.” - Larry Randolph
“Just that practice of having an animal sit with you as you sit with the Savior, and a tangible reminder that we're never truly alone, that God Almighty, the God of all comfort and hope, is with us. And I think that is just one of the many, many gifts that our animals can give us. It's really an invitation to see ourselves in this story and to ask and to ponder, What might God be asking me to do?” - Jennifer Bleakley
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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The search for God is a deeply personal endeavor, often paralleling our journey to self-discovery. As we seek to know more about Him, we might read books, listen to sermons, or study Scripture. These all add to our understanding of who God is, but the best way to find Him is simply to talk to Him like you would a friend. And in case we think that we have to pray a certain way, or act a certain way to talk to God, we can rest in the knowledge that a relationship with Him doesn't demand perfection; instead, it thrives on authenticity and humility, fostering a safe space for exploration, growth, and understanding.
When actor Dennis Quaid was a young man, he went on a quest to find Him by simply asking along the way one question: Who is God? After much searching and not finding anything that filled the vacant space inside him, he returned to the faith of his childhood and found the joys of a relationship with Jesus. Country singer Makenzie Phipps has been playing music from a very young age, much to the delight of her grandmother who has supported her all along the way. But now, Makenzie has found herself in a place of needing to support her grandmother as she faces the long decline of Alzheimer’s disease, and now she’s seeking God through it all.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Cam Ayala
Upcoming interview: Jo Dee Messina
Samaritan’s Purse: https://sampur.se/44HesSt
Dennis Quaid
Fallen: A Gospel Album for Sinners
Makenzie Phipps
Alzheimer’s disease
Alison Krauss
Crystal Gayle
Evanescence
Interview Quotes:
“God was always over there or He was out there and not here, and it was just something about what Jesus said. He's a personal experience that you have with Him, rather than something that's just an idea…It's about letting go and letting God work in your life, that's all.” - Dennis Quaid
“There's still room for you at the table.” - Dennis Quaid
“We're all sinners, and it's taken me a lot to get the point that Jesus actually came here, and we were forgiven of our sins even before we committed those sins—that's all we need.” - Dennis Quaid
“I just hope people out there do realize that they are not alone, and that everything will work itself out in the end. There definitely will be some things that may take you a step back, but you can only push through and persevere and go to the next step because it's always just a climbing journey.” - Makenzie Phipps
“I just feel like God has a path for everybody and I feel like He's paving the way for me in my music. Every day is just a new opportunity and a new experience, and I just have to leave everything in His hands because He knows what He wants me to do at the end of the day and I just have to trust Him.” - Makenzie Phipps
_______________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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In our uncertain world, the quest for faith often becomes a beacon of hope and assuredness. Amid the constant fluctuations of the world, God emerges as a grounding force; offering us a sense of purpose and direction when navigating a path we’re not sure of. Even when the world around us is shrouded in uncertainty, faith can illuminate our path, fostering resilience, strength, and optimism.
Dancers Austin and Marideth Telenko met in New York, both pursuing dance careers. Barely a month into their dating life, COVID hit, and the jobs they had dancing fizzled as shows and studios closed. Temporarily relocating to North Carolina, and uncertain about their future, they sought God for guidance, and were led to an opportunity that changed everything. Tom Rudelius is a scientist who began studying the mysteries of the universe long before he would ever have questions about the God of the Universe. His twin brother, who had recently become a Christian, encouraged him to explore his faith; so Tom pursued the truth of the Gospel, very much like he pursued scientific truths, and was amazed by what he found.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Dr. Myron Rolle
Upcoming interview: Dennis Quaid
Samaritan’s Purse: https://sampur.se/44HesSt
Austin and Marideth Telenko
Bible Belt
@Cost_N_Mayor
Tom Rudelius
Cornell
University of California Berkeley
Durham University in England
Letters from a Skeptic
Book of Matthew
Book of Revelation
Chasing Proof, Finding Faith
Interview Quotes:
“There's a lot of people, there's a lot of noise and voices telling you exactly who you should be and exactly what you should look like and exactly what you need to do to get to where you need to go. And I think it's really easy to sort of lose yourself in that noise, which is something that I struggled with a lot.“ - Marideth Telenko
“It was really a risky moment of me being like, ‘This is what I have to do for my life, and if that does not align with you, that's okay.’ And I think that I really had to let [Austin] find it on his own.” - Meredith Telenko
“Putting our faith and our careers in His hands—man, look at what the Lord does, because we would have never, ever in a million years thought that coming out of the pandemic we would be in the position we're in.” - Marideth Telenko
“We always try to make sure that the light shining through us is brighter than the light shining on us.” - Marideth Telenko
“I think that science tells us how the world works in the absence of supernatural intervention, but it doesn't tell us whether or not supernatural intervention is possible in the first place.” - Dr. Tom Rudelius, Ph.D.
“If we're going to talk about Jesus's miracles, we should really talk about it through the lens of the Christian worldview. If the Christian worldview is true, then the miracles of Jesus aren't just these random acts that happened for no good reason, but they're actually a key part of the whole story of what God was doing through Jesus.” - Dr. Tom Rudelius, Ph.D.
“The moment I became a Christian wasn't the moment that I sat down and I did this calculation and decided that Christianity was more likely true than false. It was the moment that I realized that I actually needed these things, that the gospel [my brother] Steve had been telling me about offered, things like forgiveness and hope and eternal life and the Holy Spirit.” - Dr. Tom Rudelius, Ph.D.
“And so to me, it's when I started appreciating that overarching narrative in the Bible and how it fits onto my own experience that the Bible really came alive for me.” - Dr. Tom Rudelius, Ph.D.
“That's what makes it actually so incredible, the gospel of Christianity, that God would look down at us, just this tiny little planet, a seemingly insignificant species, and He would actually decide to become one of us and to come into our world and to suffer and to die so that we could have life.” - Dr. Tom Rudelius, Ph.D.
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Hope holds great significance in our lives and can shape our attitudes, behaviors, and outcomes. As hope affects our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, the absence of it can cause adverse results. For Christians, hope is not merely a positive emotion or wishful thinking but is deeply rooted in faith and trust in God's promises. Life is hard, but we don't have to give in to hopelessness. Though seasons of grief and sadness will come, it is possible, as Paul says in the Bible, to be “Sorrowful, yet always rejoicing” (2 Corinthians 6:10).
This week, we’ll hear from neurosurgeon Dr. W. Lee Warren, who shares about what hopelessness can do to our minds and spirits, how he wrestled with the idea that we can have a hard life and still have an abundant life, and what he did to cope after tragically losing his son. Author Lily Taylor shares about the devastation she experienced when her son was sentenced to 10 years in prison, and how by keeping God at the center, she was able to hang on to hope for herself and her son.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Kirk Cousins
Upcoming interview: Austin and Marideth Telenko
Samaritan’s Purse: https://sampur.se/44HesSt
2 Corinthians 6:10 NIV
Dr. W. Lee Warren
John 16:33 NIV
John 10:10 NIV
Balad Air Force Base
Glioblastoma
Romans 8:28 NIV
C.S. Lewis
www.wleewarrenmd.com
Hope Is The First Dose
Lily Taylor
Unconfined
www.prayersforprodigals.com
Interview Quotes:
“I was trying to figure out how to be a good doctor to people when I couldn't save [my patients], and how to be a good brother in the Lord to people when I couldn't save their bodies.” - Dr. W. Lee Warren
“The last thing I heard my son say in this life was, ‘I love you.’” - Dr. W. Lee Warren
“I had to say, ‘God, this doesn't feel like refinement. It feels like you're burning me up.’ But if I want to move forward in my life, I'm going to have to find some way to redeem this time and make something out of it that [my son] Mitch could be proud of.” - Dr. W. Lee Warren
“What happens with the gift of time, as time passes, God opens your eyes in a new way, and the light comes back on a little bit and you start being able to see ways in which those promises are actually true.” - Dr. W. Lee Warren
“Tragic events happen in our lives, and the bad news is they happen to all of us, but the good news is there really is a way back.” - Dr. W. Lee Warren
“We heard the news that [our son Stephen] was going to be sentenced to a very long prison term, and it was really hard. So we just had to do what we had been doing up to that point when we heard the news, which was to just turn to God and say, ‘Okay, God, you can still work a miracle here.’” - Lily Taylor
“[Our son Stephen] started getting a little bit of joy back because he started to feel that presence, get comfort and peace from the fact that God was so big, so loving, so amazing that nothing that he was facing was going to be impossible to face.” - Lily Taylor
“Your destiny is not defined by what you did, a detour is not your destiny. Your destiny is whatever God says it is, and your job is just to be faithful to whatever light He gives you on your path today.” - Lily Taylor
“God showed us that there's absolutely nothing that He can't use for good. God hears those prayers. It may not look like anything good in the natural, but in God's economy, He is covering it and He does hear our prayers and He does answer our prayers.” - Lily Taylor
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Belief is a crucial factor in personal growth and success. It fuels our determination, inspires resilience, and empowers us to overcome challenges. When we trust what is true we are less influenced by the opinions and judgments of others, which can often be hindered by their own limitations or biases. The object of our faith and belief must be sound, reliable, and constant. When we define our worth by a divine standard instead of the perceptions of others, we find greater self-confidence, authenticity, and ultimately, fulfillment.
This week, author and registered dietitian Leslie Schilling shares her philosophy on having a “full and fed” life where we resist what society tells us is “healthy,” and decide that the bodies God gave us, no matter their size or shape, are miraculous. Author and preacher Bianca Juarez Olthoff shares how she defied the voices that told her that she was “prone to fail” by believing her status as a child of God would bring her a true definition of success.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Upcoming interview: Dr. W. Lee Warren
Samaritan’s Purse: https://sampur.se/44HesSt
Leslie Schilling
CSI
University of Memphis
University of Tennessee
NBA
Cirque du Soleil
diet culture
www.leslieschilling.com
Feed Yourself
Bianca Juarez Olthoff
Grit Don’t Quit
The Father's House
Bill Gates Millennium Scholar
Harvard Business Review
Interview Quotes:
“It's important to have a healthy relationship with food so we can actually feed ourselves, so we can have the energy to go out and connect with others and take care of those we love around us and do our jobs. We have to be fed to live this life well.” - Leslie Schilling
“My hope is that people realize that it's never wrong to feed yourself and that we are diverse by design so we can move into more of a fed and full life.” - Leslie Schilling
“Diet culture has made us not trust our bodies and not believe that body diversity is by design.” - Leslie Schilling
“I think connecting with God daily helps us have a healthy mindset. If we really think about what healthy means, it's our own definition of healthy and not the world's definition of healthy. And for me, that's starting my day with time with God.” - Leslie Schilling
“I think pursuing health in a way that aligns with our individual values can help us spiritually by being fed. If you are living a fed life and not a restricted one, you can do more.” - Leslie Schilling
“No matter what I walked into, no matter what people said, no matter what my test scores evaluated me as, I knew that I was a child of God, and with God on my side and a whole lot of work, you can step into the God call upon your life with or without a traditional educational story or a traditional story of how you were raised.” - Bianca Juarez Olthoff
“We all love an underdog story, but I think it was more the Spirit of God reminding us of our truest identity, that we have a good Father who hears us and loves us.” - Bianca Juarez Olthoff
“This idea of grit, this idea of resilience, this idea of perseverance has been something that has been fostered and fought for in my life.” - Bianca Juarez Olthoff
“Our God is the God who redeems. If the situation is not good, then God is not done, that is the perspective that we need. That perspective allows us to be gritty.“ - Bianca Juarez Olthoff
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this bonus episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’re talking with the head of faith-based partnerships at Facebook, preacher, and author Nona Jones about why we often compare ourselves to other people and their accomplishments, using that as a marker of our worthiness, and how she has had to deliberately learn to refocus her mind on her spiritual value as God’s beloved child.
Guest’s Links
Facebook: @NonaNotNora
Instagram: @nonanotnora
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Jesus Calling Website
Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Even though it may not feel like it, grief can be a source of great hope. The way that we react against what is wrong comes from a deep desire for things to be made right. Our loss may actually lead to healing and restoration. The Bible assures us that better days are coming when God Himself will wipe every tear from our eyes. “There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain,” it says in Revelation, “for the old order of things has passed away.” (Revelation 21:3-4)
Our guests this week have walked through deep and unexpected grief and what even seemed like unfair losses. Best-selling Christian author Philip Yancey uncovered a shocking secret about his father’s death while he was still in college, one that illuminated the sometimes overbearing religious convictions of his mother. Yancey shares how he dove into his family’s origins and how he ultimately found healing from what he calls “toxic faith.” After nearly thirty years of marriage, author Mike Nappa lost his dear wife, Amy, to cancer. Mike turned to scripture to help him get through the day and to cope with processing his grief—and even today, he sees how grief and joy can coexist.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Eddie Montgomery
Upcoming interview: Leslie Schilling
Samaritan’s Purse: https://sampur.se/44HesSt
Revelation 21:3-4 NIV
Philip Yancey
Christianity Today magazine
The Jesus I Never Knew
What's So Amazing About Grace?
Where the Light Fell
Polio
iron lungs
American civil rights movement
Martin Luther King Jr.
Center for Disease Control
G.K. Chesterton
Columbine High School
Virginia Tech
Sandy Hook
www.philipyancey.com
Mike Nappa
Reflections of the Grieving Soul
Psalm 16:8 NIV
Queen Elizabeth
John 15:11 NIV
Matthew 26:38 NIV
Interview Quotes:
“When you grow up in a church environment, it's easy to learn how to behave, how to give a testimony, how to pray, how to do the things that look spiritual. And then one day you wake up and wonder, Is this just a learned behavior pattern that I have, or is it genuine? Am I really connecting to the God of the universe?“ - Philip Yancey
“I started looking for people who were made larger by their faith.“ - Philip Yancey
“Don't just give up on God because of the way God may have been presented to you. It's worth that quest to try to find who God really is and to find that God loves you. And God indeed does imagine a role for you on this earth that no one else has. That's why we were created. We were created in God's image to reflect something of God back to others.” - Philip Yancey
“There's nothing that you can do to get God to love you more. No amount of spiritual calisthenics, no amount of trying to be more spiritual than everybody else—there's nothing you can do for God to love you less.” - Philip Yancey
“God wants to remake us in a way that's good for us. God wants to restore us. God wants to give us a calling, a reason for being, a reason to live on this planet, and grace is the attitude that God has toward us all the time.” - Philip Yancey
“I understand that God is really who He said He was, just like I thought He was before, in the moments of great joy and in the moments of great sorrow. And He is always near in the moments of great joy, and when it gets hard, He doesn't step back and run away. He'll just stand there and stay with you.” - Mike Nappa
“The grief that we have is not something to be thrown aside any more than love would be thrown aside. The grief that we have is something to visit and understand and take value and take benefit from.” - Mike Nappa
“I don't have to be consumed by grief. It can just be part of who I am as I also experience joy and happiness.” - Mike Nappa
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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In celebration of CMA Fest 2023—a country music festival that takes place in Nashville, Tennessee—we’ve got a special episode showcasing country music and faith. We’ll revisit some favorite episodes from country singers who share their stories of heartache, joy, struggles and success–—and how they trusted God through it all, including interviews with Brett Young, Lathan Warlick, Tayla Lynn, Granger & Amber Smith, Reba McEntire with her sisters Susie and Alice, and Travis Tritt.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interviews: Larry Fleet, Lauren Alaina, Randy and Mary Travis, Aaron Tippin, Gary LeVox
Upcoming interview: Philip Yancey
CMA Fest 2023
Samaritan’s Purse: https://sampur.se/44HesSt
Brett Young
Lathan Warlick
Luke 15 NIV
Tayla Lynn
Loretta Lynn
Coal Miner's Daughter
Granger & Amber Smith
Travis Tritt
“Everything Is Beautiful”
Carlos Santana
Ray Charles
Eagles
Common Thread
Reba McEntire with her sisters Susie and Alice
Opry
Interview Quotes:
“I moved to Nashville and God said, ‘Here you go, here's your career.’ And from that moment on, I made writing songs important and I made being authentic in my songwriting important, because I feel like that is the only way to connect with your fans.” - Brett Young
“God was calling me to be a light out into the world.” - Lathan Warlick
“I never felt abandoned. I never felt like God wasn't there. I always knew any time that I wasn't feeling God, it was because that was of my own doing. God is everything to me. Jesus is everything to me. You know, it's always been that way.” - Tayla Lynn
“If you believe like we do that God is sovereign, then [our son] River had three years on this Earth and all of our days are numbered and we have to surrender to that and accept that. And then just do the next best thing to try to move forward to still continue to grow our faith.” - Granger & Amber Smith
“I'm one of those people that can look back and say, honestly, my dreams have more than come true.” - Travis Tritt
“When I don't have anything else to pray about, I just stop and I say, ‘Thank you, God, thank you. I don't know what's coming next. I don't know how I'm going to do this, but I just want to say thank you.’” - Susie McEntire-Eaton
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Our guests this week speak to living a life where they’re seeing things they never thought possible come to fruition, and how faith factored into those events. From singing in small town church choirs to receiving the Golden Buzzer on America’s Got Talent, country trio band Chapel Hart never thought they’d be where they are today, playing music for audiences all over the country and sharing their faith. Andy Partington, author of Hope in Addiction, grew up in a rehabilitation center where his parents worked. He discovered from a young age that recovery from addiction is possible no matter your story, and found his passion for helping addicts see there is hope in Christ for a better future.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Emily Chang
Upcoming interview: Brett Young, Lathan Warlick, Tayla Lynn, Granger & Amber Smith, Travis Tritt, and Reba McEntire along with her sisters Susie and Alice
Chapel Hart
America's Got Talent
Simon Cowell
Glory Days
Loretta Lynn
Dolly Parton
Andy Partington
Novo Communities
Yeldall Manor
Hope in Addiction
Interview Quotes:
“It's been a joy for us to watch God bless people through our music and through our presence because we prayed before every show, ‘God just allow us to be the vessels, may nothing that we say be to glorify us, may all be to glorify You, but more than that, make people hear You through what we do and what we say.’” - Danica Hart
“Every day won't be perfect, but we know that it's all a part of the journey, and that it makes the glory days what it is.” - Devynn Hart
“You're in your glory days and because these are the times of your life, it doesn't exempt you from loss and grief and disappointment and heartbreak. All of those things still happen while you're in your glory days, and our faith has been instrumental in being on this journey.” - Danica Hart
“Even in the things that you don't understand, trust that He's got your path laid out, that the path is there ,and everything you need for your journey is already inside of you, but you've just got to trust that He'll lead you there.” - Danica Hart
“Really, addiction is this experience of losing the power to choose, and recovery is discovering again that that power to choose addiction lives on a continuum.” - Andy Partington
“We live in an age of addiction. Let's talk about addiction. Let's think about addiction, and let's work together, really, to create communities where we have the depth of relationship with one another and the depth of relationship with God, where actually we have a recovery promoting, and an addiction-preventing environment for one another.” - Andy Partington
“When we're in addiction, it's not about pleasure…it's about the avoidance of pain. It's about getting away from something, not moving towards something else, and I think that helps us as we walk alongside those who are in addiction. It helps us to understand what's making them take, what's keeping them in the addiction.” - Andy Partington
“We're not made to be alone. We're made to be together. At a societal level, if we want to ask ourselves why we are seeing so much addiction, those are the kinds of things we need to think about.” - Andy Partington
“A relationship with God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is absolutely transformative for our experience of life, as well as our eternal hope…whether you're in addiction or you're leaving addiction, God wants to hear from you. He wants to enjoy spending time with you.” - Andy Partington
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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There are no guarantees that we won’t face heartache and disappointment in life. But God guarantees that there is deep meaning in all the seasons of our life, and that grief can eventually give way to joy. This is reiterated in scripture, where in John 16:20, it says “You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy.” Whether we are grieving the loss of a person, or experiencing disappointment that we haven’t found what we’re looking for in life, God will find a way to bring us beauty from the ashes.
Singer and songwriter Jimi Cravity is a two-time Dove Award nominee whose music has made its way into the hands of artists like Ludacris and Usher. Cravity faced the tragic loss of his son and made a stunning discovery about God and music during his deepest sadness. Leslie Means thought she was living her dream as a news anchor, but always felt that she was made for something more. With the encouragement of her husband Kyle, Leslie stepped away from her news job and went on to create an online community that helps women in times of need—Her View From Home—and found what she’d been meant to do all along.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Luke Weaver
Upcoming interview: Chapel Hart
John 16:20 NIV
Jimi Cravity
Ludacris
Usher
The Last Amen
liver cancer
Potter's House at One L.A.
Revelations
Revelations 22:13-15 NIV
Deuteronomy 31:6 NIV
Leslie Means
Her View From Home
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Houston Rockets
So God Made A Mother
Interview Quotes:
“Of course, as a parent, you never want to become a bereaved parent. You never want to deal with loss, but what I can say now on the other side is that God has given me beauty for ashes, that He's given me a garment of praise instead of a spirit of heaviness, that He has turned despair into dancing, and I'm thankful for that.” - Jimi Cravity
“I remember there were Sundays where all I could do was just go into the service and I would just go to the altar and kneel and weep. And it was in those moments that I felt very near to Christ, that I felt very near to God, that I felt the nearness of His Spirit, that I felt strength, that I felt Him in those moments of bowing and kneeling at the altar there.” - Jimi Cravity
“The Bible says that God is near to those who are brokenhearted. And I think it's really clear to feel that when you feel blessed, when everything is going your way, when you feel like you're on top of the world–but it's challenging to feel that and remember that when you are experiencing loss and when you're experiencing some of the darkest days that you could possibly experience.” - Jimi Cravity
“I remember driving around for my lunch breaks and I would call my mom. I would call her every day and I'd say, ‘Something is missing. I'm not where I'm supposed to be.’” - Leslie Means
“I knew that God had such a bigger plan for this [Her View From Home website], something that I could never even fathom. And I remember specifically being like, ‘Okay, God, I'm going to keep going on this site as long as you want me to.’” - Leslie Means
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this bonus episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’re talking to country music singer/songwriter Aaron Watson, who shares how an injury to his vocal chords necessitated a need for him to come off the road and rest his voice–with no guarantees that his voice would return. Aaron tells us how scary it was to consider that he may not sing again, but how he chose to trust that God would provide for him, and how he was motivated to tell others about God’s grace in a new way.
Guest’s Links
Facebook: @aaronwatsonmusic
Twitter: @aaron_watson
Instagram: @aaronwatsonmusic
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Jesus Calling Website
Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Sometimes the people we least expect to make a difference in the world are the ones that show up in ways we never thought possible, and are used by God in big ways to draw others to Him.
Alice Marie Johnson had been sentenced to life in federal prison, but she didn’t let it define her. She consistently clung to her faith and then became a minister to other prisoners—despite the tragic circumstances—and she is now an active criminal justice reform advocate. While following anti-human traffickers in Southeast Asia to film a documentary, Christina Zorich witnessed the crippling heartache victims faced, and saw how God can bring hope and healing to anyone, anywhere.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Aaron Tippin
Upcoming interview: Jimi Cravity
Alice Marie Johnson
Psalm 23:4 NIV
John 1:5 NIV
Yale University
University of Washington
Clemency Project 2014
Kim Kardashian
Ivanka Trump
Jared Kushner
Receiving & Discharge
Christina Zorich
The New Abolitionists
Olympia Dukakis
Louis Zorich
Our Town
Unlikely Heroes
Polaris Project
Extreme Love Ministries
Tamar's Center
Interview Quotes:
“I knew that the Lord was with me, because I had peace even standing there [in the courtroom] that I can't even explain to this day how I could be calm hearing that sentence, that executed sentence of death being pronounced over me.” - Alice Marie Johnson
“I asked the Lord, ‘Please show me my purpose in this. Show me what you have for me in this. There's got to be more than this. If You could use me in prison, use me wherever I am, Lord. Let my life stand for something.’” - Alice Marie Johnson
“I know that it was a sovereign hand of God. For someone to see me as a human being worth a second chance, worth redemption, I know that it was God.” - Alice Marie Johnson
“Going on the journey [following anti-traffickers in Asia] was actually in some ways so simple, because I had to be so dependent on God. I had to be so dependent on just getting every little opportunity, appreciating it, and if I made a mistake, I had to learn from the lesson.” - Christina Zorich
“I realized the simplicity of the experience really helped guide me and made my life just simpler in a way. Because when you're doing something for the first time, that wide-eyed openness makes you appreciate things and value things. And the experience and the journey changed me in many ways.” - Christina Zorich
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Fathers can be quite the influence in our lives—sometimes positively, and sadly, sometimes negatively. No matter where we stand with our earthly fathers, we can know that we matter to God the Father. There’s a verse in 2 Corinthians 6:16 that contains this promise from God: “I will live in them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people… and I will be your father, and you shall be my sons and daughters, says the Lord God Almighty.” This promise is available to everyone who calls out to their Father God.
This week’s guests were blessed to have loving relationships with their fathers, and in turn have become fathers who pray for their children, and teach them about the love of their heavenly Father. NFL quarterback Kirk Cousins shares about the challenges and triumphs of his NFL career, and also about the challenges and rewards of being a father—and how he prays for his children daily. Author Jay Payleitner and his daughter, Rae Anne, open up about how to navigate seasons of change in the father/daughter relationship to maintain a strong and loving bond over the years.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Dionne Warwick and Damon Elliott
Upcoming interview: Alice Marie Johnson
2 Corinthians 6:16 NIV
Kirk Cousins
Matthew 7 NIV
Minnesota Vikings
Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV
Michigan State
Julie & Kirk Cousins Foundation
www.kirkcousins.org
Jay Payleitner
Rae Anne Payleitner
Girl Dad
Interview Quotes:
"I look back now and see that God is so much bigger than our circumstances. What I thought was a dead end ended up being really a tremendous path that set me on a dream course to go where I was hoping to go. So I look back now and realize, Lord, you've got a plan. It's not always going to be as straight and easy as I would like it to be, but I’ve got to trust you." - Kirk Cousins
“It had to be God's hand leading my life, which is what it should all be about, that He gets the glory and not us.” - Kirk Cousins
“I found that what's so powerful about the Jesus Calling resources is that no matter what you're walking through circumstantially that's unique to you, so many times the message of that day's word can apply to what you're dealing with. It's powerful the way that it can speak so specifically to people's situations. “ - Kirk Cousins
“When I pray for opportunities to share my faith, God answers and provides those opportunities. So between praying for it, being ready for it, and then trying to walk it out on a daily basis, I think it becomes a great opportunity to treat a locker room almost like a mission field, if you will.” - Kirk Cousins
“I think it's important that you shine your light in such a way that other people would start to think about how they can be generous as well.” - Kirk Cousins
“I think the key to all relationships that span the course of decades, which of course a father daughter relationship will, is understanding that both people are going to evolve and change. And the key is to evolve together, and to embrace that you're evolving.” - Rae Anne Payleitner
“It should be as if your faith runs through you like a thread through a needle, so that everything you do is stitched with it.” - Rae Anne Payleitner
“You want your daughter to have her own faith, because she can't get to heaven, she can't be her best self, if she is piggybacking on your faith. She has to own her own faith.” - Jay Payleitner
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Regardless of the career path you chose, the level of education you have, who you married or didn’t marry, or what you’ve accomplished in life, you hold priceless value in God’s eyes. The timeless verse from John 3:16 brings us comfort that God gave His Son for us—and that no matter what, He died for our sins, and because of that sacrifice, we will have eternal life.
This week’s guests remind us that God’s unconditional love applies in all circumstances. Professional counselor Michelle Nietert and Proverbs 31 Ministries’ Lynn Cowell have written a new book called Managing Your Emojis where they encourage young people to explore their God-given emotions toward a healthier mental space. Donnie Griggs has experienced the unique challenges of being a pastor in a small town, and has felt the pull toward something he perceived as bigger or better. But the years in small-town ministry have changed his heart, and he’s seen how it’s possible to make a huge impact in small spaces.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Ronnie Martin
Upcoming interview: Kirk Cousins
John 3:16 NIV
Michelle Nietert
Lynn Cowell
Managing Your Emojis
Proverbs 31 Ministries
Psalms
Jeremiah 29:11 NIV
Psalm 118:24 NIV
Jesus Calling for kids
Donnie Griggs
Pastoring Small Towns
Romans 12:15 NIV
2 Corinthians 5:14 NIV
Interview Quotes:
“I truly believe that when God is involved in the healing process with trauma and when we can use His Word, there's just an additional life-giving factor that a counselor can bring. Because we can bring the presence of God, we can bring the hope of God in the form of the Holy Spirit to someone who's hurting.” - Michelle Nietert
“David expressed feelings of anger, rage, depression, distress, fear, as well as joy and happiness and thankfulness. He expressed so many emotions, and God called David—this man expressing how he felt—a man after His own heart. So if David can be a man after God's heart and express his emotions freely to the Lord, so can I. “ - Lynn Cowell
“There's such a spectrum of emotions, and we want children to learn that they can turn to God to share their emotions with Him—and teaching children that God made these emotions and He can help them to process these feelings, even the most uncomfortable ones.” - Lynn Cowell
“I think one of the healthy coping skills we have to teach our kids before they ever encounter trouble is how to hold on to hope, how to become resilient, and how to persevere through difficult times.” - Michelle Nietert
“There is nothing you are going to face that you and God can't handle together.” - Michelle Nietert
“I think settling that this is where God's put me for the foreseeable future has really helped me stop looking for greener grass somewhere else and helped me stop complaining about where I was, either internally or out loud. It just helped me to resolve, to be content that this is where God wants me.“ - Donnie Griggs
“What we model is that the community we have is because of what Jesus has done for us. And when you look around the room on a Sunday morning, it should feel like nothing about this makes sense except for Jesus and the way that we care for each other.” - Donnie Griggs
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Creating new habits is hard. Oftentimes, we don’t even notice when we’re stuck in how we’ve always done it, and don’t realize how this can sometimes hold us back from something bigger. But when we’re willing to take a chance by seeking God’s heart in the day to day, He can help us break out of old habits that haven’t been serving us, into a new way of living.
Tara-Leigh Cobble is the host of The Bible Recap Podcast. She shares with us how reading the Bible was a routine habit, until she started to approach it with the mindset of looking for God—and when she did, it became transformative. Dr. Jackie Greene is the co-pastor of Forward City Church with her husband, recording artist Travis Greene. In the early years of her marriage, Jackie struggled with her identity and often compared herself to others, but once she tried to stop negotiating with God about the things she didn’t like, she started to live in the power of her individuality.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Tamera Mowry-Housley
Upcoming interview: Lynn Cowell and Michelle Nietert
Tara-Leigh Cobble
The Bible Recap Podcast
Genesis
Old Testament
PTSD
www.taraleighcobble.com
Israel
Dr. Jackie Greene
Forward City Church
Travis Greene
Georgia Southern University
Permission to Live Free
Interview Quotes:
“I wanted God to tell me what I could do so that I could be a good Christian and earn His approval or figure out what promises I could use to back Him into a corner to get what I wanted from Him…He's not this transactional God, and that really frustrated me because I wanted the Bible to be about me.” - Tara-Leigh Cobble
“Instead of trying to beat myself into submission and trying to conform myself to the image of God, it was Him conforming me to His image.” - Tara-Leigh Cobble
“God doesn't just want you to be resilient, He wants you to be healed. And so it's not just for you to power through these things. It's for you to find the healing that He has available to you.” - Tara-Leigh Cobble
“To feel so loved and seen by my pastor, to feel so cared for—I know that was the kindness of the Lord to just reach into that space and say, ‘I see you and I want you to talk to me about your heart.’” - Tara-Leigh Cobble
“What I have found is generally, people on Earth show up late to the thing that God already knows about us. And so for me, it took a lot of having to push out there to find my own voice and find the affirmation of the Lord to be the thing that I was looking for, rather than waiting for people to affirm a thing that maybe oftentimes I wasn't even showing yet.” - Dr. Jackie Greene
“I recognized that what I had been looking for outwardly, I could find inwardly in my relationship with the Lord. It started to help me progress beyond looking for that, beyond the voices of people having to say it, and allowing God to say it for myself.” - Dr. Jackie Greene
“I think we leave a lot on the table, not recognizing that we already have—on the inside of us—so many hidden treasures. All we have to do is be bold enough or even brave enough to dig for them.” - Dr. Jackie Greene
“I was allowing culture to be my mirror rather than God to be my mirror. And as I began to actually look at Him and see that I wasn't reflecting power or freedom or fearlessness, I came to recognize that, Oh, this really isn't who I am. And so I came to know myself the more I came to know the Lord.” - Dr. Jackie Greene
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this bonus episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’re talking to YouTube sensation Gabriel Conte, who shares how he approaches big decisions in his life by seeking God. He walks us through a few ideas on how to pray, and what to do when we're not sure how to approach those big crossroads in our lives, and how to trust God through that sometimes very scary process.
Guest’s Links Facebook: @gabrielconte
Twitter: @gabrielconte
Instagram: @gabrielconte
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Jesus Calling Website
Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
We’ve all experienced situations that might seem hopeless—and the overwhelming feeling of not knowing where to turn when things look bleak. Our guests this week have experienced traumatic situations that found them at the ends of their own means, when all they could do was breathe a prayer to God in desperation—searching for a glimmer of hope to cling to.
Author and TV host Ali Landry shares her moving story of overcoming a heartbreaking betrayal in her marriage, and on top of that, finding herself facing health issues that made her feel like she was living half a life. Interior designer Carley Summers battled addiction for several years in her young adult life, and at her darkest moment, felt the presence of God guiding her to ask for one more chance—opening the door to a brand-new world.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Jon Gordon
Upcoming interview: Tara-Leigh Cobble
Ali Landry
Reshape Your Life
Breaux Bridge, Louisiana
Crawfish Capital of the World
University of Louisiana
Oprah Winfrey
Carley Summers
ADHD
Alcoholism
Addiction
DUI
Christian Faith Rehab
2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV
Interior design
Port-au-Prince, Haiti
Goodwill
www.carleysummers.com
Sacred Spaces
Interview Quotes:
“My prayer has always been, Lord, let them see Your light in me.” - Ali Landry
“I've done a lot of things over the years and always the grounding force for me has been my relationship with God, 100%.” - Ali Landry
“Here I am with this job that I'm supposed to love and it's supposed to serve me and my life and my family, and I feel like I'm sitting on the sidelines in my life and I feel like I'm kind of having half a life because I'm not a player in my own game. And that's when I decided I deserve more than this.” - Ali Landry
“I always knew that if I was able to lean on God and He was able to pull me through these situations in my life, that it was my responsibility to share it.” - Ali Landry
“I will say my relationship with God 100% is the foundation, it got me through to the other side every time. When you put gratitude in your life, it really shifts everything. It completely shifts your mindset. It completely puts you in a different mood.” - Ali Landry
“We're so busy with our lives that sometimes we forget to stop and recognize God working in our lives.” - Ali Landry
“It was not until my second DUI when I was at the age of twenty-two, when I finally realized that I needed some help and I was ready to surrender my life over to Jesus.” - Carley Summers
“I realized that something was going to have to change. Jesus tried to reach me in that moment because He had a plan and a destiny for me to use my story to give Him glory.” - Carley Summers
“I let the root of Scripture take a hold of my life, and it gave me this unexplainable joy, even though I was in one of the lowest circumstances you can be in.” - Carley Summers
“I think that my life verse is 2 Corinthians 5:17, ‘If I am a new creation and Christ, all those things that have been are now gone, let the new come.’ And so I have to wake up every day and recognize that I am healed from those things.” - Carley Summers
“I always thought that I had to work in the church to do ministry, but I realized that through stewarding people's money well and creating homes where people walked in that they could do life with and have Bible studies and host and work as a family together, I realized that I could create something sacred for other people.” - Carley Summers
“God started to use my story to help set other people free.” - Carley Summers
“We've curated a space to help people feel safe, I think that's how our homes can impact us and help tell our stories.” - Carley Summers
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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At one time or another in our lives, we are bound to experience bouts of anxiety. The Bible does not teach that lack of faith is the cause of anxiety. In our world today, it is almost impossible not to experience anxiety to some degree. We just can’t avoid it. What if instead of running away from our anxiety, we name what is happening, and develop ways to support ourselves through it while leaning on God in the present moment?
Curtis Chang is a pastor and a non-profit director. He remembers early moments of anxiety that were a response to his fears of being in an empty house after school, waiting for his parents to come home. He shares how he developed early coping mechanisms which exacerbated anxiety later in his life, and how through that anxiety, he was able to draw closer to God. Kim Gravel is an author and TV personality who shares about the early anxiety she had while competing in pageants as a young girl and opens up about her journey to find self-confidence.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Janine Reid
Upcoming interview: Ali Landry
Curtis Chang
Duke Divinity School
Redeeming Babel
latchkey kid
The Anxiety Opportunity
Kim Gravel
Atlanta Olympics
WATC TV57
Kim of Queens on Lifetime
Collecting Confidence
Interview Quotes:
“Anxiety is the fear of some potential loss. We all carry that around with us. We all carry around some fear of potential loss.” - Curtis Chang
“Our anxieties have a lot of wisdom contained in them, they tell us a lot about who we are, about our experiences growing up, and what we fear losing.” - Curtis Chang
“What I believe human experience and Scripture tells us is that anxiety itself is not a problem to be eliminated, that in fact, it is actually a fundamental condition of what it means to be human—that to be human is to be vulnerable to loss.” - Curtis Chang
“I know full well the nature of anxiety is a problem, but I also have experienced firsthand the promise of anxiety as an opportunity for spiritual growth, because it takes us to our core beliefs and our core fears about loss, about God, about who God is in Jesus, about what we are actually promised by Jesus in terms of our future.” - Curtis Chang
“My calling is to see people rise in all that God has for them. And for me, the adventure of this life is sharing His message with others. Jesus is probably the reason why I do everything that I do and why I am who I am.” - Kim Gravel
“I did have to deal with a lot of pressures and stress, but it was such a learning ground for me. It's those times of growth that God puts us in so that we go to new levels.” - Kim Gravel
“Get still, because God is constantly wooing and speaking and guiding and leading us. We just get too busy or too broken to hear it or see it or feel it.” - Kim Gravel
“My philosophy on confidence is probably a little different than what the world tells you it should look like. It's truly a Christ-centered confidence, but it's also a confidence that I know whose I am and why I'm here.” - Kim Gravel
“When God calls you to do something, nothing can stop it, damage it, alter it, or prevent it, except you. And that's the reason I want to share this message, because I know without a doubt, true confidence comes with a relationship with Jesus. True calling comes from Him.” - Kim Gravel
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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It’s been said that parenting is a lifelong job that doesn’t end when your children grow up. Our guests this week know firsthand how hard it is to be a parent, and they’ve done the work to build the kind of relationship with their children that is returning dividends in their adulthood. And now, their kids really appreciate them as people, and the influence they’ve had in helping them become who they are today.
Dionne Warwick is a six-time Grammy Award-winning singer who raised her son Damon—who is also a musician—as a single mother. Despite her status as an international superstar, Dionne made it a priority to carve out meaningful moments with her children. Andy and Sandra Stanley are preachers, authors, and parents of three. One of their greatest prayers was that their relationship with their kids would evolve into a friendship and that as adults, they’d still appreciate their family time.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Reba McEntire and her sisters, Susie and Alice
Upcoming interview: Curtis Chang
Dionne Warwick
Gospelaires
Hal David
Billy Ray Cyrus
Dolly Parton
“Peace Like A River” - song with Dionne Warwick & Dolly Parton
Andy and Sandra Stanley
North Point Ministries
Enneagram
The 5 Love Languages
Dr. Charles Stanley
Parenting: Getting It Right - book by Andy & Sandra Stanley
Interview Quotes:
“One of the greatest things that I've learned is just to truly be who I am.” - Damon Elliott
“All the things that [God] does for me, I am truly thankful and grateful for. He's given me a path to follow and a plan He has for me. And I'm following that plan and that path. So whatever comes within the realm of that, I'm supposed to face. I have no problem with that.” - Dionne Warwick
“We prayed with our kids at night when they were young, but we continued to pray with them through every season of life.” - Andy Stanley
“Our parenting goal with our kids was to end up with kids who wanted to be with us and with each other, when they no longer had to be.” - Sandra Stanley
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Do you struggle with how to fit a faith routine into your life? It’s hard to prioritize time for prayer and reflection in our busy, over-scheduled lives, but when we come up against those moments that stretch us beyond our normal limits and make us question the very foundation of our faith, turning to that connection that we have already been establishing day by day to God can be crucial for us to lean on when nothing else makes sense.
Author and podcaster Cleere Cherry Reaves clung hard to her relationship with God when her son Sledge, who was born three months premature, fought for his life. Author Larry Loftis shares about the incredible bond Corrie ten Boom had with God, and how she bravely trusted His guidance to do what was right as she helped hide Jewish people in her home who were fleeing Nazi oppression during World War II. The relationship these women built daily with God informed their responses to heartache and tragedy.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Cam Ayala
Upcoming interview: Dionne Warwick
Cleere Cherry Reaves
Cleerely Stated
Apneic episodes
The Miracle of You
Larry Loftis
Corrie ten Boom
The Watchmaker’s Daughter
Gestapo
Ravensbrück
Mother Teresa
Darmstadt
www.LarryLoftis.com
Interview Quotes:
“I feel like when we were in the hospital, before Sledge came home and that daily experience, I felt like the veil between heaven and earth was thinner than a sheet. It was so obvious to me that God's presence is the miracle.” - Cleere Cherry Reaves
“We learned how to walk through waves that once fell like tsunamis. We learned how to operate and say, ‘Lord, this is not our preference. We would love to take [our son Sledge] home, but we know that Your ways are higher, Your plan is greater, and You are working miracles all around us. Help us see those miracles.’” - Cleere Cherry Reaves
“Life really is a gift, it's pure grace. And I think when we operate from that, we really can fight for contentment in any circumstance.” - Cleere Cherry Reaves
“Miracles are not always water into wine, or the healing that we had expected. Miracles are a million different things in a million different ways.” - Cleere Cherry Reaves
“Fight for a life that operates in contentment and peace that isn't based on what's happening in the world or what's happening to us… I know that good is happening here because God is here.” - Cleere Cherry Reaves
“When we think of people that have to go through things like [what Corrie ten Boom faced], we think Well, they're superhuman. But these were regular people. And what's inspiring is that you have these normal people that rise to the occasion.” - Larry Loftis
“Lots of people hid Jews in the Netherlands, so [Corrie ten Boom is] not unique in that sense. She's not unique in that she suffered, where she's unique is this: Corrie forgave everybody.” - Larry Loftis
“[Corrie ten Boom] traveled the world sharing the gospel, sharing her message of peace and forgiveness and what had happened to her and her family and how the answer was in Christ and He will give you the strength to forgive as He's done for her and her family.” - Larry Loftis
“Corrie is unique in that she was able to forgive the hardest people to forgive, people who were cruel to you, people who betrayed you, people who were responsible for the death of your family. Corrie realizes that, I can't do it on my own, but with God's grace and God's help, I can do it. That’s the big takeaway, because we're all called with the great commission to share the gospel.” - Larry Loftis
“We can look at what Corrie did to forgive the hardest people in the world, to forgive what she [forgave], and use that as our inspiration—with that example and with God's grace, we can forgive, too.” - Larry Loftis
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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It’s a blessing to be able to celebrate with others when joyful things happen in their lives. But it’s also an honor to be able to stand by someone when they are heavy with sorrow and joy seems nowhere to be found.
Popular Christian writer Karen Kingsbury and her son Tyler Russell help others celebrate the joy of their faith by writing stories for families through their Baxter Family children’s books. Pastor David Emmanuel Goatley, the sixth president of Fuller Theological Seminary, has traveled all over the world as a minister and has been inspired at how Christians from all walks of life hold each other up and bear each other's burdens, no matter how much or how little they have.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Nikki DeLoach and Pat Bradley
Upcoming interview: Cleere Cherry Reaves
Karen Kingsbury
Tyler Russell
Philippians 4 NIV
NIV Bible
Strong's Exhaustive Concordance
Los Angeles Daily News
Baxter Family Children books
Being Baxters
John 16:33 NIV
Colossians 3:23 NIV
1 Thessalonians 5:16-17 NIV
www.karenkingsbury.com
A Thousand Tomorrows
David Emmanuel Goatley
Fuller Theological Seminary
Interview Quotes:
“The family that God puts you in are the ones who are going to be with you forever, so really foster those relationships and pour into those relationships.” - Tyler Russell
“I had a beautiful relationship with the Lord, but I was still seeing pain. I was still seeing people going through hard things. And I just didn't think that Christian fiction would be able to handle that. I want to tell stories that are real and true.” - Karen Kingsbury
“We really do both want to serve the Lord first. That's kind of our top thing in everything we do, we want to please God first.” - Tyler Russell
“Prayer is an all day, everyday thing for me. I am so thankful to be able to walk through this life not alone, but with Jesus, and knowing that I have His presence beside me.” - Karen Kingsbury
“I believe that we need to love and laugh often and look for the miraculous in the everyday and lean hard into our relationship with Jesus.” - Karen Kingsbury
“My father's orientation was that you always talked about church and community together. You never spoke of church in isolation from the community because the church should be embedded in community, and the community was informing the life of the church.” - David Emmanuel Goatley
“We were taught to be salt for the earth and light for the world, and so you have to engage the world that God puts you in so that you can bear good and faithful witness. I think that that kind of nurture helped to inform who I have become and how I see the world.” - David Emmanuel Goatley
“I think it's important for students to listen to and learn from the testimonies of people in the global church.” - David Emmanuel Goatley
“I don't recall ever feeling like the hard work of Christian leadership has not been worth it. There have been times where the weight of it has been heavy and wearisome and draining and fatiguing. There have been those times where it's been a headache, but I have not felt that it's not worth it. I've been fortunate to sense that I am where the Lord has sent me.” - David Emmanuel Goatley
“If we don't try to get out in front of Jesus and we let Jesus lead us, then we'll make it through the sleepless nights and we'll make it through the anxious moments, and then we will be able to look back on it and say, ‘The Lord both led me through it and taught me something in it.’ The Lord has been exceedingly kind. And for that, I'm grateful.“ - David Emmanuel Goatley
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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We’re back with another Jesus Listens Stories of Prayer special bonus episode and we’re talking with Hollywood beauty expert and reporter Kym Douglas who makes it her mission to bring laughter and positivity to the world, but is also candid about the tough seasons she’s been through recently. The loss of her husband of 37 years and a recent cancer diagnosis led her to rely on her faith even more–and also reshaped her sense of her own beauty; by seeing herself through the eyes of her Creator.
Guest’s Links Facebook: @hollywoodbeautyexpert
Twitter: @kymdouglas
Instagram: @kymdouglas
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
In the very beginning of the Bible, God stresses the concept that we were created for community: “The Lord God said, ‘It is not good for a man to be alone.” (Genesis 2:18 NIV) People were designed to better one another, to look out for one another, and to be a support system in good times and bad.
This week’s guests, professional soccer player Walker Zimmerman and author David Kim, are both the sons of pastors—an experience which guided them early on to care deeply about other people, and to prioritize cultivating supportive communities that stimulate growth in both themselves and in others. Walker seeks to be authentically relatable and present in his interactions with teammates, fans, the kids he’s mentoring, and in his family. David Kim’s story of loneliness in his early years shaped his desire to help people find connectedness. He walks us through a five-step system to help us open up to the idea of true connection, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Seth and Heather Thompson Day
Upcoming interview: Karen Kingsbury and Tyler Russell
Genesis 2:18 NIV
Walker Zimmerman
Nashville SC
U.S. Men's National Team
Furman University
LA FC
World Cup
Will Boni
book of John
www.walkerzimmerman.com
David Kim
WestGate Church
Interview Quotes:
“I think one of my biggest passions has always been making other people feel welcome—or trying to bring in different groups of people who might not normally all hang out together—and bringing them together for the same purpose or cause.” - Walker Zimmerman
“When I think about soccer and I think about having a bad game, I'm like, Well, my identity isn't wrapped up in one game or being a soccer player. There's something that I'm playing for that's way bigger. I want to honor the Lord with what He's blessed me with on the field.” - Walker Zimmerman
“It doesn't matter what we do. It's who we are as people that matters most at the end of the day.” - Walker Zimmerman
“I think what I was trying to do was just distract myself from experiencing all the pain of what it means to be alone in America, and navigating all the different ways in which I had to face my new world.” - David Kim
“When I'm talking to people, instead of getting easily distracted and being self-focused and self-centered about what I need to get through throughout the day, I try to see what they're sensing, what they're feeling, what might be something that they may need. And I try to lean in, and as I do, I believe that they are met with an incredible sense of belonging and care.” - David Kim
“In this culture where we're so busy and hyper mobile, and we can tend to be easily isolated, many of us long to belong, but we just don't know how.” - David Kim
“[The priority practice] is a reminder to intentionally prioritize relationships that God has given in our lives and for us to intentionally reach out and build friendships." - David Kim
“There is a way in which we can build and love and care for our entire community and still forge the few that God is bringing greater connection, whether that's through shared values or shared interests and things like that, we are able to lean in and build chemistry.“ - David Kim
“The invitation from God is to be honest and real. And as we do, we are able to truly open up and be seen for who we are.” - David Kim
“I'm often self-centered and self-focused, but if I spend time with Jesus, Jesus gives me the eyes to see that I live in this world not for myself, but for Jesus and this world.” - David Kim
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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One of the greatest markers of our adult life is when we fully come to realize that we were designed with intention, created for a specific purpose and mission. Nothing God has ever done has been an accident, and He knows every part of you, even the talents you might not have realized yet. Proverbs 19:21 says, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.” No matter where life takes you, you can trust that He knows where you’re headed, and is guiding you through every step.
Our guests this week each have beautiful abilities that they consider to be gifts from God. Aaron Tippin is a country music star who enjoyed great popularity in the 90’s, but before that, grew up on a family farm, where he learned to fly planes with his father and absolutely fell in love with being in the air, and being “closer to heaven” as he likes to describe. Eleven year-old Jude Kofie, who experiences autism, surprised his family—especially his father Isaiah, who worried about his future—when he walked in to hear Jude playing their portable keyboard like a seasoned pianist, though he’d never played before in his life. When piano tuner Bill Magnusson heard their story on the news, he was compelled to help this family and gave a gift that would allow Jude to realize his potential in a bigger way, and a beautiful relationship was born that has been a gift to them all.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Jodi Stuber
Upcoming interview: Walker Zimmerman
Proverbs 19:21 NIV
Aaron Tippin
4H
Future Farmers of America
Elvis Presley
Loretta Lynn
Clint Black
"You've Got to Stand for Something"
Bob Hope Show Christmas in 1990
"Where the Stars and Stripes and Eagle Fly"
Tennessee Flying Machines
www.aarontippin.com
Jude Kofie
Isaiah Kofie
emergency C-section
G tube
Autism
Local news segment on Jude and Isaiah
The Kelly Clarkson Show
CeCe Winans
Interview Quotes:
“From four years old, I first put my hands on the controls in an airplane. And when I looked out the window and I saw those cars on the ground looking like Hot Wheels toys, I said, ‘This is it. There's nothing greater.’” - Aaron Tippin
“Getting close to Christ during those [early days in Nashville], was very, very comforting. You find out you're not as alone as you think you are.” - Aaron Tippin
“I don't know where my next blessing is going to be. I'm not sure I want to know or need to know. I believe that He does have a plan. God's not through me yet.” - Aaron Tippin
“I know how important it is to have a good instrument to practice on and how lovely it is to have a wonderful piano to play on to make beautiful music.” - Bill Magnusson
“That wonderful gift [of a piano], that selfless act, is what secured Jude's future. It was taking all our worries away.” - Isaiah Kofie
“We seem to live in a world where people are utterly desperate for a little bit of good news and to feel a little better than they feel right now.” - Bill Magnusson
“I just bought a piano and that was all I did. All the rest of this stuff is God, it's not me.” - Bill Magnusson
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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There’s an element to having a relationship with God where you feel compelled to tell others about His love. Because when we’re in a loving relationship, we thrive. It brings us joy, and it gives us stamina to face whatever’s in front of us. Our guests this week had circumstances in their lives that could have made their lives go in directions that might not have been optimal. Having God’s love as a foundation for how they saw themselves in the world was key to giving them that “push” they needed to believe they were made for something more.
Akbar Gbajabiamila is a former NFL player turned television host who almost didn’t take the leap of faith that led him to the career he has today, but it was advice from his father to finish what he started and to be an ambassador for God that motivated him to keep going. Kristian Stanfill is a worship leader of the Passion movement who vulnerably sought sobriety in order to overcome the tough emotions that he was burying and hiding from others.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: The Power of Love
Upcoming interview: Aaron Tippin
Akbar Gbajabiamila
American Ninja Warrior
CBS The Talk
Los Angeles Lakers
Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
San Diego State
Oprah Winfrey
NFL Network
Fight to Survive
Everyone Can Be a Ninja
Kristian Stanfill
Passion movement
Louie Giglio
www.kristianstanfill.com
Make It Out Alive
Passion’s new album I’ve Witnessed It
Interview Quotes:
“I felt like an outcast. I felt like an outsider. But I had to learn how to persevere. I remember something that my father told me, and I never forgot this: ‘Make them say your name.’ Whenever they say your name, it should be in a favorable light. You're doing things that people are going to remember you by.” - Akbar Gbajabiamila
“What's the story here? The story is sometimes you have no idea. You have your mind set on something else, and sometimes others see something special in you that you can't see in yourself.” - Akbar Gbajabiamila
“The better you understand the playbook, the more comfortable you are on the football field. And this is how God was starting to work in my life. As I started to become taught, I started seeing the Lord ordering my step in a certain way. And that right there was the beginning of my journey as a Christian.” - Akbar Gbajabiamila
“The point of that story is that sometimes you do have to create your own opportunities. Sometimes you have to step in faith, and sometimes it looks scary. My father used to say, ‘You're an ambassador for the family, and you're an ambassador for God.’ And I never, ever, ever forgot that.” - Akbar Gbajabiamila
“I thought, Man, if I could be a part of helping people see Jesus and encounter the presence of God with my life, that would be pretty cool.” - Kristian Stanfill
“Alcohol became something that I used to numb these feelings of inadequacy or failure or I'm not good enough or I'm not measuring up. And I think we all feel similar emotions and similar things, and we all live in the same world and feel a lot of the same pressure. I just wasn't dealing with it in a healthy way.” - Kristian Stanfill
“The first step that everybody took was toward me and not away from me.” - Kristian Stanfill
“God started to help me understand things about who He is and His love for me. I started to understand my community's love for me, and it was just transformative.” - Kristian Stanfill
“I've grown up hearing about grace and God's love. But you have to understand that it's real for yourself and that God's grace flows down into the deep, dark place that you're at and meets you there, but it doesn't leave you there. It changes you. It transforms you.” - Kristian Stanfill
“God uses these things in our life, even these broken things, these struggles that we go through, to refine us and make us more like Himself.” - Kristian Stanfill
“If you want a resurrection, then a dying has to happen. But this death is not the end. It's where your life begins.”- Kristian Stanfill
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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As human beings, we’re all on an individual journey, a walk that is all our own. Perhaps you grew up in a family of faith that laid the groundwork for the beliefs you have today, or perhaps you discovered your faith later and can mark the moments where God made Himself present on your journey. No matter how we got to our faith, or where we’re headed, the faith that lives inside us will guide us on a beautiful journey that will take us to the place we’re meant to be.
Andrea Bocelli, the world’s most beloved tenor singer, joins us this week to talk about his faith journey, along with his wife Veronica, who closes the interview with a prayer from Jesus Listens. Speaking in his native Italian, which has been translated to English for this podcast, Andrea recounts how his love for his family and his faith have kept him centered during all the years his career had him jet-setting across the globe to perform on the world’s most iconic stages. Licensed counselor and national speaker Debra Fileta specializes in relationships and mental and emotional health. In her new book, Reset, Debra walks readers through a journey to transform their old habits and bring about lasting change in their lives.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Kristin Smedley
Upcoming interview: Akbar Gbajabiamila
Andrea Bocelli
The Journey
Debra Fileta
Reset
Mark 12:30 NIV
Romans 7:15 NIV
John 8:31-32 NIV
www.debrafileta.com
Interview Quotes:
“I realized that there can't be a clock without a clockmaker…this convinced me right away that between the idea of God and fate, I was going towards the first one, and from that moment everything I had done so far—going to the mass, all these things—wasn't something abstract anymore, instead it was extremely serious, tangible, and important.” - Andrea Bocelli
“I must say that faith has always been very important to me to keep myself down to earth, to remember that everything I've done wasn't my merit, but a gift from God.” - Andrea Bocelli
“The problem is when we approach change from the outside in, it doesn't lead to lasting change.“ - Debra Fileta
“Just because you're a Christian doesn't mean you're healthy. We have to take a journey of healing with Jesus by our side." - Debra Fileta
“There is no trauma that is more powerful than the power of Jesus at work in me.” - Debra Fileta
“Your thoughts ultimately affect how you feel, which then affect how you behave and what you choose to do and how you act.” - Debra Fileta
“Many times, the Lord needs to take us on a journey of going backward in order to heal some of those hurts and insecurities and fears from the past, in order to replace them with God's truth so that we can begin getting unstuck in our present.” - Debra Fileta
“When God reveals a struggle, when God reveals something in your life that's a weakness or a sin, and He's bringing it to the surface of your life, it's not to shame you. It's to invite you into a deeper level of healing.” - Debra Fileta
“It is hard to heal, but it's also hard to stay the same. It's also hard to live with struggle and sin and addiction and bondage.” - Debra Fileta
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this special monthly episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, hosted by Susie McEntire, we’re talking with YouTuber Rob Kenney, the man behind the “Dad, How Do I?” Channel that provides encouragement, practical advice, and tips to anyone who might not have a key parental figure in their lives. Rob’s made all kinds of knowledge accessible as the “Internet Dad,” In this episode, he shares the story of how he started this channel, why it’s important to him to provide a place that people can go for advice and encouragement, and a few tips on how to strengthen your relationship to God through prayer.
Guest’s Links Facebook: @dadhowdoi
Instagram: @dadhowdoi
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Jesus Calling Website
Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Are you one of those people who finds it hard to ask others for help? Though we might find ourselves facing things alone or maybe we just want to tough it out and not burden anyone else with our problems, we should remember when we ask for help—including help from God—we honor those in whom we place our trust—giving them a chance to joyfully give of themselves to support us in whatever we’re facing.
Our guests this week each had moments in their life where they had to face that they couldn’t rely only on their own strength, they needed help to overcome the problems in front of them. Nazareth is a Christian comedian who actively looks to bring laughter to places all over the world that need it most. Michele Cushatt is an author and speaker who knows the lonely places of suffering and is passionate about sharing ways to find joy on the other side.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Tammy Bullock
Upcoming interview: Andrea Bocelli
Nazareth
Subway
Muhammad Ali
Comedy Store
The Improv
www.nazarethusa.com
Michele Cushatt
ENT doctor
squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue
A Faith That Will Not Fail: 10 Practices to Build up Your Faith when Your World is Falling Apart
Interview Quotes:
“I'm going, Wow, I didn't know I can push myself to do that. And I asked myself the question, What do I want to do in life that if I never get paid for it, I will still do it to the best of my ability? I loved seeing people laugh. So I said, ‘This is what I want to do.’” - Nazareth
“I sat there [in church] and I don't know what the message was about, but I heard that God loves me. I can come as I am. I don't have to fix myself. And that He has a plan for my life.” - Nazareth
“The Holy Spirit gave me the go-ahead to become an evangelist, to bring people to Christ through comedy, to encourage believers.” - Nazareth
“I started going to places where it's going to be a tough audience. Prison would be a tough audience. How about IRS agents? How about homeless shelters? I want to go where laughter is needed.” - Nazareth
“The doctors told me clearly, ‘We threw everything but the kitchen sink at you in the hopes of maybe saving your life.’ But in the process, I almost died.“ - Michele Cushatt
“Honestly I didn't know a human being could endure that much physical suffering and still survive.” - Michele Cushatt
“What do you do with your faith in a God who doesn't always behave the way that you expect Him to?” - Michele Cushatt
“He takes the things that look like our biggest devastation and somehow, by some miracle of grace, He goes, ‘I know you think this is going to destroy you. I'm actually going to use it to save you.’” - Michele Cushatt
“I cannot deny how many sweet moments and sweet conversations and sweet experiences and relationships have come not in spite of my suffering, but as a direct result of it.” - Michele Cushatt
“Lament is as much a part of worship as praise is.” - Michele Cushatt
“Even if you have nothing to give, God still has everything to give you. He didn't come and save you because you were so strong and faithful. He came and saved you because He loves you, and that's enough.“ - Michele Cushatt
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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As we figure out how to navigate the various things that life puts in front of us, we may question whether we’re always doing the right thing. When we don’t know what to do, it’s good to remember what Jesus says that can help put us on the right path: “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” [John 13:34] “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” [John 15:13] Some people do literally lay down their lives on a daily basis for others. But the rest of us can choose to lay down our lives and love extravagantly in smaller, every-day living type ways. Those moments when we go out of our way to help someone in need are always something we can know is the right way to go.
James Patterson is considered the world’s bestselling author, and he’s the creator of beloved, enduring fictional characters like Alex Cross, Michael Bennett, and is also known for his critically-acclaimed narrative nonfiction, including works like Walk In My Combat Boots, and E.R. Nurses. When James started writing his new book, Walk the Blue Line, he was astounded, despite recent events that reflect poor choices by police officers, by the good so many other police officers are doing out there, and the challenges they face each time they put on their uniform. Luke Sherman, a former police officer, has experienced thirty years of some of the scariest situations imaginable. Now, he’s taken a new role at the nonprofit organization Folds of Honor, founded by Dan Rooney, and has helped expand their scholarship program from military families to also include the families of America’s first responders. Rachel Faulkner Brown is a gold star wife whose children were scholarship recipients from Folds of Honor, and now as one of the organization’s speakers, Rachel shares how she is passionate to help the families of first responders move from tragedy to hope for the future.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Gary Sinise
Upcoming interview: Nazareth
John 13:34 NIV
John 15:13 NIV
James Patterson
Walk In My Combat Boots
E.R. Nurses
Dolly Parton
Along Came a Spider
Kiss the Girls
Vanderbilt in Nashville, TN
Edgar® Award
Matt Eversmann
Black Hawk Down
Walk the Blue Line
St. Patrick's Cathedral
www.jamespatterson.com
Luke Sherman
Rachel Faulkner Brown
Folds of Honor
Dan Rooney
Be Still Ministries
Never Alone Widows
World War II
Naval Air Station New Orleans
Genesis 50:20 NIV
Revelation 12:11 NIV
Tulsa Police Department
www.foldsofhonor.org
Interview Quotes:
“I don't expect things to come to me, and I'm grateful when they do.” - James Patterson
“What can we do that's the most valuable to everybody else and to ourselves and to our own family?” - James Patterson
“These policemen and women, they really need your prayers too. They need them every day.” - James Patterson
“Now, more than ever in my lifetime, people just need to go somewhere where they can be at peace and believe that somehow it's all going to turn out in a good way, you know? And the crazy thing [is] the truth will set you free. I think it does.” - James Patterson
“Education can never be taken away from us. There are very few things in this world that can't be taken away, and that is definitely one of them, which is why I'm so passionate about having a good education for my children and any other child, because I do think it is the gift that never stops giving.“ - Rachel Faulkner Brown
“I look back and I'm like, Oh, my gosh, what You have done with something the enemy meant to take me out, honestly, to take out me and my children. Look what God has done and flipped it on its head and said, ‘Don't worry, Rachel, I've got people that are going to take care of you and your little children, just like Joseph told his own brothers.’” - Rachel Faulkner Brown
“The work that you do sometimes you don't see the results of. But if it's done with good intentions and the foundation of our faith behind it, it'll change lives. It'll bring mountains down.” - Luke Sherman
“Everybody has fear. But what are we going to do? Because there's something more important. And from every crisis and tragedy, I think there's an opportunity.” - Luke Sherman
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Maybe one of the most beautiful and affirming passages in the Bible are words written by David in Psalm 139: “My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, and skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all are written, the days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them.” (Psalm 139:15-16). Whenever we wonder what we’re doing with our lives or when we’re wading through a new difficulty, we can know that we were lovingly created on purpose by God to live out a purpose that it could take us our whole lives to discover. Even when our lives seem to be in shambles, we can live in the truth that we’re made by Him for so much more, and He is constantly pointing us toward our ultimate destiny. GRAMMY winning gospel artist Erica Campbell had success from an early age as a singer, but still struggled with whether or not she was enough to carry out God’s purpose. Writer and mother of six Crystal Paine shares how a difficult period of her life influenced how she guides others to make order of their similarly messy lives.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Emily Chang
Upcoming interview: James Patterson
Psalm 139:15-16 NIV
Erica Campbell
Evangelistic Church of God in Christ
Columbia Records
“A Little More Jesus”
“Positive”
Crystal Paine
MoneySavingMom.com
IVF
foster parents
DCS [Department of Children’s Services]
reunification
The Time-Saving Mom
Interview Quotes:
“A lot of times when God gives you something amazing, the work is the tough part, but the work is where you learn who you are. The work is where you learn who God is, your ability to endure.” - Erica Campbell
“Once I learned to accept who I am and make the best of who I am and what I am, He gave me everything I need to be everything I need.” - Erica Campbell
“There is no error in His creation. And then also there's no error in you. If He didn't make a mistake, then I can't be a mistake. If He knows what He's doing and He's an intentional God, then there's not something I'm missing. I don't have to take something away to be what He wants me to be. It's all inside.” - Erica Campbell
“God was allowing me to learn how to stand on my own two feet.” - Erica Campbell
“When I am worrying, when I am feeling stressed, when I am feeling frustrated, it's usually an indication that I'm not resting in the Lord, that I'm trying to micromanage and control my life on my own instead of recognizing how much I have been given in Jesus.” - Crystal Paine
“I want to live from a posture of prayer, of understanding that all I have and all I am is because of Jesus and leaning on Him and relying upon Him and looking to Him and recognizing that I cannot do this life well in my own strength.” - Crystal Paine
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Change is constant in life. Sometimes the wave of change runs its course over your life slowly, and sometimes change creates a 180-degree turn in a moment’s notice. Whatever the circumstances, learning to be adaptable and trusting that God is in the middle with us during those changes is key to us navigating life’s turnarounds. Sister Jean Schmidt was ready to retire from her role as an educator at Loyola University when she was 75 years old. But God had different plans—and Jean was called to stay on in a role to help student athletes keep their grades up. This evolved into a position as team chaplain for the men’s basketball team, which led to her renown as the “basketball nun” who accompanied the team on their improbable road to the Final Four. Now at 103 years of age, Sister Jean shares her story and her great purpose in life which is to serve God, be faithful to Him and to help people, no matter how much that impacts where she “thought” she would be at this stage in life. Tara Sun had a plan for her life—med school, marriage, and then ministering to her community. At a very young age, though, Tara’s life took a major turn with an unusual medical diagnosis. She had to reframe her entire life as she dealt with her illness. What she discovered at this time became the focus of her writing and the message she wants to share with others.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Meg Apperson
Upcoming interview: Erica Campbell
Sister Jean Schmidt
Loyola University
Final Four
Great Depression
Bob Hope
Linda and Tony Hope
USC
Kezar Stadium
Notre Dame
NCAA
Title IX
March Madness
Donte Ingram
Clayton Custer
Wake Up with Purpose: What I’ve Learned in My First Hundred Years
Tara Sun
Fibromyalgia
Matthew 11 NIV
Surrender Your Story
Interview Quotes:
“Having a sense of humor is part of life. I think one has to enjoy life, and I do. I have a lot of fun.” - Sister Jean
“In my early days of teaching there was no connection [for girls] with sports because boys had most of the attention at that time. But then as things grew and women were getting their place in sports, it showed that these women can do many things that men can do." - Sister Jean
“Don't let anybody ever spoil your dream. Do whatever you can to fulfill that dream and take the steps necessary to do that. If the dream is not for you, you'll find out.” - Sister Jean
“That's my great purpose in life, is to serve God and to be faithful to Him and to help people, to do my very best in that and to just know that I enjoyed life and I continue to do that. I've had a good life so far, 103 years.“ - Sister Jean
“It's really cool how I used that because looking back, I just didn't think much of it. But now I can see how God used that love for writing. It is really awesome to see it now because I would have not told you this is how things would have played out.” - Tara Sun
“There were so many times that I dwelled on my circumstances in self-pity, and I even got bitter and frustrated with God because things weren't going my way. This wasn't a part of the plan.” - Tara Sun
“When that diagnosis came and the rest of my life started unfolding, I realized I'm not in control. And that's actually okay, God had something better for me. He just took me completely off of path and completely on a different blueprint than I could have ever come up with on my own. So that's when I had to learn to surrender my story and instead trust where God was leading.” - Tara Sun
“God is still good even when your circumstances are not…your weakness is a beautiful testimony for His strength. Just imagine what God may have you do and the lives He may have you change through sharing your stories of illness and weakness.” - Tara Sun
“We burden ourselves when we try to grasp control instead of surrender.” - Tara Sun
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Faith, we’re talking with creator, entrepreneur, and father of nine Stephen Miller about the joys and challenges that come with raising children, and what Stephen’s prayers looked like during a particularly hard season.
Guest’s Links
Facebook: @themillerfam
Twitter: @TheMillerFam2
Instagram: @THEMILLERFAM
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Life throws a lot of stuff our way, both good and bad. But have you ever found yourself at that wall when you know that if one more thing comes your way you’re going to explode? We don’t fully understand why God allows us to reach those breaking point moments, but we can know that He loves us and we can trust that He is a refuge from the worst of storms in our life.
Luke Weaver is a newly-signed pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds, after recently playing for the Kansas City Royals. Luke got attention beyond his athletic talents in the league for the special glove he wears designed to look like an old-school Bible. It reminds him of God’s promise to stand by him in any situation. Talaat and Tai McNeely are a married couple who faced a fork in the road when Talaat came clean about his less-than-ideal financial situation just before they were married—and how they had to rebuild trust with each other in their understanding and communication, and now, how they help others facing the same mountain.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Janine Urbaniak Reid
Upcoming interview: Sister Jean Schmidt
Luke Weaver
Florida State University
Major League Baseball
Adam Wainwright
Tommy John injury
subscap capsule
Bible Glove
Talaat and Tai McNeely
His and Her Money
Interview Quotes:
“Every ballpark came with new feelings and new moments and taking pictures and just really soaking it up, along with facing guys that you've watched on TV for so long. And you just kind of add all that in together and then you're just like, Man, this is really cool.” - Luke Weaver
“There’s these moments where it's like I'm being challenged, but God won't let me get to the breaking point.” - Luke Weaver
“God's really doing a lot in my life right now.” - Luke Weaver
“I'm proud of the words that were able to flow through me. I'm proud of the way I can handle these situations because I know the long term effect is much more impactful, not only for me, but hopefully for the person across the room and how they handle things going forward with other players or with other moments.” - Luke Weaver
“It got to the point where the mess that I was trying to clean up on my own silently, the plan wasn't working because God wasn't going to allow it to work because we couldn't build the foundation that we were about to embark on with the lie. And so really, I was backed into a corner.” - Talaat McNeely
“It took a lot of prayer and a whole lot of conversation for us to come back together and walk down that aisle and continue to move forward with our lives together after the truth of the situation came out.” - Talaat McNeely
“I went to God in prayer. I involved the Lord in our decision making. “Lord, what should I do? How should I walk this out?” And then once God began to deal with my heart, I was able to embrace the journey.” - Tai McNeely
“We began to dream really, really big and ambitiously, as though the God of the universe that we serve could do anything.” - Talaat McNeely
“If you take the time to dream and give yourself concrete goals and benchmarks that you're trying to hit, the hard work becomes less hard because you know that the progress that you're making is actually leading you somewhere.” - Talaat McNeely
“If He allowed me to overcome this mountain, there are some other mountains that He can help me with as well.” - Talaat McNeely
“With God, all things are possible. So it starts with your level of faith, not in yourself, not in your talent, skills, or ability, but your level of faith and the faithfulness of the God that you serve. He doesn't want you to be bound. He doesn't want you to be shackled. He doesn't want you to be full of anxiety about your finances. He wants you to be free. But there is work that you have to do.” - Talaat McNeely
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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When we think about our problems, it can sometimes look like things are only happening to us. Our struggles may appear one-sided or like God has left us to deal with it on our own. But when we draw near to God, He plants people in our lives to show us that our pain is not meant to be carried alone. And when He does that, we have a comforting reminder of a God who will never leave us nor forsake us.
Pastors Jimmy and Irene Rollins have a passion to reach all people for God, no matter their background, ethnicity, or life circumstances. As they dreamed of building a diverse congregation, the stress of being leaders of a growing church began to negatively impact them both, and Irene took to coping with alcohol. They share how together, they faced her addiction and the problems that made it come to a head. Author of Confronting Christianity Rebecca McLaughlin shares why it’s important to encourage young people to dig into the Word of God. She believes that reading the Bible with her children and helping them work through their questions helps them make sense of their faith, and also teaches them a way to live that is steeped in compassion for others.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Deb Liu
Upcoming interview: Luke Weaver
Jimmy and Irene Rollins
Two Equals One
Great Commission
Alcoholism
Romans 8:28 NIV
PTSD [Post-traumatic Stress Disorder]
www.twoequalsone.com
Love Outside the Lines
Reframe Your Shame
Rebecca McLaughlin
Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest Religion
10 Questions Every Teen Should Ask (and Answer) about Christianity
Cambridge University
Veritas Forum
Harvard University
Yale University
University of Oxford
www.rebeccamclaughlin.org
Exploring the Earliest Gospel: A Kids Bible Study on Jesus and His Good News
Interview Quotes:
“We felt like God put on our hearts that if we were going to reach a diverse city, we were going to have to have a diverse church.” - Jimmy Rollins
“We got accountability that helped us get to the space of needing to get healthy and to get help. And then as we began to get healthy, we stopped doing the dance of shaming one another and judging one another. And we started to embrace the fact that we both needed grace.” - Jimmy Rollins
“We began to look at addiction as not something that I was doing to Jimmy, but rather something I was doing to really medicate pain. And as we began to develop new ways of communication, new ways of embracing pain and grief. We began to approach healing and we did it together.” - Irene Rollins
“Connecting with God on a daily basis, a moment-by-moment basis, was a lifeline for me in the beginning of my recovery. And as a leader, as a mother, as a child of God, it is my lifeline still. It was a non-negotiable and still is in my recovery journey.” - Irene Rollins
“Divorce has no color. Alcoholism has no socioeconomic temperature. Grief is colorblind. And what we've discovered is that as we begin to stay transparent with our story, as we begin to steward the path of where we are to this greater purpose, pain has been the unifier.” - Jimmy Rollins
“It seemed like Jesus provided the most satisfying way of looking at the world, the most satisfying way of understanding my relationships, my intellectual life, my personal life. And I just never looked back from that point.” - Rebecca McLaughlin
“Every seeming roadblock to faith in Jesus, when you look more closely, becomes a signpost.” - Rebecca McLaughlin
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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When we’re going through a particularly tough time in life, we might find ourselves shaking our fists in the air and asking, “Why God? Why this, why me?” But what we night not realize is that God knows the answer to our questions, and though it may not be clear to us now what meaning that time of pain or struggle had in our lives, we have to trust that God is with us as we work through it, and that He’s got something greater for us on the other side of it.
Our guests this week will admit they’ve had disappointments, failures, and missed opportunities. But they both acknowledge that when they’ve been through painful experiences, they can look back and see how far they’ve come and what they learned toward creating a better future for themselves, and others. We’re talking with Hall of Fame Pro NFL football player and co-host of The NFL on Fox, Terry Bradshaw, plus author and founder of the non-profit Broken Crayons Still Color, which helps people deal with trauma and abuse, Toni Collier.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Upcoming interview: Jimmy and Irene Rollins
Terry Bradshaw
FOX NFL Sunday
Pittsburgh Steelers
ADD [Attention Deficit Disorder]
Louisiana Tech
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Grapevine
bladder cancer
Merkel Cell cancer
Toni Collier
Broken Crayons Still Color
Parentification
Psalms
Brave Enough to Be Broken
Interview Quotes:
“Going to Louisiana Tech, not passing the ACT, I'll just say was all a part of His plan for me. It all worked out—I ended up going into the Hall of Fame, ended up winning the Super Bowl.” - Terry Bradshaw
“It's okay to not view yourself as perfect. The fact that we can acknowledge our imperfections is good, that we seek a love and forgiveness from God, which He promised to give us if we ask for forgiveness. That’s like the greatest message ever, knowing that I can be forgiven of my sins.” - Terry Bradshaw
“I hear people talk about miracles all the time. I'm not a big miracle guy because miracles come at God's pace, not my pace. I don't like to wear God out.” - Terry Bradshaw
“I grew up way too fast, thought I was like a little adult at thirteen. And it just kind of opened up the really this unprotected state from the enemy just to come in and steal so much of my childhood and the light that God was really trying to put in it.” - Toni Collier
“If we really do believe that God is a redeemer, then we also believe that He can redeem relationships. He can redeem the time that was lost in relationships.” - Toni Collier
“[I] rebuilt my entire life by just believing that my brokenness and everything I had gone through didn't discount me. That God still had a real great plan and a purpose for me.” - Toni Collier
“In my moments of pleading is when I felt the presence of God the most.” - Toni Collier
“I think what someone needs to hear today is; maybe it's not the grief and the pain and the betrayal and the abandonment that takes you out, but the belief that you would have to feel it all alone. And you do not. We do not, because we have a God that's with us.” - Toni Collier
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’re talking to two co-pastors whose lives intersected in a way that would have a forever kind of impact: Walter Hooker and Andy Kaup from Bellevue Christian Center in Bellevue, Nebraska. Walter worked at their church for many years, and knew Andy as a kid. When Andy became an adult, he decided to go into ministry. When a job for lead pastor came up, Walter and Andy were the top candidates. Andy was chosen for the position, and though Walter could have chosen to be resentful of the choice, he showed up fully to support Andy as lead pastor. Fast forward a few months later and Walter would find himself reaching a crossroads in his health after years long struggle. His prayers for healing were answered in a very unexpected, and personal way through his friend and co-pastor Andy, in this amazing testimony to the power of prayer and how God can bring good out of complicated situations.
Guest’s Links Bellevue Christian Center YouTube
Facebook: @bellevuechristian.ne
Instagram: @bellevuechristian.ne
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
When we make plans for the future, we often want God to sign on the dotted line and agree to everything we’ve laid out. Yet when those plans fail, we find ourselves turning to God as a last resort. And as our guests this week will attest, He is faithful to lead us back to a path that we’re meant to follow, whether we realized it or not. Fox and Rob Richardson, a couple from Shreveport, Louisiana, open up about the act of desperation that led to their incarceration, and what happened to their lives and the lives of their family in the process. Tanya Rad is the author of The Sunshine Mind and host of KIIS FM's On Air with Ryan Seacrest. She shares about the crippling anxiety she experienced over fear of the future, and how putting her trust in God allowed her to find peace in the midst of the unknown.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Tim Brown
Upcoming interview: Terry Bradshaw
Fox and Rob Richardson
Rich Family Ministries
www.foxandrob.com
Time: The Untold Story of the Love That Held Us Together When Incarceration Kept Us Apart
Tanya Rad
The Sunshine Mind
KIIS FM's On Air with Ryan Seacrest
Serbian Orthodox church
Jason Kennedy
Interview Quotes:
“To be free is to free others.” - Rob Richardson
“There are moments you think you've got everything all figured out and that life is moving in the direction that you dreamed of, and then in just one second, everything changes for you. ” - Fox Richardson
“I believed that there was something that was operating inside of me and around me that would guide me and protect me and keep me safe.” - Rob Richardson
“God, if I'm still here, it’s for a reason. You created this life. I did not create this life. And if you have given it to me, even with the decisions—the foul decisions I have made—I am going to see this through.” - Fox Richardson
“Family is everything and everything is family. . . . We had love and each other. And nothing in this life is going to top that.” - Fox Richardson
“I think that long before Rob and I ever got outside of prison, God had set us free on the inside.” - Fox Richardson
“What gets me out of these moments of anxiety and stress is knowing there is always this bigger picture that God has. He knows the plans He has for me.” - Tanya Rad
“Whenever I do find myself getting stressed or anxious about things, I always kind of ultimately come back to that notion of like, God's got me. It's in His timing. “ - Tanya Rad
“We were meant to be in community and helping others.” - Tanya Rad
“I think that finding joy in your reality is what leads to a peaceful, happy life.” - Tanya Rad
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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When a blizzard struck western New York just before this past Christmas, pastors Al & Vivian Robinson were expecting the usual winter storm they’re used to living in Buffalo. But when their town of Lovejoy lost power and neighbors started getting stranded, Vivian felt God calling her to open their church, the Spirit of Truth Urban Ministry, to help shelter, feed, and tend to the masses. With rescue efforts underway, and small miracles piling on top of one another, Al & Vivian experienced the love of God operating in a way so powerful, so moving, that it still brings them to tears when they reflect back on the 6 days they spent ministering to those in need.
Quotes
“Lovejoy lost all electrical power, but our church did not lose power. And I distinctively looked at my wife and I said, ‘Vivian, why would the Lord let us have electricity while everybody around us has no electricity?’ And then within about 10 hours, we found out exactly why.” - Al Robinson
“That first group of people that came here, the wailing and crying and shrilling, it was terrible. And that's when you began to understand the gravity of what is going on. This isn't a traditional Buffalo snowstorm, it’s far more sinister than that.” - Al Robinson
“It was just incredible how how the the spirit of the Lord in my wife was vibrating with the people around them where they just fell in sync with what she was doing, what what she was telling them to do, how she was orchestrating things, how she was making things up a structured at this church. It was wonderful.” - Al Robinson
“Neighbors started bringing food out of their freezers so that we could feed the masses. It was literally a two loaves and five fish moment.” - Al Robinson
“This is nothing new to us when it comes to serving God's people. And when people are in need, we go over and above to make sure we're taking care of individuals and we make the sacrifices that God has given us to go out there to get the people that needs our help. And that's what we have been designed to do.” - Vivian Robinson
“God gave us this building. He gave us our lives. He gave us our health. He gave us our money. So in our opinion, everything we have already belongs to God. And so if God asks us to do something with what's His, we have absolutely no problem doing it. My life isn’t my own.” - Al Robinson
“It is a privilege I hold in high esteem that the Lord would pick His humble servants here in Lovejoy to be a part of an operation that saved the lives of 154 people during the most catastrophic storm known in the history of Buffalo, New York.” - Al Robinson
“I was just grateful and thankful that God had used His humble people just to say yes to the call and that we had the opportunity to love on these people and to see each and every last one of these lives that God allowed us to save.” - Vivian Robinson
LinksSpirit of Truth Urban Ministry
La Verdad Cafe
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
In life, we can't escape adversity; we are bound to end up with some bumps and bruises. Maybe it’s because of rough beginnings, difficult relationships with loved ones, or unexpected circumstances that inevitably come our way. Having faith in God doesn't mean you won’t face challenges and difficulties. Instead, it means we can know that we won't have to face those battles alone. Like the apostle Paul, who called upon God and rejoiced while being imprisoned, he constantly tried to find the blessing during the pain of being captive. Through his example, we can see that when we put our trust in God and focus on gratitude, we’ll find strength to get through the rockier times of our lives.
Our guests this week have each faced significant trials, and chose to trust God during those times. Each of them found that facing negative experiences in this way equipped them with the tools to face future challenges in a healthier way. Marine Veteran Tom Schueman, who served in one of the bloodiest battles of the war in Afghanistan, opens up about staring death in the face daily, and how reading the Psalms reminded him that he wasn’t alone. Teaching pastor Alli Patterson thought she had life figured out at an early age. She did all the “right” things, but quickly discovered early on in her career and her marriage that there were cracks in the foundation she’d carefully laid—and found herself searching for solace outside of her marriage. It was in the dark hours of almost losing everything that she left her future in God’s hands, giving her the courage to try to restore what had been broken.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Max Lucado
Upcoming interview: Fox and Rob Richardson
Tom Schueman
Psalms
G.I. Joe
Apocalypse Now
9/11
Always Faithful
Alli Patterson
Crossroads Church
www.allipatterson.com
How to Stay Standing: 3 Essential Practices for Building a Faith That Lasts
Interview Quotes:
“It was my experience in combat where everything bad is happening all the time and you just have to figure out what you're going to do with two bad options. You know, it's a series of unfortunate events. And you have to make the best of all these unfortunate events.” - Tom Schueman
“I was never alone and I was never abandoned…In the midst of the violence, in the midst of the death that was abounding all around me, I still had something good that I could hold on to. And I don't think I'd make it through those periods in my life without [faith].” - Tom Schueman
“How can we be more resilient? How can we recover from these things? How can we get to a place where we have gratitude for adversity and say, ‘This adversity shaped me and made me a better man?’” - Tom Schueman
“You can take Paul as such a great example of the ability to be persecuted but still to rejoice. And I think that's something worth studying and trying to incorporate.” - Tom Schueman
“I started to see that maybe there were some things that weren't strong at the very foundation of my life. I started to see cracks in my ability to manage conflict, to tell the truth in all circumstances, to create relationships with people that were really different from me. I just saw that some things in my life—there were weak places, there were shifting sands under what I had built.” - Alli Patterson
“I said, ‘I want to be who you made me to be. I want a real life. I want a real marriage. I want a real relationship with you. And I've ruined it all. Break me. Come get me.’ And new life really began when I just kept walking that direction, no matter what it cost me.” - Alli Patterson
“I think I felt a sense that God was angry with me or disapproved of me before I actually started talking to Him. When it's in the dark and in the quiet, we can tell ourselves these stories. And definitely my story was, ‘You're a terrible person, you're a terrible wife, you're a terrible friend, you're a terrible employee.’ And I heard these loud, awful accusations all the time. But as soon as I began to actually engage God, as soon as I actually went to Him, surprisingly, He broke through that.” - Alli Patterson
“When I encounter someone today that needs desperately to know you are not your worst moment, you are not your darkest hour, you are not your greatest sin, the only thing that I have to offer them is to be honest about my own story.” - Alli Patterson
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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There is much talk of turmoil in our world, and we see it reflected in what we read, watch, and observe in the media. Sometimes this turmoil shows up directly in our lives—whether it’s negative words toward us from others, untruths about who we are and what we stand for, or other negative situations that undermine our self worth and identity. As we face words meant to harm and hurt us, we can know there is refuge when it feels like it’s “us against the world.” A verse in the Bible, from John 16, tells us that God is our source of peace, also reminding us “in the world you have tribulation. But take heart–God has overcome the world.”
Our guests this week saw their lives—and the world around them—in turmoil, and found themselves turning to God for the peace that can only come from seeking to be in His presence. Cam Ayala, who starred on ABC’s The Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise shares about how his struggle with a lifelong illness was used on the show to portray him in a negative light, and how after the show ended, his faith would uphold him through the biggest decision he would ever have to face about his health and his identity. Social media influencer Tiania Haneline and her five-year-old daughter Scarlett Smith started a positive affirmation routine that has taken the internet by storm. Tiania shares how speaking kind words to her daughter each day is creating a lifelong habit of facing negativity with positivity.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Trey Johnson
Upcoming interview: Tom Schueman
John 16 NIV
Cam Ayala
ABC’s The Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise
Romans 5 NIV
Lymphedema
Texas Medical Center
Tiania Haneline and Scarlett Smith
TikTok
I’m Going to Have a Good Day! Daily Affirmations with Scarlett
Interview Quotes:
“God always has a way of showing His way if you are opening your heart and seeking that light.” - Cam Ayala
“I knew that reigniting my relationship with Jesus was going to be the only way that I would make it through this [amputation] surgery and really through the rest of my life. I had tried doing things on my own accord, trying to be my own strong, independent man. But time and time again, I felt that my own personal strength was insufficient.” - Cam Ayala
“There's Scripture that says, ‘When we are weak, He is strong.’ And so really leaning on the strength of Christ in me was more than enough to get me through some of the toughest physical adversities that I had faced in previous surgeries.” - Cam Ayala
“I'm a firm believer that God gives His toughest battles to His toughest warriors, and that with a loss like this of a limb is going to come a great gain in what Jesus is going to do with me, through me, to me, and ultimately for other people to bear witness to.” - Cam Ayala
“When you seek Him wholeheartedly, He will be there to get you through some of the most difficult seasons or moments in your life.” - Cam Ayala
“I think it is very important for my children and myself to have these affirmations to instill in us. So whenever Scarlett has someone in her class that says that they don't like her hair, you know, she can come back with, ‘Well, I love my hair.’ So I just want them to be able to take what I have taught them and be able to use it in the real world.” - Tiania Haneline
“I got Scarlett to look at herself in the mirror while I was doing her hair, and I was like, This is going to be able to show her I love my curls, I love my brown skin. I am strong, I am beautiful.” - Tiania Haneline
“I'm beautiful. I'm strong. I'm not fearful. I love my curls. Jesus loves me. And I'm going to have a good day.” - Scarlett Smith
“My prayer right now is that I will raise my children up to follow Jesus and to be amazing women and men.” - Tiania Haneline
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Have you ever been driving somewhere, or even walking in the city or on a trail, and found yourself hopelessly lost? In the era of smartphones and GPS, this has become a lot less likely, but we can all recall moments where we didn’t have the tools at our disposal to lead us back to where we needed to go, and we ended up wandering, trying to remember where we came from and how to get back to that spot. It’s a scary feeling not knowing where you’re going, and even more scary when life presents situations to us where we’re just not sure what to do or who to turn to to help us get where we need to be. When we feel lost in life, confused about what to do next, God promises that “He will stand by us and strengthen us, so that through us His message can be fully proclaimed.” (2 Timothy 4:18).
Grammy-award winning worship leader Chris Tomlin knew from a very young age that he wanted to connect with the people around him in meaningful ways by playing and singing music, but wasn’t exactly sure how that would pan out in his life. As a young man, he found himself speaking a prayer that he didn’t really understand at the time, but has been a constant throughout his life: “Whatever You want, for the rest of my life, I’m available and will follow you.” Brigadier General Kelvin McElroy was raised to believe that committing yourself strongly to anything you wanted to pursue would get you where you wanted to be, but still needed a nudge from others who believed in him when he himself couldn’t see his own potential. Both of these men would go on to powerfully lead others into lives of service and commitment to God, using what God gave them to point people in His direction.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Kevin Olusola
Upcoming interview: Cam Ayala
2 Timothy 4:18 NIV
Chris Tomlin
Always
Kelvin McElroy
Department of the Space Force
Department of the Air Force
Scott Air Force Base
Interview Quotes:
“I just like it when people sing. I don't really like standing up there and playing with everybody watching me. I like when people join in.” - Chris Tomlin
"I wasn't trying to [become a worship singer]. Never looked to do it. Wasn't something I set out to do. It was just God opening up the doors in an incredible way." - Chris Tomlin
"When you hear my songs, those don't come from just making something up. It really comes from God. Some of the prayers come out in public because they're my songs." - Chris Tomlin
"Our willingness is our wealth, our soul is the soil, and God's word is the seed." - Kelvin McElroy
"When you serve others, you will always find that no matter where you go, people are faithful and willing to pull you in and take care of you." - Kelvin McElroy
“God's Word is our one. Right? It leads us, it guides us, and if we take the time to listen and apply God's Word, the answer’s already there, and He's given us everything that we need.” - Kelvin McElroy
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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When we think about life events that define our existence, what naturally comes to mind? Perhaps it’s finishing your education, or getting that first job, starting a family? Or maybe the tougher things come to mind, like facing an illness, losing a loved one, or struggling to make ends meet after a job has ended. There’s one common denominator in both the hard and joyful events of our lives—our faith. It’s in those defining life moments—even the ones where you crash and fail hard—that greatness, courage, and true purpose reveal themselves. That one act of taking the next small step on the way to our next big hurdle reminds us of how Jesus says, “All it takes is to have faith the size of a mustard seed, and mountains will move.” [Matthew 17:20]
Our guests this week have experienced the kinds of life events we’re talking about that make one take stock in who they are. From failing an obstacle course on national television to crashing a racecar on a winding track up a mountain, they’ve faced unusual challenges, but their stories don’t end in failure. Each of them chose to dust themselves off, take another small step of faith, and continue to do what they were meant to do. American Ninja Warrior Maggi Thorne shares how she battled with mild traumatic brain injury while racing up the infamous warped wall. She walks us through her decision to step away and heal and how she leaned on God to find the strength to never give up. Pastor and race car driver Don Wickstrum takes us on his path to racing to the clouds on a 12.42 mile intensive mountain course, amid a colon cancer diagnosis. He shares how he chose not to quit, but instead how he relied on God to make it to the finish line.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Todd Hoffman
Upcoming interview: Chris Tomlin
Matthew 17:20 NIV
Maggi Thorne
American Ninja Warrior
Spartan Ultimate Team Challenge
Team Ninja Warrior
mild TBI
Madonna Rehabilitation Services in Lincoln, Nebraska
EMDR therapy
Ephesians 2:10 NIV
www.maggithorne.com
Don Wickstrum
NASCAR
Bobby Unser
Pikes Peak Race
University of Platteville
Chasing Hope
www.iamsecond.com
Interview Quotes:
“[My] experiences have actually led to my passion to serve the poor, the underprivileged, the underrepresented, and making sure my platform of American Ninja Warrior—what I feel like God has blessed me with—is used to advocate for those and specifically speak into the life of youth and tell them you have opportunity, it's not opposition, and anything is possible.” - Maggie Thorne
“I knew God had given me this role and responsibility and He can take this next path too. Because a lot of people, when I said, “I think I'm going to go out and build people and not buildings, and I'm going to quit,” they thought I was bananas and couldn't quite understand it and told me I was ruining my life, actually. And I'd never be successful again. But I really had faith and trust in God.” - Maggie Thorne
“How I train has shown up in competition because you're going to experience the unexpected, you're going to experience failure. And how you've trained as a whole, that's when it's going to be there and show up.” - Maggie Thorne
“[I realized], Okay, this isn't about saying ‘never give up.’ It's about becoming never give up. Can we become what we say? And what does that journey look like? And the first step was acceptance. I'm never going to be who I was again, but who can I be now and can I put that in God's hands?” - Maggie Thorne
“I began to realize that I didn't need to know the ending of the story. I just needed to tell it and where I was at because it would speak to someone.” - Don Wickstrum
“It was an absolutely incredible moment for me; realizing God's faithfulness and the fact that He didn't rescue me from adversity. He gave me the power and strength to endure it so that I could have a character built up in hope.” - Don Wickstrum
“There's still hope for you for your purpose. There's still hope for you to be reconciled through Jesus Christ. There is still hope for you to live another day fulfilling the will of God.” - Don Wickstrum
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Perhaps you’ve heard the sentiment, “you can’t really judge a person until you walk a mile in their shoes.” This thought goes beyond the idea of just a reprimand against being judgemental. It’s one that reminds us to have empathy and understanding of others’ experiences and actions with an open heart and mind. The greatest example of walking in someone else’s shoes is Jesus, being fully God, who stepped into humanity’s shoes by being born into this world—so we could know with certainty that He experienced the same kinds of trials and losses, wants and needs that we all experience as humans. When we tune into how Jesus lived, we in turn can begin to tune into others, and like Jesus, show them love even when we don’t understand or agree with them.
Our guests this week are people who’ve had experience stepping into other people’s shoes—one as a reporter who makes it her job to understand the people she is interviewing to best be able to tell their stories, and the other an actor, who has had to inhabit the lives of the characters, real and fictional, that he brings to life in TV and film. News anchor and author Harris Faulkner shares how the loss of her parents opened up a side of her that helps her relate to people in a more compassionate way—one that shows up when she’s interviewing people about their own experiences, good and bad. Actor Omar Benson Miller tells us how he walks into each role he’s given with the intention to gain the full experience of someone’s story and how each character he has played has shown him the value of giving kind consideration to everyone’s story.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Ben Higgins
Upcoming interview: Maggi Thorne
Harris Faulkner
Faith Still Moves Mountains
Omar Benson Miller
8 Mile
Miracle at St. Anna
CSI Miami
Bible
Interview Quotes:
"When [my dad] prayed for me and my mom, he was very specific in saying, 'I want them to find peace, joy, and health when I am not with them. Lord, I need you to be a protector for them when I am not with them.' And that's especially true now in terms of how I walk out my own faith." - Harris Faulkner
“I believe God loves all of us.” - Harris Faulkner
“I leaned back into God and He leaned into me and I was able to go forward. And I prayed more. And things got better. But it was in His timing, not mine.” - Harris Faulkner
“My mom told me growing up, ‘Give all of your worries and sorrows in life to God. And don't forget to pray when things are going well, too.’ When I remembered that my mom had said that when I was praying less and crying more in my loss, what it reminded me of is that there will be days that will go well again. That this too shall pass. Loving our parents and losing our parents will never pass. But that point of anger with the Lord will. And we must work on that.” - Harris Faulkner
“What I've tried to do is utilize the platform that God has given me to lift up others.” - Harris Faulkner
“When the storms of life come, you know God's listening because you talk to Him every day, and He hears you.” - Harris Faulkner
“It takes a real deep understanding of your relationship with God to know how to pray for someone else.” - Harris Faulkner
“I don't know what happens and has happened to people. I don't know people's stories. I don't know what they believe. I don't know what they've been through. I don't know who they've hurt or who has hurt them. So I like to go in with a blank slate.” - Omar Benson Miller
“And the challenge is laid out that you are going to have a hard time doing the right thing, because that's what this world is. That's what this life is. So the closer you draw near to the Spirit of God, the closer, the better, and easier that will become.” - Omar Benson Miller
“I think that being a person is hard, being a human is hard. This is why it's so important to have kindness and so imperative to try to make allowances for other people, because at some point you're going to need allowances yourself as well.” - Omar Benson Miller
_______________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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This month we’re featuring multiple guests who have previously appeared on the Jesus Calling podcast, speaking about prayer during times of sorrow and in times of joy. Christmas is the season to celebrate the love and hope of Jesus; but for some, it can bring difficulty. Our guests remind us that no matter what season we’re in, prayer can be a light in our darkness.
Links To Full EpisodesMargaret Feinberg
Zim Flores
Tana Amen
Jess Connolly
Levi Lusko
Natalie Grant
Tabitha Brown
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Whether you’ve been a Christian your whole life because you were raised in the faith, or you’re just curious about what Christianity is all about, there are many ways we can come to know God, sometimes when we’re not even looking for Him. In the Bible, the prophet Isaiah tells us in Romans 10:20 that “[God] is found by those who did not seek [Him], [He] became manifest to those who did not ask for [Him].” As we all enjoy our favorite stories of Christmas this year, and as Christians celebrate the birth of Christ, everyone can pause and reflect on the ways God might show up in our lives and look forward to new ways we might uncover His goodness in the coming year as well.
Actress Danica McKellar always felt a tug at her heart that there was something out there she hadn’t quite uncovered yet. Not long ago, when her friend and fellow actress Candace Cameron Bure sent her a Bible, the switch flipped and she came to the realization that it had been God tugging at her heart all along. Now, she’s embarked on a new-found journey of faith and is eagerly anticipating this Christmas season with a new lease on life. Author and pastor Matt Rawle loves digging deep into our culture to find traces of God in places we’d least expect. He’s uncovered themes in beloved Christmas classics like The Grinch and has found joy and a new understanding of God and the way He presents Himself in the world.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Mark Lowry
Upcoming interview: Harris Faulkner
Romans 10:20 NIV
Danica McKellar
Candace Cameron Bure
The Wonder Years
Christmas at the Drive-In
Great American Family Channel
Carlos Whittaker
Matt Rawle
Duke Divinity School
How The Grinch Stole Christmas
United Methodist Church
Asbury United Methodist Church
John the Baptist
Advent Christmas
The Nutcracker
www.mattrawle.com
The Heart That Grew Three Sizes
The Redemption of Scrooge
The Gift of the Nutcracker
Jesus Revealed
Interview Quotes:
“Jesus is something that I wanted my whole life, or had my whole life and just didn't realize it.” - Danica Mckellar
“Of utmost importance is not the religion, it's the relationship. And that is precious to me. And it's a journey of discovery.” - Danica McKellar
“I can let go and let God. I can find that peace that surpasses understanding, because I know it doesn't matter what's going on in this world now that I have this connection to True Peace." - Danica McKellar
"You know that childhood joy when you see how excited they are for Christmas? This year there's a whole new layer for me. It's the actual meaning behind the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ." - Danica McKellar
“We don't always use culture beneficially, but culture in and of itself certainly isn't bad, but it can, I think, powerfully communicate to us who God is." - Matt Rawle
“If we believe The Incarnation [of God in the form of Jesus] to be true, then culture is a vehicle through which we can discern God…Scripture says that God created all things through Christ and God was pleased to reconcile all things through Christ. Therefore, there is a hint of God in everything.” - Matt Rawle
“Jesus taught using pop cultural references of the time. Of course, we're 2,000 years removed from that, so they don't seem to be so popular in terms of pop culture today. But in Jesus's time, they absolutely were.” - Matt Rawle
“Christmas in particular is a great time to explore that intersection between culture and our shared lives together in spreading the gospel.” - Matt Rawle
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Theologian and monk Thomas Merton once wrote, “The beginning of love is to let those we love be perfectly themselves, and not to twist them to fit our own image. Otherwise we love only the reflection of ourselves we find in them.” We were designed by God to live life with and surrounded by people. But to successfully do so, we have to learn what makes others tick. We have to know how they move, and how we can speak love and understanding into their lives. Truly loving people comes with knowing that they are flawed, but resisting the desire to “fix them” to some standard of our own. When we choose to let others be perfectly themselves, we begin to understand God’s unconditional love toward all of us.
Our guests this week are people who’ve truly come to the realization that in order to make a relationship thrive, acceptance and resiliency are so important. Beatboxer, cellist, and singer/songwriter Kevin Olusola from the acapella musical group Pentatonix talks about what it takes to make space for his bandmates through their differences, and how they move beyond those differences to make beautiful harmonies together. Husband and wife duo Seth and Heather Thompson Day speak about the tensions they’ve experienced with their individual families and how as a couple, they are committed to the hard work of living relationally with others and with God.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Tauren Wells
Upcoming interview: Matt Rawle
Thomas Merton
Kevin Olusola
Pentatonix
Celebrate and Collaborate with Yo-Yo Ma
KRS-One
David Crowder Band
The Sing-Off
Pentatonix’s performance of “E.T.” by Katy Perry
Imagine Faith Talk
www.kevinolusola.com
Seth and Heather Thompson Day
Jesus Christ Superstar
I’ll See You Tomorrow
Interview Quotes:
“I said to God, ‘I think you're absolutely crazy. This doesn't make any sense, but I can't deny that I feel like you're leading me here. I don't know if it's forever, but I know I at least have to follow this right now.’” - Kevin Olusola
“I don't think any of us knew that it was going to lead to all this. We're five such different people in such a beautiful way. That's what makes the sound interesting. We're all bringing our different ideas of musicality to make one joyful noise.” - Kevin Olusola
“If God Almighty is the one that has put the plan in place for you to be successful so that His glory is known, you better believe that God will create a way for you to have success not just in your career, but also in your family, also in your health. He's created a way because God wants a holistic, loving, joyous life focused on Him.” - Kevin Olusola
“I don't know why we struggle to speak life into ourselves. But when I met Heather, I was able to speak life into her. And she was able to speak life into me.” - Seth Day
“I think the beauty of the Christian experience is we actually can allow our spirits and our brains and our bodies and our hearts to be transformed in the hands of God. And I've seen that firsthand in my own family.” - Heather Thompson Day
“One of the things that Heather has done by willing the good for me is that she's valued my pain. But she's also definitely valued the promise that God has over my life.” - Seth Day
“I think that's what all of us need to do in our lives, is to look to people who have done it when things weren't ideal, to build our confidence, and go, ‘Well they did it. So can I.’” - Seth Day
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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As we approach Christmas, it’s nice to reflect on the gift God gave us through Jesus and how He served the people in his circle and beyond–and how He shows up for us through others in ways we’d never expect. Have you ever received a gift that was so intentional it brought you to tears? Or maybe you’ve given a gift that ended up having a profound effect on someone else’s life. This holiday season, we’re talking to several people who know a few things about meaningful gifts, and what it means to them to provide a place of business in the community for people to find gifts and resources that lift others up, and what it’s like to be in service to the people around us—especially at this time of the year.
Quotes
“What we're about is encouraging faith, inspiring change, and sharing life, not just our personal lives, but the life that comes from knowing Jesus Christ.” - Donna McCullough, Dove Christian Supply
“We've been told over and over again by our community how important and how vital we [Logos Bookstore] are. People come in with all kinds of prayer requests and needs and we are there to love on them. And we count it as a privilege.” - Susan Lewis, Logos Bookstore
“For me personally, as we own and operate these Christian bookstores, we are constantly on our knees before God depending upon Him to supply so that we can keep the stores alive and open with all the challenges that we've faced. So prayer is critical. And Sarah [Young] is communicating to her readers how important it is to have a powerful dependance in our God.” - Kevin Furgusen, Willamette Valley Christian Supply
“Jesus Calling, it's the right words at the time that you need them. It's the Lord speaking to you, it just speaks to your heart and it comforts you. It soothes your soul.” - Vickie Achord, Olive Branch Bookstore
“I think with all the craziness that's going on in the world around us, I think people are recognizing the importance of direction from God. And I think it's making people spend more time praying for their personal lives, for their decisions that they make. We understand the importance of prayer for the people that we care about.” - Dennis Lovvorn, New Covenant Bookstore
LinksJesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Dove Christian Supply
Logos Bookstore
Willamette Valley Christian Supply
Olive Branch Bookstore
New Covenant Bookstore
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
All of us have experienced what we like to call “gut feelings.” At various times in each of our lives, it’s been that deep intuition that perhaps moved us to make a decision that was good for us—choosing one thing over, or avoiding a situation that didn’t feel quite right. Other times, perhaps we didn’t follow that quiet tug on our hearts, and pursued a different route—maybe ending up in a less than ideal result. However we view those gut feelings, the message is the same; God will always find a way to reach us. He is that "still small voice" that Elijah heard (I Kings 19:12), and in our lives often presents itself as that deep intuition about who we are and what we should do.
Our guests this week had those “gut feeling” moments that they ended up following that led to some pretty amazing things in their lives. Hallmark actress and producer Nikki DeLoach tells about her singularly-focused dream to become an actress and how she felt the pull to learn how to “tell stories” by learning how to produce projects as well. Pat Bradley worked for Crisis Aid International ministry for years, helping people all over the world. But it wasn’t until he felt the unexplainable tug toward helping people in a place no one else wanted to go that he had to trust where his heart was leading him. They both found that the more time they spent in conversation with God, the more they could trust the “still small voice” of their intuition to lead them to the right place.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Emily Chang
Upcoming interview: Kevin Olusola
I Kings 19:12
Nikki DeLoach
Ryan Goodell
Hallmark Christmas movies
Hallmark Channel
Children's Hospital of Los Angeles
The Gift of Peace
Pat Bradley
Crisis Aid International
Open Doors
International Christian ConcernColin Powell
www.crisisaid.org
Interview Quotes:
“I spent a lot of time looking up at God saying, 'Why, why not me? Did you forget about me? And what I didn't realize in those moments was that I was actually very deeply being taken care of by God because I just didn't know what fame would have done to me at such a young age." - Nikki DeLoach
"I don't care about the color of your skin. I don't care about your gender. I don't care about your socioeconomic level. I don't care about what religious faith you're in. What I care about is; are you in need? Can I help you? Can I pray for you? Let's be in community together. That's how Jesus lived his life." - Nikki DeLoach
"Christmas is really about remembering what's most important. Are we alive? Are we breathing? Are we honoring the ones we've lost? Are we being good to other people? Are we giving back? That's Christmas." - Nikki DeLoach
"Somebody had to do something in these hopeless situations. God really did put it on my heart that doing nothing was no longer an option." - Pat Bradley
"The 'no go' zones were areas where no one was going to help people. And we found ourselves to be the only ones in there doing something." - Pat Bradley
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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In the hours before September 28th, 2022, as Hurricane Ian roared toward the Florida coast, no one knew the level of devastation that would occur in its wake. With 147 deaths, multiple homes and buildings decimated, and over 60,000 people displaced from their homes, volunteers from all over the world streamed into Florida communities to lend their help toward healing and rebuilding. We talk to two of those Good Samaritans who gave of their time and resources to offer refuge and hope after devastating loss.
Quotes
“God had been preparing me even before I knew He was preparing me.” - Rev. David Acton
“If you have a heart to share hope and a heart to love on others, God figures out the rest.” - Rev. David Acton
“A lot of times we just sit and we just cry and pray together because there are no answers sometimes.” - Rev. David Acton
“I knew right then I had to do something to help. I didn't know what that looked like. I just prayed that God would show me some guidance and what do I need to do? How can I help?” - Krista Kowalczyk
“In my everyday prayers, what I was saying is, ‘Okay, I'll do this while I'm waiting to hear what you want me to do.’ It took me a long time of helping people with their photographs to realize that I'm actually helping people more than I realized.” - Krista Kowalczyk
“I have really relied on prayer to get me through this time. It has been hard, just seeing so much devastation and so much loss. I've prayed every day that I have the strength to continue to help people.” - Krista Kowalczyk
LinksJesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Christ Fellowship Church
Hurricane Irma
American Red Cross
New Hope Church
Impressions Photography
Hurricane Ian
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Each one of us is uniquely made by God and given a specific life path. God wants us to celebrate the way He made us and serve Him with our different abilities. By embracing our differences and bridging our unique stories with our faith, we can help connect God’s love to more people.
Our guests this week share with us how they’ve used their unique life paths to share God’s love with others—whether it’s with their communities or their family circle. Stars of the TV show Reservation Dogs, Lil Mike and Funny Bone are Indigenous entertainers who have delighted audiences with their humor and talent on television and on stages across the country. Their personal stories of the challenges they’ve faced and their talent for the creative arts has helped create a bridge between their Christian faith and their culture. Andy Dooley is a fitness influencer and author who found a way to connect his seemingly disparate gifts of athleticism and artistry to share his brand of hope and faith with the world. By allowing God to shape his life and embracing his differences, Andy found his purpose in teaching fitness to others through videos online and is beginning a newer journey of leading his family through a faith-filled life.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Dr. Derwin Gray
Upcoming interview: Nikki DeLoach
Lil Mike and Funny Bone
Reservation Dogs
The Power Team
Indigenous people
“Fist in the Air”
www.mikebonemedia.com
Andy Dooley
Building a Family of Faith
Interview Quotes:
“We like to be living examples of what we speak about in our music. You know, we talk about not drinking, not smoking. And when you see us out in public, we are not drinking and not smoking…Something that's real cool in the Indigenous community; a lot of the beliefs line up with the Word, to be thankful in all things and to pray in all things.” - Funny Bone
“Just being able to watch [our kids] ask questions and find relationship with God in their way is just cool. And it starts with us as parents just modeling it, exposing them to it, and having time together and just showing them how cool God really is.” - Andy Dooley
“Prayer isn't just one time. You know, prayer can be throughout the day. You can just talk to God while you're driving. You could just talk to God while you're at the gym. Or you have thoughts or decisions or you're going through a certain situation in a season in your life, God wants to hear from you on a regular basis.” - Andy Dooley
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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On this episode of Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer, we’re talking to mom, author, and entrepreneur Emily Ley, who’s the queen of organization. She walks us through how we can set ourselves up for success and get closer to the Lord in the process.
Guest’s Links Facebook: @emilyley
Twitter: @emilyley
Instagram: @emilyley
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” We all long—at some point in life—to have that moment of clarity where we know exactly what we’re supposed to do and which way we need to go, and everything feels like it clicks into place. Those “aha!” moments can be hard to come by, but we can rely on God to reveal clues to us about where He wants us to be—and often it’s in those little details that we ourselves might not even notice. Taking time to be still, read God’s Word, and watch for those signs that He’s working goes a long way to making the most out of the short time we have on earth.
When she was a little girl, Tamera Mowry-Housley knew that she wanted to be an actress, and with the support of her family, dove in headfirst. But navigating a life in the spotlight at such a young age presented a unique set of difficulties. Mike Kinney was miraculously rescued from a tragic car accident, which led him to consider, Who am I and where do I go from here? After healing from the accident, Mike came to realize that God was organizing the details for him to lead others to see what God has for them, and help them find their own “aha!” moments in life.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Inky Johnson
Upcoming interview: Andy Dooley
Ephesians 2:10 NIV
Tamera Mowry-Housley
Days of our Lives
As the World Turns
Sister, Sister
The Real
Ezekiel 34:11-16 NIV
You Should Sit Down For This
Mike Kinney
Tom Griswald
Bob and Tom
Pete Townsend
Out of the Fire: How an Angel and a Stranger Intervened to Save a Life
Interview Quotes:
“I used to struggle with the spirit of perfection. I thought that if I was perfect, all the problems would go away. All my insecurities would go away. And later I found out it was actually the more you think like that, the more you're imprisoned, because the Lord loves us without perfection.” - Tamera Mowry-Housley
“I've realized that prayer and reading the Word isn't something I want to do. It's something I need to do. It's a necessity to protect my peace, my spirit, and my mind daily…I've learned that if I don't feed my soul with the Word of God and talk to God daily, it's easy for me to kind of lose my step.” - Tamera Mowry-Housley
“Whenever I feel like I'm struggling, lost, uncertain, I go to the Word. I go to the Word of God. And there,I find my answers.” - Tamera Mowry-Housley
“It was kind of like I was on this journey to try to figure out what my purpose, what my calling could be.” - Mike Kinney
“The [car] accident had messed with some areas of my brain that could affect motor skills. And they didn't know if I'd be able to play music again because the area of my brain that was impacted by the accident should have affected my ability to play music. There was this need, and I feel like the Lord gave me this dream. It was a gift that He gave me and it became a symbol of hope over the next, you know, eighteen plus years.” - Mike Kinney
“That's been part of the anthem of my story is that you're never too broken to be used by God.” - Mike Kinney
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Sometimes our plans in life can be misdirected and net us emptiness. When we decide to live selfishly and aren’t open to where God is leading us, we effectively put God “in a box” by limiting ourselves from the vast potential for light and goodness He wants to bring to our lives. Each of our guests this week had life experiences that required them to let go of their ideas of what their lives were supposed to look like so that they could grow into the plans that God had for them. Jesse Bradley admits he never thought he'd ever be a pastor. His goals were professional sports, and he achieved that success. But when his body had an allergic reaction to some medication he was taking, he had to make a shift and found God transforming him for new pursuits and new passions. Tovares and Safa Grey have—in a very short time—helped many young people navigate the world of dating and relationships. They understand that many young people feel the pressure of being in a relationship. They feel the key to staying open to what will unfold in our lives is letting go so that we don't put God in a box. This place of compromise is a scary place—a mental battleground—but it holds tremendous potential for God’s goodness to manifest itself in our lives.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Nate Pyle
Upcoming interview: Tamera Mowry-Housley
PFR
Thank you to our sponsor, Samaritan’s Purse!
Jesse Bradley
Grace Community Church
University of Minnesota
Golden Gophers
Dartmouth College
C.S. Lewis
Psalm 63:8 NIV
Psalm 62:8 NIV
Isaiah 41:10 NIV
Every Group
www.jessebradley.org
Tovares and Safa Grey
Godly Dating 101
Proverbs 5 NIV
Ephesians 5:25 NIV
www.godlydating101.com
Interview Quotes:
“The inside story is the real story and the full story. And sometimes you're the only one who knows it and God knows the inside story as well. And the outside looked like success, but the inside for me, there was emptiness.” - Jesse Bradley
“Pain has been a big part of my transformation.” - Jesse Bradley
“You want a godly marriage, you want a healthy marriage. But there are some people who desire a marriage because everyone else on their timeline is married.” - Tovares Grey
“My advice to other young people who are dating today, don't limit God to your idea of who you think you should be with.” - Safa Grey
“[God's] concerned about every single aspect of our lives. He wants us to talk to Him. He wants us to have a relationship.” - Safa Grey
“At the end of the day, everything points back to God, and so we have to date with that intention in mind.” - Safa Grey
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Pursuing our God-given dreams can lead us into unexpected places, whether it’s climbing mountains, building homes, or sharing your story with those who need encouragement. God’s beautiful purpose remains steadfast, but sometimes we can’t see past the setbacks or the trials that confront us first. Learning to trust God in everything puts us in a posture of peace and allows for His grace to define our days. These are the moments that can hold deep meaning for us when we look back and see that God never left our sides.
Our guests this week share with us what happened when they believed for something better when their own plans were sidelined. Dr. Elizabeth Stevens had dreams of joining the Air Force and becoming a psychiatrist, responding to the spark in her heart which told her she could help people in this way. Faced with deeply difficult events and setbacks to her health, she questioned if God had abandoned her when she truly just wanted to live for Him. Daniel and Noell Jett shared a mutual desire of building their dream home together. Proving to be more difficult than they expected, they share how God showed them that it wasn’t about having their dream home, but enjoying the journey as a family together—no matter where they laid their heads at night.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview:
Upcoming interview:
Thank you to our sponsor, Samaritan’s Purse!
Dr. Elizabeth Stevens
Advancing Warriors International
Longs Peak
Groundhog Day
Order Elizabeth’s book “Unshackled” at 10% off until 11/17/22 with the discount code UNSHACKLED-JESUSCALLING https://www.drelizabethstevens.com/order-unshackled
Daniel and Noell Jett
Jett Set Farmhouse
Daniel and Noell’s TikTok
www.jettsetfarmhouse.com
Create Your Dream Home on a Budget
Interview Quotes:
“My whole life I really tried to be the person people thought I needed to be, be the person God needed me to be. And I wore these masks of trying to prove my worth, trying to cover and hide any vulnerabilities or failures or darkness within me because I didn't want to see it and I didn't want anyone else to see it.” - Dr. Elizabeth Stevens
“I blamed everything on my traumatic brain injury because I didn't realize that that deeper trauma, that soul trauma, was actually what needed to be healed primarily in order for me to recover from my traumatic brain injury.” - Dr. Elizabeth Stevens
“Once I realized that even in my darkest state, even in my rebellion, God loved me the same, and I could actually feel it more, that empowered me to really stop trying to protect myself, stop trying to hide, stop trying to cover up.” - Dr. Elizabeth Stevens
“When someone is hurting, a lot of times in the field of psychiatry and psychology, the spiritual aspect of things is neglected. But a lot of people are dealing with a lot of spiritual struggles, whether they've been burned by a religion, burned by the church, burned by other Christians…And so I've provided that space where they can talk through spiritual struggles, any struggles that they have, and they don't feel judged.” - Dr. Elizabeth Stevens
“God redeems all wounds. God's great enough and powerful enough to provide a way out." - Dr. Elizabeth Stevens
"I was finally able to learn about a real relationship with God and discover a life with love and the way I believe that Jesus meant for it to be lived." - Noell Jett
“True happiness is found within yourself, within God, within your family.” - Noell Jett
“Happiness and true contentment and peace are not found in external circumstances. If you're not happy where you are in the moment of this time, you're not going to be happy when you get a new house.” - Noell Jett
“We didn't need the material things. What we needed was our relationships and the time that we got to spend together and the closeness and the bond that we had as a family, as one unit—that was really the most important thing to us and still is.” - Daniel Jett
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,” sings the Psalmist, “I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. (NKJV) This is not just beautiful poetry. These were the fervent prayers of David (Psalm 23) as he tended to his father Jesse’s sheep. At any moment, a lion or wolf could attack. Within the line, “I will fear no evil,” there’s a cry for help and a statement of faith. We can all go to this prayer, just as David did, when the storms of life threaten us—filling us with fear for our lives and our future.
Our two guests this week faced such storms and found solace that God was comforting them through their most desperate times. Kelley Earnhardt Miller lost both of her parents prematurely: her father—the famous NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt, Sr.—died in a car crash, and her mother from cancer. Through it all, she kept God at the center and found her calling in her caring for her little brother, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., not only as a troubled teen but as a successful adult. Hayley Arceneaux's childhood was hijacked by a cancer diagnosis, yet she found inspiration from the medical professionals at St. Jude's Children's Hospital where she was being treated. Her decision to become a physician assistant not only saw her return to St. Jude's to work with leukemia and lymphoma patients, but she also became the youngest American ever to orbit the earth. Both Kelley and Hayley found ways to dig deep into their relationship with God to fight through the hard times.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Sara Evans
Upcoming interview: Dr. Elizabeth Stevens
Psalm 23 NIV
Thank you to our sponsor: https://higherbond.com/podcast/
Kelley Earnhardt Miller
Dale Earnhardt, Sr.
Dale Earnhardt, Jr.
Drive: 9 Lessons to Win in Business and in Life
Hayley Arceneaux's
St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital
Osteosarcoma
tae kwon do
Inspiration4
SpaceX
Wild Ride: A Memoir of I.V. Drips and Rocket Ships
Interview Quotes:
"I'm so thankful for having faith because I had a place to put my questions and lay that with God, and just have a peace and comfort about it that you can feel." - Kelley Earnhardt Miller
“God is the center of everything.” - Kelley Earnhardt Miller
“I have just a lot of great people, a lot of great Christians in my world. I think that's important to keep your faith intact as we go through this earthly world, because those people inspire me and they continue to push me to grow as a Christian.” - Kelley Earnhardt Miller
“I kept screaming, ‘I don't want to die. I don't want to die.’ And I looked at my mom and I said, ‘God must hate me.’ Because I thought, Why else would this be happening? And she said, ‘No, God loves you.’" - Hayley Arceneaux
“Those days going through cancer treatment, especially at such a young age, I had some really difficult days. But when I look back at that year, I just remember the beautiful moments and the good times and the other patient families and the staff that really felt like my family.” - Hayley Arceneaux
“It was just wonderful being around these really supportive adults because it helped me focus on something that was beyond just my own sickness and my own pain. They really encouraged me to feel like I had a purpose there and to be able to give back and show gratitude instead of just feeling like the sick one.” - Hayley Arceneaux
“It was about eight months from when I initially got the call to go to space before we launched, and I said a lot of prayers in those eight months for training, for my safety, and definitely for the space travel itself. And having faith, I think, really helped bring so much peace.” - Hayley Arceneaux
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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As so many of us go about our day to day, living what we might see as “ordinary” lives, we might wonder, while we are working hard at our jobs, providing for ourselves or our families, and staying so busy with the many things that make up the basic details of surviving—how can we also begin thriving and really enjoy our lives beyond merely keeping it all together?
Our guests this week offer some simple suggestions toward ways to bring some peace and joy to our daily existences. Tara L. Cole is a writer, educator, and mom raising school-aged kids during what can often be seen as turbulent times. She offers a few simple ways she helps guide her kids through this season of their lives through spending time with them, providing boundaries for the media they consume, and introducing prayer into their daily routines. Amy Hannon, the founder of Arkansas kitchen boutique Euna Mae’s, finds that simple hospitality brings joy to herself and others. And although she has turned it into a beautiful business, she encourages us that hospitality doesn’t have to be a show and gives us easy steps to welcome gladly and serve faithfully in ways that fill our hearts and others.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Dawn Barton
Upcoming interview: Kelley Earnhardt Miller
Thank you to our sponsor: https://higherbond.com/podcast/
Amy Hannon
Arkansas kitchen boutique Euna Mae’s
Gather and Give, Sharing God's Heart Through Everyday Hospitality and Gathering
eunamaes.com
Tara L. Cole
Jesus Listens for Kids
www.taralcole.com
Everyday Prayers For The School Year
Interview Quotes:
“It was at [Euna Mae’s] house where I have some of my favorite memories of watching her cook for and serve the ones that she loved. And I really didn't realize it then, I realized it later, but her love for gathering people around food was leaving a really long lasting impression on me.” - Amy Hannon
“We have to remember more than anything to seek the Lord and ask Him to find favor with our invitation and to fill us with His love and to radiate His life through us, because that's what we want. We need to be completely honest with the Lord about our worries and our concerns and ask Him to stir up joy and delight as we seek to love and service people.” - Amy Hannon
“Just keep things simple because the hospitality of the Bible isn't fancy and the purpose isn’t to show off your life. The purpose is to share your life with others.” - Amy Hannon
“Jesus knew better than anybody that a simple invitation for connection and community over a shared meal created the perfect opportunity for emotional, relational, and spiritual transactions to take place. And that's the hope of our hospitality.” - Amy Hannon
“I would really encourage you to just start making space in your day and praying to God and asking Him, ‘What can we let go of here in this season, the stage we find ourselves in?’” - Tara Cole
“The best guidance I can give as we introduce our kids to a healthy prayer life is to look at the season or stage that you find yourself in, because every season and stage of life with your kids is going to look different.” - Tara Cole
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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This month, as part of the Jesus Calling Podcast, we’re featuring multiple guests who have previously appeared on the show who share what it means to know a God who hears our prayers and wants to know us by our communication with Him. We hope you find inspiration from these stories of praying people, and how the very act of incorporating prayer into our lives has the ability to change our outlooks for the better.
Links To Full EpisodesDanny Gokey
Nell O'Leary
Holly Singletary
Dianne Derby
Randy Hartley
Chris & Kelly Janson
Krispin Mayfield
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Where does the human body fit into our theology? In Scripture, humans are said to be "created in the image of God,” but overall the creation of our bodies is a great mystery, and we cannot say it has been created in the image of God without trying to understand what that phrase means. We don't get to choose its color, its height, or even the basic functionality of its parts. It remains largely an unpredictable, dynamic space that we must learn to inhabit, love, and enjoy as the most basic gift we’ve been given.
Both of our guests this week learned to love the bodies that they were given. Dr. Amy Kenny is a disabled scholar and lecturer in Shakespearean studies at the University of California Riverside. She celebrates the beautiful vulnerability of her disabled body within the theology of the image of God and she advocates for disabled and unhoused people. Anna Lind Thomas is a comedian who overcame perceptions of being the "ugly duckling" when compared to her sister by taking time to hone her comedic craft, learn radical self-compassion, and celebrate the unpredictability of our human bodies.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Miles McPherson
Upcoming interview: Tara Cole
Genesis 1:27 NIV
Dr. Amy Kenny
Romans 1:20 NIV
John 9 NIV
Luke 14 NIV
My Body Is Not a Prayer Request: Disability Justice in the Church
Anna Lind Thomas
I’m Not Ready for This
Interview Quotes:
“I started to realize that if the invisible qualities of God's divine nature can be clearly seen in that crookedness of trees, in the bouncing kangaroo, in the languishing lion, and the waddling penguin, then why can't I see it in myself, in my own disabled body?” - Dr. Amy Kenny
“I practice really acknowledging the beautiful vulnerability of my life. I listen to my body and acknowledge that she is a temple and I try to behold those invisible qualities of divine nature throughout creation as a practice every day to make sure I am rooted.” - Dr. Amy Kenny
“My disabled body declares the truth that we are from ash and we will one day return to ash. And that day might be sooner than we plan. But my disabled body also declares what the Creator can do with a little bit of ash. And so I give thanks for that.” - Dr. Amy Kenny
“I realized that not taking yourself so seriously is a gift, and having a healthy sense of humor about yourself, it really is a skill and it's kind of a nice way to live.” - Anna Lind Thomas
“There is something about that deep belly laugh that makes us be like, Okay, I can handle this. You know, I can do this, I can handle this, let's go for it. There's really true power in that, and it's such an important thing.” - Anna Lind Thomas
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Content Warning: This episode mentions eating disorders.
Most of us can recall times in our lives where we've felt lost, confused, or unsure of how to move forward. It can be easy to shy away from these moments—to hide them and put on a smile to pretend as if our road has always been an easy one. But what if instead of striving for perfection around every corner, we stop and lean into these uncomfortable moments? What would happen if we looked at our moments of feeling lost and vulnerable as opportunities to become closer to God? To strengthen our faith and use these stories as testimony? Our guests this week explore these questions as they share their stories of faith and healing.
Carlos and Alexa PenaVega share the honest and vulnerable moments that strengthened their relationship with God and taught them the lessons that would inform the rest of their lives. Michael Phillips grew up in Baltimore and was told from an early age that he would not become the lawyer he dreamed to be. As administrators, teachers, and principals told him he would inevitably end up incarcerated, Michael fought a deficit narrative that hung over him for much of his young life.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Kristin Smedley
Upcoming interview: Amy Kenny
Carlos and Alexa PenaVega
Big Time Rush
What If Love Is the Point?: Living for Jesus in a Self-Consumed World
Michael Phillips
T.D. Jakes Foundation
Thurgood Marshall
Perry Mason
racketeering conspiracy
Oral Roberts University
Maya Angelou
Wrong Lanes Have Right Turns
Interview Quotes:
“I was really pursuing that deeper relationship with God. I grew up semi-Christian, but the craving that there was something deeper was there. And I just knew that I wanted to see God or experience God on that next level. I didn't want to have this surface level relationship with Him anymore.” - Alexa PenaVega
“Whenever something's going on, we pray about it.” - Alexa PenaVega
“It was just so cool to see God use our testimony on that level to really impact the world.” - Carlos PenaVega
“When you jump into being somebody of faith or when you jump into Christianity, I feel like a lot of times it's painted as like your life is going to be so perfect after you become a Christian. And what actually happened for us was like life actually got way harder when we became Christians, but everything was more peaceful and everything made more sense to us, like, we actually felt more complete.” - Alexa PenaVega
“From first grade on, that deficit narrative about what I could and could not do continued to be spoken over my life by certain adults, teachers, administrators in my school.” - Michael Phillips
“When trauma goes unacknowledged, tragedy often goes uninterrupted.” - Michael Phillips
“It took some time to become untethered from the things that I did as part of my identity. I was very loyal to my mistakes, and it took some time for me to realize those are just some things I did. That's not who I was, and I finally came to a place where I was tired enough of wrestling with all of that pain.” - Michael Phillips
“I think with a deep focus on some of those things for children in our communities would completely change the game for our young people. And so instead of a culture that says, ‘What's wrong with you?’ It will become a culture of ‘What happened to you?’ Or, ‘How are you doing?’” - Michael Phillips
“To say that children are at risk seems as if their expectation of who they can become or what they can accomplish will be nothing more than a failure. Right? And so to reverse that stigma, that label placed upon them, we need to say that they are at promise.” - Michael Phillips
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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So many of us are running a race to win the affection and approval of those around us. Did you ever stop to consider how much of your own identity you might be sacrificing to live up to some standard that others have prescribed for you? If we are solely living to ensure that other people love us, we give them the power to determine our self worth. There’s a better way. When we recognize that our identity is rooted in our status as wholly created by God, we can enjoy the spiritual benefits of forgiveness, a personal relationship with God, and the knowledge that our life matters, not because others say it does, but because God says it does.
Our guests this week share about the goals and expectations they had for happiness and fulfillment, laced with presuppositions about what would actually bring them that happiness—only to find that God was showing them that their happiness and worth would ultimately spring through their identities as His beloved children.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Amanda Jane Cooper
Upcoming interview: Carlos and Alexa PenaVega
Nik Nikic and his son Chris
Ironman
1% Better: Reaching My Full Potential, and You Can Too
Brittany Maher
Cassandra Speer
Her True Worth
Her True Worth: Breaking Free from a Culture of Selfies, Side Hustles, and People Pleasing to Embrace Your True Identity in Christ
Isaiah 48 NIV
Interview Quotes:
“Everybody else was so hung up with whether or not he could finish [the Ironman]. We just were pursuing God's will in our life, and we thought that that's what God put into our hearts and in Chris’s heart when he set that goal for him to be a world champ.” - Nik Nikic
“Everybody, no matter what their means are, can achieve amazing things, whether it's work or education or a better marriage or whatever it is. It's a process and it is just about being happy about getting a little bit better each day and just becoming a better version of yourself every day.” - Nik Nikic
“I became so disheartened by those false messages, that unless our makeup, hair, body are perfect by culture standards, only then am I worthy. And I found myself very entrapped in that culture of trying to meet that internal longing to be worthy of the space I take in this world with external means.” - Brittany Maher
“When I lost that job, it really felt like I had lost myself, if I'm being totally honest, and God really met me in the middle of that.” - Cassandra Speer
“Prayer and reading the Bible is like breathing in and breathing out. You can't have one without the other. And we have to partner with God's Word and His truth so that we can write it on the tablets of our heart and know just exactly what He says about us.” - Brittany Maher
“We're created by God to actually need affirmation. When we look for that affirmation in other places is where sometimes we allow our worth and our value to rise and fall on if we're being praised or not.” - Brittany Maher
“People's opinions change, seasons change, relationships change, social media algorithms change. We cannot place our value and our identity in these things because they're movable. If we place our value and our worth in the affirmation of others and not in God, we will fall when their opinions shift.“ - Cassandra Speer
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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All of us have faced times in our life that felt like a battle. Maybe you’ve had moments of disappointment and pain where you felt like no one understood you, or you had no support system. Perhaps someone hurt you with their words or planted a seed of doubt in your mind that you’d never get to where you want to be in life, and that trying to reach for more would be impossible. Here’s some comforting news: we’re not alone when we face battles in our lives. We’re not left to fight by ourselves. God is greater than whatever we’re facing and He has promised—He will never leave us.
Our guests this week held on to the promise that they could stand strong in God’s power when people or circumstances might have crushed their spirits. Samuel Rodriguez experienced situations in his young life where discrimination threatened to divert him from the path he was meant to follow to become a pastor, author, movie producer, and advisor to three of the last four U.S. presidents. Cynt Marshall endured the abuse and abandonment of her father, but her faith in the Lord and the guidance of her mother led her to thrive despite her circumstances, ultimately becoming a highly successful business woman and the CEO of the Dallas Mavericks NBA franchise.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Dedee & Greg Lhamon
Upcoming interview: Chris Nikic
Cynt Marshall
Marshalling Resources
Dallas Mavericks
University of California at Berkeley
Teenagers protesting in Parkland, Florida
Reverend Dr. Billy Graham
You’ve Been Chosen
Samuel Rodriguez
New Season Church
National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference
1 Peter 1:16 NIV
John 17:21 NIV
Matthew 5:14-16 NIV
Luke 1:37 NIV
https://pastorsam.com
Interview Quotes:
“I always saw myself as the person to help everybody and to provide resources and to be there for people.” - Cynt Marshall
“My leadership philosophy is around three Ls, and it's ‘listen to, learn from, and love the people.’” - Cynt Marshall
“With faith in God and with standing on His promises, you can truly thrive—not just get through it—but truly thrive through the unexpected.” - Cynt Marshall
"I've learned bad things do happen to good people. And so we have to accept adversity and never give up and let the Lord guide us through it." - Cynt Marshall
"Love expels fear, mercy triumphs over judgment. All things are possible." - Samuel Rodrigez
“We had this crazy dream that the church can be both Billy Graham and Dr. King, and that it can be both righteousness and justice, truth and love, sanctification and service, conviction and compassion.” - Samuel Rodriguez
“If you look at the cross as two pieces of wood, one vertical and horizontal, the strongest part of the cross is the nexus. The point of convergence where they intersect. This is the place where we marry the optics of redemption with the metrics of reconciliation.” - Samuel Rodriguez
"If our commitment is to be light in the midst of darkness and not just whine about the darkness, doors will continue to open." - Samuel Rodriguez
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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This month, we’re featuring multiple guests speaking to ways we can be like “salt and light" in the world wherever we go–and how living a life that puts others first can also bring peace and light to our own lives. Every good deed that we put out into the world builds off one another to help make the world a better place. Whenever we can be a light to others, or bring tangible resources to people who aren’t in a place to provide it to themselves—we are following Christ’s command to “love others as He first loved us.” Being charitable, loving, and giving are traits we can all strive for–and our guests this month demonstrate how they’ve been inspired to instill these traits in their own lives as they pursue to serve others out in the real world.
Links To Full EpisodesBen Higgins
Tom & Pam Banwart
Holly Hayes
Operation Christmas Child
Matthew Barnett
Rebecca Smith
Will McGinnis
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Isn’t it amazing how uniquely God created us? How He gave us different desires, skills, talents to fulfill what it is we are to do in the world? We are “fearfully and wonderfully made,” [Psalm 139:14] the scriptures tell us, but by no means are we perfect. We sometimes stumble on the way to what it is we’re supposed to be doing in this world. But that’s where God comes in. We can talk to God about what we want, what we need, what we’re passionate about. Because we’re His beloved creation, He’s listening, He’s guiding, and He’s there for us when we turn to Him for help to figure it all out.
Our guests this week each have made choices as to how they will show up in the world. News anchor Ainsley Earhardt believes she has been uniquely gifted to show others—especially children—that they are unique, special, and made for amazing things. Adventurer Ryan George has traveled the globe to skydive, surf, and climb mountains all for the thrill of adventure and showing others how they can experience adventure in their own lives—big and small.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Kristin Smedley
Upcoming interview: Samuel Rodriguez
Psalm 139:14 NIV
Ainsley Earhardt
Jesus Calling app
I’m So Glad You Were Born
Ryan George
GoPro cameras
adrenaline junkie
Enneagram Type 7
www.explorience.org
Scared to Life
Interview Quotes:
“I look at children, especially now that I'm a mother, and I know that for each of them, God has a purpose and a plan for their futures and for their lives.” - Ainsley Earhardt
“I tell my daughter all the time, ‘you are such a blessing. I am so glad to have you. I'm so glad God made you perfectly for our family, for me.’” - Ainsley Earhardt
“I call it digital courage, because as soon as I hit that record button, I was able to do things that scared me because I knew that I can show it online. And so what I did was I turned social media into a platform to seek the approval that I didn't get growing up, to try to get affirmation. And my working theory was, If I were interesting, people would be interested in me. And it's empty.” - Ryan George
“Part of my process of being able to use social media healthily is to celebrate other people and to call out what's adventure in their life.” - Ryan George
“What I learned is that vulnerable leaders are the most attractive and they're the ones that people want to follow.” - Ryan George
“We're all called to live an extraordinary life. And so I look for adventure, not just on these massive trips that end up on social media, but in my daily life.” - Ryan George
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Connection is one of the most important components to having a satisfying and full life. Connection to our family, our friends, through our work, and what we bring to others in the world has the effect of making us feel like we are a part of something bigger than ourselves. Since God created us for connection, it is His desire that we connect with Him too. In Jeremiah 29:12, God beckons us to connect with Him simply because when we do, we can know that He hears us—and knowing that God’s ears are always open to us is the bedrock from which we can move forward confidently in life.
Our guests this week have made it their life’s purpose to connect with others in important ways—and recognize their desire for connection comes from their own connection to God. Jodi Benson is best known as the voice actor of Ariel in The Little Mermaid. She has had the honor and privilege of creating a character that has been known by several generations of parents and children, building connection to millions through her artistry. Deb Liu is a second generation Chinese immigrant. Connection with a community that was somewhat foreign to her when she was growing up was something Deb always longed for, which eventually she found when her family was embraced by their first real church home. She’s stayed mindful of how to build those connections all throughout her career at places like Facebook and eBay and at her current position as the CEO of Ancestry.com.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Tim Atwood
Upcoming interview: Ainsley Earhardt
Jeremiah 29:12 NIV
Jodi Benson
Ariel in The Little Mermaid
Disney Legend
Millikin University
Part of My World
Deb Liu
CEO of Ancestry.com
Boston Consulting Group
Stanford
Take Your Power Back
Interview Quotes:
“Just to be able to feel like God had given me these gifts, and I just wanted to use them to the best ability that I could and be able to support myself and try to make a living doing this crazy business. So definitely God just really created the path very, very clearly for me.” - Jodi Benson
“Divine orchestration is truly the key because we can have this plan in my mind, you know? I can have this, I'm seventeen years old and I'll have this plan. And my plan was just blown up because God's plan was a thousand times better.” - Jodi Benson
“That's very hard for a planner like me to not be able to have this big, huge picture. But honestly, if He did, He knew I couldn't handle it. I mean, if He showed me at seventeen or at twenty-one or at twenty-five things that were five years in advance, He knew I wouldn't be able to handle it. That's how gracious and loving and kind He is. So He gives me just enough that I can handle.” - Jodi Benson
“He can handle me in any way that I present myself to Him.” - Jodi Benson
“If I get myself all wrapped up in the past or I get myself all wrapped up in tomorrow, I kind of lose what it is that He wants me to do today. So I try to keep it simple.” - Jodi Benson
“The work I do at Ancestry; it's really about connecting people with their own history. The work that we do is to really help people discover their own past, to discover new family members, discover something about themselves that they never knew. We're one human family and we're way more interconnected than you could ever imagine.” - Deb Liu
“I think each moment you have in life is a choice. It's a choice to lift others up or to tear others down, to create value in the world or to consume value in the world.” - Deb Liu
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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What comes to mind when you hear the word "catalyst"? A short cut? A dynamic experience? A transformative idea? The ancient roots of this word comes from a verb that means to unloose, to set free. Think of a horse hemmed in a barn stall. A catalyst would be an open door. This week, both of our guests today had dreams involving football. Both, however, had other gifts and talents they would see come to the fore, and realized that the disappointing situations and tough choices that happened to them while on the way to their dreams were catalysts for broader horizons with bigger pastures.
Dr. Myron Rolle is a neurosurgeon who has traveled the world; making it a better place using primarily his gifts, as he puts it, "from the neck up." By choosing a path toward medicine, Myron’s football dreams were cut short, but was able to see the wisdom in having his dream diverted. Inquiros "Inky" Johnson nearly died while playing football, but the spiritual mentoring he received during his years at the University of Tennessee set him on course to be a motivational speaker who uses his platform to travel the world and make it a better place, too.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Jason Brown
Upcoming interview: Jodi Benson
Dr. Myron Rolle
The 2% Way
Proverbs 29 NIV
Habitat for Humanity
Princeton University
Senator Bill Bradley
Rhodes Scholarship
Bobby Bowden
Luke 10:20 NIV
Florida State
human mesenchymal stem cell research
Inquiros "Inky" Johnson
University of Tennessee
Fitzgerald Field
brachial plexus
James Mitchell
www.inkyjohnson.com
Interview Quotes:
“[Our family] had to stick together. We had to lean on each other, to lean on our relationship with Christ. And if we did that, then maybe success would follow.” - Dr. Myron Rolle
"I'd be a student first, an athlete second, [but FSU promised] to grow me as a leader, as a Christian, as a man, and eventually as a role model." - Dr. Myron Rolle
"One thing that Coach Bowden said was that he was excited about his players getting into the NFL. But he's more proud and more pressed to see all of his players’ names written in the Lamb's Book of Life and joining him in heaven one day." - Dr. Myron Rolle
"I knew that football had an expiration date. If I had my way, I would not have had it as early. But again, it worked out how it did. And it is a blessing to be able to be in this field now, waking up every day, doing surgery, helping patients in the hospital, teaching young medical students." - Dr. Myron Rolle
“My junior year, the second game, 2006, September 9th, I went to make a routine tackle. It ended my career, and it changed my life forever. I thought I was in a bad dream. I didn't think my career would not only end that day, I didn't think I would be left with a paralyzed right arm and hand, from that day moving forward.” - Inquoris “Inky” Johnson
“When I look back on it, God was preparing me all along before [my career ending] injury ever happened.” - Inquoris “Inky” Johnson
“I think one of the common mistakes we make as people is thinking where we meet people is where they've always been.” - Inquoris “Inky” Johnson
“Some of the greatest forms of growth happen in uncertain moments.” - Inquoris “Inky” Johnson
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Are you facing a crossroads in your life where your next move involves taking a step that feels unfamiliar or hard? None of us really knows what the next minute, days, or weeks might bring, but God does. And when we trust that He is in charge of our future, taking those leaps of faith leads us ever closer to where we’re living in the fullness of who we’re meant to be.
Emily Chang is the CEO of the McCann World Group advertising company. As a successful executive who has headed up initiatives at Starbucks and Apple, it would seem Emily’s legacy might be secured—but her corporate achievements simply were the springboard for the legacy she really wishes to establish—which is to personally make a difference for good in people’s lives by opening up her home to youth in need. Jodi Stuber grew up with a love of horses, always dreaming of having one of her own. When Jodi found out about equine therapy, she knew this great love of horses was just a stepping off point to her true calling of serving people—including children and veterans—by connecting them to animals at the Hopewell Ranch, which she co-founded in 2004.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Brian Tome
Upcoming interview: Dr. Myron Rolle
Emily Chang
McCann World Group
The Spare Room
Purpose Driven Life
social legacy
Jodi Stuber
Hopewell Ranch
COVID
Project Solomon
PTS [Post Traumatic Stress]
www.hopewellranch.org
Project Solomon
Interview Quotes:
“It's a privilege to know our God. And it's a privilege to understand that we can thrive, we can live in abundance and in joy, and especially when we put others before ourselves, when we put God at the center of our life, everything changes.” - Emily Chang
“Faith is taking a step without knowing exactly the outcome, but having absolute conviction that God is at work and you get to be a part of what He is doing.” - Emily Chang
“It's like an incredibly freeing thing when all we have to do is say, ‘Okay, whatever you want, let me go try and be obedient and do the best I can.’ And God is amazing and always surpasses your wildest imagination.” - Emily Chang
“I think these small and regular habits become a lifestyle. And then our lifestyle strengthens our beliefs as well as our beliefs strengthen our lifestyle. And ultimately, that combination shapes who we are.” - Emily Chang
“It was such a blessing to see how the Lord took the things that I desired and manifested them so that we could start with that healing presence of the Lord through animals. And it was just really special.” - Jodi Stuber
“I like to think that when He formed the Earth and the people and the animals, that's creation. And so I believe that when you have somebody who's creative, God shares that piece of His heart with us, to give back to those around us. And I just think that's a beautiful gift and I love it.” - Jodi Stuber
“I feel like there's so many people feeling lonely because they don't think anybody sees them. We know God sees them. And what I love is when He shines a spotlight on people that we can then minister to and try to help things be a little better. And that's so rewarding.” - Jodi Stuber
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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This monthly special edition of the Jesus Calling Podcast features multiple guests who have appeared in their own episodes on the Jesus Calling Podcast speaking to how faith impacts people all over the world. As Christians, we have the ability to be the hands and feet of Jesus wherever we go—whether that’s in our home country or while we’re traveling abroad. Each of us are longing for the same type of close relationships with God, even though our lives may look very different. All around the world, people are seeking to know and connect with God in different ways, giving us the perfect opportunity to see Him move no matter where we are—and be changed because of it.
Links To Full EpisodesAngus Buchan
Sinach
Sheila Walsh
Glo Atanmo
Darlene Zschech
Mica Paris
Jeanne Lakin
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Jesus Calling Website
Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
This monthly special edition of the Jesus Calling Podcast features multiple guests who have appeared in their own episodes on the Jesus Calling Podcast speaking to how faith impacts people all over the world. As Christians, we have the ability to be the hands and feet of Jesus wherever we go—whether that’s in our home country or while we’re traveling abroad. Each of us are longing for the same type of close relationships with God, even though our lives may look very different. All around the world, people are seeking to know and connect with God in different ways, giving us the perfect opportunity to see Him move no matter where we are—and be changed because of it.
Links To Full EpisodesAngus Buchan
Sinach
Sheila Walsh
Glo Atanmo
Darlene Zschech
Mica Paris
Jeanne Lakin
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Michelangelo famously said, "The sculpture is already complete within the marble block before I start my work. It is already there; I just have to chisel away the superfluous material." This quote creatively and non-judgmentally describes the process of removing unwanted traits, polishing gifts, and working raw materials to create something memorable. Like the artist, God is always shaping us until we eventually realize what emerges from that process reveals the beauty of who we are as God’s creation.
This week we talk to two people who understand this sometimes difficult and loving sculpting process. Tayla Lynn is the granddaughter of country music legend Loretta Lynn, and she understands the perils of chipping past substance addiction to find her true, beautiful self. Hannah Dasher tells of working through the pain of her parents' divorce to find her dream of becoming a country musician materialized on social media. Both stories highlight the fact that we are all in the process of becoming complete.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Chris Janson
Upcoming interview: Emily Chang
Tayla Lynn
Loretta Lynn
Trey Twitty
Coal Miner's Daughter
Adderall
ADHD
Hurricane Mills
Tayla Lynn Sings Loretta Lynn
www.taylalynn.com
Hannah Dasher
Stand By Your Pan
Alan Jackson
www.hannahdasher.com
Interview Quotes:
“At times it was literally me and God in a closet. I knew nobody else would protect me, and I knew that He would somehow, and I would be okay with Him, hand-in-hand.” - Tayla Lynn
“I think as a mama, it's a little bit harder to let go and forgive yourself when you feel like you've maybe done something to your kid. You just feel that kind of guilt any time you're not being the best mom you can. I still have shame that I'm working on from that.” - Tayla Lynn
“I never felt like God wasn't there. I always knew any time that I wasn't feeling God, it was because that was of my own doing. God is everything to me. Jesus is everything to me. It's always been that way.” - Tayla Lynn
“It's so important to spend quality time with the Lord each day. It holds me accountable. Lord knows I need it, and it really makes me sensitive to opportunities that He's put in my path.” - Hannah Dasher
“I’m not in this [music] career for me. I'm here by His design, and I'm a vessel for Him to further His Kingdom, not my own. And when I finally started to realize that it removed so much pressure from me and really turned it into purpose.” - Hannah Dasher
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Jesus Calling Website
Michelangelo famously said, "The sculpture is already complete within the marble block before I start my work. It is already there; I just have to chisel away the superfluous material." This quote creatively and non-judgmentally describes the process of removing unwanted traits, polishing gifts, and working raw materials to create something memorable. Like the artist, God is always shaping us until we eventually realize what emerges from that process reveals the beauty of who we are as God’s creation.
This week we talk to two people who understand this sometimes difficult and loving sculpting process. Tayla Lynn is the granddaughter of country music legend Loretta Lynn, and she understands the perils of chipping past substance addiction to find her true, beautiful self. Hannah Dasher tells of working through the pain of her parents' divorce to find her dream of becoming a country musician materialized on social media. Both stories highlight the fact that we are all in the process of becoming complete.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Chris Janson
Upcoming interview: Emily Chang
Tayla Lynn
Loretta Lynn
Trey Twitty
Coal Miner's Daughter
Adderall
ADHD
Hurricane Mills
Tayla Lynn Sings Loretta Lynn
www.taylalynn.com
Hannah Dasher
Stand By Your Pan
Alan Jackson
www.hannahdasher.com
Interview Quotes:
“At times it was literally me and God in a closet. I knew nobody else would protect me, and I knew that He would somehow, and I would be okay with Him, hand-in-hand.” - Tayla Lynn
“I think as a mama, it's a little bit harder to let go and forgive yourself when you feel like you've maybe done something to your kid. You just feel that kind of guilt any time you're not being the best mom you can. I still have shame that I'm working on from that.” - Tayla Lynn
“I never felt like God wasn't there. I always knew any time that I wasn't feeling God, it was because that was of my own doing. God is everything to me. Jesus is everything to me. It's always been that way.” - Tayla Lynn
“It's so important to spend quality time with the Lord each day. It holds me accountable. Lord knows I need it, and it really makes me sensitive to opportunities that He's put in my path.” - Hannah Dasher
“I’m not in this [music] career for me. I'm here by His design, and I'm a vessel for Him to further His Kingdom, not my own. And when I finally started to realize that it removed so much pressure from me and really turned it into purpose.” - Hannah Dasher
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Jesus Calling Website
There's an African proverb that pairs well with John 14:6 where Jesus proclaims Himself "the way, the truth, and the life." It goes like this: "We make the road by walking." What comes to the fore in both of these statements is the thought that life is not necessarily stretching out in front of us well-paved and easily discernible, but that life is an active endeavor requiring learning, maturing, and adapting. Jesus emphasizes His nearness to us in the process, but the implication is to step forward confidently even while the unknown confronts us with every step we take. We don't have to know where we'll be exactly twenty years down the road, but only where we are now and what we’ll do next.
This week, we talk to two people who have learned to navigate their callings in the now and the next. Jeff Henderson is a pastor and businessman who talks about the thumbprints of God that mark our lives, giving us clues to living out our purpose. Jonathan Evans is the son of Dr. Tony and Lois Evans. With numerous efforts to become an NFL player thwarted, Jonathan reshifted his expectations and began to see how God was getting him to his dream—just not exactly in the way he thought.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: John Maxwell
Upcoming interview: Tayla Lynn
John 14:6 NIV
Jeff Henderson
The For Company
COVID
Atlanta Braves
Chick-Fil-A
Peter Drucker
John Maxwell
Maxwell Leadership
Truett Cathy
www.jeffhenderson.com
What To Do Next
Jonathan Evans
Dr. Tony and Lois Evans
Dallas Cowboys
Mavericks
San Diego Chargers
Tennessee Titans
Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship
Your Time Is Now: Get What God Has Given You
Book of Joshua
Deuteronomy 34 NIV
www.jonathanblakeevans.com
Interview Quotes:
“The path to your dream job often leads through your day job. So God's thumbprints on you, the way He's created you, God’s thumbprints on you are clues about His plans for you. And so I think the purpose of our lives is a lot closer than we might think.” - Jeff Henderson
“You don't know what door God will open up if you're faithful in the small things. So be faithful in the small things. Be faithful where you are, because God's paying attention.” - Jeff Henderson
"I think it breaks God's heart that so many of His sons and daughters go to work and they're mistreated. Everyone deserves to be led well because they are a son or daughter of God." - Jeff Henderson
“If I'm in a difficult situation, I'm trying to change that prayer to, ‘God, I want to get out of this. But if you choose to leave me here, help me to learn the lesson that you're trying to get me to learn right now. What is the lesson in this season of suffering that you're trying to teach me that a season of comfort would not?’" - Jeff Henderson
“I'm excited to be selected to be on the team and be out running plays that He's calling.“ - Jonathan Evans
“I got called back by the Cowboys to be the chaplain. It wasn't until I was obedient that I got the call to come back to the NFL.” - Jonathan Evans
“I've been cut, I've been traded, I've been hurt. I've been not wanted. I've been rejected. I've experienced all those things, which makes me even better as God's player, as the chaplain for the Cowboys.” - Jonathan Evans
“Jesus got everything done in thirty-three years, and He didn't run anywhere. He walked.” - Jonathan Evans
“I believe everyone has a calling on their life. And a lot of times we're looking at the barriers, looking at the problem, looking at the loss, looking at the grief, looking at the pain as the reasons why we're not called to go forward instead of the catalyst that shoots us off into the calling that God has for us.” - Jonathan Evans
“I think that people must realize that your faith, your calling, your purpose, your destiny is unique to you, and it's on you to connect with God so that you can find you.” - Jonathan Evans
“Whenever you're looking at your own insufficiencies to determine whether you can go do what God keeps begging you to do, then you know that you're saying, “You know what? I'd rather be comfortable than be called.” And that's how you know.” - Jonathan Evans
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Have you ever been in a desperate situation wondering how you will make it to the next day? Perhaps there isn’t enough money to pay that one bill, or perhaps your health hasn’t been the greatest and you wonder if you’ll ever feel better, or maybe you’re in a dire situation and you just can’t see your way out of it. During these times, one person’s kind gesture or offer of help is sometimes the way we’re able to make it to the next day—turning a corner away from a turbulent season of our lives. So often these “angels” appear in the form of friends, family, and sometimes even strangers who act as God’s agents to lift us up into a better place. This week we will hear two touching stories that speak to how God sends his help through others—right when we need it most. We’re talking with singer Walker Hayes and his friend, Pastor Craig Allen Cooper, and founder of the Be Heard movement, Evan Dougoud.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Krispin Mayfield
Upcoming interview: Jeff Henderson
Walker Hayes
Craig Cooper
Glad You’re Here
Redeeming Grace Church
Evan Dougoud
Be Heard Movement
Transformation Church
www.beheardmovement.com
Interview Quotes:
“I’d just been beat up by Nashville and wasn't really excited to be known or know people. I was not a very approachable person when I met Craig, at all. And a lot of that was by choice, and just that was kind of comfortably where I lived.” - Walker Hayes
“I said, ‘Lord, I try to encourage other people, you know that. I need you, please, to encourage me. Is anything I'm doing to make a difference in anybody's life? Please show me that you have me where you want me.’” - Craig Allen Cooper
“I think God was kind to show me Christ in another human, and I'm so grateful for that.” - Walker Hayes
“It was just very, very tough to try to focus on school when you're trying to focus on surviving.” - Evan Dougoud
“I'm standing here today only as a walking miracle, but most importantly, God saved me and I want to help and go and do the same for somebody else.” - Evan Dougoud
“What if I didn't move to Tulsa? There's people on the street I would've never met, who may have died on the street if I didn't move, if God didn't use my story, if God didn’t redirect my steps.” - Evan Dougoud
“I stopped putting God in a box of how He will provide for us.” - Evan Dougoud
“I learned that trust is gained in buckets, but lost in drops. By us being consistent, by us being a man of our word, by us just showing up, it created a unique, trusting relationship to those who are unhoused.” - Evan Dougoud
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Jesus Calling Website
When we feel we are falling short, failing, or generally losing, it’s important to remember that when we don’t fail, we may not learn, we won’t have the experience of recovering, and we may not try again. Some Christians are deluded into thinking that because they are in a relationship with God, failure is not an option. However, scripture tells us in multiple places that God uses suffering and failure to build strength and character in our lives.
All three of our guests today know what it’s like to fail. Discovery Channel’s Todd Hoffman has had highs and lows in his mining career. He's learned as much–if not more–from his mistakes navigating the world of gold mining as from his successes. Pastor Adam Hamilton and his wife Lavon know what it’s like to serve the Lord and their family as best as they possibly can, but that sometimes, they don’t meet the mark as spouses and parents. They speak about the challenging transitions of parenting kids as they become adults.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Dr. Meg Meeker
Upcoming interview: Walker Hayes and Craig Cooper
Luke 16 NIV
Todd Hoffman
Hoffman family
Gold Rush on Discovery Channel
Joshua 24:15 NIV
Hoffman Family Gold
Adam Hamilton
United Methodist Church of the Resurrection
www.cor.org
Interview Quotes:
“I don't care about fame, but I do care about the reach when it comes to my faith.” - Todd Hoffman
“I was kind of depressed and coming out of that and trying to fix things in my marriage. And that's when God kind of met me. I said, ‘I need a good idea and I need something new to believe in.’ And that's when I got that vision of Gold Rush.”
“We try to serve the Lord the best we can and we fail, but we get back up and we ask for forgiveness and we carry on.” - Todd Hoffman
“I would hope that as long as we're still alive, that we're finding ways to parent, that you're still finding ways to show [your children] love and care. And I know as we age, the tables kind of turn and they start helping take care of us. But I think that no matter how old you are, you can still look for ways that you can be a mom or dad to your children.“ - LaVon Hamilton
“I feel like all of our best years were way after our thirties. You know, there were some things that were great at that time, I'm not denying that, but I feel like we have more joy. There is more satisfaction in life. I think we feel more in love with each other today than at any point in our past.” - Adam Hamilton
“You have to figure out how you transition together, or how you learn the dance steps for this phase in your life. Because dance music doesn't stay the same throughout your whole life. It changes as you go through life.” - LaVon Hamilton
“There's a direct correlation between our spiritual life and our time with God and how we live out our faith towards the people that are closest to us.” - Adam Hamilton
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel!
Audio Episodes: https://bit.ly/3zvjbK7
Bonus Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3vfLlGw
Jesus Listens: Stories of Prayer: https://bit.ly/3Sd0a6C
Peace for Everyday Life: https://bit.ly/3zzwFoj
Peace in Uncertain Times: https://bit.ly/3cHfB6u
What’s Good? https://bit.ly/3vc2cKj
Enneagram: https://bit.ly/3hzRCCY
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Jesus Calling Website
Emotions can be a sticky topic for Christians. While most of us know having a healthy range of emotions is good for us and those we love, we are often dissuaded from leaning too much into our emotions or feelings for the fear of becoming swept away by them, and distracted from our calling. But Jesus shows us a true picture of how emotions can give us perspective and language for relating to ourselves and others. He shows the gamut of emotions from anger to those who are exploiting the things of God for their own gain, to compassion for the Samaritan woman at the well who had been discarded by her people (John 4 NIV). Jesus exemplified how our emotions can inform us as to how we show up in the world, and having a healthy balance of emotions keeps us in touch with ourselves and others.
Today's guests discuss emotions from two different perspectives. Dr. Gary Chapman looks at his seminal work, The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts, not only as it relates to human relationships but also in our relationship with God. His discussion comes as the book celebrates its 30th anniversary, having sold over twenty million copies world-wide and being translated into fifty languages. Jason Wilson is a writer and non-profit CEO who advocates emotional intelligence among men. He shows the example of Jesus as the “comprehensive man,” in the fact that He was not only bold, strong, and aggressive, but compassionate, nurturing, and caring.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. Daniel Amen
Upcoming interview: Todd Hoffman
John 4 NIV
Dr. Gary Chapman
The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts
www.5lovelanguages.com
Jason Wilson
Yunion
Obama administration
This Is Us
Cry Like A Man
Laurence Fishburne
Battle Cry
Romans 12:2 NIV
Matthew 5:16 NIV
Matthew 6:25-34 NIV
www.mrjasonwilson.com
Interview Quotes:
“There's an ancient Hebrew proverb that says life and death is in the tongue. We can kill people by the way we talk to them or we can give a light. And for some people, affirming words really communicates a love to them or an emotional level.” - Dr. Gary Chapman
“Each of us has a primary love language. And if you don't speak [your loved one's] primary language, they will not feel loved, even though you're speaking some of the other languages.” - Dr. Gary Chapman
“One of our deepest emotional needs as humans is the need to feel loved by the significant people in your life.” - Dr. Gary Chapman
“My life has never been the same, it was almost like God was saying, ‘I have something for you to do, but I don't know if you're ready for it yet.’” - Jason Wilson
“Like Moses, when his desire was to free the Israelites, he did it his way at first and it almost cost him his life. That's the majority of us. When I became a follower of Christ, I had the t-shirt, hat, bumper stickers, you know, everything Jesus, okay? But it was really my way, not His way.” - Jason Wilson
“When you make mental health as important as this world says we should maintain our physical bodies, it becomes a part of the culture, so we have to change our culture.” - Jason Wilson
“As the scriptures say, the power of Christ is perfected through our weakness. But what do we always say to each other? ‘Stay strong.’ So when we fear being weak, now the power of Christ can't really be perfected through us.” - Jason Wilson
“[God] never said, ‘Do not be concerned about anything.’ So, we will always have concerns. We will always be nervous. And it's okay, you know, allow yourself the freedom to be human, but also allow yourself to walk by the power of His spirit to move through those fears, those anxieties, nervousness, depression, etc.” - Jason Wilson
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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This monthly special edition of the Jesus Calling Podcast features multiple guests who have appeared in their own episodes on the Jesus Calling Podcast speaking to how they formed relationships that last. The relationships God has given us in this life bring us joy, connection, and safety. Whether it be a spouse, our family, our friends, or even a beloved pet—much like our relationship with God—the bonds we foster with others carry us through good days and tough times. Through tragedy and loss, our treasured relationships leave an imprint on our heart that will last beyond the time we have together here on earth.
Links To Full EpisodesJeremy Miller & Dr. Brandon Lane Phillips
John & Stasi Eldredge
Michael & Zina Goodin
Peter Mutabazi
Mark Miller & Madison Brown
Dr. Jim Burns
Rev Run & Justine
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
The statement "God works through people in our lives" could be thought of as just a cliche—until we start to really take notice of the people around us and begin to identify what they bring to our world. This realization provides a comforting perspective that shifts us from feeling alone in the world to a grateful understanding that God shows up through the people he uses to walk alongside us through the worst and greatest times of life—and in that, we see a little bit of the divine in the faces of our friends and family. Our guests this week articulate with great clarity how special people have helped them find their paths forward when it didn’t seem possible to get there on their own. Kristin Smedley became an advocate within the blind community after becoming a mother to three children, two of whom are blind. She has given a TED talk about her experiences and also hosts the podcast Brilliantly Resilient. Donovan Carter is a former NFL player turned actor who makes it abundantly clear that his successes would not have happened without those who stood by him before he ever threw a football or landed an acting role.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Derek Evans
Upcoming interview: Gary Chapman
Kristin Smedley
Brilliantly Resilient Podcast
LCA CRB1
Braille Literacy International Challenge
Jesus Calling for Moms
www.kristinsmedley.com
Thriving Blind: Stories of Real People Succeeding Without Sight
Donovan Carter
Dwayne Johnson
Philippians 4:6-7 NIV
www.donovanwcarter.com
Interview Quotes:
“I was raised in a firm foundation of faith and that God is good and He wants good things for you in this world. And I thought to myself, What kind of a god does this? This is hard. And honestly, I thought, It's mean. I mean, I'm looking at this perfect little person and all of my hopes and dreams for him were extinguished.” - Kristin Smedley
“It was like God took a freight train and hit me in the head and said, ‘Kristin, look at this little person. Blindness is not bothering him. It's bothering you. He is figuring everything out.’” - Kristin Smedley
“I was just trying to figure out how to make it. And I just kept staying in the Word, kept praying, kept talking to God, you know, ‘Whatever you got for me, Lord, just let me know.’” - Donovan Carter
“God made me fearfully and wonderfully. I could do anything in this world if I wanted to and if I had the right mindset, and I'm just so appreciative of Him in my life.” - Donovan Carter
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Jesus Calling Website
We humans are, by design, creators. We build. We write. We cook. We adapt. We learn. Hardship tends to bring out the best in our creative abilities. The first book of the Hebrew Bible describes in poetic brilliance the story of God creating order out of supreme chaos, bringing light out of darkness, and life from lifeless spaces. We praise our Creator in no greater way than when we take what is before us in our skills, our desires, and our time to create beautiful things where there was nothing. Today's guests found that difficult times and their unique life stages gave fertile soil for their creative ideas. The husband and wife team of David and Tamela Mann turned to their music and comedy sketches to bring joy and hope; Laura Story turned to writing and penned a book about courage not being the absence of fear but the strength to take another step.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Alex Seeley
Upcoming interview: Kristin Smedley
David and Tamela Mann
Willie Stewart
James Moore
Mattie Moss Clark
Twinkie Clark
Overcomer
“Help”
Tyler Perry show Assisted Living on BET
Laura Story
“Blessings”
Casting Crowns
www.laurastorymusic.com
So Long, Normal: Living and Loving the Free Fall of Faith
Interview Quotes:
“I thank God for Him living in me and giving me the opportunity to represent Him, and my thing is always to represent Him well.” - Tamela Mann
“I try to use my platform to bring more light to [God]." - David Mann
“A lot of us need help, but we're afraid to ask for help, and we all need a touch from the Lord.” - Tamela Mann
“I'm just praying that we can all just unify somehow, see each other as people and not skin color and not political affiliation.” - David Mann
“Don't seek to be famous. Seek to be faithful.” - Laura Story
“I'm great at being a person of faith until whatever chapter of my story actually requires faith.” - Laura Story
“God didn't create us for normal. He created us for extraordinary lives that are completely and utterly dependent on Him." - Laura Story
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Jesus Calling Website
Recent attention to mindfulness through the popularity of prayer and meditation apps reminds us how important it is to stay in the present with God. Our perspective is transformed when we are more able to recognize God in each moment. Scripture backs up this premise with the statement “pray without ceasing.” [1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV]. When we open our hearts to the presence of God in every moment, we begin to look at life differently. Today's guests both pay special attention to the present by emphasizing the importance of a daily walk with Jesus. Both wrestle with conditions that require ongoing attention. Jim Sonefeld, drummer for the rock band Hootie and the Blowfish, addresses his alcoholism on a daily basis, noting that his spiritual growth blossomed, "When [he] made that decision to practice a daily surrender, a daily prayer, [and] a daily devotion." Our second guest, Sara Gruber, deals with chronic disease. After the initial and very scary discovery, she has found that the daily impact of an ongoing illness presses her into a complete dependence upon God.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: John Hill
Upcoming interview: David and Tamela Mann
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV
Jesus Calling app
Jim Sonefeld
Hootie and the Blowfish
Contemporary Christian music
Proverbs 26:12 NIV
“Not Waiting on Sunday”
Swimming with the Blowfish
Remember Tomorrow
www.jimsonefeld.com
Sara Gruber
Dysautonomia
Blessings of Chronic Illness
Interview Quotes:
“My first experience meeting Hootie and the Blowfish [was] a great enactment of love—unconditional love, giving, and using their position on stage to influence--giving to somebody who really needed it.” - Jim Sonefeld
“In a rare moment of motivation, I decided to face the truth, the truth that I was not in control of my life. And I needed to ask someone else for help.” - Jim Sonefeld
“I needed to go out and follow Jesus. And that led me to bringing my spiritual music to audiences—smaller audiences than I was used to—and giving them a message of hope and redemption.” - Jim Sonefeld
“All of that busyness, I couldn't do it anymore. And it was just me and God and John and the girls and we had to figure out a new life, a new way to approach things, a shift in our household.” - Sara Gruber
“Nobody understands what it's like to live inside my body except God and I, and it led me to this complete dependance on God. I could explain all of my symptoms. I could explain what I felt and what I was going through. But I felt like God was the one I was living it with.” - Sara Gruber
“I've spent a great part of my life being a caretaker and now I have to learn how to receive care and receive it with grace and know that in some way I am gifting others by allowing them to care for me.” - Sara Gruber
“Isn't it so amazing when you have those moments, those little brilliant moments where you have these small miracles that maybe aren't so small, and you realize that God worked this just for you, all these little things that we take for granted?” - Sara Gruber
“I absolutely believe in the power of prayer. You just kind of feel like your body and everything is wasting away and you're looking for purpose and you're so frustrated and I started thinking, You know, there's not a lot I can do physically, but I can pray.” - Sara Gruber
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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As we celebrate the origins of America with 4th of July events, it’s a great time to reflect on the beauty of God’s earth, the people He created, and the ways we are gifted to serve and be served by others. Amy Kennedy and David Degler are part of a ministry called A Christian Ministry in the National Parks, formed to meet the faith needs of national park employees while also helping visitors find the most beautiful manifestations of God’s creation in the parks. John Sowers is an author who developed a love for writing when his grandmother wrote him weekly letters while he was away at college. He carried that legacy forward by writing special letters to his daughters, which he shares in his latest book entitled Say All the Unspoken Things.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Rick Steves
Upcoming interview: Sara Gruber
A Christian Ministry in the National Parks
Amy Kennedy
David Degler
Olympic National Park
Smoky Mountains National Park
www.acmnp.com
John Sowers
Say All the Unspoken Things
www.johnsowers.com
Interview Quotes:
“That summer, I learned so much about who I was, what God was calling me to, how to love people, and just really opened my mind for a bigger world.” - Amy Kennedy
“The heartbeat of [the ministry] is that we would provide a space for people to use the national parks landscape and the beauty that's there to reflect the love of this great Creator.” - Amy Kennedy
“Our team members are intentionally working on their own leadership development while trying to be a great example of Christ in the place that they live, work, and serve.” - Amy Kennedy
“I left that summer, and I realized what ministry should be. It's not sitting behind a pulpit and speaking to people that you never interact with. It's being a part of a community, showing up daily, interacting with them, getting to know them, and figuring out how to share Christ's love through your actions on the smallest level.” - Amy Kennedy
“Writing to me has just been a real blessing and a real fulfilling thing that I feel like that's why I was put on the earth.” - John Sowers
“I have a whole stack of these beautifully cursive written letters from my great-grandfather to my great-grandmother. And so it's been really neat to be from a family of letter writers and then get to carry on that tradition to write these letters to my daughters.“ - John Sowers
“Do my friends know how much I love them? Am I holding on to grudges? Have I expressed my full heart to my children or to my spouse or parents? Have I said all the unspoken things to them?” - John Sowers
“[When I lost my mother and grandmother] I had some really great friends who showed up for me and who helped point me to God and, in some ways, helped be the hands and feet of God to me.” - John Sowers
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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This monthly special edition of the Jesus Calling Podcast features multiple guests who have appeared in their own episodes on the Jesus Calling Podcast speaking to how they learned to let go, start over, and find healing from difficult situations. Sometimes we may not understand why we face times in our lives when we need to move on and begin anew. Letting go of something we’ve been a part of for a long time—good or bad—can be painful. Letting go of relationships, whether through a loss or through changing circumstances can be especially heartbreaking. Many of the stories you’ll hear in this episode are from those who responded to either dire situations where letting go was required, or who purposefully chose to start something new that led them to a place where they could fully discover who God wanted them to be.
Links To Full EpisodesBrett & Brad Warren
Tara Royer Steele
Emily Ley
Dr. Derwin Gray
Kayla Stoecklein
Steve White
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
When we face scary situations in life, it's easy to wonder if our faith—especially the amount of faith we have—makes a difference. But is it healthy to quantify faith, to think If I just had more faith, my problem would go away! Though tempting, that line of thought doesn’t square with the faith-filled greats all throughout history who followed God despite the fear and uncertainty of their experiences. They practice what the poet John O'Donohue argues we must learn: to "Hold nothing back [and] learn to find ease in risk." God's grace can empower and sustain our faith, too, just like Abraham’s, Rahab’s, and David’s.
Our guests this week are Janine Urbaniak Reid and Megan Smalley. Both tell stories of faith in the crucible, of being pushed to their breaking points only to find God's grace remaining alongside the fear, suffering, joys, and the triumphs. God's grace powered Janine through her son Mason's cancer battle and Megan through an arduous journey to reach her dream of having children.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Michael Jr.
Upcoming interview: Amy Kennedy and David Degler from A Christian Ministry in the National Parks
John O'Donohue
Janine Urbaniak Reid
Mark 9:24 NIV
Texas Children's Hospital
Philippians 4 NIV
The Opposite of Certainty: Fear, Faith and Life in Between
Megan Smalley
IVF (in vitro fertilization)
Infertility
Jesus Calling mobile app
Infertility Sisterhood
www.megansmalley.com
Give Grace
Interview Quotes:
“If I could just do what I needed to do, then I was sure that God would bless me. And the plans would go according to what I thought was acceptable. Now, the only thing that we know for sure is that, as some people say, God laughs when you tell Him your plans.” - Janine Urbaniak Reid
“Every time I've been emptied out in my life, I don't love it. But it's a place of miracles, too.” - Janine Urbaniak Reid
“Sometimes we have to push past our self-imposed limits. But there's a time when crisis goes too deep and long that we just have to take care of ourselves.” - Janine Urbaniak Reid
“The point was never to be a perfect mom. The point was always to just be a human mom and love these people through it all.” - Janine Urbaniak Reid
“There are some things that we walk through that are earth-shattering that we did not choose and we would never choose. And it is so hard…God doesn't promise us an easy life. He promises us hard things. And we have to figure out how to walk through those hard things. And then when we get to the other side, how to look back and recognize what God did and how He brought you through it.” - Megan Smalley
“A lot of times in the season of grief, it's hard to find the words. I can't even tell you how many times I prayed for a baby. And it's like, Okay, God, I don't have any more words.” - Megan Smalley
“I think when you can step outside of yourself and serve somebody else, it gives you a very healthy perspective.” - Megan Smalley
“I think it's a learned skill to focus on what Grace is and then learn how to accept it and apply it in your life.” - Megan Smalley
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Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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This week we are celebrating Freedom Day, or what is more commonly known as Juneteenth, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.
Anthony Ray Hinton is an American activist, writer, and author who was wrongly convicted of the 1985 murders of two fast food restaurant managers in Birmingham, Alabama. Hinton was sentenced to death and held on the state's death row for twenty-eight years. During that time, he befriended a member of the Klu Klux Klan and through that friendship, that man moved from a life of hatred to a love for people of all races, and a love for God. Ultimately, Anthony was found to be innocent of his charges and was released from prison.
Dr. John M. Perkins has been a counselor to six presidents, community development leader, and civil rights legend. Dr. Perkins grew up in Mississippi and was born during the height of Jim Crow and the Great Depression. The loss of his mother due to malnutrition and his brother, who was killed by police after his return from World War II, shaped Perkins’ life and ultimately inspired him to pursue civil rights issues, particularly around racial violence in the U.S. Today, at ninety-two years old, Dr. Perkins continues his work by shedding light on injustices and drawing Christians into the work of social justice and civil rights.
Both of these men give us a picture of the trials and tribulations they’ve had to endure in this life—exacerbated by issues of race—and how they’ve dedicated their lives to spreading love over hate and the joy that comes in the freedom they’ve found in Christ.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Sadie Robertson
Upcoming interview: Janine Urbaniak Reid
Juneteenth
Anthony Ray Hinton
Henry Francis Hayes
The Sun Does Shine
Dr. John M. Perkins
Pellagra
Henri Nouwen
Mornings with Henry
Psalm 1 NIV
Interview Quotes:
“I'm just so thankful that my mother brought me up to be blessed, be thankful for what I have, and to love even those who don't love me.” - Anthony Ray Hinton
“I learned how to pray. And I learned how to ask God to do whatever needs to be done for that person to bring love into their heart because I had learned something. It's not about me. It's about them.” - Anthony Ray Hinton
“I was determined to be a voice for those who don't have a voice. I have to fight for those who can't fight for themselves.” - Anthony Ray Hinton
“God created one human race in His image to reflect His love and His compassion in the world.” - Dr. John M. Perkins
“Redemption is not of ourselves, our redemption is a gift of God is a gift of God. That's why we should love one another. Love is eternal. Isn't that beautiful?” - Dr. John M. Perkins
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Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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As the world mourns after another school shooting, parents and children are navigating how to deal with the fear and trauma that follows these tragedies. Times like these can fill us with despair, but we can cling to the belief that God is still present, even in dark times. In John 16:33, the scripture tells us “to take heart, for [God] has overcome the world.” Our guest this week is Christian musician Cade Thompson. At 21 years old, Cade dealt with the fear and trepidation that many students have– wondering if they will be safe at school. He shares his experience, how he turned to God during this time, and how that inspired him to write a song to encourage others who are dealing with the fear, anxiety, and pain these events can cause in their lives.
Quotes
“I believe ultimately that a new normal can truly come from the power of Jesus Christ.” —Cade Thompson
“John 16:33, ‘Take heart for I have overcome the world.’ And that right there is one of the most beautiful messages, and when I see these tragedies hit our world, that's what I can rest in.” —Cade Thompson
“I'm praying that we, as believers and as Christians, can show the world what it means to be a light in the season that we're living in, to truly reflect Jesus Christ in all that we do.” —Cade Thompson
LinksJesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Cade’s website
Cade’s Facebook
Cade’s Twitter
Cade’s Instagram
“New Normal” song
Matthew West
John 16:33 NIV
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
When Jesus set about gathering His disciples, He chose people from very different backgrounds. His disciples included fishermen, a tax collector, perhaps one of royal blood, and a revolutionary. Not only did they find a working commonality, they were united and transformed through their relationship with Jesus. After Jesus’ ascension, this same rag-tag twelve took the good news that Jesus taught to the farthest reaches of the world. Today's guests, like Jesus’ disciples, have come from very different backgrounds and taken Jesus’ love and message to very different destinations. Kristoffer Polaha lives in Hollywood with his wife Julianne Morris and their three children where he is an actor, producer, director, and writer. Scott Sauls is the senior pastor of Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, TN, where he and his wife Patti have two daughters. Scott has also written six books.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Jason Sautel
Upcoming interview: Anthony Ray Hinton
Kristoffer Polaha
Julianne Morris
Stevenson School
A Streetcar Named Desire
Miss Guided
Jurassic World: Dominion
www.krispolaha.com
Scott Sauls
Christ Presbyterian Church in Nashville, TN
Sarah Young
Philippians 1 NIV
Romans 8 NIV
2 Corinthians 4 NIV
Chip Dodd
Beautiful People Don't Just Happen
Interview Quotes:
“I had to just give my acting over. I had to literally just say, ‘God, it's in your hands. If you want me to be an actor, you open up doors, and if you don't, you will close them. I am no longer going to try to control this thing.’” - Kristoffer Polaha
“If you believe there is a God in the universe who created the universe and everything in it, everything that is seen and unseen, and that the hairs on our head are numbered, then why wouldn't you just want to constantly be in contact with that?” - Kristoffer Polaha
“We become more and more the people that God has created us to be through the crucible of hard things...You can't take contentment for granted based on your circumstances.” - Scott Sauls
“We are supposed to use our emotions as part of the stewardship of the lives that we've been given by God.” - Scott Sauls
“The secret of contentment can be found in any and every circumstance and in any and every outcome.” - Scott Sauls
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Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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When the unthinkable happens in our lives, a tragedy or a loss so great, we may not know how we could ever move forward. Perhaps we can find comfort in these words from the Psalms: “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” [Psalm 34:18] Though our lives may be changed irrevocably from events so dark we can’t fathom a way out of our pain, when we turn to God, He listens and brings solace in our most desperate hours.
In this week’s episode, unthinkable tragedies weren’t the end of the story for our two guests, but the beginning of hard and beautiful work they would do toward bringing comfort and healing to survivors and those experiencing deep loss. At sixteen, Kechi Okwuchi was one of two survivors of a plane crash that claimed the lives of 59 of her classmates and friends. Her will to survive, and her subsequent journey toward becoming a finalist on America’s Got Talent as well as becoming an advocate for burn survivors and for victims of bullying was driven by the desire to do something meaningful with her life in honor of her friends and the families they left behind. Singer/Songwriter Anne Wilson lost her brother in a devastating car accident, and ever since then, her songs have been crafted toward bringing healing to others who have also suffered great loss. Both of these women stand in the place of their hurt and heartache to comfort other survivors in finding hope for another day.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Coping with Grief bonus episode
Upcoming interview: Kristoffer Polaha
Psalm 34:18 NIV
Kechi Okwuchi
America’s Got Talent
More Than My Scars
Anne Wilson
“My Jesus” song
Grand Ole Opry
“No Place Like Home” song
My Jesus album
Interview Quotes:
“I just remember saying in this faraway voice that didn't even sound like me; ‘I don't know, maybe we should pray.’” - Kechi Okwuchi
“The parents of those kids–my friends and my classmates–they were praying for me and they saw my life as the one good thing that came out of [the accident].” - Kechi Okwuchi
“I really didn't care about winning—I never did throughout the show. It was just a matter of gratitude that I even made it this far, and I ended up with a more, I think, substantial gift than just being on [America’s Got Talent].” - Kechi Okwuchi
“We all have it within us to access the strength needed to overcome obstacles that are before us.” - Kechi Okwuchi
“To be able to know and have the truth that Jacob is with Jesus, that's what got us through. And that's what is our anchor, especially now, knowing that God is using his story for good, has been such a blessing to our lives.” - Anne Wilson
“I wanted to write songs that specifically spoke to people walking through deep pain and loss.” - Anne Wison
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Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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This special bonus edition of the Jesus Calling Podcast features multiple guests who have appeared in their own episodes on the Jesus Calling Podcast speaking to how they deal with doubt and fear in their lives. Doubt is a normal part of our experience as humans. When something doesn’t line up with the facts as we know them, or when something unforeseen wrecks carefully laid plans, we might find ourselves wondering if God’s promises really are true. Many of the stories you’ll hear in this episode are from those who faced doubt and the fear that comes from not knowing if what you believe is true—and what happened when they took those doubts to God.
Links To Full EpisodesCraig Groeschel
Jamie Kern Lima
Christi Paul
Josh McDowell
Caitlin Crosby
Paula Faris
Dominic Done
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Maybe you’ve discovered yourself so aware of your apparent weaknesses that you couldn’t imagine how your weaknesses could be strengths. Throw in things like financial difficulties, an unexpected diagnosis, or loss of someone close to you, and it’s easy to think that life is nothing more than different shades of failure. Moments like these invite us to hear Jesus’ words to Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:9: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Our guests this week know weakness in its various forms.
Natalie Grant faced big hurdles to becoming a successful, award winning Christian musician only to find herself battling thyroid cancer in her forties. Would cancer take away her ability to sing—and if it did, was that really what defined her? Author and speaker Mary Marantz is grateful for what her childhood in rural West Virginia taught her, and carried on the ethic passed on to her from the hard-working logging community where her father made ends meet. In writing her story, Mary hopes that others will find themselves in some of the struggles she had, and that they may also find their weakness might be their biggest strength.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Emily Ley
Upcoming interview: Janine Urbaniak Reid
2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV
Natalie Grant
thyroid cancer
Truth
4Him
Avalon
Bernie Herms
Jesus Calling for kids
www.nataliegrant.com
Mary Marantz
Yale Law School
Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots
Dirt
Pearl S. Buck
www.marymarantz.com
Interview Quotes:
“I began to notice when I would sing, there was something that happened in the atmosphere and I could tell it was deeper than just a song and a voice.” - Natalie Grant
“I think that God is consistently calling us to small steps of obedience. And when we choose to say yes in the small, it's often when people begin to trust us with the big.” - Natalie Grant
“Oftentimes in my own life of faith, my experience is that God asks for the yes before He gives the details.” - Natalie Grant
”I can remember being very little, being four or five, and feeling like I knew God as the best friend. He was the green of the grass down to the very pigment. He was a bird stepping into flight. He was the feel of cold, hard ground. How when you broke it up in your hands, you couldn't forget how it felt. He was color and freedom and fire and dirt.” - Mary Marantz
“We might know or get a glimpse of where we're headed when we're little, but we're not ready for it until there's time.” - Mary Marantz
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Perhaps you’ve found yourself in a time of desperation—feeling like you’ve come to the end of your rope. When you didn’t think the bottom could be any farther down, and you plummet a little more, who do you reach for when all the things you’ve relied on to give you strength and satisfaction come up empty? In the Bible, it says this, in Philippians 4:19-20: “And my God will fully supply your every need according to his glorious riches in the Messiah Jesus. Glory belongs to our God and Father forever and ever! Amen.” Our guests this week share how God came through by putting people in their lives that helped them in their most desperate hours. Journalist Dianne Derby found hope and inspiration from spending each Tuesday with a ninety-nine year old Pearl Harbor survivor who taught her how to slow down and comforted her through a pregnancy crisis. Minister Jordan Wilson was at a low point in his life due to a drug addiction, when he learned his mother had been praying unceasingly for his recovery, and decided to take his father up on an invitation to a church service that would change the whole course of his life.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Derek Evans
Upcoming interview: Natalie Grant
Philippians 4:19-20 NIV
Dianne Derby
Pearl Harbor
Two Hundred Tuesdays: What a Pearl Harbor Survivor Taught Me About Life, Love, and Faith
Garden of the Gods Club
Jordan Wilson
Friends of Sinners
Matthew 14:22-33 NIV
www.friendofsinner.org
Interview Quotes:
“It was so captivating because here [Jim Downing] was in this major, major event at Pearl Harbor. And yet he was turning the focus on to the heroes of today. He said, ‘We only had to endure the bombs for a little while. The heroes today are up against that every day.’” - Dianne Derby
“It was just remarkable to hear this man run towards danger, memorize the names of the dead, put out fires on this ship so he could help save others, and then write those letters to the families who lost their loved ones. It was just such a beautiful testimony of faith in one of the darkest, scariest moments of their lives.” - Dianne Derby
“I knew that focusing on Jesus and sinking into His love and sinking into my faith were the only ways out of the depths of despair that I faced.” - Dianne Derby
“I tried to get out [of addiction] for so long. I did long term rehab, short term rehab, I [saw a] medicine therapist, the whole nine yards, and nothing ever worked. And the reason that nothing worked was I refused to surrender my heart to Christ.” - Jordan Wilson
“I am a new person in Christ Jesus, and I feel obligated to share what God has delivered me with the next person to show that there is hope, there is freedom from addiction, and that freedom is Jesus Christ.” - Jordan Wilson
“Nothing in this world will ever be able to truly satisfy you. Popularity won't satisfy you. Social status won't satisfy you. Thousands of followers on social media won't satisfy you. You are created by God and for God and outside of a relationship with Him, you'll never be complete.” - Jordan Wilson
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Life as a journey is almost cliche now, but there’s a reason why the metaphor persists. Journeys are difficult. We fight through injuries, claw our way to the tops of mountains, and endure the elements. We enjoy the completion of one segment only to find another looming ahead with its own set of obstacles. Journeys are visions of life’s failures and triumphs that emphasize the importance of keeping on. Our guests this week share how they’ve persisted and how Jesus has carried their burdens with them on their journeys. Jon Gordon overcame a negativity learned from childhood to become a highly sought after motivational speaker. But even with his success, he felt empty, and his search for meaning led him to an unlikely source who told him that Jesus could take his soul-pain from him. Andrew F. Carter grew up in a family plagued with drugs, alcohol, and prostitution. After being in and out of jail multiple times, Andrew turned to Jesus long enough to be called to the ministry, but then had what he calls “a Jonah moment” when he ran the other direction. Eventually, he found his way back to that calling as a social media influencer on platforms like TikTok and YouTube where he shares the gospel with millions. For both Jon and Andrew, life has been a journey that’s best done with Jesus.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Dave Pittman
Upcoming interview: Dianne Derby
Jon Gordon
Erwin McManus
The Energy Bus
The Garden
jongordon.com
Andrew F. Carter
TikTok
YouTube
Jonah
www.andrewfcarterministries.org
Interview Quotes:
“I started these thank you walks where while you're walking, you say what you're thankful for. And those walks of gratitude also turn into walks of prayer.” - Jon Gordon
“I believe in a God that would actually want to take my burden, want to take my soul pain.” - Jon Gordon
“I needed a Savior because I couldn't save myself. I wasn't strong enough. I wasn't good enough. It wasn't about my power. It was about transferring my power to the Creator of the universe.” - Jon Gordon
“Jesus believes in people more than they believe in themselves.” - Jon Gordon
“Jesus came to forgive. He came to love. He didn't come to condemn the world. And so once you understand that love, I think it makes you want to know more.” - Jon Gordon
“People need more encouragement today. They need more hope. They need more light. It's what Jesus came to do.” - Jon Gordon
“It was like the Holy Spirit coming over me, just like; This is what you were called to do. You have words of gold. You've been called to ministry, and you're going to speak to millions of people, all three of those things. And at that moment, I knew exactly what I was supposed to be doing.” - Andrew F. Carter
“All of the things that I thought would bring me happiness, the money, the travel, the girls, all of those things that I thought would bring me true happiness, they failed to fulfill….I was so fulfilled, I was so satisfied, so on fire and driven when I was actually serving God, when I was walking in the purpose that He had for me.” - Andrew F. Carter
“I've tried to do things my way. I've taken the wheel. I thought I pulled myself up by my bootstraps and I clawed and fought my way to the top, only to lose it all. And I realized that in my weakness, God is my strength.” - Andrew F. Carter
________________________
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Does it ever feel like you’re searching for something in life beyond what your everyday existence is bringing? Maybe you’re a parent who is devoted to your family, but you wonder if there’s something you’re missing. Maybe you’re in the second half of your life and wondering if there’s more beyond the days of your youth. Perhaps you are just lonely, and wondering why you haven’t been able to connect with others who share your outlook on life. We all want the assurance that we’re doing it right—the peace that comes from knowing where you’re going. Our guests this week share that there is an answer to finding that missing peace—and His name is Jesus. Sonya Curry raised three amazing children who became successful in sports and in life, but she still kept thinking something was missing, and found what she was looking for in a closer relationship to God. Sheila Walsh is a spiritual leader to many, yet she battled depression at the height of her success and realized that she needed God’s love through other people to help her find herself again.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Michael Guillen
Upcoming interview: Jon Gordon
Sonya Curry
Stephen Curry
Seth Curry
Sydel Curry
Type A personality
@sacurry22
Fierce Love
Sheila Walsh
Is God Still Awake?
700 Club with Pat Robertson
Life Today with James and Betty Robertson
Psalms 88 NIV
Interview Quotes:
“I wanted for nothing materialistically, I just wasn't fulfilled. And so I was searching for some of that fulfillment in the world.“ - Sonya Curry
“I went from just being religious and going to church to really having a personal relationship with God. And it saved my family, it saved me, and got me more focused on living out the potential that God had placed in me to get to the purpose that He had for my life.” Sonya Curry
“I was already raising my children and taking them to church because that's how I was raised. But then they started seeing the transformation in me. They started seeing me praying more. I wanted to train them in how to put God first. You can fit God into your schedule, is what I wanted them to see.” - Sonya Curry
“I felt how God's hand was always in every decision that was made regarding them...we need to be intentional and purposeful because we are the gatekeepers to their souls.” - Sonya Curry
“Doing my daily devotions and prayer time grounds me, it really helps me to set the standard for the day. It reminds me who I am, where I came from, and who I'm here for.” Sonya Curry
“I have tried so many things and ways to find fulfillment within myself to then have that pour into my role as a mom. And some things worked, some things didn't, but the things that were built on the foundation of God never failed.” - Sonya Curry
“God's antidote to shame is grace.” - Sheila Walsh
“Rather than viewing the Word of God through what I just heard on the news, I reverse everything now so that whatever I watch at some point to catch the headlines, I view them to what I've just read and the Word of God.” - Sheila Walsh
“Don't isolate yourself from God when you're hurting. Bring everything that's true about you to Him, just as Christ did.” - Sheila Walsh
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Forgiveness can be a difficult concept—especially when we’ve been harmed in ways that have long-lasting effects. However, unforgiveness can end up doing even more damage. Our guests this week have stories of pain and harm done by people filled with hatred that was so traumatic, forgiveness seemed like an impossibility. Jeanne Lakin, a writer and speaker, endured the atrocities of the Rwandan genocide as part of an ethnic group who were targeted for massacre. Randy Hartley, a Tennessee businessman, traveled with his daughter to Rwanda and befriended a man whose own aunt was responsible for the death of his mother, sister, and nieces. Forgiveness didn’t seem like an option in their stories, yet through prayer and faith, it became the only choice that would bring wholeness and restoration to those involved.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Casey, CJ, and Tucker Beathard
Upcoming interview: Sonya Curry
Jeanne Lakin
Rwandan genocide
Tutsis
Hutus
www.avoiceinthedarkness.org
Randy Hartley
Beautifully Broken
Compassion International
Amy Grant
William and Ebralie Mwizerwa
Legacy Mission Village
Beautifully Broken movie
Interview Quotes:
“We went from being from this home, a beautiful home, to being in the bushes, hiding for our lives and watching our neighbors, our loved ones, our families being basically killed because of how God had created us.” - Jeanne Celestine Lakin
“I knew I could access that peace with God through prayer. I know I had God, who was seeing me through this chaos.” - Jeanne Celestine Lakin
“God created us with a choice, so people could choose to do good.” - Jeanne Celestine Lakin
“He's a God who sees details that we might not see.” - Jeanne Celestine Lakin
“When I was able to forgive, when I was able to say, ‘I forgive you for the rape, for raping me. I forgive you for killing my family. I forgive you for all the pain, all the nights I spent thinking about all the pain you caused in my life,’ that was God's gift.” - Jeanne Celestine Lakin
“Once everything is taken away from you and all you have is God and prayer, He really puts you in a humbling place where nothing else matters. It's you and God, no matter what happens at the end of the day.” - Jeanne Celestine Lakin
“When you have such hatred and bitterness and anger and resentment in your heart, there's just no way to enjoy the simplest thing that God has created for us when we're holding on to that kind of pain.” - Jeanne Celestine Lakin
“If you've ever been a dad driving at 3:00 in the morning and trying to find out where your daughter is, it just doesn't get any darker than that.” - Randy Hartley
“God could take a Rwandan refugee and a national financial planner and a Rwandan genocide perpetrator, and weave their lives together through this divine tapestry in a way that they were all saved.” - Randy Hartley
“When you're broken and you're in a dark place, sometimes it feels like you can ever move forward. But I'm here to tell you, that's just a chapter in your life. That's not the end of your story. That's just a chapter.” - Randy Hartley
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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This special bonus edition of the Jesus Calling Podcast features multiple guests who have appeared in their own episodes on the Jesus Calling Podcast sharing inspiring stories about mothers–either their own or others who have influenced their lives by showing them motherly love. It is a blessing and a responsibility to nurture others–whether it be those in our own family, or those outside our family who may not know the love of a mother. So many lives have been positively influenced by women–mothers, grandmothers, aunts, sisters, or friends who took it upon themselves to love and care for someone–modeling God’s unconditional love for us all. We hope these stories will encourage you and remind you of that special person in your life that hoped for you, prayed for you, and believed in you when you needed it most.
Links To Full EpisodesJason Crabb
Peggy Rowe
Kierra Sheard-Kelly
Gloria Gaither
Toure Roberts
Cheryl Karpen
Candace Cameron Bure
Jeff Hostetler
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
This week we celebrate a special landmark—our 300th episode. Many thanks to you—our listeners—for coming back to our show week after week to hear the stories of real people, just like yourself, who have found hope and peace in the word of God and in Jesus Calling. For this very special episode, we have three guests who have all experienced their share of scars from the hard parts of life, but have found a way to see their scars as badges of honor, and they recognize how God has strengthened them through their pain so that they can reach others with His message of love and healing. We’re talking with NFL and MLB star Tim Tebow, singer Merry Clayton, and actor Dean Cain.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Michelle Wilbur-Christiansen
Upcoming interview: Jeanne Lakin
Tim Tebow
Frank Thomas
Psalm 139:14 NIV
Mission Possible: Go Create a Life That Counts
Merry Clayton
Rolling Stones
Lynyrd Skynryd
Beautiful Scars
Billy Preston
Ray Charles
www.merryclayton.com
Dean Cain
No Vacancy trailer
No Vacancy website
No Vacancy Facebook
No Vacancy Twitter
Lois & Clark
Sean Penn
Chris Penn
Rob Lowe
Charlie Sheen
Emilio Estevez
Princeton University
Young Guns
Beverly Hills 90210
God's Not Dead
Cecil Johnson
It’s a Wonderful Life
Interview Quotes:
“If I didn't know what God says about me, then it would be so easy to get caught up with the highs and the lows.” - Tim Tebow
“We are here to love God and love people. And He has made it possible through the blood of the cross to have a mission possible life, one that truly counts. Not one that is about one day, but one that is about this day. This day, it is a chance to make our life count.” - Tim Tebow
“It's so easy to get caught up in those emotions because they speak really loud. Ask for truth to speak louder.” - Tim Tebow
“We can choose courage, because even in the midst of the trials and the midst of a tribulation, the midst of the negativity, in the midst of the criticism, we know all we have to do is keep fighting because He wins the game for us.” - Tim Tebow
“We wanted His will to be done. Not me, not my will, but His will, because that's the way we live.” - Merry Clayton
“God is still here. He hasn't left us. He's still here. We're still in the palm of His hands.” - Merry Clayton
“I think being a parent changes you because you're no longer the most important thing. And then you start to sort of understand the whole idea behind faith and behind God.” - Dean Cain
“I humble myself before God every single day because life itself is humbling.” - Dean Cain
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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In the busyness of life, job, family, and activities, we can easily become caught up in the day to day routine of putting one foot in front of another. And sometimes, that very routine, instead of being comforting, can be something we feel dragging us down, making us feel like we’re just living life in an endless loop, with no real deliberation or purpose. Our guests this week have learned an important truth about taking deliberate steps to carve out moments for reflection and connection with God—even when their day-to-day existence is overwhelming. Actor Mark Wahlberg takes time each day to pray because he knows it will equip him to take on what’s next in a positive way. Actress and writer Roma Downey takes a moment at the beginning and end of each day to remember what she is grateful for and to identify that day’s unique blessings. Writer and speaker Shauna Niequist enjoys a “breath” prayer practice where she thinks consciously about breathing in God’s peace, and breathing out her own anxiety. No matter which way you choose to deliberately connect with God’s presence in your life, you will likely find peace, strength and courage to take on stressful days that only He can give.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Ruth Chou Simons
Upcoming interview: Tim Tebow
Mark Wahlberg
Father Stu
Roma Downey
Lightworkers
The Bible Series
Son of God
A.D. The Bible Continues
Messiah
Touched by an Angel
Psalm 46:10 NIV
www.lightworkers.com
Unexpected Blessings
Shauna Niequist
I Guess I Haven’t Learned That Yet
Interview Quotes:
“As a person of faith, I'm just trying to grow and be better every day, be an example to my wife and to my children and to the people that look to me as an example.” - Mark Wahlberg
“When I started focusing on my faith, good things started to happen.” - Mark Wahlberg
“No person is beyond redemption. As long as they are willing to repent and want to make real change. We cannot turn our backs on anybody. This is not about excluding people. This is about including people and opening our arms and our hearts and our homes and everything else to love people and care for them.” - Mark Wahlberg
“I think in life you reach a point where you think, If I only have forty summers left, what do I want to be doing with my life? And I thought, I really want to live a life of purpose.” - Roma Downey
“If you have a gratitude attitude, you can really change your life.” - Roma Downey
“I've almost trained myself to look for the blessings. And the great thing is, when you train yourself to look for the blessings, you find them, and then you start finding that they're everywhere. It's like the more you're grateful for, the more you have to be grateful for.” - Roma Downey
“I loved having a sense at a very young age that the world was big and beautiful, and people all over the world were kind and interesting.” - Shauna Niequist
“We felt like there was a lot of energy and direction, like God's graciousness was very apparent and it felt like the path was emerging before every step.” - Shauna Niequist
“There were so many new things to learn, and so we tried to build into our family language this idea that being new is good and starting again is good, and it's okay to be a rookie and it's okay to ask questions and it's okay to need help.” - Shauna Niequist
“My worth is not on the line. There's nothing I have to prove. My worth is given to me by the Creator. And then also, it's not something I can destroy. It's not in my power to do that. The love and worth that God bestows upon every person He creates is not ours to destroy or manage in any way.” - Shauna Niequist
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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This special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling podcast features missionaries to Ukraine, Yuriy and Madison. Yuriy and Madison Perekotiy share about the work they’ve been doing to help vulnerable people in Ukraine since 2018 and give us a glimpse of how Ukrainian Christians are opening their doors to those who have lost everything during the war. They describe how their community and church in Ukraine are stepping up their efforts to show God’s compassion to those who have been most affected by the conflict. Their prayers are for a hope and a future for the Ukrainian people that is free from war and that God’s healing can be found in the aftermath of this collective trauma.
Quotes
“Everybody has literally opened their doors, opened the doors of their churches, opened the doors of their apartments and said, ‘Hey, come here and you know, stay with us for a little bit.’ I've been proud for the Ukrainian church. They’ve opened the doors. And I think that right now it's a great opportunity to make friends with people who you've probably never met and plant the seeds of the gospel in their hearts.” Yuriy Perekotiy
“We've seen the church in Moldova, Romania, Poland–all the surrounding countries around Ukraine–Slovakia, Hungary, the churches there, as well as further into Europe, are rising up to take care of Ukrainians who are in need. And so I think God will use this tragedy of war to draw people closer to Himself through believers in so many different places that are not just in Ukraine, but all over the world.” Madison Perekotiy
“Continue to pray for those who are most vulnerable. Those who might have autism or special needs, or a child with Down syndrome or those in the deaf community. Those with a physical challenge that makes it difficult for them to get out or evacuate or those who can't leave at all because of those things, just to continue to pray God's mercy over the vulnerable.” Madison Perekotiy
Links@theperekotiys
War Relief Fund
Video Updates
Heritage Ukraine
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Are you the type of person who won’t ask for help until you get to a place where you absolutely have to? Are you someone who thinks you can handle things on your own and that asking for help is a sign of weakness? Paul from the Bible is a famous example of someone who tried to carry the weight of his mistakes and misfortunes on his own. It took Jesus’ words “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness” [2 Corinthians 12:9] for Paul to realize that he could “gladly boast about my infirmities so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” Jesus is there to listen when you need help, and He doesn’t despise our weakness—He demonstrates His strength in us through it. Our guests today are open about how they lean on God for their help and hope. Bubba Watson is a PGA golfer who has won multiple major championships who, even while at the top of his career, reached a low point where he wasn’t sure he could lift himself out of his depressed mental state. Jimmy Houston is a legendary fisherman who hosts the popular TV show Jimmy Houston Outdoors. When Jimmy found himself at low points over the years, he testifies that God was always able to pick him up and take him to that next step to where he needed to be.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV
Past interview: Ryan Casey Waller
Upcoming interview: Mark Wahlberg
Bubba Watson
Don Mattingly
Up and Down
Jimmy Houston
Jimmy Houston Outdoors
Catch A Better Life
Lake Tenkiller
BASS
FLW
Lake Genesis at the Sea of Galilee
www.jimmyhouston.com
Interview Quotes:
“Without faith, I wouldn't have gotten off the floor.” - Bubba Watson
“You have to find people that you truly trust. There's going to be one to five people that you can truly trust and share with. And they don't blink an eye. They're there to hug you. They're there to give you a high five.” - Bubba Watson
“When we stumbled and fell, when we hit those broken roads, when we got in those valleys, God was always able to pick us up and take us to that next step, whatever that next step might be.” - Jimmy Houston
“It's hard to be a hunter or a fisherman and not acknowledge God all around you.” - Jimmy Houston
“I continually pray for the things that I want God to be doing in my life on a daily basis. I ask God every day for Him to make me a blessing to other people that I come in contact with.” - Jimmy Houston
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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When life deals a tough blow, it can be challenging to know where to go next. Perhaps the plans you’d been working toward have been blown out of the water, or maybe you’re experiencing a loss that has made you wonder how to move forward. When it feels like nothing makes sense in our lives anymore, all we can do is continue to show up and look for what God has next for us. Musician Danny Gokey was encouraged by his wife to try out for American Idol, and while they worked toward that moment, she unexpectedly passed away and Danny wasn’t sure how to go on. Minister Hosanna Wong lost her father at eighteen and longed to follow his legacy and help others learn of God’s love, but realized that it would take being present for others and really showing up in their lives to be able to live out her faith in a way that was authentic and compelling.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Matthew West
Upcoming interview: Bubba Watson
Danny Gokey
American Idol
Phillips, Craig and Dean
Hebrews 12:2 NIV
Jesus People
www.dannygokey.com
Hosanna Wong
How Not to Save the World
Interview Quotes:
“I'm glad God kept pushing me because I just didn't see myself as the lead person or the lead singer.” - Danny Gokey
“In the most difficult time of my life, losing a spouse, all of a sudden there's a wide open door in the midst of that to fulfill a dream that God was giving me in that moment.” - Danny Gokey
“I think God was pulling away and resetting the foundation so that I would know and that people would know that [my music career] was God built.” - Danny Gokey
“People want to be seen, people want to be known, people want to know they're not alone. And there is no point in putting on a facade to impress the world Jesus called us to serve.” - Hosanna Wong
“Being a part of God's beautiful church all over the country, I realize the truth that the church was way more beautiful than I ever imagined.” - Hosanna Wong
“Let us also live and love others in the same way that God loves us, not giving people shame, but also telling them the truth about who they are too.” - Hosanna Wong
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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This special bonus edition of the Jesus Calling Podcast features multiple guests who have appeared in their own episodes on the Jesus Calling Podcast speaking to how they’re overcoming worry and anxiety in our lives. “Do not fear” is one of the most oft repeated phrases in the Bible. God knows that we as humans struggle with fear, worry, and anxiety and He gives us many reasons to believe that He will guide us through the unknown and help us move past our fears. We hope these stories will encourage you and remind you that you are not alone–and that a life plagued by anxiety and worry can be replaced with a life of assurance that things can ultimately work out for our good, according to God’s plan.
Links To Full EpisodesSara Evans
Nik Wallenda
Ally Brooke
Ryan Casey Waller
Gloria Gaynor
Michelle Bengtson
Darren Whitehead/Chris Tomlin
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
When we are not completely honest with ourselves or others about our problems, struggles, or emotional pain, we can find ourselves disconnected from the world and may even turn to drugs, alcohol, or other addictive behaviors to combat our shame. This shame can grow over time and fuel our addictions to become even worse. But there is hope in overcoming these destructive cycles—and we don’t have to live in the shadows of our secrets. Jesus tells us in the Bible that if we follow Him we can know the truth; and that truth can set us free. Our guests this week battled their own secret pain and addictions only to find the freedom that comes by pursuing the truth that Jesus so readily wants to show us. We’re talking with country music artists and songwriters Brett and Brad Warren from the Warren Brothers and Broadway, film, and television actress Amanda Jane Cooper.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Ryan Sheckler
Upcoming interview: Danny Gokey
Warren Brothers
Van Halen album
Women and Children First
Buzz Cason
Tom Douglas
Tim McGraw
9/11
www.warrenbrothers.com
Amanda Jane Cooper
Glinda in Wicked
Carnegie Mellon University
Mr. Stephen Schwartz
Kristin Chenoweth
www.amandajanecooper.com
Interview Quotes:
“The partying and the drinking and being in a bar band and just having fun and hanging out with other people that were partying and drinking turned into medicating pretty quick.” - Brett Warren
“The very first hit we had was in our first year of sobriety, so we thought we were giving something up creatively [by not drinking] but the truth is we were gaining tons.” - Brad Warren
“The God I met in recovery and the God that I was introduced to as a little kid that was holding a lightning bolt that couldn't wait to pelt me all the time, and then the God I've gotten to read in Jesus Calling, each of them, they've all circled into one.” - Brad Warren
“God is good. They always say that when something good happens to them, but [Brad’s] seeing that God is good in the worst thing that could happen to you, and the good that's happened to our family as a whole, and the change that it's made in all of us and increased our faith and trust.” - Brett Warren
“Helping other people [is] what helps us to stay sober. And it makes us feel fulfilled.” - Brett Warren
“I really did think that I had to earn my value, earn my worth, prove my perfection. So that was through misusing and abusing my body, but also trying to fill that God-shaped void in my soul with relationships, with promiscuity, with substances, with success, even.” - Amanda Jane Cooper
“I have a new perspective that God says who I am. I do not need to “prove” to the world my worth through a certain size or through a certain weight at all. God looks at the heart and He wants to tend to our hearts.” - Amanda Jane Cooper
“I fully believe that by the blood of Christ and His healing power, we can be set free from addictions, compulsions. We can go to Him in distress, pain, anger, insecurity. He is big enough and good enough, better than good enough, to handle whatever we bring to His feet.” - Amanda Jane Cooper
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Countless articles have been written and studies conducted about the power of prayer, not just from theologians, but from mental health experts and those who study the pathways of the brain; and they all come to the same conclusion–prayer and having a relationship with God makes us stronger. Prayer can calm our nervous systems, shutting down our fight or flight response. It can make us less reactive to negative emotions and less angry. It can give us hope that we are not alone–even in the most trying of times. Our guests this week share how their personal relationship with God has held them up in times of sadness and loss, doubt and fear, and that building a foundation of trust and familiarity with God has been what keeps them moving forward when things fall apart in their lives. Michelle Hord is a media executive and storyteller, and founder of the non-profit Gabrielle’s Wings. Krispin Mayfield is a writer and a counselor who studies attachment science—a discipline that looks at how relationships develop between humans, and correlates our various styles of attachment to how we develop our relationship with God.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Chris Norton
Upcoming interview: Brett and Brad Warren
Michelle Hord
Gabrielle’s Wings
America's Most Wanted
President Reagan
The Oprah Winfrey Show
Good Morning America
J.C. Penney studio
Jesus Calling app
The Other Side of Yet
Krispin Mayfield
D.L. Mayfield
Psalms
Henry Nouwen
Mr. Rogers
Attached to God: A Practical Guide to Deeper Spiritual Experience
Interview Quotes:
“We sometimes have our course, we think, and then God provides what we think are detours that are actually the great path…I always thought the beauty of how the human spirit fights to survive, fights to find faith, and how strangers even try to be a part of helping to be the light in really dark stories. ” - Michelle Hord
“I immediately looked for a dark room, a closet, and I shut the door and I got on my knees and I said, ‘God, I do not know what this is, but whatever it is, please give me what I need to survive it.’” - Michelle Hord
“It was an act of defiance to say, ‘In the end, God is going to win.’ I don't know how. I don't believe God did this to my child. I don't believe the platitudes of ‘everything happens for a reason.’ But I do know there's a God. “ - Michelle Hord
“My relationship with Jesus Calling, the intimacy of how the passages are written, was familiar in a time where there wasn't much that still felt familiar.” - Michelle Hord
“I know that He has used this horrific, horrific experience and the holes in my heart as a testimony to others…There is the complete vulnerability and weakness and brokenness that takes us to Him in a unique way where He truly can shine through all of the broken pieces.” - Michelle Hord
“The science actually shows us that the way we relate to God is just the same way we relate to everyone else.” - Krispin Mayfield
“We want closeness with God. And actually, there are these predictable patterns of how we try to get it, especially depending on what beliefs we've been told about God.” - Krispin Mayfield
“I believe that if you're sad or worried or don't have hope, those are great things to bring to God knowing that God can handle it and God can meet you there.” - Krispin Mayfield
“It's been a transformation for me to move from this place of being afraid that God is going to punish me or judge me to knowing that even with all my flaws, God still likes me.” - Krispin Mayfield
“I've been learning a lot about Sabbath and a lot about this idea of just being with God, not worrying so much about if I'm getting it right, not worrying as much about my behavior and focusing on the fact that I'm a beloved child of God.” - Krispin Mayfield
“I think that has been transformative for me to recognize that the more I try to keep closeness through following the rules, the less secure I actually feel. Because they never get that chance to be able to test the relationship and they never get a chance to see that even if I fail at everything, God is still there holding me.“ - Krispin Mayfield
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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When we look back on our lives, we all hope we can consider them well lived. But what signifies a life well lived? How much money we made or achieving great fame? Not according to our guests this week. Both have achieved fame and recognition for their musical talent, while recognizing God gave them the words and platform to spread His message of love. We’re talking with Florence LaRue, a singer with the iconic music group The Fifth Dimension, and country music artist Michael Ray.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Patti LaBelle
Upcoming interview: Michelle Hord
Florence LaRue
The Fifth Dimension
Lamonte McLemore
“Aquarius”
COVID
Grace in Your Second Act: A Guide to Aging Gracefully
Michael Ray
Warner Music Nashville
Gatlin Brothers
Oak Ridge Boys
Garth Brooks
“The Dance”
Opry
Porter Wagoner version of “Green Green Grass of Home”
Ricky Skaggs
“Real Men Love Jesus”
www.michaelraymusic.com
Interview Quotes:
“I had no intentions of becoming a singer at all. That was strictly God.” - Florence LaRue
“I enjoy communicating with people. I enjoy the exchange of singing songs and making people feel things, making people happy.” - Florence LaRue
“You are not alone. God is with you always. He loves you more than you know, more than you can understand, more than anyone else could ever love you.” - Florence LaRue
“You know, a prayer doesn't have to be eloquent. It can just be ‘help’ or ‘thank you.’” - Florence LaRue
“[My grandfather] wanted everybody to have a chance to play music, and to see his passion for it for his entire life was unbelievable.” - Michael Ray
“I think that's all you can do in this life is try to make the next twenty-four better than the last.” - Michael Ray
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Jesus Calling Website
When you feel broken and lost, and the life you wanted seems far from reach, there’s Someone you can turn to. God is just a prayer away and no matter where you are or what life circumstance has laid you low, you can call His name. He listens. He cares. He’s there for you always. Our guests this week have had times in their lives of complete brokenness—and they found that when they whispered a prayer up to heaven, peace, comfort, and restoration was never too far to follow. We’re talking with baseball pitcher Daniel Ponce De Leon, and musician and founder of Tipping Point Artist Wellness Lanny West.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Holly Hayes
Upcoming interview: Florence LaRue
Daniel Ponce De Leon
St. Louis Cardinals
Chicago Cubs
Victor Caratini
epidural hematoma
One Line Drive: A Life-Threatening Injury and a Faith-Fueled Comeback
Lanny West
Tipping Point Artist Wellness
Beatles
Staple Singers
Otis Redding
Amy Grant
https://www.tippingpt.coach/
Father, Son, And The Unholy Road: The Dark, Twisted Truth of My Journey From Cocaine to Christ
Interview Quotes:
“My dad was a very big part in teaching me the Word, and every morning, you know, he was up reading. So he'd talk to me about it, and I didn't really understand most of the things. But you know, later on in my life as I read the Bible, all the words that he told me before now kind of are coming together, and I'm starting to understand that even more.” - Daniel Ponce de Leon
“On good days and bad days, I need God.” - Daniel Ponce de Leon
“I believe the whole journey that He put me through was different ways of God chastening me.” - Daniel Ponce de Leon
“I'm using my baseball talents to spread the gospel and I'm able to talk with people and see their connection, their walk with God, and hopefully bring them closer and hopefully just bring us all as a church closer.” - Daniel Ponce de Leon
“My dream was to escape the turmoil and the abuse within my family. And I just was trying to figure out how the heck to get out of that mess because nothing was getting better.” - Lanny West
“I felt like I had to continue drinking and doing these drugs because people expected me to be a certain way, this entertainer, this radio DJ. And so I got hung up in it and I couldn't get out of it.” - Lanny West
“Even though I didn't know my real father, there was a Father that was watching out for me…I don't miss having a cocktail. I don't miss drinking. I don't miss cocaine. I don't miss any of that because I'm filled with God's spirit, and that's the most important thing in my life right now.” - Lanny West
“I knew at that moment that the spirit had entered me and that God had finally shaken me to the point where I realized that I could not go on in my life without Him.” - Lanny West
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Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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This special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast features multiple guests who have appeared in their own episodes on the Jesus Calling Podcast speaking to how they pursue peace for their lives. God promises us a peace that passes all understanding when we trust Him to meet our needs. In good times or bad, we’re still able to experience that peace only God can give—letting us know that He’s got everything in His hands. We hope these stories will encourage you that anyone can find peace–—even in times of pain and loss—and that we all can experience the kind of peace that will get us through any situation we may be facing.
Links To Full EpisodesTrent Shelton
Erwin McManus
Jeremy & Adrienne Camp
Chrystal Evans Hurst
Melissa D'Arabian
Paul Cardall
Lolo Jones
Reba McEntire
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Uncertain times can cause us to reflect about and reassess what really matters to us. When we take that time to get quiet, pray, and really ask ourselves why we’ve been put on the earth to begin with, we can begin to feel a sense of purpose that directs our next move. And when we’re moving in the direction of our purpose, we begin to connect to our impact in the world and feel the satisfaction of knowing we can make a difference. Our guests this week have come to their sense of purpose and direction through prayer, understanding their strengths and passions, and events that made them pause and look within themselves toward what matters most to them. We’re speaking with country music singer and songwriter Chris Janson and his wife Kelly and author and President, Special Counsel to CEO [Comcast], Steve White.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Sadie Robertson
Upcoming interview: Lanny West
Chris Janson
Jerry Lee Lewis
Waylon Jennings
Johnny Cash
Hank Jr.
Ree Guyer
www.chrisjanson.com
Steve White
Uncompromising
Moms In Prayer
Theodore Roosevelt
Interview Quotes:
“I think that God puts certain situations in your life to be honest with you, that really mold you. And I think sometimes you have to live in those spaces and almost kind of be miserable sometimes before you really get to see the clarity at the end of the tunnel.” - Chris Janson
”I think through our family, it gives us all peace knowing that God is always there and you can talk to Him no matter where you are. It gives confidence. It gives peace.” - Kelly Janson
“I saw God when our children were born. I saw God when we got married. I saw God when I was sleeping in the back of a car.” - Chris Janson
“The way you lead, the way you handle yourself, the joy you display, that's your pulpit.” - Steve White
“You should never allow your circumstances or your environment impact your ability to dream.” - Steve White
“The more you demonstrate an interest in being better, the more you demonstrate that you want your light to shine brighter.” - Steve White
“Great things cannot happen unless you're in the arena. So learning is being in the arena because you never know what can happen.” - Steve White
“No one really remembers how big your house was. No one really remembers how many awards you got. What they do remember [is] did you change my life? Did you impact my life? That's what people remember.” - Steve White
“We all have a purpose. We're all here on this earth for a reason. And so the more you can get quiet and reflect, it will help you start to identify your purpose and ‘why.’” - Steve White
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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When it comes to loving others, we sometimes have to stretch ourselves to honor the commands that Jesus has about love. How can I love someone who is so different from me, we might ask ourselves? How can I love someone who I don’t understand and who doesn’t understand me? In our daily lives, it’s natural for us to make bonds with people who are like us, who have our same values, who believe like us. It can be tempting to live in that bubble and think that we are practicing love. But Jesus calls us to do more. He asks that “all we do be done in love.” If we can remember that before each conversation we have, before each decision we make in regards to others, as we measure the words and actions that we speak and do each day, we’ll find that a life lived in love will bring healing, reconciliation and benefits to us that we could have never imagined. Our guests this week are deliberate about taking a posture of love toward what they do in the world. Tauren Wells is a musician, songwriter and speaker who encourages us to recognize God’s love in all that we do and say, and pastor and writers John Siebeling and Wayne Francis have purposefully made unconditional love a part of how they welcome people of all kinds into their churches, and now they’re building off of that to bring people together to have conversations about love, acceptance, and race.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Cynthia Garrett
Upcoming interview: Chris Janson and Kelly Janson
Tauren Wells
Michael Jackson
Prince
Donald Lawrence
Fred Hammond
Israel Houghton
NSync
Indiana Bible College
“Known”
www.taurenwells.com
John Siebeling
Wayne Francis
God and Race: A Guide for Moving Beyond Black Fists and White Knuckles
Association of Related Churches—ARC
Black Fists, White Knuckles sermon
Ahmaud Arbery case
Revelation 7:9 NIV
Acts 2 NIV
Joyce Meyer
1 Thessalonians 5:17-19 NIV
Interview Quotes:
“I love performing, I love having fun. And I don't think that the presence of God is a fun-free zone.” - Tauren Wells
“If we're really trying to make our churches diverse and multicultural, it's not just having people in the room that look like the culture we want. It's creating the pieces of fabric that make up those cultures and weaving them into the faith community that we're building.” - Tauren Wells
“The key to moving forward beyond some of the racial tension that we've seen is just super open-handed, open-hearted conversations. And when you have an open heart and you have an open hand, you sit down with somebody that's different from you and you get the opportunity to see and hear their heart and their perspective. You grow and you learn.” - John Siebeling
“We're not just trying to empower white people to have these conversations. We're empowering black people, people of color, how to have these conversations in a way that's life giving. And it blends us, moves us closer together toward the vision that we see in scripture, which is one nation, one people, one tribe.” - Wayne Francis
“We have to keep the condition of the soul right so that even when we're angry, we can communicate in ways that don't blow everything up…canceling people is not the way that we move the conversation forward.” - Wayne Francis
“The Bible says, ‘Pray without ceasing.’ That means somehow, even in the midst of work and working out and cooking and doing all that we're doing, we are communing with God.” - John Siebeling
“Diversity isn't reserved for heaven.” - Wayne Francis
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Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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During a season when “love” is celebrated with flowers, candy, and romantic cards, it’s easy to forget that love has many facets. The kind of love that sticks around when it feels like there’s not much to celebrate. The kind of love that forgives in the face of disappointments and dishonesty. The kind of love that lives up to the promise that God, who Himself is love, made to us; that no matter what, He will never leave us or forsake us. Our guests this week are two couples who have walked together through joyous and difficult seasons—only to find that their love had the capacity to carry them through it all. We’re talking to country singers Linda Davis and Lang Scott and one time fugitive Bobby Love and his wife Cheryl.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Danielle Coke
Upcoming interview: John Siebeling and Wayne Francis
Linda Davis
Lang Scott
Grand Ole Opry
Reba McEntire
Love Remains
Hebrews 11 NIV
Lady A
Bobby Love
Richard Nixon
The Redemption of Bobby Love
Interview Quotes:
“God has blessed our life and our family with wonderful opportunities and experiences that we share with people now that we can go out and talk about.” - Lang Scott
“Music has been our life. It's been our life together and now for our children as well. God uses what we have done in our life to make an impact in a positive way and in a spiritual way to us, to others.” - Lang Scott
“My mother, she prayed that I would straighten up and do the right things, and she prayed that God would just be there for me.” - Bobby Love
“I knew somewhere in my deepest of hearts that this is what I had been feeling for so many years, that he was keeping something from me. I just didn't know what it was.” - Cheryl Love
“We had a faith in God, and we talked about that, that God had always been with us. He had never left us. And, you know, I just felt like I had to forgive [Bobby].” - Cheryl Love
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Perhaps the biggest thing that contributes to having a happy and fulfilling life is faith. Our guests this week can attest to that—even though they’re talented, attained fame, and are adored by millions, they each say that the only thing that has gotten them through life, brought them where they are today, and continues to sustain them is their faith. Are you having trouble living in faith? Has your past been difficult and you’re struggling to see where God has shown up for you? Even though it may seem impossible, you can still live in faith. You can take that first step by just talking to God. Tell Him your hopes, your fears, your disappointments. And as you develop that relationship with God, you won’t be afraid to dream bigger dreams, to imagine that your life can be better, to believe that any sadness that envelops you now can be replaced by peace one day. When we believe things can be better and that God will fulfill His purpose in our lives, we begin to develop a faith that is unstoppable and will carry us through every challenging season. Here to share more about what it means to have an unstoppable faith is country singer Granger Smith and his wife Amber and singer, songwriter and author Chiquis Rivera.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Sarah Young
Upcoming interview: Linda Davis
Granger Smith
Chiquis Rivera
Jenni Rivera
Unstoppable
Interview Quotes:
“When you hold little humans, you know, and you realize that they depend on you for so much and you look into their eyes and you see the reflection of you.” - Granger Smith
“God, help me make the right decision in this moment right now for my family. I'll follow your lead because I'm not in control here." - Granger Smith
“The thing that we did was we ran to Him. Yeah, we just ran to Him and he's just carried us for these last two years.” - Amber Smith
“I would tell people at school, all the kids at school, like, ‘My mom is going to be famous one day,’ and they would laugh at me and make fun of me. And I had so much faith in her from the very beginning.” - Chiquis Rivera
“When life drops you on your knees, you're already there, you might as well pray. And that's what I've always done throughout those moments, I always keep my eyesight focused at the light at the end of the tunnel.” - Chiquis Rivera
“I'm very well aware that everything I have is because of God, because of His grace. And I keep that in mind. It helps humble me and keep me grounded every single day…What makes me unstoppable? It’s really no secret. It is my faith.” - Chiquis Rivera
“What makes me unstoppable? It’s really no secret. It is my faith.” - Chiquis Rivera
“When I don't try to fit God into my schedule, everything else goes around Him, around my faith, it's something that I think has helped me. I have this most of the time, unshakable faith where it's like, Okay, no matter what, I know, everything is going to be okay.” - Chiquis Rivera
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Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Perhaps you’ve received some news recently that has thrown you for a loop. Someone you love or care about is sick or dying. Or maybe someone close to you is struggling with the darkness of mental illness. Or maybe you yourself have had a health problem or a devastating diagnosis. In this life, we can be reasonably sure that none of us will be spared from suffering. How do we reckon our pain and suffering with a loving God who is supposed to take care of us? There’s a verse in first Peter that says, “After you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” Our guests have found comfort in the truth that God is a God of healing and restoration, and that their suffering has produced endurance, strength, and knit them together in compassion for others. For this episode, we’ll hear from Meg Apperson, a mother of four who advocates for her special needs daughter Avery, and Karlie Green, a congenital heart disease survivor.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
1 Peter 5:10 NIV
Past interview: Amanda Kloots
Upcoming interview: Granger Smith
Meg Apperson
Craniosynostosis
Single suture craniosynostosis
Sky Full of Stars: Learning to Surrender to God’s Perfect Plans
Karlie Green
Two Hearts, One Hope: A True Story of Enduring Faith in the Messiness of Life
Congenital heart disease
Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Interview Quotes:
“The Lord really supernaturally spared both my life and Avery's life by kind of shielding us from how involved her defects would turn out to be.” - Meg Apperson
“When you become a special needs parent, initially, your every thought is just consumed with either the present, how you're going to support this child, or you're learning how to meet their needs.” - Meg Apperson
“It's so hard to come into a place where you can kind of release that white-knuckled control over your life or your children's lives or your future. And so really, what I, as somebody who struggles with wanting to control things, I really just have to pray, you know, ‘Lord, help me, help me to be malleable. Helped me just be able to surrender.’” - Meg Apperson
“The Lord is not surprised by our humanity. He made us human, and so He is not put off by the struggle to surrender.” - Meg Apperson
“There is light at the end of the tunnel. There is. And that light might not show up today, it might not show up tomorrow. But when you put your faith in God, when you start praying and really talking to Him and getting to know Him, you know, just like the Bible says, He does everything for the good.” - Karlie Green
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Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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This special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast features multiple guests who have appeared in their own episodes on the Jesus Calling Podcast speaking to the topic of love. Love comes in many forms, but none is more powerful than to know we are unconditionally accepted and loved by God, the one who created us. We hope you are able to tap into the powerful force of love in your life through these stories about how love transformed, healed and brought a sense of belonging and purpose to those who were willing to recognize and welcome it into their lives.
Links To Full EpisodesLauren Alaina
Danielle Coke
Rick Steves
Jennifer Greenberg
Ginny Owens
Andrew & Shawn Johnson East
Lecrae Moore
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
What’s the central driving force to your life? Is it career? Family? Achieving success? In the Bible, there’s a verse that says “Whatever you do, do it for the glory of God.” What does this mean? “To give glory” is to praise, to recognize the importance of another, the contribution that someone gives to your life. And when we allow God to be central to all we do and say, we’ll realize our potential for love, healing, and relationship in new ways. Musician Jonathan Singletary and his wife, journalist, Project Runway judge and host of CBS’s The Talk Elaine Welteroth find their marriage and their individual purposes in life strengthened when God is in the middle of it. Researcher and writer Juni Felix found hope and healing from trauma when she allowed Jesus inside the center of her pain and believed that she was worthy to live a life outside of the trauma that once defined her.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Sarah Young
Past interview: Paula Faris
Upcoming interview: Meg Apperson
Jonathan Singletary
Elaine Welteroth
South Bay Community Church
Yvonne Orji
More Than Enough
Piano and Prayer
Juni Felix
John 17:3 NIV
www.junifelix.com
You Are Worth the Work
Interview Quotes:
“God puts people in our lives to show us a piece of His character, a piece of His heart in a different way.” - Jonathan Singletary
“When God gives you a gift, it can go either way, depending on what we're acting out of. If we're acting out of the purity of our relationship with God, then you can see the beauty of it, the light of it. But if we act out of our wounding, we can use that same gift, and there could be kind of a darkness to it, or a lack of love, or a lack of self-love in it.” - Jonathan Singletary
“It's your sole obligation while you are here to uncover your purpose and to put God at the center and to never give up, like, never, ever give up on what God has shown you is for you.” - Elaine Welteroth
“When we are really standing in the light of God's love, we know that we are whole, we know that we are more than enough.” - Elaine Welteroth
“I hope that as I share some of this, those who are blessed with opportunities to show kindness to children who are homeless and displaced don't ever hold back. I'm living proof that kindness really matters. And so these wonderful seeds of hope, they can literally last throughout a lifetime.” - Juni Felix
“The reason that so many people, myself included, who sincerely love the Lord and want to live out His love and shine His light; they struggle and stumble and get stuck because deep within, we feel unworthy of God's love and grace because of those adverse childhood experiences.” - Juni Felix
“Dare to believe that you are worth the work because trauma recovery is hard work, but you are so worth it.” - Juni Felix
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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It seems that much of our lives is driving toward something big. Whether it’s career, personal goals, seeking success or building a life for our loved ones, we’re often aiming high to be or do something big. However, we’ll miss some important moments if we don’t look at the small ways God is showing up in our lives: a simple word from a friend that brightens our day, an act of service from someone that makes our day go smoother, or even a thought from a complete stranger that reminds us we are seen and heard. When we actively look for these moments, we realize that God is all around us, at all times—in the small details of our days as well as the big moments—and recognizing His presence in all of our moments will draw us closer to Him. Flight Attendant Taylor Tippett started a project of leaving encouraging notes on the planes she worked on for passengers to find as a small act of kindness that has netted big results. Texas country music artist Curtis Grimes sees the value of reaching people for God not only in the big stadiums and auditoriums, but in the small honky tonks, fairs, festivals, & rodeos he plays regularly.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Lisa Harper
Upcoming interview: Elaine Welteroth and Jonathan Singletary
Taylor Tippett
Pan Am
@wordsfromthewindowseat
Words From The Window Seat
Curtis Grimes
The Voice
CeeLo Green
Andraé Crouch song, “Through It All”
“Graves Into Gardens”
Interview Quotes:
“I'm a very big believer in things happening for a reason. And so I was like, What if somebody finds this and really needs this? And so I wrote “Be kind to yourself” and took a picture and left it on the seat back.” - Taylor Tippett
“Through this project of really keeping an eye out for the small moments and for the kindness, that's my whole goal with this; it's just that people would feel understood and loved where they're at.” - Taylor Tippett
“I think just having patience and grace with people that look different from us or act different from us or seem different from us is so important.” - Taylor Tippett
“I was having a lot of conviction for how I was living and just was not representing Christ the way I should in not only in my music, my lifestyle. And from that point on, just kind of really made a conscious effort to use the talent and ability that God had blessed me with to reach people, to go into the bars, honky tonks, fairs, festivals, rodeos, wherever we were playing, and actually use that to point people to Jesus, not do the opposite.” - Curtis Grimes
“Initially, my thought was to just remove myself from the environment, just get out of the scene, get out of the lifestyle, get away from it, and just go lead worship in a church. But God really put it on my heart that, ‘I have you here for a reason. I want you to do whatever you think that you were going to do in a church out here where you're actually reaching people in a place where people aren't going to hear about Jesus.’“ - Curtis Grimes
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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You might have heard about the popular personality typing assessment called the Enneagram. What you might not know is that the Enneagram has many applications for Christians and has some of its early formation shaped by historical Christian thinkers. By looking at ourselves and those we care about in the context of the nine Enneagram types, we can understand ourselves and who God created us to be, so that we can in turn better understand others and have a more compassionate heart. For this episode, we’ll speak with several experts on the Enneagram who help us walk through the different personality types and share deep personal insights they found from utilizing the Enneagram in their relationships both at home and in their church community.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Listens
Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling YouTube
Enneagram
Relating to God through the Enneagram YouTube Series
Jesus Calling Enneagram discussion guides
Past interview: Shannon Bream
Upcoming interview: Taylor Tippett
Mark Eaton
Dr. Harv Powers
Enneagram assessment
Enneagram Two
Matthew chapter 7
www.eatonleadership.org
Jackie Brewster
Eve Annunziato
Jesus Calling app
Jesus Calling for kids
Hearing God Speak
Interview Quotes:
“The Enneagram studies motives, it studies drivers, it studies what motivates a person. And if we know what motivates us, what drives us, what's the thing behind the thing, then we can be much more effective in our leadership.” - Mark Eaton
“Enneagram twos tend to withdraw when we get into a little bit of conflict. We don't understand our own needs. We understand everybody else's, if you will, but we have trouble getting our own. So I can tend to withdraw for sometimes for two or three days before I understand what I'm feeling.” - Mark Eaton
“Enneagram can help us. It's just a tool, but it can help us have much more intimate relationships with those who we say we love.” - Mark Eaton
“The Enneagram helps me become the humble guy that I really want to be. When I'm facing my wife, I am aware, at least at some level, of the logs in my own eye and maybe, just maybe, I can help someone else with a splinter in their eye.” - Mark Eaton
“I had never really looked at my life through the lens of the Enneagram. And so because of the tool that it is, it's allowed me to really slow down, process what's happening in my life, like take notice of patterns of behavior, ask myself where they're coming from. And it really has made a huge, huge difference and impact on the way that I function in my marriage with my children and in my business, with my friends, just really understanding what's happening on the inside of me and owning my own parts of my story.” - Jackie Brewster
“I feel like through the work of the Enneagram, I'm accepting my own personality. And really, most importantly, I'm accepting other people's personalities that perhaps are different than mine. It's helped me view my life with compassion and empathy for others and even for myself.” - Eve Annunziato
“I realize that there is no better or worse or best number and that our numbers aren't a problem to be solved. Our numbers are a beauty to be embraced, and that's helped me warmly welcome my own personality, my own vulnerability.” - Eve Annunziato
“As we do recognize different parts of ourselves, [God] doesn't want us to try to fix them on our own. He wants us to bring them to Him and ask Him to be in it with us…I do love using the Enneagram as a tool, but the Bible as a transformation for our lives.” - Jackie Brewster
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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This season is a time for giving, reflection and joy. But what if you’re having a hard time seeing God in the swirl of busy-ness that encompass the holidays? Or what if you’re not connected with him how you’d like to be? There’s a powerful verse in the Bible from 1st John 4:12 that says even though none of us here on earth have actually “seen” God, “if we love one another, God lives in us and His love is made complete in us." Our guests today believe that love and understanding toward others, along with prayer and seeking Him are our primary connections to God and find their faith strengthened when they are acting in kindness and service. We’ll talk with Oscar-nominated actor and recent New York Times bestselling author Will Smith and Grammy Award-winning iconic Christian singer Amy Grant.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
1st John 4:12
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Sarah Young
Past guest: Lauren Akins
Upcoming guest: Enneagram through a spiritual lens with experts Mark Eaton
Will Smith
Carnegie Mellon University
Will
Amy Grant
Church of Christ
Belmont College
Word Records
www.AmyGrant.com
Interview Quotes:
“External success doesn't fix your internal difficulties.” - Will Smith
“I'm flawed, but so is everybody, and I get to be better moving forward.” - Will Smith
“A concentration on love and service above all things can't yield anything but greatness.” - Will Smith
“I want to be an ambassador of God and goodness trying to correct the lack of love in the world.” - Will Smith
“Little by little, my stage grew and the audience grew and my proficiency grew and took me places I never dreamed I would go. I'm really grateful and surprised how my life turned out.” - Amy Grant
“Prayer changes circumstances, it changes people, it changes the person who's going through it, it changes the person who prays, and I believe prayer is active, compassionate thought wrapped around another person.” - Amy Grant
“One of the first things that comes out of my mouth in the morning is, ‘This is the day the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it.’ And I feel that joy. I'm so glad to be alive.” - Amy Grant
“I think we're all wired so uniquely that God gives us gifts because He knows that's what we need to get through. And then when you enjoy that gift, then it pours out on other people.” - Amy Grant
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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This special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast features multiple guests who have appeared in their own episodes on the Jesus Calling Podcast speaking to the topic of hope. Through a variety of situations, many difficult, some tragic, our guests from all walks of life share how hope stayed alive in their hearts and how their faith fueled that hope.
Links To Full EpisodesDr. Rick Rigsby
Jim & Jill Kelly
Tammie Jo Shults
Randy & Mary Travis
Hal Donaldson
Kristin Chenoweth
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Though Christmas is typically a happy time of year, full of gifts and parties and celebrations, many find it hard to find joy at Christmas time. Maybe you’ve had a loss, or received some bad news, or a scary diagnosis. Through all the celebrating and good cheer, God still sees you. And in Him, you can draw strength that will never fail you. Jeremiah 33:3 tells us that God is just waiting to do mighty things if we’ll just reach out to Him. “Call to Me,” He says, “and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” We wish we could know what our future holds or if and when we’ll get out of a season of hurt and pain—but what we do know is that we can call on God and He will be there for us. His very existence assures us that we’re never alone. Our guests this week, country music star Steve Wariner and country gospel group The Isaacs know a little bit about what leaning on God looks like, and how He shows up not only in the Christmas songs and celebrations we hear and see at Christmas, but through times of confusion, doubt, pain, sickness and sorrow.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jeremiah 33:3
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Jesus Always
Past interview: Dave Pittman
Upcoming interview: Amy Grant
Steve Wariner
Dottie West
Bobby Bare
Jim Ed Brown
Chet Atkins
Capitol Records
Burnin’ the Road House Down
COVID
Feels Like Christmas Time
The Isaacs
The Isaacs Foundation
Polish Jewish Holocaust survivors
Bergen-Belsen concentration camp
Buna concentration camp
Feldafing
Grand Ole Opry
www.theisaacs.com
Interview Quotes:
“I remember the first time I played music was in church, the first music I heard was in church.” - Steve Wariner
“During those really hard times when you look around and so many friends are going away and friends of friends or relatives that it was starting to get really close, the circle closer, I found myself really turning into faith a lot. And really, you know, you get down on your knees and you go, Man, this is an unprecedented time we're in. And you draw back on those early experiences in your life lessons and turn to those things. It's very humbling, these times, that’s for sure. And I try to turn to some people that need some help and help them if I can.” - Steve Wariner
“It really does my heart good to play that music and bring it out and sing beautiful melodies, and the real lyrics that really mean what Christmas is.” - Steve Wariner
“We recorded when we were just small children singing in harmony. And so it was something that was just surrounding us. And so it was a very natural fit for us to grow up loving music, different kinds of music…faith has been the core of everything that we are and everything that we've ever wanted to do, just to be whatever God wanted us to be. ” - Sonya Isaacs Yeary
“There was a banjo and a guitar and prayer in our home all the time.” - Rebecca Isaacs Bowman
“To be able to be where I am now and look back on my past and know that God has ordained our family in the positions that we are, I look at it now and I could see it the alignment all the way from Mom and Dad getting saved into who we are today, who we are independently.” - Ben Isaacs
“We know how blessed we are to have each other.” - Sonya Isaacs Yeary
“I'm convinced that if you can just let your egos at the door and pray together, then you'll stay together.” - Rebecca Isaacs Bowman
“The minute my flesh hit the floor, God already knew my heart. He knew I was open to whatever He had. And it was a process.” - Lily Isaacs
“I think that choosing the type of songs that you sing and knowing that you can sing them anywhere makes a big difference in how you can spread the word and the word of hope.” - Ben Isaacs
“We do love to share what God has brought us through and His faithfulness and everything, because He is so faithful, He's been so faithful to us through all the things and so much more. And He still is leading us through.” - Sonya Isaacs Yeary
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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The news in the world today is often troubling and might send us into a tailspin of anxiousness and worry. When we hear stories of people hurting each other and conflicts around the world, we may wonder if there’s a hope in our future, or if we are just descending into chaos. When things seem out of control, the Bible gives us assurance that God is still in charge. Isaiah 41:10 says “do not be dismayed, for I am your God—I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” This week our guests both share about how they have come to know the greatness of God and how they’ve seen His power to overcome darkness in our world and in their own lives. We’ll hear from Sinach, an award-winning singer from Nigeria, and psychotherapist Ryan Casey Waller.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Isaiah 41:10 NIV
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Levi Lusko
Upcoming interview: Steve Wariner
Sinach
“Greatest Lord”
www.sinachmusic.com
Ryan Casey Waller
Anxiety, Depression, and Other Things We Don’t Want To Talk About
Mental illness
www.ryancaseywaller.com
Interview Quotes:
“As I grew as a Christian being born again, I started understanding, Oh, wow, the Lord could actually use what I'm doing, and as I saw the number of people that were being impacted with my music, I just realized that, Oh, wow, this is more than just a hobby. It is more than just something that I sing when I want to sing. This is something that the Lord will use. “ - Sinach
“It was not particularly about the music, but the spirit, the power of the name of Jesus behind the music.” - Sinach
“The name of Jesus is greater than depression, is greater than any sickness that has been named or will ever be named, and that we must have confidence in the name of Jesus and be able to trust Him for what He said He is.” - Sinach
“I understood myself first and foremost as a child of God. That's the lens through which I saw the rest of the world. I understood that first and foremost, no matter what I did, no matter what I said, no matter what I accomplished or how I failed, I knew that God had brought me into existence, out of love and made me for love. And that blessed me so I might have the opportunity to bless others.” - Ryan Casey Waller
“By the grace of God, working with that therapist and beginning to take medication, I experienced a tremendous amount of healing. And I became really passionate advocating for Christians to try and understand mental health as health and not as some separate category.” - Ryan Casey Waller
“It was that moment of deep embarrassment and shame that allowed me to see that I needed to push pause on everything. And then I need to return to the basics and I need to go and get some serious treatment and to take time to understand that my own mental health had gotten in a bad place and I had to step back.” - Ryan Casey Waller
“If the church is going to be a place of true healing, then it must be a place where every kind of pain can be brought into and entrusted. Jesus never promises to take our pain away, but what is promised is that He'll be there with us.” - Ryan Casey Waller
“I think that the abundant life that Jesus offers, the life that He wants us to enjoy, is one in which we are entering into the healthiest versions of ourselves as possible.” - Ryan Casey Waller
“God has a future for you, there are people who love you, and if you're in pain today, please tell them. Don't be ashamed. You'll be met with love and you'll be guided toward healing.” - Ryan Casey Waller
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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You may have heard the Bible verse from John 8:32 that says if you “know the truth, the truth shall set us free.” However, so many of us are vulnerable to lies we hear from others (or even tell ourselves) about who we are, about who others are, and about how we should be in the world. Our guests today encourage us as to how we can overcome lies by walking in truth and embracing who we’re meant to be in God’s eyes. We’re speaking with pastor of Passion City Church Louie Giglio and author and speaker Diana Butler Bass.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
John 8:32 NIV
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Ben Higgins
Upcoming interview: Sinach
Louie Giglio
Passion City Church
Georgia State University
Baylor University
Passion gatherings
Isaiah 26:8 NIV
Don't Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table
John 10:10 NIV
Psalm 23 NIV
www.passioncitychurch.com
Diana Butler Bass
Matthew 25 NIV
Grateful
Jesus Calling
www.diantabutlerbass.com
Freeing Jesus: Rediscovering Jesus as Friend, Teacher, Savior, Lord, Way, and Presence
Interview Quotes:
“That's really how I've gotten from that moment to this moment, it's just by waking up every day and saying yes to the opportunities that God gives me.” - Louie Giglio
“If you just preach the gospel and preach the Word, it stays relevant in every season.” - Louie Giglio
“I realized that I had let the adversary dominate my thinking, disrupt my peace of mind, cause confusion and consternation, and keep me up at night. I'll never forget the moment I just decided I'm taking the table of my mind back, starting right now, saying ‘You are not welcome at my table and you are not welcome in this conversation. I'm not going to give you a seat anymore at my table.’” - Louie Giglio
“Psalm 23, it said, ‘Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil for you are with me, your rod and your staff. They comfort me.’ And He didn't say “We're going to the valley.” He said, “We're going through the valley.” And God has a way of bringing us through every trial and every circumstance.” - Louie Giglio
“[Church] gave me a sense of freedom to not be afraid of questions, because if you're part of a tradition that’s centuries and centuries old, you know that it's not going to go away next year, it's going to last. And so you can ask whatever questions need to be asked. And in that context of church, I both felt grounded and incredibly free.” - Diana Butler Bass
“Real church happens when you go out the door....the church loving our neighbors, caring for the poor, feeding the hungry, visiting prisoners in jail, all that stuff, that's church, that's what Jesus said.” - Diana Butler Bass
“Share your story in such a way that your neighbors want to have coffee with you. Be able to tell your story of Jesus as easily and naturally. As I think Jesus told His own story.” - Diana Butler Bass
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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When the problems of our life are pressing in from all sides, we can be blinded to the beautiful moments that are also happening. Through our grief and pain, our sorrow and our confusion, it’s really tough to turn our eyes away from the wreck that’s happening in front of us to focus on those little moments of joy that are inevitably sprinkled into the tough times. Romans 5:3 tells us to “rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” Our guests this week were able to find rays of hope through times of adversity and change—we’re speaking to talk show host Amanda Kloots, who lost her young husband Nick Cordero to Covid-19 in 2020, and managing editor of Catholic Women’s ministry Blessed Is She Nell O’ Leary.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Romans 5:3 NIV
Past interview: Mattie Jackson Selecman
Upcoming interview: Louie Giglio
Amanda Kloots
Nick Cordero
The Talk
Live Your Life
Amanda Kloots Fitness
Rockettes
Bullets over Broadway
COVID
www.amandakloots.com
Nell O’ Leary
Blessed Is She
Perry Mason
www.blessedisshe.net
Interview Quotes:
“For me, any kind of movement, whether it's dancing in ballet class, running on a treadmill, jumping rope, going for a walk—it's just an instant mind shifter, a body shifter. It never doesn't help. That’s how I can best describe it.” - Amanda Kloots
“Finding comfort came from my family, from Nick’s family—definitely from God and from prayer and believing and having faith.” - Amanda Kloots, after losing her husband Nick to COVID-19
“Grief is a journey that you really can only go on on your own. I think that you have to look beyond that anger. You can't say what if or it should have been a certain way or because that'll just tear you down. You can't change what's happened.” - Amanda Kloots
“We're just so humbled by what the Lord is doing with our meager offering.” - Nell O’Leary on her ministry Blessed Is She
“To think if I had known that seven years ago, Oh, someday you'll do something that you'll really love, I wouldn’t have learned the important lesson of just being trusting and satisfied with what God had in front of me.” - Nell O’Leary
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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This special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast features multiple guests talking specifically about gratefulness. We hope you find inspiration from the stories of the blessings God has brought our guests’ way and how being grateful, even through the hard times, has changed their lives.
Links To Full EpisodesMax Lucado
Sarah Jakes Roberts
Matthew McConaughey
Ellie Holcomb
Kurt Warner
Harold Earls
Rita Wilson
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
At this time of the year, we hear a lot about being thankful and having an attitude of gratitude. But from an everyday perspective, why is gratitude key in allowing good things to flow in our lives? When we are grateful to God—even in the bad times, it has the power to energize us. When we are broken, a grateful heart can bring healing, and when we feel like giving up, giving thanks can bring us hope. Our guests this week have learned to be grateful—not only in the good times, but in the difficult times, and they share how practicing gratefulness opens them up to more blessings, and gives them the strength to share those blessings with others. We’ll hear stories of gratefulness from legendary singer Patti LaBelle and country music icon Tracy Lawrence.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Past interview: CeCe Winans
Upcoming interview: Amanda Kloots
Patti LaBelle
Luther Vandross
Dancing with the Stars
www.pattilabelle.com
Tracy Lawrence
Glen Campbell
Charley Pride
Mission Possible Turkey Fry
Sticks and Stones
George Strait
Merle Haggard
Mission Possible
Nashville Rescue Mission
www.tracylawrence.com
www.tlmissionpossible.com
Interview Quotes:
“Faith took me through, because I said, ‘I have to do this because I'm born to sing.’ So a lot of prayers help me become the not-so-scared Patti LaBelle now.” - Pattie LaBelle
“People believed in me so much. And it just gave me faith and courage to just, no matter how bad my voice is, just continue to sing. And guess what? By the grace of God, it came back stronger than ever before. And it was prayer.” - Pattie LaBelle
“I miss all of the things that come along with having sisters, having a family who can say anything to you and get away with it because it's blood. This time is precious.” - Patti LaBelle
“I've always known that God’s had His hand on my shoulder even through the hard times in life. I've never felt alone. I've always known that there was a greater power watching over me, and I've always felt guided, that I was here for a purpose.” - Tracy Lawrence
“I think we've all seen through this last year that the homeless and the need that is out there across the country is just getting greater and greater. It's a little disheartening. It seems like the more you do, the more you realize that you're barely scratching the surface. But hopefully you'll inspire somebody else to do something with their church or somewhere else and just do their part in helping out our fellow man.” - Tracy Lawrence
“I think whenever you do know that God has blessed you, that you have a responsibility to share that with the people that you come in contact with and be able to spread a little bit of that love and joy and humanitarianism around to them as well.” - Tracy Lawrence
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Each one of us has a unique story to share—and within each of these complex stories many of us have experienced loss, heartache, shame, and tragedy which profoundly affect our lives. But once we begin to face our heartaches and realize their effect on our lives, we can see the slow steady pursuit of a God who only desires our healing and wholeness. This week we’ll be discussing the way that God cares about each of our stories and is there to walk us through our trauma with Dr. Dan Allender and Cathy Loerzel—founders of the Allender Center, and how we can act out of the new heart He so lovingly restores to us with Pastor Andrew Farley.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Anne Lamott
Upcoming interview: Patti LaBelle
Dr. Dan Allender
Cathy Loerzel
Allender Center
Psalms
Redeeming Heartache: How Past Suffering Reveals Our True Calling
TheAllenderCenter.org
Pastor Andrew Farley
Book of Hebrews
Hebrews 11 NIV
Romans 8:31-39 NIV
1 Thessalonians 5:19 NIV
Galatians 5:22-23 NIV
www.andrewfarley.org
The Perfect You
Interview Quotes:
“Anyone who thinks they have a boring story does not understand the deep, redemptive commitment of Christ to find us.” - Dr. Dan Allender
“There's more going on than what people are saying, especially in the church, because we're so committed to, you know, believing that if we have the spirit in our souls, then we're healed and never having to go back and actually deal with what was true about who we were in our backgrounds.” - Cathay Loerzel
“We can hold the reality of our brokenness and our renewed beauty as image bearers and as re-created in the image of Christ.” - Dr. Dan Allender
“It's the valley of the shadow of death where the light of His goodness shows.” - Dr. Dan Allender
“I think that we have accidentally communicated a God that is in some sort of barber shop chair in heaven and is swirling around away from us when we sin and then rotating back when we have our quiet time. And so then we've got an in and out and in and out of fellowship. And I think we need to know that His face is always toward us and that He never leaves us.” - Andrew Farley
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Have you ever heard the phrase “to whom much is given, much is expected?” In the case of our two guests today, God has gifted them with amazing platforms to reach thousands of people—and they take the responsibility to lead well very seriously. Actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth has graced the Broadway stage as well as movies and television, and she uses her platform to spread faith, hope, and light to everyone she encounters. Sadie Robertson Huff was part of her family’s TV show as a kid and as a young woman went on to find an even bigger audience through her appearance on ABC’s Dancing with The Stars. Both of these women wanted to be faithful to the opportunity given to them to be a light to their followers—and though it’s not always easy, they trust that God will help them when things get hard.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Luke 12:48 NIV
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Past interview: David Crowder
Upcoming interview: Dan Allender
Kristin Chenoweth
Happiness Is...Christmas!
Sadie Robertson Huff
ABC’s Dancing with The Stars
A&E’s Duck Dynasty
Live Original
Live on Purpose
Duck Commander
Interview Quotes:
“We're all just humans trying to do the best we can. So why don't you give yourself permission to be human, there's a weight that lifts that you go, ‘Oh yeah, that's right. I'm not perfect. Only God is.’” - Kristin Chenoweth
“We have families that inspire us. We have friends around us that make us laugh and giggle and be able to be ourselves. But then as life goes on, like someone says something that tears you down, someone says something that makes you feel embarrassed about the thing that you used to be so confident in. And so by the time I was seventeen, I did not think about preaching or speaking, like that was not on my radar at all.” - Sadie Robertson Huff
“If I'm going to be famous, then I'm going to do it with a purpose, and if I'm going to say words on a platform, then I want to say words that matter. And if people are going to look at my life then I want to point them to Jesus.” - Sadie Robertson Huff
“I think so many times people forget that God's on the journey to get to where you're going, not just where you want to arrive. And I try to encourage people with that daily, even though that's a hard thing, I think, to believe even for ourselves.” - Sadie Robertson Huff
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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As children, many of us have been taught to pray and that God will help us. But as we grow into adulthood our simple prayers can turn into desperate pleas as our lives become more complex and difficult. What happens when the prayers we pray don’t seem to be heard, or the circumstances of our lives become so traumatic we may doubt if God is even listening? Our guests this week had their own ups and downs in their relationship to prayer and to God. Pastor Levi Lusko faced the tragic loss of his five-year-old daughter that shook his whole world. Foster Dad Peter Mutabazi grew up in mind-numbing poverty made worse by the abuse of his earthly father—robbing him of the hope of possibly ever knowing the love of a true Father. These men share their experiences and what gave them hope to survive the most devastating experiences of their lives.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Psalm 46:10 NIV
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Joni Eareckson Tada
Upcoming interview: Kristin Chenoweth
Levi Lusko
Fresh Life Church
Roar Like a Lion
Matthew 14:13-21 NIV
Lord's Prayer
Henry David Thoreau
www.levilusko.com
Peter Mutabazi
Compassion International
World Vision
Compassion International Uganda
Luke 12:48 NIV
Foster care
Starlight Foundation
www.nowiamknown.com
Interview Quotes:
“When [my daughter] Lenya went to heaven, we were at a loss as parents, not only how to go through what we were facing ourselves, but how to help our kids process it.” - Levi Lusko
“I feel empowered in my pain and there's a purpose in it. But then I also love that it acknowledges that this might take a while. It's not instant. I have to wait sometimes. And in that waiting is where God really is going to develop the muscles of strength inside of you that hopefully can help you to handle the kind of blessing that He ultimately wants to give you.” - Levi Lusko
“Abuse wasn't just coming towards me, but it was going towards all my siblings, including my mom. So even though one parent was there to protect us, most of the time, we could not protect her because she faced the same abuse from my dad. And so that that was what life was. That was just the worst you could think of. So for me, you know, if you told me to dream, today was bad enough that I didn't really want to think about tomorrow.” - Peter Mutabazi
“I realized just how good I was at school as well. And so that's really how I began to hope and how I began to truly see myself as someone who will get somewhere, not because I had it, but because someone saw that in me and he believed and had faith in me.” - Peter Mutabazi
“I went to the restaurant and the amount of food I saw being thrown away really, really [made me] question my faith, you know, because to see how much was thrown away and knowing that kids in my village are going to die today because they didn't have a meal, I began to ask God like, “God, do you love us the same way? How can some people have so much to throw away every day, but others have so little that they will lose their lives?” You know, and that was a challenge for me.” - Peter Mutabazi
“Things that I can draw from my own life and be able to share with them has truly been so meaningful, you know, that you look back and say, ‘Wow, God, I had no idea, but you allowed me to go through all of that. But at the same time, I can use the past to change your little ones here in the United States.’” - Peter Mutabazi
“We stand to be an advocate for those who are not seen and those who are not heard.” - Peter Mutabazi
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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On this week’s episode, we’ll hear from three people with special connections to the Samaritan’s Purse project Operation Christmas Child, which collects shoebox gifts filled with toys, school supplies, and hygiene items, and delivers them to children in need around the world to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way. For many children, this shoebox is the first gift they’ve ever received. Bill Pfister, the senior regional director of OCC for the Americas and the Caribbean, gives some insight into the mission and inspiration behind the organization, and how they’re seeking to show God’s love in a tangible way.. Vladimir Prokhnevskiy, a shoebox recipient, grew up in Kiev, Ukraine, in an impoverished family of eleven. Vladimir remembers one harsh winter when he and his siblings underwent extensive travel to get to an Operation Christmas Child distribution center, and how that gift impacted his life. Elvina Arventii will share how Operation Christmas Child changed her life as a little girl, and how she’s now volunteering with them, hoping to pay it forward.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Listens
Sarah Young
Past interview: Green family
Upcoming interview: Levi Lusko
Samaritan’s Purse project Operation Christmas Child
www.samaritanspurse.org/OCC
Bill Pfister
Vladimir Prokhnevskiy
Elvina Arventii
Interview Quotes:
“When friends or family members or a local church come together and pack gift boxes and then send them overseas, a child is able to hear about the good news of Jesus in a local church. They are taught that Jesus is the greatest gift they can ever receive and that is a tangible expression of God's love.” - Bill Pfister
“For me [my Operation Christmas Child box] was extra special because it was my first Christmas gift ever. But most importantly, the gospel came with it.” - Vladimir Prokhnevskiy
“Over the years, you forget little details about the shoebox here and there, but you never forget how it makes you feel. And on that day, I felt loved.” - Vladimir Prokhnevskiy
“I have a five year old and an eight year old, Ashton and Elliot, and we pack shoeboxes every single year. It's a family tradition now. It's a great example for my kids because I demonstrate to them what generosity looks like...I want my kids to grow up and be generous because generosity moves people's hearts. Generosity is what unites people, it brings people together. And I want them to grow up to be generous people. And packing shoeboxes helps them become generous.” - Vladimir Prokhnevskiy
“For the first time, I realized that God is real and He can answer even the prayers of a little girl.” - Elvina Arventii
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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This special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast features multiple guests talking specifically about the power of prayer. We hope you find inspiration from the stories of how the simple act of prayer brings hope, peace, and a deeper relationship with God to people from all walks of life.
Links To Full EpisodesLauren Akins
Joyce & John Smith
James Martin
Carlos Whittaker
Travis Tritt
Sarah Young
Bishop T.D. Jakes
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Jesus Calling Website
Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
When we find ourselves in a difficult season of our lives, we may ask ourselves the question, How did I get here? And when we aren’t able to figure it out right away, we may turn on ourselves for the blame—bringing on deep feelings of regret and shame. Psalm 145 reminds us that when we seek the Lord, He will answer us and deliver us from all our fears. It also says “Those who look to Him are radiant—and their faces shall never be ashamed.” Our guests this week dealt with really tough circumstances—ones that caused them to question deeply who they were and where they would end up. CNN anchor Christi Paul dealt with an abusive spouse and didn’t know where to turn, until she was at the end of her rope and a verse from Proverbs brought her hope that she could trust God to find a way out—not her own understanding. Travel blogger Glo Atanmo was in another country when she became very ill and had to have a major surgery that set her back for months. As she wondered how she would recover physically, emotionally and financially, a caring nurse gave her a copy of Jesus Calling where she was able to find a bit of hope to see beyond the place she was in.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Jesus Calling Podcast
Sarah Young
Psalm 145 NIV
Past interview: Lathan Warlick
Upcoming interview: Operation Christmas Child
Christi Paul
CNN New Day Weekend
Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV
Love Isn’t Supposed to Hurt
Glo Atanmo
www.theblogabroad.com
Interview Quotes:
“God wants us to be who He created us to be, and living in an abusive relationship is not going to create you to be the person you're supposed to be. I tell people all the time, ‘You were not born to be abused, but God can take really horrible situations and make something really good out of them.’” - Christi Paul
“I realized the importance of words because of how they were used against me. I felt how they cut you, even if they don't cut you physically, emotionally they just can rip you to shreds if you do not use the right words, if you do not use some care and compassion.” - Christi Paul
“We will never run out of chances with God, even if we screw up again and again and again. God is there every single time to just hold our hand and pick us up and say, ‘Let's try this again together.’” - Christi Paul
“I learned that a healthy relationship will never require you to sacrifice your friends or your dreams or your dignity, and I just want everybody to know God is for you.” - Christi Paul
“When I look back on that journey, I think it was that moment where I stopped giving the glory and the honor and the praise to God. I got so full of my own skills and what I accomplished. And, Oh, Glo, you're killing it, girl, like, you know, and you forget who qualified you, who gave you the opportunities and the blessing.” - Glo Atanmo
“I don't care about what I can do for myself. How can I help the world? How can I heal the world? How can I speak to those who are also going through a traumatic experience? And it's so incredible how God will use seasons of pain to really set you up for your next season of elevation.” - Glo Atanmo
“When you have purpose and legacy behind what you do, you feel more called and led in your work. [And] if we can be more intentional with the way we use our words and how we deliver them and how we pour into people with them, we're literally delivering healing to other people.” - Glo Atanmo
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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This week we get to hear from three very special guests—they are sisters who have stuck together through the good times and the bad: Country and Gospel music singing sisters Reba McEntire, Susie McEntire-Eaton (host of the second season of Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith), and Alice Foran. These sisters look back on what it was like growing up on an 8000 acre ranch, traveling to rodeos with their cowboy dad and their school teacher mother and They reflect on lessons of faith learned from their grandmother, Reba Smith, plus share family in a special way that only sisters can.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Peace In Uncertain Times video with Ellie Holcomb
Upcoming interview: Christi Paul
Reba McEntire
Susie McEntire-Eaton
Atoka Lake
Opry
Revised, Remixed and Revisited
Interview Quotes:
“People say, ‘How long have you known the Lord?’ I can't remember not knowing the Lord.” - Reba McEntire
“Every one of our kids have been influenced by [Grandma] and into our grandchildren because of her. So one little seed can go so far into eternity.” - Susie McEntire-Eaton
“I remember one time [Daddy] said, ‘Well, you get insurance for your house, you ought to get insurance for your soul.’” - Susie McEntire-Eaton
“Sisters are good for lots of things, and I really feel sorry for women who don't have a sister, but God will always provide a very good friend to be with each other. It's a sisterhood. It's something that's blood. And it goes farther than blood.” - Susie McEntire-Eaton
"It's God that gives us what we need." -Susie McEntire-Eaton
“When I don't have anything else to pray about, I just stop and I say, ‘Thank you, God, thank you. I don't know what's coming next. I don't know how I'm going to do this, but I just want to say thank you.’” - Susie McEntire-Eaton
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Many of us struggle with the concept of prayer. What should a good prayer look like? Am I doing it wrong? How can I make sure I know that God is hearing me? The good news from God is that every single one of your prayers—even the silent ones—are heard and cared about by Him. There is no right or wrong way to pray, all that matters is that you talk to God consistently, and you will find the joys of a relationship with Him. This week we’re honored to speak with Sarah Young, the author of Jesus Calling, Jesus Always, and a new book of daily prayers called Jesus Listens. Sarah takes us all the way back to her early years and shares how she began writing in her prayer journals.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Listens
Jesus Calling Podcast
Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis
Philippians 4 NIV
Matthew 27:51 NIV
Romans 8:26–27 NIV
Psalm 62:8 NIV
Luke 18 NIV
First Thessalonians 5:17–18 NIV
www.jesuscalling.com
Past interview: Bishop T.D. Jakes
Upcoming interview: Reba McEntire, Susie McEntire-Eaton
Interview Quotes:
“Our unrestricted access to God in prayer is a glorious, blood-bought privilege.: - Sarah Young
“Since He understands us completely and loves us eternally, we can safely unburden ourselves to Him.” - Sarah Young
“I'm thankful that God uses our prayers not only to change circumstances, but to change us.” - Sarah Young
“Remember that Jesus is always with you, listening to every one of your prayers.” - Sarah Young
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Often, when we are in our most desperate, vulnerable state, looking for answers and help, God is our last resort, our final plea when nothing else is working. Psalm 30:2 says, “Lord my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me,” which reminds us that no matter where we’ve turned, how we might’ve fumbled our plans, He will always help us pursue His path to wholeness and joy, because it is never too late for us in His eyes. This week’s guests, author Anne Lamott and actress Tabitha Brown, share their come-to-Jesus moments that guided them away from sickness and put them on a path to healing and wholeness that can only be found in pursuit of the Creator.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Psalm 30:2 NIV
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Ruth Chou Simons
Upcoming interview: Sarah Young
Anne Lamott
alcoholism
bulimia
Dusk Night Dawn: On Revival and Courage
Help Thanks Wow
Operating Instructions
Bird by Bird
Kierkegaard
Genesis 22:12 NIV
C.S. Lewis
Tabitha Brown
Feeding the Soul
North Carolina School of the Arts
Columbia College in Chicago
What the Health
ALS
www.iamtabithabrown.com
Interview Quotes:
“I remember making that leap of faith, of thinking, If I don't decide for God, I'm so doomed anyway, the world is harsh and ugly and isolating and shaming and competitive, and and I did and I didn't know what that meant, I didn't have a clue what it meant. But I made the leap of faith and I thought, Well, I'll figure it out as we go. And that's what I did. But that was the day my healing began.” - Anne Lamott
“From this crummy rundown church with this Charlie Brown Christmas tree out in front, I walked in, I got that Holy Spirit nudge, and I could hear gospel music, which I've always loved, and I could hear the spiritual anthems I'd grown up on.” - Anne Lamott
“I had no self-love. I believed in God, but I believed in a God who is as disappointed as I was in me.” Anne Lamott
“I can walk around with these glasses, these bad glasses of judgment and seeing everything that really is not working for me, everything that is either annoying or infuriating, or I can put on the good glasses and I can see God's hand everywhere I look.” - Anne Lamott
“I'm like, You know what? God said he had a plan for me. And I know it's not just working a regular nine to five. I know it's not, you know, just living in North Carolina and being content with that life. And so I've been on a pursuit ever since of that voice and of my passion.” - Tabitha Brown
“I thought, Oh my God, what is wrong with me? You know, I was falling apart inside and out and really thought I was going to die. And when doctors can't tell you what's wrong with you, it gets frustrating. My faith wavered. I was scared. I fell into depression, had major anxiety.” - Tabitha Brown
“We should all strive to share without judgment, live our life authentically us and know that we are enough in the process of doing so.” - Tabitha Brown
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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This special bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast features multiple guests speaking to the topic of grief. We hope you find encouragement, comfort and healing as you listen to mothers, fathers, husbands, wives, sisters and children who have lost someone close to them, how they leaned on God as they coped with the loss and how, with His help, they were able to move forward.
Links To Full EpisodesMattie Jackson Selecman
Rosie Rivera
Casey, C.J, & Tucker Beathard
Beth Nimmo
Bo Stern
Jonathan Pitts
Kay Warren
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Episode produced by Four Eyes Media
Being raised in a faith-steeped environment can provide rich soil in which we can plant ourselves, allowing us to grow tall and firm and confident in the good news of the gospel. But remaining steadfast in faith comes with a heaven-sent assignment: to share it with others. That doesn’t mean, however, that we should push ourselves to the brink of burnout—it’s a careful balance of stewarding our mission well and caring for our loved ones, and ourselves. Our guests this week, rodeo queen and music artist Joni Harms and entrepreneur coach Jennifer Allwood share how their roots of faith have given them the ability to face their fears and follow their hearts.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Mica Paris
Upcoming interview: Anne Lamott
Joni Harms
Oregon Trail
Chester A. Arthur
Molalla Buckaroo
Women's World Magazine
https://www.joniharms.com/
Jennifer Allwood
The Magic Brush
Fear Is Not The Boss of You
https://jenniferallwood.com/
Interview Quotes:
“We could sing gospel songs together as a family and other people, if we had folks over that maybe didn't sing or play, they still seemed to love to listen and enjoy the music.” - Joni Harms
“What I was saying through my music wasn't just a message that made me happy to sing about. It was really reaching and touching other people. And I thought, what a rewarding feeling this is.” - Joni Harms
“With all the different things that you're faced with out there in this world today, especially having faith and being able to stay grounded and just talk to the Lord every day about the different things that you have to deal with is so important.” - Joni Harms
“I feel like God has called me to be more of a person that gets out there and helps take some of that pressure off of some of these other people just by being calm, wearing a smile, maybe having a special song to share with them that might take a little of the load off and make them realize things are not so bad.” - Joni Harms
“Even though I knew I was doing what God asked me to do, it didn't necessarily mean that I liked it or that it was very comfortable….if the worst thing that I'm imagining was to happen, would I still be okay? What would I still have left? And so if I kind of go through those exercises, it really, really helps me to determine if what I'm actually most fearful about is actually valid or if it's me just making it worse than what it actually really is.” - Jennifer Allwood
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Romans 8:28 reminds us that God will work all things together for good—not just the rosy parts of life, but also the ugly, twisted parts. This week’s guests have both overcome addictions that could have wiped them out completely, but instead they chose to call on God in hopes of finding something better—and were amazed to see Him show up in their darkest moments. Editor-in-chief of Guideposts Magazine, Edward Grinnan, grew up in a family bound together in faith—a faith they had to lean on heavily after the tragic loss of his special needs brother, Bobby. In trying to cope with his brother’s death and navigating life as a young adult, Edward turned to alcohol as a source of comfort, and battled that addiction for years. After starting at Guideposts Magazine in what he thought would be a temporary position, Edward ended up climbing the ranks and staying there until this day, where he continues to inspire and be inspired by the stories of faith of everyday people. Motivational speaker Damon West has faced countless obstacles in his young life, including drug addiction and prison time. Although Damon believed he developed negative patterns of behavior at an early age, he used his time in jail to learn about the Bible and to get insight from his fellow inmates about how life circumstances can transform you for better or worse. Damon ultimately chose—with God’s help―to become his best self.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Romans 8:28
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Karen Ehman
Peace In Uncertain Times Series: Jennie Finch
Upcoming interview: Joni Harms
Edward Grinnan
Guideposts Magazine
The New York Times
Conde Nast
Vanity Fair
Esquire
Dr. Norman Vincent Peale
Edward Grinnan’s books
https://www.guideposts.org/
Get a FREE issue of Guideposts at: shopguideposts.org/friends
Damon West
University of Houston Downtown
University of North Texas
Serenity Prayer
https://damonwest.org/
Interview Quotes:
“I came from a family of very, very strong faith, and when you lose a child, that tends to tear apart marriages. And looking back all these years later, I didn't really see it as a child, but my parents stayed together. Their marriage was as strong as ever, and that's because they turned to their faith every single minute of that crisis and every single hour after that crisis.” - Edward Grinnan
“The alcoholism slowly but surely ate me alive so that by the time I was out of graduate school, my late twenties/early thirties, I was basically a homeless wreck. I was just living on the streets on and off, begging for money just so I could continue drinking. There's lots of things that happened in between, college, jobs, travel, vagabond travel, graduate school, but at the end, life spit me out onto the streets.” - Edward Grinnan
“God had brought me to the place where I needed to be.” - Edward Grinnan
“I began to feel that my own spiritual anchor was being strengthened by these stories and this audience. And I suddenly realized as I was going through a story with a narrator that my own faith was being strengthened. And eventually I realized that the bargain that God was offering me was, ‘I brought you to Guideposts and I want you here. In exchange, I will help you with your sobriety and you will help me with Guideposts.’ And that was the bargain I struck in 1986 or so, and it's the bargain I’m keeping to even today.” - Edward Grinnan
“My sponsors in AA said you should have prayer time every day whether you think it does any good or not. And, you know, prayer for me was something I had to practice. I had to get good at it. I have to believe in it. And it was a part of my spiritual evolution. As I began to believe that God cared about me, He cared about my life, the more I believed I could reach God through prayer.” - Edward Grinnan
“Without hope, we don't get up in the morning. We don't love without hope. We don't forgive without hope. Hope is the underpinning to all of those human actions that make us better people and closer to God.” - Edward Grinnan
“My bad belief system at ten and twelve years old said, ‘All you're doing is drinking a little beer, smoking a little pot. You're not hurting anybody. You're not even hurting yourself.’ But I couldn't be more wrong because those belief systems, those behaviors took me further away from Christ and the home that I grew up in.” - Damon West
“I gave away my job, my home, my car, my savings account, my family, my tethering to God. I went from working on Wall Street to living on the streets of Dallas, homeless, living in abandoned buildings, sleeping in people's parked cars, living in dope houses with the dope fiends, because that's what I am, is a dope fiend. And I start committing property crimes to fight my addiction.” - Damon West
“I remember saying to God, ‘Hey, God, if you're out there, if you're even there’—because at this point I'm so lost in my life, the spiritual warfare going on inside of me is intense. And I remember saying, ‘God, if you're even there, man, just know I'm so tired, I'm ready to be done.’” - Damon West
“I got on God's back and God carried me all around that prison.” - Damon West
“Jesus died on the cross for our past. And so I had to come to terms with that and my past doesn’t define me, we all wouldn't be listening to some ex-con from Texas talking about the things you learned inside a maximum security prison. But it's because our past is our lesson. And our present today is a gift. And that gift, it's not a gift for you, it’s a gift of what you can do for other people.” - Damon West
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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When talking about the concept of faith, the Bible tells us that “faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” Even though we can’t literally see God, the Bible also tells us simply; when we seek God, we shall find Him. The ways we seek and find God in the midst of our lives can look different from one person to another. One may study everything they can about how the world came into being, just to get a glimpse of the mind of God. Another may look for the moments in their lives where they felt God was in their corner, through a circumstance that worked out better than they could have imagined, or a seeming answer to a long whispered prayer. The truth remains that even though we can’t see our Creator, we can know Him, believe in Him, and build a relationship with Him wherever we find ourselves in life. Our two guests this week have cemented their faith in God through different avenues—one, a scientist whose devotion to figuring out the secrets of the universe led him to believe in a divine creator, and another who shares with others through music all the places and situations in which we might find God. We’ll talk to Emmy-award winning journalist and former physics instructor Dr. Michael Guillen, and country music singer and songwriter of the song “Where I Find God,” Larry Fleet.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Hebrews 11 NIV
1 Chronicles 28:9 NIV
Jesus Calling
Sarah Young
Romans 12:2 NIV
Jesus Listens
Dr. Michael Guillen
Science editor for ABC News
UCLA
Cornell
Harvard
First Peter 3:15 NIV
Believing Is Seeing
Larry Fleet
“Where I Find God”
Gospel Song Sunday
www.larryfleet.com
Interview Quotes:
“God wasn't on my radar. He wasn't in the picture. My worldview was based on the notion that seeing was believing. What I believed in was what I could see with my own eyes.” - Dr. Michael Guillen
“I was a thick-headed, stubborn intellectual and in some ways I still am. So it took me actually many, many years, decades actually, to finally surrender my life. But that encounter with that Bible, that was my first authentic—even though I was brought up as a child with a Bible—encounter with the Bible, as a thinking adult, as a scientist, as a skeptic, as a cynic, as an atheist. And boy, it turned my life upside down.” - Dr. Michael Guillen
“In a nutshell, the Bible teaches who created the universe and why. Science teaches me the wonderful details about the universe God created. And because of the Bible and science, I have the blessing of having a very deep understanding of both the Creator and the creation.” - Dr. Michael Guillen
“God is real, not just because the Bible says so, and not just because He radically changed my life, but also because the scientific evidence says so.” - Michael Guillen
“Love God with everything you've got, including your mind, and then love one another.” - Dr. Michael Guillen
“As a kid, I don't think I really realized that it was gospel music, that's just all I knew and that's what I knew how to play. So I'd always play just old hymns and stuff like that.” - Larry Fleet
“I can tell you right now where I do most of my praying and talking to God, that's in a deer stand or a hayfield or on a boat, you know, like whenever I'm outside. I do a lot of driving from Chattanooga to Nashville a lot, and that's kind of where I talk to God.” - Larry Fleet
“One of the things that I hope and pray for is that I do a good job of delivering the songs in a positive way. Honestly, a lot of times I pray before I go on stage just to calm my nerves.” - Larry Fleet
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Trigger Warning
This episode contains content that talks about suicide and self-harm that could be disturbing to some listeners.
Many of us could never imagine that we would ever go through a dark time so dark and so hopeless that we would consider taking our own lives. Yet, so many people who have experienced deep depression know what it feels like when their minds can’t seem to grasp on to hope any longer. During Suicide Prevention week, we’ll speak to two guests whose lives have been directly altered by depression and suicide, American Idol alumnus Dave Pittman & singer Briana Domenica. Dave shares how he was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at an early age, how being “different” and not understanding why caused problems at school, and how the hopelessness he felt sent him spiraling down a dark path toward taking his own life. Briana Domenica recounts her own struggles with suicidal tendencies and how she has tried to turn her pain into purpose by pouring her heart and soul into music—hoping she can uplift others and encourage an environment of positivity and love.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Suicide Prevention week
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
National Suicide Prevetion Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
Past interview: Chad Robichaux
Upcoming interview: Larry Fleet
Davd Pittman
“Crazy Brave’ song
“Different Kind of Love” album
Tourette Syndrome
ABC’s American Idol
Neil Patrick Harris
Bible Gateway
Briana Domenica
Psalms 23:4 NIV
Angel in the Sky
Romans 8:28 NIV
brianadomenica.com
Interview Quotes:
“I was more afraid of living through that again than I was of dying.” - Dave Pittman, on being bullied as a child with Tourette Syndrome
”My mom—both my parents—just drilled into my head and my heart the importance of accepting yourself for who you are, and not just who you are, but who you are in Christ, your identity, who you've become in your walk with Christ.” - Dave Pittman
“I think it's okay to ask why, even now, because Job did. We look at Job in the Bible, he asked God, ‘Why? Why is this happening to me?’” - Dave Pittman
“Anyone can accept something they have to do, but when you can embrace something that you get to do, it’s different. It changes things.” - Dave Pittman
“I dealt with this hopelessness for four years until my aunt Linda noticed the cuts on my wrist. She kissed them and she told me I was worthy, loved, and a child of God. That conversation not only saved my life, but it encouraged me to get the help that I so desperately needed.” - Briana Domenica
“I think simply starting a dialog can combat that [mental health] stigma because unless we start a dialog, we will never see change. And I want people to know that they are not alone. There is help, but most importantly, there is hope. And I love this acronym for hope: hold on, pain ends.” - Briana Domenica
“Everyone's journeys are different, but moving from a place of darkness to light is possible. All you need is a little faith, even if it's the size of a mustard seed. Take it one day at a time, speak up, and reach out, because help and hope are available.” - Briana Domenica
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Do you have a dream for your life that didn’t pan out exactly as you had planned? Maybe something out of your control happened that made that dream impossible, or maybe you made some choices that turned your life in a direction that wasn’t in line with your hopes and goals? Though we can be filled with regret over dreams lost or deferred, God has another way of looking at those shifts in our lives and He encourages us that He will always guide us to where He wants us to be, as we’re reminded in Proverbs 19:21 “Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.” Country music star Brett Young had dreams of being a pro baseball player until an injury halted his career. Sarah Jakes Roberts, daughter of Bishop T.D. Jakes, never imagined that she would become pregnant as a teenager and for many years dealt with the shame and disappointment of having a life that didn’t turn out as she had planned. Each of these stories shows us that God can take our circumstances, no matter what they are, and still get us to where we can live the amazing life he has in store for us.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Proverbs 19:21 NIV
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Sarah Young
Past interview: Pastor Matthew Barnett
Upcoming interview: Ben Courson
Brett Young
Fresno State
Arizona State
Love You, Little Lady
Weekends Look A Little Different These Days
www.brettyoungmusic.com
Sarah Jakes Roberts
Bishop T.D. Jakes
Woman Evolve
The Potter's House One
Woman Evolve: Break Up With Your Fears and Revolutionize Your Life
Interview Quotes:
“Without my faith, I wouldn't have been able to get over the injury and let baseball go and be open enough to let something else come in. And music ended up being something that I love more than I loved baseball. And it feels exactly like what I was supposed to do in life.” - Brett Young
“I always say, ‘If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans.’” - Brett Young
“The fact that God is giving us this life and these unique days one at a time, it feels almost irresponsible to try to fit them into a mold or try to make today yesterday or look forward to tomorrow rather than living in this precious moment that you've been given.” - Brett Young
“I think life is a collection of God opening and closing doors. And I think we're the only ones that get in our way of seeing when a door is being closed and when the door is being opened.” - Brett Young
“[I] decided to completely stay away from anything that looked like ministry and even God, because I wasn't sure that there was a place for a girl who had made such a big, big mistake that I thought was beyond recovery.” - Sarah Jakes Robert
“It took a step of faith for me to believe that maybe [salvation] applied to me too, not just the woman who's on the other side of the pew or my neighbor, but this same redemption is available to me.” - Sarah Jakes Roberts
“It doesn't matter what color we are—on the inside, we're all trying to sort through the sin of life and missing the mark and wondering where we fit. And I have found that sometimes we allow things to divide us that keep us from actually being able to edify one another because of the barriers that exist in culture.” - Sarah Jakes Roberts
“God's presence is always available to us. But sometimes we are present in our life, so much so that we miss out on God's presence.” - Sarah Jakes Roberts
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Jesus Calling Website
Finding our way in life can be challenging, overwhelming, and discouraging. The path may seem clear at times, and then others, we feel pushed in a direction that may not feel comfortable or familiar. The only thing that we can trust is that God will show us the way and we must step out in faith to find our purpose. Travis Tritt, a wildly popular 90’s country star, thought he had his life mapped out in his hometown of Marietta, Georgia, managing the family air conditioning business. Tom Phillips, a pastor who worked with the Billy Graham Association as a crusade director, studied medicine in college. Both men were led to follow dreams that seemed out of reach, but God had their futures in mind the whole time.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Sarah Young
Past interview: David Crowder
Upcoming interview: Brett Young
Travis Tritt
Grand Ole Opry
Ray Charles
Eagles
Common Thread
Charlie Daniels
Set in Stone
Tom Phillips
Billy Graham Association
Billy Graham
Cliff Barrows
www.billygraham.org
Dr. Tom Phillips’ latest books
Interview Quotes:
“I grew up with the understanding of what God meant to my family's life, to my life. We had Bible study on a regular basis. And it was just a great place to sort of build your foundation for the rest of your life.” - Travis Tritt
“Even though there were times when I strayed away from [faith], it was always something that was in the back of my mind, in the back of my heart.” Travis Tritt
“I'm one of those people that can look back and say, honestly, my dreams have more than come true.” - Travis Tritt
“I am a big believer in counting your blessings. So my prayers start off each night with thanking God for all the blessings.” - Travis Tritt
“I believe now we are in the early phases of the latter rain in America that will cause the greatest fruit that's ever been borne by the church of this nation.” - Dr. Tom Phillips
“It was like a light bulb for destiny came on in my heart and my life. And I surrendered to whatever God wanted me to do. And I made a deal with Him though, I didn't want to give up medicine, so I’d surrender to medical missions. And He said, ‘That's not what I asked you to do. I didn't ask you to surrender half yourself. I asked you to surrender your whole self.’” - Dr. Tom Phillips
“The church is here to change the culture. The word of God is here to change the culture and make us more like the Creator.” - Dr. Tom Phillips
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Grief, death, and loss are an inevitable part of life, though knowing that doesn’t make the pain any easier to bear. Whether you’ve faced unexpected loss time and time again or are navigating grief for the very first time, the waves of difficulty can be drowning. But the good news is that God can offer us a life raft. Isaiah 57:18-19 says, “I will heal them; I will guide them and restore comfort to Israel’s mourners, creating praise on their lips. Peace, peace, to those far and near.” This week’s guests, Holly Singletary and Andy Griggs, share the holes left in their hearts, and how God has helped heal them, and they share how we can find comfort in the legacies of loved ones passed, and also know deep in our hearts that one day, we will see them again in heaven.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Isaiah 57:18-19 NIV
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Eddie Montgomery
Upcoming interview: Travis Tritt
Holly Singletary
Daryle Singletary
Hope With Holly Podcast
Hope With Holly Blog
Merle Haggard
George Jones
www.hopewithholly.com
Andy Griggs
Job 1:10 NIV
www.andygriggs.com
Interview Quotes:
“I came home that weekend after meeting Daryle and told my mom and dad that I found the man I was going to marry.” - Holly Singletary
“It was really sweet to watch [Daryle as a dad] because I think our role of waiting so long prepared us for a different kind of parenting. I felt like we had a lot more patience and we appreciated some of the moments maybe that we would not have appreciated earlier on in life.” - Holly Singletary
“It's okay to cry. We have good and bad days and some days we miss [Daryle] more, especially on those special days or special moments or just an everyday moment. I'm like, ‘It's okay to be sad.’ But one thing I tell them, ‘It's not okay to stay there. I don't want you to stay there. I don't want that to turn into bitterness and anger and madness.’” - Holly Singletary
“Legacies don't die. They don't die very easily. It takes a long time to see the sunset of a legacy. Yeah, because everybody's life is a sunset, that's a beautiful thing at times. Life is a beautiful thing. Beautiful thing. how God made this.” - Andy Griggs
“I think it is instilled into man that outside of our heavenly father and His sovereignty, the most powerful thing in this universe is my words and my prayer, I really believe them. I think prayer, it changes. It changes the future, it changes everything I'm looking at.” - Andy Griggs
“I have learned that when you grieve through the Spirit, there's a healing that takes place. And it's supernatural. It's godly.” - Andy Griggs
“As a true believer in Christ, I think that one of our biggest assets in all of life is having that Comforter with us, and that gets me through the valleys.” - Andy Griggs
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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The best news we could ever receive is that in the middle of our most broken, painful moments, there is Someone who will reach out to us—no matter what we’ve done, who we’ve hurt, or the mistakes that we’ve made. God does not care what you look like, or the road that you’ve traveled—all He cares for is your heart and where you’re headed. Sharon Jaynes is an international conference speaker and author. Time and time again, Sharon has seen the power of forgiveness in her life, and has seen how your worst, most heartbreaking moments can be the springboard for positive change. Christine Soule grew up in a broken home, struggled with drug addiction, was a victim of sex trafficking, and had nowhere to turn. Eventually, Christine found God and she did a 180 on her lifestyle—boldly making different life choices, relying on nothing but the goodness of God to heal her broken soul and spirit. Christine is now the the founder and CEO of Providence Heights, a nonprofit organization that was created to house women and children in need, as well as providing counseling, jobs, and education.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Past interview: Zach Williams
Upcoming interview: Holly Singletary
Sharon Jaynes
When You Don’t Like Your Story
Proverbs 31 Ministries
Girlfriends in God, Inc.
sharonjaynes.com
Christine Soule
Providence Heights
Benny Hinn
Broken and Beautiful
Interview Quotes:
“I always felt as a little girl that I wasn't good enough, I wasn't smart enough, I wasn't pretty enough. I wasn't a good enough daughter. And if I could be, then maybe my parents wouldn't be so angry and fight all the time.” - Sharon Jaynes
“I said, ‘Dad, none of us can be good enough. If we could be good enough, then Jesus wouldn't have had to die on the cross.’ But he could not understand that kind of grace for a man like him.” - Sharon Jaynes
“I want to encourage you that getting from that place to being able to tell your story of redemption is a process.” - Sharon Jaynes
“We have to stop and think, Who is it that I am not forgiving? Because as long as we have unforgiveness in our heart, we will get stuck in a bad chapter in our story. So the first step is deciding you want to get well, the second step is to forgive those people who have hurt you.” - Sharon Jaynes
“If someone steps in that church and they look a little different than you, they're seeking God. They need a savior and you know what? Grab a hold of them because they have made the scariest, most bold step, probably up to that point in their life. So love them. It's a huge deal to let them know that they matter.” - Christine Soule
“Don't expect people to change overnight, just one step at a time so that they can really allow God to cultivate them. It's not our job just to fix them. It's God's job to cultivate them.” - Christine Soule
“Just know friends, that He is for you. Even in the midst of difficult circumstances, He's for you. He's with you. He loves and adores you, and allow that to turn your life into something truly beautiful.” - Christine Soule
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Many of us feel called to serve others in some way—and often when we think about what that could look like, we feel paralyzed by too many options. There are so many needs all across the world that must urgently be met, so how do we know where to start? This week’s guests, CEO of Convoy of Hope Hal Donaldson and CEO of Haiti Made Will McGinniss share how they found a way to make real change in lives and in hearts—spreading the word of God and caring for His people at the same time.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith
Susie McEntire-Eaton
Circleallacess.com
Past interview: Brian Tome
Upcoming interview: Sharon Jaynes
Hal Donaldson
Convoy of Hope
Mother Teresa
Golden State Warriors
San Jose State University
Disruptive Compassion
Your Next 24 Hours
Will McGinniss
Audio Adrenaline
Hands and Feet Project
Haiti Made
“Hands and Feet” song
James 1:27 NIV
www.haitimade.com
Interview Quotes:
“I met Mother Teresa. And during the course of that interview, she asked me, “What are you doing to help the poor and the suffering?” And I figured it was probably not a good idea to lie to Mother Teresa. So I told her the truth. I said, “I'm really not doing much of anything.” And she looked back at me and she said, “Everyone can do something.” And she began to talk to me about doing the next kind thing that Jesus put in front of me.” - Hal Donaldson
“When you're obedient to God and you do the things that are important to God, God takes that step of faith and He grows it. He makes it something larger than we ever dreamed.” - Hal Donaldson
“We can allow the images of despair to paralyze us or the enormity of the problems to paralyze us, or we can roll up our sleeves and say, “Let's get to work.” Jesus used me to make a difference.” - Hal Donaldson
“The key to life, the key to fulfillment, purpose, it doesn't come from exceeding others. It comes from elevating others.” - Hal Donaldson
“The very first week I got into this Christian rock band and God had a different plan, He would be like, ‘Yeah, I'm going to take your heart to help people and I'm going to give you a platform to do that. And you're going to reach a lot of people who come from all different walks of life and your music's going to bless them and encourage them.’” - Will McGinniss
“What we've learned through time is that there has to be a cultural exchange and we both learn from one another, you know, not that we come in with all the right ideas and completely, you know, just save them, because Jesus has been there for centuries, you know, and decades. But we often come in and feel like we know what's best for these people. And we want to help and have great intentions, but our helping can often create more problems. And so we want to do that in a way that's an equitable exchange.” - Will McGinniss
“And as He's entrusted more to me, running Haiti Made now, I don't always feel qualified every day, but I know if I show up every day with a good effort and a good work ethic and just with God's spirit and His help, I call on Him daily to help me lead this team and to be able to get in the right doors, get the right doors open to sell these goods. And we're just continually trying to be creative and having this work grow and to create more jobs and touch more and more families through that.” - Will McGinniss
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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When we face life experiences that hurt us, that drastically alter the way things go, it can cut deep and cause us significant pain. But as the Bible says in 1 Peter 2:24, “He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might live for righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.” Remember that even in the most daunting of circumstances, Jesus took your wounds as His own so that you may know peace and hope in salvation. Our guests this week have experienced their own personal wounds. Former mafia member Michael Franzese shares about growing up in one of the most notorious crime families, how he himself descended into the darkness, and how ultimately, God healed every element of his past and made him a new person. Michele Wilbur-Christiansen shares the tragic story of her parents’ heartbreaking death, and how her and her siblings found peace in knowing that one day, they will be reunited with them in heaven.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
1 Peter 2:24 NIV
Jesus Listens
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling
Past interview: Lecrae Moore
Upcoming interview: Hal Donaldson
Michael Franzese
New York Cosa Nostra
Joe Colombo
Rudy Giuliani
Book of Proverbs
Michele Wilbur-Christiansen
Capital University in Columbus, Ohio
Interview Quotes:
“The night I went back into prison, they told me I'd never see the street again, I'd never seen my wife and children, they were going to try and indict me on new charges. The government was upset with me because I wouldn't cooperate. They threw me in a hole, I was in solitary, and it was probably the worst night of my life. I thought I was going to lose everything that was dear to me, never see my wife and kids again, I was in my mid thirties. I was still a young guy. So it was a very difficult night. And I was lying on the cot, honestly, I just wanted to close my eyes and not wake up.” - Michael Franzese
“The Bible became my Bible. It became true to me.” - Michael Franzese
“The heroism of my life kind of transferred from my father to Jesus. I was enamored with the personality of Jesus, the character of Jesus as a man. He was a true man's man.” - Michael Franzese
“When times are at their worst for us is when Jesus is the most powerful in our lives.” - Michael Franzese
“I did stray away from God, but never really from family. And then over time, I saw how God was working for me in my life, I became a born-again Christian. So I was able to see how God was working for me, even if I kept Him behind the scenes. And then eventually I came to know Him as more than just a religion, but more as my personal friend and Savior.” - Michele Wilbur-Christiansen
“Knowing our parents were in His presence gave us comfort through our pain. And a reminder that He always has our best interests in mind, even in the worst moments of our lives.” - Michele Wilbur-Christiansen
“This tragedy has caused me to question God at times. I've asked, ‘Why them God, why now?’” - Michele Wilbur-Christiansen
“God continually reminds me that we are to trust Him with all of our heart, not just some or not just the parts that we decide to give Him.” - Michele Wilbur-Christiantiansen
“Take your anger, your sadness, and all your emotions and all your questions to God, He can handle it and still lovingly accepts you with open arms. He will meet you in your mess.” - Michele Wilbur-Christiansen
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Every Christian faces a time in their relationship with Jesus that is frustrating, that’s full of questions, full of doubt, full of wondering if God is even real, if He listens, or if He cares. But time and time again, the Lord has proven that He does hear your every prayer, as Psalm 66:19 reminds us: “God has surely listened and has heard my prayer.” God is also okay with our doubts—He gives us the space we need to figure out for ourselves that He is good, all the time, and He will be with us always. This week’s guests are two dreamers—the founder of IT Cosmetics, the largest luxury makeup company in the country, Jamie Kern Lima, who faced years of trials and God doubt but managed to find a way to keep the faith, and God rewarded her with the breakthrough she’d been longing for. And the creator of Black Liturgies, Cole Arthur Riley, a born skeptic who educated herself on a variety of religions before finding a home in the Christian church who held space for her questions.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Psalm 66:19 NIV
Jesus Calling
TV show Jesus Calling Stories of Faith
Susie McEntire-Eaton
Circleallacess.com
Past interview: Dominic Done
Upcoming interview: Michael Franzese
Jamie Kern Lima
IT Cosmetics
Believe It
Jesus Calling app
Rosacea
QVC
Cosmetic Executive Women
Miss Lisa Mason. QVC show host
jamiekernlima.com
itcosmetics.com
Cole Arthur Riley
Black Liturgies
Chesterton House
Blackliturgust.com
Interview Quotes:
“I think so many of us learn that sometimes God's setbacks are really set ups for what we're supposed to do next.” - Jamie Kern Lima
“Truthfully, there are nights when I’d get these really hard rejections and I’d end up crying myself to sleep. And the one thing that kept going as I would literally pray and be like, ‘God, I feel like you put this dream on my heart and I don't understand why it's not working, am I wrong?’” - Jamie Kern Lima
“All of us have had people reject us or tell us we're not enough or we need to change who we are to fit in or we don't belong. And I think so many times learning to turn down the volume on that and not let it take root in our spirit is so important, because I believe our calling is always stronger than our opposition.” - Jamie Kern Lima
“I would rather show real women all ages, shapes, sizes, skin challenges, skin tones. And if the single mom in Nebraska is going to give me two seconds of her time and she turns on her television, even if she buys nothing, I would rather have her see women who look like her and me calling them beautiful and meaning it, than sell a ton of product and stand for nothing.” - Jamie Kern Lima
“I was really fortunate to have spiritual mentors early on that allowed me to have a lot of agency over my seeking even as they were teaching me things that probably felt really basic to them in many ways.” - Cole Arthur Riley
“Words do have tremendous power, both their presence and their absence. I think our task as Christians is to be really honest and faithful discerners of what any given moment calls for, voice or silence. Both can be oppressive, but both can be beautiful disciplines of rest, hope, and solidarity.” - Cole Arthur Riley
“It can be a real gift for us to join voices with other people across space and across time to say, ‘This is who God is, this is who we are,’ and to tell the story.” - Cole Arthur Riley
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Many of us have had a moment in our lives that define us as people and as servants of God—and sometimes that moment comes at a fork in the road. Which path will you take? The one you’ve worked hard for and the world tells you you should want? Or the one God wants you to take? It’s almost guaranteed that every time you decide to take the Lord’s path, you will encounter mountains of blessings that you’d never have expected. ABC News reporter Paula Faris was at the height of her career when she faced a devastating series of tragedies that forced her to slow down and recognize that God was calling her to go in another direction. Former NFL lineman Jason Brown had worked hard to make his way up the football ladder, eventually becoming the highest-paid center in the sport. It seemed he had everything he wanted, but the luxurious lifestyle he pursued took his focus off his family and marriage which began to suffer, causing him to reassess what he really wanted out of life.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Sarah Young
Jesus Listens
jesuscalling.com/jesuslistens
Past interview: Zim Flores
Upcoming interview: Jamie Kern Lima, IT Cosmetics
Paula Faris
Morning Star Christian Community
Good Morning America Weekend
The View
Joshua 5-6 NIV
Journeys of Faith at ABC
Faith & Calling Podcast
The Paula Faris Show
www.paulafarisofficial.com
Called Out
Jason Brown
First Fruits Farm
Lunsford Bernard Brown II
UNC Chapel Hill
2005 NFL draft
wisdomforlife.org
Centered
Interview Quotes:
“And at the end of the day, I think what's most important is that we don't get caught up in the differences, but that we can unite on some of the main tenets of the Bible...the most important thing at the end of the day is that if we are Christians, they'll know it by our love for one another.” - Paula Faris
“I think we owe it to not only ourselves, but we owe it to unbelievers to have a reason for the hope that is within us.” - Paula Faris
“Trying to keep a positive mindset when you're in that valley, when you're circling that city, that this is where the growth is happening and God is getting ready to start a new chapter and write a new chapter in your life.” - Paula Faris
“I don't want to just have five, ten minutes out of the day where I'm talking to God, I try to talk to God throughout my day, and I'm the type of person where I need encouragement throughout the day. So for me, it's a daily conversation. God is always by my side.” - Paula Faris
“Once you ask the spirit to come into your life and to allow you to see things in a new way, you will. And it'll transform your relationship with God. It will transform your belief in God, it’ll transform the way that you see God. And you'll start seeing Him in the sunsets across the sky. You'll start to hear Him in the voices of loved ones and in the faces of loved ones. And you'll feel Him in that gentle breeze and you'll hear Him speaking softly in the depths of your spirit.” - Paula Faris
“What do you want people to truly remember you by at the end of your life?” - Jason Brown
“Everybody on the outside thought that we were this picture perfect family, but on the inside, behind closed doors, we weren't. We were still going to church every single Sunday, and we knew the talk and the lingo of how to put on the fakeness and the front of being a good Christian. Right? But when we left church and came back home, you know, there was no true mission. There was no true obedience to Christ.” - Jason Brown
“Because of my success and my pride in sports and football, it developed an arrogance that I thought I was strong enough and smart enough to be in control and to fight hard enough in my flesh and figure this thing out. And Jesus simply told me that there's nothing that you can do in and of yourself that can bring about the faithfulness that He desires for me.” - Jason Brown
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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At this time of year, as we celebrate the brave men and women who fought for the freedom of our country, it’s a good time to reflect on what it actually means to be brave. Sometimes, as in the case of our military heroes, bravery means laying down your life for a greater good, or for your fellow man. Sometimes bravery can mean stepping into something new, apart from everything you’ve known before, to pursue something greater for your life. And sometimes bravery is the simple act of pushing through something hard, something painful, in order to climb out of the darkness to step back into the light. Our guests this week have each shown acts of bravery in their lives—one in service to our country as a Marine, and in his own personal battle with PTSD, and another who faced addiction and fights each day not to be pulled back into its grip; we’re talking with Chad Robichaux, a former Force Recon Marine who served in Afghanistan, and Tim Atwood, a touring musician who has shared the stage with some of country music’s biggest legends.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Calling armed forces edition
Christianbook.com
Past interview: Sara Evans
Upcoming interview: Paula Faris
Chad Robichaux
PTSD
United States Marines
Recon marine
TS-SCI clearance
Mighty Oaks Foundation
www.mightyoaksprograms.org
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255
Tim Atwood
Mel Street
Lynn Anderson
Jim Ed Brown
Grand Ole Opry’s staff band
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood
Vince Gill
Inspirational Country Music Awards
Who I Am
www.timatwood.com
Interview Quotes:
“I'll be forever grateful for the Marine Corps for giving me that second chance, a clean slate of life and to escape that childhood that I was in and have a chance to build a life.” - Chad Robichaux
“What I discovered is that the Bible has a very clear blueprint on how to navigate each and every situation.” - Chad Robichaux
“During that time, I really dove into martial arts as a professional fighter and won a world championship, ranked number six in the world as a flyweight. And so on the surface, everything looked really good. But I was spiraling personally. And I was still dealing with panic attacks. I was still dealing with a lot of anger issues in my life. And my marriage was falling apart.” - Chad Robichaux
“I surrendered my life to Christ. I began to find restoration in my marriage and my relationship, in my own brokenness, and the PTSD. And so I was able to get hold of my life again. So I found restoration. I found hope again for the first time in a very long time.” - Chad Robichaux
“We really have to seek our purpose to find out what His purpose is. And I think when we find that we find a role in His purpose, that's when we find our contentment, our joy, and then we are able to tap into everything we're created for.” - Chad Robichaux
“One day I just decided, you know, I've played behind everybody I can think of, just enjoyed it. But I think that I would be better served at the front of the stage. And by watching all these entertainers over the years, I kind of learned exactly how to do it.” - Tim Atwood
“I’m really just enjoying the opportunity to get out front and entertain because I feel like I'm more of an entertainer than anything. It gives me a platform to talk at most of the shows I do. I've mentioned to everybody that I'm a Christian and that God gave me the gift and I've given the gift back to God.” - Tim Atwood
“You have to believe that you've got what it takes, but you also have to listen to the Voice.” - Tim Atwood
“I thank God that there’s servicemen and women out there fighting for our freedom.” - Tim Atwood
“I pray for Him to give me guidance and show me the way that I should go and the things that I should do to be a blessing to other folks.” - Tim Atwood
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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The idea of loving others doesn’t seem too difficult when we put it in the context of those closest to us, the ones who support us, care for us, and who give love in return. But the love that God commands us to have as Christians goes beyond that love we have in small circles—and it demands that as Jesus first loved us, we must love others in return. In the Bible, we’ll find in I John 4:20-21, it says: Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And He has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister. Our guests this week have committed their lives to showing the world that there isn’t anyone who isn’t worthy of love—both God’s love and the love of their fellow man. We’re talking to singer, speaker, and social advocate Cece Jones-Davis, and digital artist Danielle Coke.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
John 4:20-21 NIV
Jesus Calling devotional for kids
Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith on Circle TV
Circleallacess.com
Past interview: Linsey Davis
Upcoming interview: Chad Robichaux
Cece Jones-Davis
Matthew 5:6 NIV
Howard University
Yale Divinity School
Yale Institute of Sacred Music, Worship, and the Arts
Sing for Change
www.cecejonesdavis.com
Alive
Danielle Coke
Artivism
Luke 10:27 NIV
Good Samaritan
Worthy
https://ohhappydani.com/
@ohhappydani
Interview Quotes:
“As a kid, I was curious, I wanted to know more, even though there was a lot about spirituality that was really scary to me. And the older I got, that yearning just never left me, it constantly chased me down. And it drove me into pursuing God.” - Cece Jones-Davis
“God has had to do a lot of work with me over the years to say, ‘You are smart, you are enough, you're not just what other people have said about you.’” - Cece Jones-Davis
“My ministry has from the beginning more so been about my public witness and about how I can outwardly face toward the world outside of the church. What can I do? And so I'm happy to be living in this time when I feel like my life can be used in some way to advance God's kingdom and to stand up for what I believe God is on the side of.” - Cece Jones-Davis
“Sometimes I'm connecting as I'm sitting at my desk and I'm like, ‘Okay, now, Lord, I know we haven't had a long conversation today yet, but Lord, you saw the calendar. I'm going to need you to be with me every step of the way.’” - Cece Jones-Davis
“I've witnessed what happens when diversity is not a priority.” - Danielle Coke
“A big part of why I'm so passionate about justice is tied back to my relationship with God and how I view His calling for our lives.” - Danielle Coke
“I encourage people to seek the scriptures about how God is consistently calling us to seek justice and love mercy, how He's giving us stories like the Good Samaritan and illustrating what it means to not just walk past by someone who is struggling, but to help them, lift them up, and be there in a tangible way.” - Danielle Coke
“We are all worthy of love. We are worthy of being valued and we're worth fighting for.” - Danielle Coke
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Maybe you’ve heard someone say “Well, if you really knew me, you might not like me…” or maybe you’ve even said that to yourself. There can be much fear in being truly known—will I still be loved, despite my mistakes, despite my desperate thoughts, despite that I might not ever be enough on my own? The resounding answer to that question from God’s perspective is yes. God promises to love us with an everlasting love, and is continually drawing us to Himself with loving kindness, as we’re told in the scripture (Jeremiah 31:3). Our guests this week hit lows in their lives they didn’t know if they’d recover from, and just when they lost hope, they turned to God only to find that He was there, loving them despite their mistakes, fear, and pain. We’re speaking with television personality Rosie Rivera, the CEO of Jenni Rivera enterprises, and firefighter turned evangelist Jason Sautel.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jeremiah 31:3
Jesus Calling for First Responders editions
ChristianBook.com
Past interview: The Next Door organization
Upcoming interview: Cece Jones-Davis
Rosie Rivera
Jenni Rivera enterprises
Rosierivera.com
God Is Your Defender
Jason Sautel
The Rescuer
California Conservation Corps
California Department of Forestry
https://jasonsautel.wordpress.com/
Interview Quotes:
“I really, really loathed myself and I thought everyone else would, too, if they really, really knew me and that somehow transferred into God.” - Rosie Rivera
“I told God I was a mess. I was still hung over. I still smelled like alcohol and everything. And I was just at the front of the altar crying my eyes out, letting Jesus know everything that He already knew, that I didn't want to live anymore without Him, and that day I just realized what the cross was, like, it just hit me in such a beautiful way that He had died for me. He already knew everything, and that He loved me. And it can still fill me with love.” - Rosie Rivera
“Power comes with His word. I can trust that no matter what is going on with the world, as long as I am holding His hand, I am safe and I am on the right path. It reminds me that in the highs and the lows, He is the same.” Rosie Rivera
“No matter what goodness of this world I'd try to throw into it, it would not seal it up and it would actually make things worse. So being a firefighter that was called to help other people but had no idea how to rescue himself, it was really challenging, especially at that point in my life.” - Jason Sautel
“At the end of the day, all that is on that fire truck and under all that gear and behind that badge is a human being who just wants to help other people.” - Jason Sautel
“I started recognizing Grace, even though I didn't realize what it was at the time, in the form of people being nice to me when I didn't deserve it.” - Jason Sautel
“I'm just praying for people that draw closer to God and I'm praying for people to put their faith in Jesus. And for those who have, I'm praying that they will reflect on what their faith truly means, because I have learned over the many years of responding to the bad stuff of this world, I can't fix anything, nor can time. Time alone heals nothing. Time with Jesus heals everything.” - Jason Sautel
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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It’s often been said that we shouldn’t live in the past, but sometimes, inevitably, our past mistakes can haunt us. Regret over decisions made, things we’ve said and done that impacted others negatively, or opportunities missed. But God calls us to a different reality—one that is based on the present with Him and the promise for a future that He lovingly prescribes. Our guests this week have all had events in their past that haven’t been easy to overcome. But each of them took a step forward, a step toward God, and stepped away from having their past define them. We’re talking to author and speaker Christine Caine and the members of the popular worship band I Am They—Matt Hein, Justin Shinn, and Abbie Parker.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Listens
jesuscalling.com/jesuslistens
Jesus Calling
Past interview: Jamie Blane
Upcoming interview: Rosie Rivera
Christine Caine
Propel Women
Romans 8:38-39 NIV
1 John 1:5 NIV
Psalm 119 NIV
Revelation 21:5 NIV
Hebrews 12 NIV
A-21 Campaign
ChristineCaine.com
How Did I Get Here?
I Am They
Foursquare Church
Vicodin
OxyContin
Heroin
Mennonite church
Romans 5:20-21 NIV
“Scars”
https://www.iamthey.com/
Faithful God
Interview Quotes:
“There are a lot of things in my life that, you know, it would seem naturally speaking, should have stopped me from fulfilling my purpose and destiny. But Jesus being the amazing God that He is, He not only saved me and healed me and restored me, but He used those broken fragments of my past to not only give me a future, but to help me give other people a future.” - Christine Caine
“You are never too far gone for God not to be able to bring you back.” - Christine Caine
“I have found in my life that prayer moves God, and when God is moved, God can move mountains.” - Christine Caine
“I think that if we could trust the character and the nature and the goodness of God, we will get to the other side and find that our God was in control the whole time. I love that about God.” - Christine Caine
“I went into an eighteen month drug court program, so I was doing outpatient rehab, I was doing counseling, all that stuff. But what really made the biggest difference in keeping me clean was getting back involved with my church.” - Justin Shinn
“When you disappoint yourself, it can be really hard to believe that anyone else would not be disappointed in you, so that was a lesson that took a long time to relearn.” - Abbie Parker
“We sort of flipped the narrative that shame would have cast in our lives and decided this is no longer going to be a shameful narrative. This is going to be a story of God's grace and forgiveness and goodness and redemption in our lives.” - Abbie Parker
“It was just something that became the hidden addiction. And I never drank and I never got into drugs and that kind of thing, but [pornography] was kind of the thing that I could hide that was slowly but surely, in the same ways, eating me up from the inside.” - Matt Hein
“[Sitting in my pastor’s office confessing my addiction] was the moment that I found and I realized Grace and who Grace was and what Grace was capable of.” - Matt Hein
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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The concept of identity is a lofty one to wrap our minds around, and we are often encouraged to make sure our identity aligns with who God has called us to be. But how do we do that in real life? It often takes a situation beyond our control, where we feel over our heads, to get us to a point where we realize we have to realign our priorities. It’s there, in that space, that we often find God, and we see clearly what He wants for us. All Elite Wrestling star Brandi Rhodes is the wife of Cody Rhodes and daughter-in-law of the legendary Dusty Rhodes and is a star herself in American Elite Wrestling, talks about how faith and family played a role in forging her into the strong woman she is today. Renowned cardiac anesthesiologist and TedX speaker Dr. Sasha Shillcutt discusses the difficulties of juggling the roles of mom and a physician, how she found the balance by developing a spiritual practice of seeking God daily for 30 minutes.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Peace For Everyday Life video with Rolene Strauss
Upcoming guest: Christine Caine
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith TV Show
Host: Susie McEntire-Eaton
How to watch: Circleallacess.com
Brandi Rhodes
Cody Rhodes
Dusty Rhodes
All Elite Wrestling
Christopher Bowman
Dr. Sasha Shillcutt
Brave Enough
Jesus Calling app
https://www.becomebraveenough.com/
Between Grit and Grace
Interview Quotes:
“I had a really, really core upbringing in church and Christianity. And I love that because it was a situation, at least back then, where everybody was okay with everybody. We had all kinds of people across the board at that little school. Everyone was accepted, and we learned so much. I think that alone is the reason why I continue to pursue faith today.” - Brandi Rhodes
“I remember I just prayed that whole time that I was just warming up around, God, please be my legs. I can't feel them. This is important. I really need You right now. And that was the best I ever skated in my entire life.” - Brandi Rhodes, on prepping for one of her biggest skating competitions as a young adult
“I felt like I was failing as a mom. And when I would spend time trying to be the best mom I could be, I felt like I was failing as a physician. I think this is something that happens to a lot of women. I recognized how isolated I was, how I had really drifted away from the person God had called me to be.” - Dr. Sasha Shillcutt
“When you bring women together from diverse backgrounds, you recognize that so many of our trials and tribulations are similar, and we may be in different stages of our life or different phases, different states, different countries even. But we often face the same struggles.” - Dr. Sasha Shillcutt
“There's times as a doctor that it’s 3:00 in the morning and I'm in the operating room, and I don't know the next thing I should do to help a patient. I don't know the best thing. I'm not sure we're gonna make it out of the operating room. I'm struggling. And I can tell you in those moments, what I lean on is Christ.” - Dr. Sasha Shillcutt
“I pray that when I show up, I will affect the people in the room--sometimes that's two people, sometimes that's a thousand people--but that God will just help me bring kindness and clarity wherever I go, because the world is hard right now and there's a lot of anger and anxiety. And I just want to be a person that can bring clarity and kindness.” - Dr. Sasha Shillcutt
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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When we’re having a bad week and it seems like everything is going wrong, it’s nice to be able to have one constant to look to—something that never changes, is always reliable and there for us when we need it. This week two men of faith share how God’s love has been that constant in their lives; Grammy award winning country singer from the group Rascal Flatts, Gary LeVox and pastor, speaker, and evangelist—and the personal pastor of Dr. Billy Graham, Dr. Don Wilton.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Listens
Sarah Young
Past interview: Lauren Akins
Upcoming interview: Brandi Rhodes
Gary LeVox
Rascal Flatts
Board of DD, Developmental Disabilities
“Someone Else's Star”
Hebrews 11 NIV
One On One
Dr. Don Wilton
Dr. Reverend Billy Graham
Saturdays With Billy
Africa Inland Mission
theencouragingword.org
Interview Quotes:
“I was like, ‘Lord, I think you've given me the gift of a gift to sing,’ and I just felt so convicted, I was like, ‘I'm so sorry that I have not used it.’” - Gary LeVox
“I really trust and believe that He's got everything laid out, His purpose and His plan for me is going to be perfect, even though I don't see it, sometimes I get so frustrated that I have no other choice but to trust Him.” - Gary LeVox
“There's so many times I look back through my musical career and just my life and being a husband and a dad that I've looked and have just [seen] where God has shown up, where I have fallen short, where He's picked it back up and, you know, God has always been with me at times I didn't even know to help me get through things.“ - Gary LeVox
“I came into a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus. And my life has never been the same again, because the Lord gave to me a fresh purpose and a new meaning, and He changed my life and my perspective forever. And I will forever be grateful to the Lord and the influence of people in my life.” - Dr. Don Wilton
“To describe the impact of Mr. Graham on my life is almost impossible for me to do. Mr. Graham didn't just talk to me about how to live. He showed me, up close and personal. I didn't just watch him. I sat with him. I didn't just listen to him. I conversed with him. And we became so close. He enabled me to see my own life in a fresh way. He challenged me at the deepest level of my soul spirit.” - Dr. Don Wilton
“The very love with which he [Billy Graham] loved me was in and of itself the greatest reflection of [the way] God loves you, which he said over and over and over again to peoples and nations of every tongue and of every tribe and of every race and of every culture.” - Dr. Don Wilton
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Have you ever asked God to send you a sign? Just a little signal that you’re going in the right direction, or maybe a big red warning sign when you’re not? Whether we see them every day or not, God has a way of showing up and showing His love for us in the simple things—and in the complex things of life. Whether it’s a beautifully composed song that brings tears to your eyes, or the faithful wagging tail of a beloved canine companion, God has a way of delighting us by filling our world with little signs every day of His love and care for us, and if we stay on the lookout for those signs, we’ll begin to see His presence much more clearly. Harry Connick, Jr. recognizes the power of music, and loves to use his talent for singing, writing, and performing to bring joy to others—and now, through a new collection of gospel songs, he’s sharing the faith that has carried him through the ups and downs of his life. SQuire Rushnell and Louise DuArt are the authors of the bestselling books Godwinks—and now a brand new book called Dogwinks that tells the true stories of how God has used our canine companions to show His love for us in simple and profound ways.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling Podcast
Season 2 of the TV Show Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith
Circleallacess.com
Past interview: Bradley Walker
Upcoming interview: Dr. Don Wilton
Harry Connick, Jr.
When Harry Met Sally
The Memphis Belle
“Alone with My Faith” single
Alone With My Faith album
SQuire Rushnell and Louise DuArt
Godwinks
Dogwinks
Schoolhouse Rock
The Carol Burnett Show
Sandi Patty
Nicole C. Mullen
www.godwinks.com
Interview Quotes:
“I've always been someone who really wanted to try as many things as possible. I really love life. I love living life. I love—this sounds a little strange, I guess—but I love the potential to fail, I like taking risks, I like the potential to succeed more, but I don't mind failing.” - Harry Connick, Jr.
“I'm a work in progress. I'm imperfect. I have a long way to go, so I feel like my purpose is to try—quotes around the word “try”—to be the best person that I can be every day. I don't always succeed, but if I can continue to try to emulate what I believe to be true, I think that's my most powerful way of getting the message of my faith across.” - Harry Connick, Jr.
“My faith is what continues to get me through these tough times. But I just thought about how complex it is and how it's a gift, I think, from God to really compel us to want to communicate with Him.” - Harry Connick, Jr.
“We may forget our prayer, but God never does.” - Louise DuArt
“God had a plan and a purpose the whole time.” - Louise DuArt
“A dogwink is simply God using that vessel to just love us through them.” - Louise DuArt
“I just love how God uses everything in nature. He uses everything. He's sovereign.” - Louise DuArt
“It's very logical that if you have a conversation daily with your own earthly mother or father or children or boss or neighbor, the more conversation that you have on a regular basis, the better your relationship. So it stands to reason that if we have a great conversation, a relationship every day with our Father in heaven, He's going to be listening to us as much as we're listening to Him.” - SQuire Rushnell
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Sometimes when we pray, we really want answers, and sometimes we don’t always get those answers we’re seeking. However, our faith tells us that when we ask for help, whether we see it or feel it, God is there. When we ask for guidance, He leads us, not always on the path we would choose, but one that shapes who we are to become; and always to a place where He knows we can be used well. Lathan Warlick is a positive musician who had a near-death experience one night when he was confronted by two men with a gun. Lathan did the only thing he could think of—ask God for help—and when he was inexplicably saved, he decided to dedicate his life and career to spreading God’s word and encouraging positivity. Growing up in poverty, Dr. William Cooke shares how he wanted to truly make a difference by helping others. That desire led him to begin a practice in a community that was dealing with a devastating opioid crisis that was so overwhelming, after several exhausting years, Dr. Cooke questioned God as to if he had pursued the right path. Just as he was ready to throw in the towel, the answer to his question came from a very unexpected place. Both men looked to God for what roads they should take next, and God was faithful to lead them to the next season of faithfulness to Him, and better equipped to serve others.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith
Circleallacess.com
Jesus Calling book
Past interview: Carlos Whittaker
Upcoming interview: Harry Connick Jr.
Lathan Warlick
Luke 15 NIV
lathanwarlick.com
Dr. William Cooke
National Physician of the Year
Canary in the Coal Mine
Community Health and Economic Prosperity
Hepatitis C
HIV
Interview Quotes:
“It was like something was sitting on my shoulders. It was like something was holding me, you know, and the feeling was so powerful that it made me start weeping for no reason.” - Lathan Warlick
“God was calling me to be a light out into the world.” - Lathan Warlick
“It was like God put me out of my comfort zone to put me over here in order for something else to happen. God will make stuff so uncomfortable for you for Him to get your attention.” - Lathan Warlick
“I felt my calling was to try to work with individuals, families in a community that didn't have access to health and opportunity and hope.” - Dr. Willam Cooke
“As I started working with patients and families, I started to realize that there was something really dark there, that there was this sense that the American dream was not available to everyone.” - Dr. William Cooke
“We had to treat people, not diseases. So this seemed like the opportunity to do something new that, you know, this had never happened before. No one really knew how to respond to this.” - Dr. William Cooke
“I had this idea that if I had enough faith and I fought hard enough for the people of Austin, [Indiana] that God would come in and fill in the gap and make the change. And I'd done my part. I had done my part. The people of Austin had tried. Why was God not doing what I thought was His end of the bargain?” - Dr. William Cooke
________________________
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Ministry has many layers—it must be adaptable, malleable, able to meet the needs of whoever needs serving the most. It requires a lot of creativity, and often, it means stepping outside our comfort zone, stretching our abilities to fill the gaps. Number 1 Billboard-charting artist Lucas Hoge has integrated his faith and his music for years, and has gotten to travel all over the world experiencing God’s creation. But when he and his bandmates faced seasons in which they weren’t able to get to church, they came up with a creative solution to a common problem: virtual Sunday sessions that cater to those who can’t attend a brick-and-mortar gathering, enabling them to fill their souls with a good word regardless of location. Pastor Brian Tome has seen firsthand how the church often does not cater to men’s learning styles, and has dedicated his life to speaking guys’ language through movement, camping, and connection in a way that effectively reaches the leaders of the household and inspires them to walk in the Christian way. He shares about the concept of understanding our identity, and how to take the one small step that will make God’s heart smile, even if it scares you.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Life in His Presence
Past interview: Angus Buchan
Upcoming interview: Lathan Warlick
Lucas Hoge
Sunday Sessions
Sunday Sessions album
Golden Knights
https://www.lucashoge.com/
Brian Tome
Crossroads Church
Move
Matthew 3:16-17 NIV
www.briantome.com
Interview Quotes:
“God is the center of my relationship with Him and with the world, I feel we can get through this if I know that He's there guiding me.” - Lucas Hoge
“I feel like God put songs and ideas into my heart so that I can put them out there. And even if it's one person that hears that song that resonates for them and maybe helps them or gets them through a tough time or might even change their life, that's what that means to me.” - Lucas Hoge
“I came into a relationship with Jesus, which I found a relationship with Him is different than a relationship with religion. And that changed everything.” - Brian Tome
“I couldn't have predicted that God would do those things in and through us. But what I found, is if you take just one faithful step every day, if you actually do the thing, whatever the thing is that God is putting before you, that thing will snowball.” - Brian Tome
“Most men feel very disconnected from their church. Most men, if they go to church, they feel like they are in an environment that is foreign to them.” - Brian Tome
“Jesus didn't come to hold class. He came to change the world. He came to move you and me out of the place of apathy and into a place of challenge.” - Brian Tome
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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The Bible shows time and time again that Jesus was near to the broken. He was close to those that society discarded, He brought healing to the hopeless, and He reached into the pit of sin and rescued those who didn’t even believe themselves worth rescue. That is our call as Christians, to provide that same type of love and support to those who need it the most, rather than turning our backs on them. CEO of the Sanctuary Project, Holly Hayes, was saved from a life of violence and trauma by turning to a stolen Bible. Now, Holly uses her company, which creates jewelry, to employ women coming out of violence, trafficking, and addiction, giving them a place to start fresh, a place to feel loved, and a place to develop a relationship with Christ, free of judgement. Founder of Better Life Bags Rebecca Smith thought God had made a mistake calling her to move to a little town in Michigan, thinking she’d never feel at home. But after Rebecca’s bag company grew too big for her to handle by herself, she found that there was a large community of women who desperately needed employment and a place to connect with other women. Holly and Rebecca have both experienced the call of God in their lives, and now hope to make that same difference for the people they help by meeting them in their pain and needs.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Mark 2:17 NIV
Jesus Calling
Life in His Presence
Past interview: Tammy Arnold
Upcoming interview: Lucas Hoge
Holly Hayes
The Sanctuary Project
Oprah’s book recommendations
John 8:7 NIV
SanctuaryProject.com
Rebecca Smith
Better Life Bags
Kiva
www.betterlifebags.com
A Better Life
Interview Quotes:
“I went from this really normal, healthy young girl who had trauma but didn't know it to someone who began acting out in every sense of the word and in every way. And all of the sudden my inward trauma became very outward.” - Holly Hayes
“I was homeless, addicted, completely lost, completely broken. And I was on the floor of a public bathroom just crying and watching my tears hit the floor one day and three words fell out of my mouth. I said, ‘God help me.’” - Holly Hayes
“You would think I cried out to God and then I was all better, right? It took years for me to even realize who that God was that I cried out to.” - Holly Hayes
“I was desperate to know who this God was that saved me all those years ago on that bathroom floor, because at this point, I knew I had been so miraculously rescued and everything I had searched for had come up empty.” - Holly Hayes
“I stood face to face for the first time with this God who had rescued me off the floor of that bathroom those years ago. And so it was so clear in that moment that Jesus was the God that would rescue someone in the pit of sin and give them a whole new life.” - Holly Hayes
“I know there is only one way to get needs met, and that is through prayer.” - Holly Hayes
“He is so faithful to the people He loves, especially the vulnerable.” - Holly Hayes
“When it comes to meeting the needs of his Beloved, of His people, He is so faithful.” - Holly Hayes
“Anything that's different than what we grew up with or are used to is scary if you're just entering it. But my challenge to myself and to people who are scared, I think any time we are confronted with fear of any sort of race, religion, like any sort of difference, is just meet somebody. Like, get a face and a name and shake their hand, get to know their story.” - Rebecca Smith
“If we're hurrying through life and rushing, we can't hear those [whispers from God]. We're just too loud and too busy to be able to hear His still, small whispers.” - Rebecca Smith
“God has a plan for each one of our lives. He has it laid out for me. He has this pathway laid out. And my only job is just to take one step at a time. I don't have to run down the path. I can simply walk and God reveals the next step as it comes.” - Rebecca Smith
“To me, the goal in life, in business, in parenting, in any of it is not winning. The goal is not to finish first, the goal is to finish and to finish well in the lane that God has given us to run.” - Rebecca Smith
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Outcomes in our lives are comprised of both decisions we make and things that happen to us. Some we can control and others we can’t, but what we do have a say in is how we respond to the events that take place. We can allow our experiences to pull us into darkness, or we can use them as a catalyst for good change—getting us closer to the lives God intended.
Former Major League Baseball player Darryl Strawberry had a difficult childhood full of abuse and violence at the hands of his alcoholic father. Those difficulties left him unable to handle the stardom that would come his way once he entered the professional sports world, and he found himself down a path paved with sin. Darryl’s mother prayed fervently that God would knock him from his throne, and God saved Darryl when he couldn’t save himself. Now, Darryl has been called to spread the message of God’s forgiveness and redemption all over the country through Strawberry Ministries.
Amy Downs was just an average girl who found herself in a tragic situation: she was a clerk at a bank that was destroyed in the Oklahoma City bombing, which claimed the lives of eighteen of her coworkers. Amy was one of the last survivors to be pulled from the rubble, and once she saw the sunlight, Amy told God that she wanted to live her life differently. That sparked a myriad of changes, including improvements to her health, her spiritual life, her education, and her career—and now Amy is the CEO of the very same bank where she was once a “math challenged” teller who saw no hope in her future.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling for Graduates
Jesus Calling
Past interview: Kurt Angle
Upcoming interview: Holly Hayes
Darryl Strawberry
Strawberry Ministries
MVP of the Texas League
Findingyourway.com
Turn Your Season Around
Amy Downs
Murrah Building
https://amydowns.org
Interview Quotes:
“I wore a baseball uniform for seventeen years and I identified myself as a baseball player. And it wasn't until I came to Christ that I was able to identify myself as a man.” - Darryl Strawberry
“Everybody was praising me for this great baseball player I was about to become. But I always say it was my pain that started to lead me to my greatness and my greatness would lead me to my destructive behavior.” - Darryl Strawberry
“God was doing for me what I couldn't do for myself because of my mother’s prayers to cover her children.” - Darryl Strawberry
“God made me understand that the forgiveness was not for [my father]. It was for me.” - Darryl Strawberry
“When God does His transformation, He does it for you, but He does it to get through to you so He can get somebody else to have the same revelation that you have had.” - Darryl Strawberry
“I remember looking up at the gray sky and just taking that first breath of fresh air and promising God I will never live my life the same.” - Amy Downs
“I thought, if I had an issue with drugs, I would go to rehab. I'm going to have to do what it takes for me to get free [from obesity] and just not worry about judgment from others. So I did.” - Amy Downs
“Having that experience of facing death at twenty-eight and just sort of realizing, like, I want to live my life with intention, and whether that's doing things purely for my own selfish enjoyment, like a triathlon, you know, or whether that is wanting to serve people in a very difficult role and position, like being CEO of an organization.” - Amy Downs
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Finding our God-given purpose is just the first step—it’s truly owning who He meant us to be that makes a difference, because follow through and commitment mean everything. However, earthly obstacles can get in our way of fully believing in and accepting ourselves. That’s why we need Christ so desperately, to help us understand our own value. Gospel singer Kierra Sheard-Kelly has waded through her fair share of negativity and body-shaming, and pursuing a career in the spotlight meant that there were scores of mean comments thrown her way. Kierra decided that she’d fortify herself by rooting her heart and her feelings in the word of God, which centered her and helped her embrace how God shaped her. Now, she’s living her faith boldly and proudly, encouraging others to stand out. Fox News anchor Shannon Bream started out as a lawyer, but felt a deep pull to the world of journalism, and sacrificed endlessly to work her way in. After being told by one television exec that she wasn’t good for TV, and that she’d never make it in the business, Shannon took a good hard look at her skills and her purpose, dug her heels in, and trusted that God would open the doors needed, and eventually she was led to a series of opportunities that got her where she is today. Now, she’s sharing stories about women in the Bible who sat at God’s feet, and is highlighting how passionately Christ cared for His relationships with women—placing them in positions where they can maximize their influence.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Romans 8:38 and 39
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Past interview: Mike Weaver
Upcoming interview: Darryl Strawberry
Kierra Sheard-Kelly
Clark Sisters
Big, Bold, and Beautiful: Owning the Woman God Made You to Be
Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
Proverbs 11:14
Shannon Bream
Fox News at Night
Women of the Bible Speak
Finding the Bright Side
Liberty University
Florida State
Miss America pageant program
Miss USA
Brit Hume
Fox News
Queen Esther
Deborah
Interview Quotes:
“I literally have gotten so many answers from my advisors. And that can be my friends, my loved ones, my sibling, anybody that I feel like God has said yes to. And they've contributed so much to the path of my life.” - Kierra Sheard-Kelly
“I live my faith, bold and proud, by owning who I am, owning what God is doing in my life.” - Kierra Sheard-Kelly
“Because you know Jesus, it doesn't make you small, it doesn't make you weird, it doesn't make you abnormal, it actually puts you in a secure place, in a sure place,” - Kierra Sheard-Kelly
“There's a glory that rests on your life, and heaven is rejoicing when you live it out and when you own it.” - Kierra Sheard-Kelly
“Even if you don't speak the same language, you can have the same heart and be a part of the body of Christ.” - Shannon Bream
“Your job cannot be your God, it can't be what drives your life.” - Shannon Bream
“Jesus treated women as equals. They were studying with Him at His feet, which was not common in those days.” - Shannon Bream
“The God who intervened in all of these situations centuries ago is the same God today. I'm struck by the fact that these frustrations and troubles and challenges the women had, many of them are very common to today. Family troubles, sibling rivalries, chronic illness, financial trouble, widowhood, infertility, betrayal.” - Shannon Bream
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Though it can be difficult to comprehend, God places equal weight on the lives of all His children. That’s the beauty of the cross—no matter what we’ve done, our sins are washed clean. And no matter what sort of trouble we may find ourselves in, He will rescue us over and over. Pianist Paul Cardall was born with only half a heart, which meant years of stress, surgery, and pain. When finally given the opportunity for a transplant, Paul faced the hardship of knowing that his survival meant someone else lost their own life. Paul battled PTSD and survivor’s guilt for years, finally coming to accept that God laid down His own life willingly for Paul, and that he was worth being rescued. Author Charles Martin spent years trying to uncover what his parents had always instilled in him: what was the thing God created you to do? After walking away from an amazing employment opportunity to pursue writing full force, Charles dove into Matthew 8 and the story of the shepherd leaving the ninety-nine to save the one, which inspired his newest book, The Water Keeper.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Psalms 32:7
Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling for Armed Forces edition
JesusCalling.com
Past interview: Lecrae Moore
Upcoming interview: Kierra Sheard-Kelly
Paul Cardall
New Life
The Broken Miracle album
Trauma-related guilt
The Broken Miracle book
“Family”
“For Better Or Worse”
Charles Martin
The Water Keeper
Matthew 18
www.charlesmartinbooks.com
Interview Quotes:
“I was feeling God telling me, ‘Everything is okay. I've got you. This is a gift I'm giving you.’” - Paul Cardall
“The hardest thing in my world was I knew that for me to live, it meant somebody had died.” - Paul Cardall
“It struck me as completely illogical that the shepherd would leave the flock and the safety of the flock to go get the one who's got himself lost. And yet He does it repeatedly, and of course, I know that's the story of the gospel and of course, I know that's what Jesus does for us.” - Charles Martin
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Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Jesus Calling Website
As we seek to determine God’s wishes for who we are to become, pursuing Him through prayer is one of our most trustworthy tools. If we seek to strengthen that bond with our Savior by staying in constant communication with Him, we’ll have clarity on where we are headed, and we will also begin to live from a more selfless perspective. Father James Martin, a Jesuit priest and editor-at-large of America Magazine, has learned over the years that prayer requires honesty, trust, and acceptance—but the good news is that there isn’t a right or a wrong way to pray, because God will reveal Himself to each of us differently. A relationship with God requires the same elements and effort as any of our human relationships, and when we take that approach, our faith walk will begin to change. MSNBC and NBC news anchor Richard Lui is the first Asian American man to anchor a daily national cable news program. As his career was soaring to new heights, he was presented with the greatest challenge yet: to care for his aging father who is suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Taking this opportunity as a lesson in selflessness, Richard was prepared to walk away from his dream job, but luckily was given a chance to balance both his career and his family. Richard shares about his father’s faithfulness throughout the years, and what he’s learned by being a caregiver.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Philippians 2:3-4
Jesus Calling®: The Story of Easter
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling
Past interview: Greg Alan Williams
Upcoming interview: Charles Martin
Matthew 18
Father James Martin
Learning to Pray: A Guide for Everyone
University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business
Thomas Merton
The Seven Storey Mountain
Jesuits
Karl Rahner
Matthew 26:38-40
John 11
Richard Lui
Alzheimer’s disease
Enough About Me: The Unexpected Power of Selflessness
Mrs. Fields cookies
City College of San Francisco
Berkeley
Rodney King
Magic Johnson
Interview Quotes:
“I was invited to think about having a personal relationship with Jesus and a real, open relationship with God.” - Father James Martin, S.J.
“For the most part, I think that people can trust within reason the kinds of things that happen to them in their prayer and in their daily life. If they feel that it is God's presence, it usually is.” - Father James Martin, S.J.
“All the things that make for a good personal relationship make for a good relationship with God.” - Father James Martin, S.J.
“God loves us. And so once people are able to accept that love, it really is transformational. They know that they're valued and who they are and that they are enough.” - Father James Martin, S.J.
“The idea is to trust that God is waiting to hear from you and that also there's no wrong way or right way to pray.” - Fames James Martin, S.J.
“Sometimes you get up in the morning, and you walk outside and you take a deep breath and something hits your brain and hits you in a way that says, You know what? I think my calling just may have changed and what I want to do just changed.” - Richard Lui
“[This memory of my dad] gave me a point of view that these little things I was doing, they were important.” - Richard Lui
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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God finds great joy in us using our gifts to share His light in the world—there is no greater feeling than recognizing our purpose and fulfilling it to the best of our ability, giving voice to His faithfulness. Worship artist Kari Jobe began writing and singing songs of praise when she was only thirteen, paving the way for a lifetime of ministry. Now she pours blessings over her listeners and brings her family along for the journey, and feels honored that God has fulfilled her deepest desires to sing. British gospel singer Mica Paris was raised in the church, and got her start in music there. Over the years, Mica began to stray from her faith and got caught up in glittery fame. Looking back, she realizes that God was always there holding her steady, and her renewed hope in Him has changed her voice and her message.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling® for Easter
Past interview: Lacey Buchanan
Upcoming interview: Father James Martin
Kari Jobe
“The Blessing”
Numbers 6
www.karijobe.com
Mica Paris
The Gospel According to Mica: The Story of Gospel Music in Six Songs
Gospel
Windrush generation
Rupert the Bear
https://gospel.micaparis.com
Interview Quotes:“I brought everybody [my listeners] along that journey with me, because I realized there are people who probably have been through that or a similar thing. And it's like, ‘I need your wisdom and maybe anything I'm learning could be ministry to you.’” - Kari Jobe
“God is so faithful, we can look back and see similarities in our lives where we weren't sure what was going to happen. But God came through. God did a miracle. God changed our perspective. God brought healing. And so I just want to say, let's look to the future and realize that the same God that walked us through all those other things, is the same God that walks with us into our future.” - Kari Jobe
“If you don't have a little time with Him on your own, you kind of feel a bit disconnected if you don't do it for a bit. So you literally have to keep checking in.” - Mica Paris
“I feel like even the times when I did forget the faith, it was something that was always looking after me.” - Mica Paris
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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There is no better feeling than the moment you discover you are a part of something bigger than yourself—when you know God is there with a plan for you, and you realize that you have been soaked in His grace since the beginning of time. Comedian Michael Jr. had that moment after using his last few dollars to get to New Jersey to perform a show with iconic comedians George Wallace and Jerry Seinfeld. After performing, the manager invited Michael to church with him. Dejected about being completely broke and unable to get back to New York, Michael was gifted $200 and a napkin with a church address on it. That was a turning point, pushing Michael to read the Bible and use his gift of creating laughter to help spread the gospel. NFL player Jordan Matthews was trying desperately to navigate a performance-based world, but he was getting caught up in the highs and lows. Longing for consistency, Jordan looked to other guys in the NFL who had built a foundation of faith that allowed them to be okay no matter their circumstances. That’s when Jordan found Jesus, and began to walk in true relationship with Christ.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Ephesians 2:8-9
Jesus Calling®: The Story of Easter
Sarah Young
Past interview: Trevor Brazile
Upcoming interview: Mica Paris
Michael Jr.
Jerry Seinfeld
George Wallace
Chris Rock
Seinfeld
A Red Blueprint
michaeljr.com
Jordan Matthews
Trey Burton
Chris Maragos
Nick Foles
Galatians 5
Psalm 34:4-6
Psalm 105:4
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Interview Quotes:
“All these people I never even knew before gave me all this love because I gave them a part of me.” - Michael Jr.
“It's just super exciting to be able to see this and notice and feel it—that heaven is real, that God gave me this gift not to serve me, not so I can do a bunch of shows and get a bunch of people and just laugh. It's so much more to do than just laughter. Comedy is the vehicle. It is not a destination.“ - Michael Jr.
“I know I'm called to help people understand their purpose.” - Michael Jr.
“I want to make laughter common in uncommon places.” - Michael Jr.
“Everything [humans make is], 100-percent, always going to be performance-based. If you don't meet this criteria, you're out, you're done.” - Jordan Matthews
“I realized that those pages in the Word, they weren't just words on a page. Those things meant something.” - Jordan Matthews
“And I was like, ‘Look, Lord, I know I haven’t been doing this thing right. I know that I'm probably still going to mess up at times, but I know this whole thing is about You. And I can't save myself, so it's up to You to do it, and I feel that happening right now.’” - Jordan Matthews
“I know that I have a foundation that I can stand on and a relationship that can't be taken away, no matter my performance. And that's something that's very freeing.” - Jordan Matthews
“I just felt like the gospel was able to give me perspective. I don't serve a God who sat on a throne and didn't know what suffering was. He came down, and He did the work, and He suffered. If He can go through that for me, I can go through this for somebody else.” - Jordan Matthews
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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It is so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life that we take for granted the little miracles that come together to form our very existence. If we learn to train our minds to sort out God’s miracle moments from the mundane, we will learn to live from a posture of reverence and awe—making our faith walk more wondrous than we could’ve thought. Life coach Tim Storey is a miracle himself—raised in a low income family, Tim relied on his understanding of God from a young age, and it led him to become a leader among some of Hollywood’s most successful names. Now, Tim seeks to point others to God by unifying them through universal principles straight out of the Bible, bringing healing where there was once hurt. Pianist Gordon Mote was born blind, but he was also born with immense musical talent, which took him to Nashville where he eventually became a first call studio keyboardist--performing on albums for the biggest names in country music. After 9/11, Gordon prayed deeply for one thing: to make a difference in the world. Each of us has the potential to be a miracle to someone else and to appreciate the miracles in the world around us—if only we ask God to let us see ourselves and His creation through His eyes.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling
40 Days of Jesus Always
Christianbook.com
Jesus Calling® for Easter
Past interview: Joyce and John Smith
Upcoming interview: Michael Jr.
Tim Storey
Pastor Ron Prinzing
Jack Lemmon
Walter Matthau
Vidal Sassoon
Lee Iacocca
James Caan
Charlton Heston
Miracle Mentality
Gordon Mote
Alan Jackson
Brad Paisley
Blake Shelton
Martina McBride
Carrie Underwood
Alabama School for the Blind
Pig Robbins
Country Music Hall of Fame
“Amazing Grace”
“Grace Became Amazing”
LOVE LOVE LOVE
Interview Quotes:
“I take time to really look at things through the eyes of faith on a daily basis.” - Tim Storey
”I believe that grace fills in the gaps.” - Tim Storey
“A lot of people say, ‘I used to be into faith, but I feel let down,’ or ‘Religion has become big business,’ and that's my opportunity to really talk more about Christ as the friend and Christ as the One who understands and Christ as the humanitarian.” - Tim Storey
“If you have sadness, He came to bring you joy. If you have dead things, He wants to exchange your ashes for beauty.” - Tim Storey
“No matter what you've been through, God is still there for you. God will still guide you, guard you, govern you.” - Tim Storey
“God is a miracle working God, that's part of what He does.” - Tim Storey
“We are walking miracles, even in our limitations, our setbacks, our frailties, our faults, our failures.” - Tim Storey
“If we could comprehend—which we can't—what it must be like for Jesus to have that kind of mercy and grace for us and then to look down on this earth He created and see how we treat each other...I just feel like we need to love and do our very best to love because He first loved us.” - Gordon Mote
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Though times of pain and difficulty are hard to weather, they are often the seasons of life that bring the greatest spiritual reward, because it is often when we are desperate for healing and relief that we cry out to God, and those are the times that we can see great improvement by clinging to Him. Throughout her marriage, author and speaker Karen Ehman has been surprised by the difference in expectations and reality, and she’s learned that by looking for God in the little moments and continuing to show up in prayer, you can tackle any problem with your spouse. Kristina Kotlus had laid out a specific prayer to God: “Let me see you working.” She never imagined that her encounter with Him would come in the form of two cancer diagnoses, but she’s been amazed at how God took that opportunity to show her just what He was capable of.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Past interview: Dawn Barton
Upcoming interview: Tim Storey
Karen Ehman
Proverbs 31 Ministries
Make Their Day
https://www.karenehman.com
Keep Showing Up
Kristina Kotlus
I Quit: Facing Cancer with Faith, Family, & Friends
College of the Holy Cross
George Mason
Philippians 4:7
kristinakotlus.com
Interview Quotes:
“It brings this little level of excitement when you watch God work while you two are forming a team and working together.” - Karen Ehman
“So often the way that we show love is not the way our spouse receives love.” - Karen Ehman
“I think that's just a real crucial way that we can keep showing up is to use our words to speak to God about our marriages and to speak to God about our own behavior.” - Karen Ehman
“I can look back in my life and see those exact difficulties, those problems, those pains, they were kind of the fertilizer for my faith. They’re when my faith grew the most.” - Karen Ehman
“It really wasn't until I was diagnosed that I really understood an actual really scary thing, and I actually saw God's ability to step into that huge void where I couldn't carry the load and I couldn't change my circumstances—but He could.” - Kristina Kotlus, on her cancer diagnosis
“I let myself have the emotions I was going to have, but I put a time limit on it. So I would literally set an egg timer or a timer on my cell phone and give myself fifteen minutes. I would have all of the negative thoughts. I would have all of the fears. I would just have them all and cry it out. And when my timer went off, I would literally out loud say, ‘Okay, you have been heard.’” - Kristina Kotlus
“I don't think that God gave me cancer, I don't think that He shot down a lightning bolt from heaven and put the tumor inside of my head, but I do think that He used that experience as an answer to that prayer for me to see Him.” - Kristina Kotlus
“I am choosing joy and I am deciding that I am going to go forward with confidence because I know my God has this.” - Kristina Kotlus
________________________
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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A beautiful element of Christianity is that when we allow ourselves to relax into the peace and grace that God offers, we experience true rest and healing that restores every part of our soul. Catholic recording artist Julie Carrick has seen God touch her life in the moments she was suffering the most—through infidelity, miscarriage, and cancer—and it’s led her to appreciate His unfailing grace and perfect love, which meets her in all of her brokenness and boosts her with the strength to carry on. Physician and author Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith is an expert on rest in all of its forms, and knows how crucial it is that we give ourselves the type of rest our bodies, minds, and souls truly need. Because it is only when we are well-rested and energized that we can dedicate the best of ourselves to Christ—even the King rested on the 7th day.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Past interview: Jana Kramer & Mike Caussin
Upcoming interview: Karen Ehman
Julie Carrick
Carrick Ministries Foundation
Unfailing Grace
Grotto
JulieCarrick.com
Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith
Good Housekeeping Doctors’ Secrets
Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity
John 10:10
http://www.drdaltonsmith.com/
Interview Quotes:
“God's unfailing grace. No matter what we go through, that grace is there.” - Julie Carrick
“The scripture—although it was written thousands of years ago—it wasn't written just for a thousand years ago. It was written timelessly. There is no beginning. There's no end. It was written for us today as much as it was back in the day.” - Julie Carrick
“We're in a position where we are working out of our exhaustion rather than working out of the fullness of all that we have to give. We're not fully being able to use our gifts and our talents and all that God's placed inside of us because we are always working out of that place of depletion.” - Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith
“To give of our best, we have to be able to take the time to intentionally rest well.” - Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith
“I always like to meditate on a characteristic of God or even a word that brings you back to think about who God is in your life. Peace, love, joy. Pick a word, a phrase that you will focus on as a way of calming your mind and keeping it from being able to just jump to whatever thought that it decides it wants to.” - Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith
“I believe every one of us needs to have those people in our lives, whether it's a counselor or a therapist or a trusted friend, a family member, someone who knows at the very core of what's going on with you.” - Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith
“We need to see the value in spending time with those people who can pour back into us. We can't always be the ones pouring out into others.” - Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith
“Spiritual rest is the rest we experience when we have intimacy with God, when we take time to break away just to be with Him where we're not coming with our agenda. We're not coming with our prayer list. We're coming simply to just spend time in His presence and to enjoy being with Him.” - Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith
“God's best for us is where we actually go back to the very beginning and we do it as He has modeled even from the very beginning of creation.” - Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Think of a time when you were able to spread a little sunshine to others. What kind of happiness and fullness did that bring you? God calls us to be conduits of His joy, peace, and healing, but we can only do that once we develop our faith muscle enough to leave the stresses and pressures of the world and step into His calling for us. Artist and writer Ruth Chou Simons always had a love for art, but felt pushed into places the world deems more practical. Creativity and beauty continued to find its way into her life through cracks and crevices, and after Ruth became a mom, she started a blog, Grace Laced, as a way to muse on the way God’s faithfulness was showing up in the everyday, and it led to an artistic career that brought her fulfillment beyond her wildest dreams. Life coach and author Jess Connolly has made it her personal mission to help people discover what their God-given gifts are, because it’s not about what we can do with our lives, but who we can serve through our actions. Jess has learned over the years that on our own, we could never be enough, but by His grace, we are.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Always
Jesus Calling
Past interview: Jaci Velasquez
Upcoming interview: Julie Carrick
Ruth Chou Simons
Grace Laced
GraceLaced
Beholding and Becoming:The Art of Everyday Worship
Grace Laced Shop
Jess Connolly
You Are the Girl for the Job
Bright City Church
Go and Tell Gals
1 Peter 2:9
Interview Quotes:
“I thought my worth was so tied to what I could accomplish. And long story short, the Lord really did get a hold of me, and God in His kindness showed me that nothing I had to bring to the table, no matter how hard I tried, no matter what college I went, to what degree I graduated with, what job I landed, none of those things could earn me to favor with God.” - Ruth Chou Simons
“Those are truly just seasons that come about where God really breaks you of things that you think can save yourself. And He shows you what true salvation is.” - Ruth Chou Simons
“I was simply writing to faithfully document and see how God's faith, God's favor, and His grace intersects everyday life, even when life wasn't turning out the way I expected it to.” - Ruth Chou Simons
“I think anything, any dream you have, anything you want to do successfully in a big way, you need to do faithfully in a small way.” - Ruth Chou Simons
“There are lots of things we want to be in the presence of. And we forget that we were made to be in the presence of our Savior.” - Ruth Chou Simons
“Fullness of joy comes through Christ and through our knowing Him.” - Ruth Chou Simons
“We get to be rooted in the good news that though we are not enough, God is.” - Jess Connolly
“One of the best ways we can fight fear is saying true things about God.” - Jess Connolly
“I have learned that part of the beauty of prayer is that when I pray for certain things, for God to move in certain ways, I begin to look for and see the fruit of those things. And so I'm really praying to see His power and to see His presence and to see His peace manifested in people.” - Jess Connolly
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Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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In each of our lives, there will come a time that we face a season of hardship, of difficulty, even true suffering. But no matter how awful things may seem to be, God is right there to help carry you when you can’t walk on your own. Ministry leaders and authors Ruth & Patrick Schwenk went through a ten-year period in which they had nine pregnancies—five of which sadly ended in miscarriage. After having four healthy children and relocating to Ann Arbor, Michigan to launch a new church, Patrick was suddenly diagnosed with a rare blood cancer, and it sent their family into a tailspin once again. Clinging to God, the Schwenks found a way to cope and survive, trusting in the strength of Jesus to get them through. Former Army Captain Harold Earls and his wife Rachel know all about sacrifice—from a national perspective to a personal one. Early in their marriage, Harold felt called to climb Mt. Everest in support of veteran PTSD and suicide awareness, and in doing so, it terrified Rachel that she’d lose her husband before they could ever start a life together. By turning to God as reassurance that everything would be okay, they made it through the tumultuous climb. Then, as a guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington, Virginia, Harold began a new mission each day of honoring the men and women who gave their all for their country and relied on his devotional ritual to help keep his mind on God’s purpose for his life. For each couple, looking to Jesus to help them through their toughest struggles helped them realize that God can bring forth good from pain and from sacrifice—and He can give you the strength to help you through the worst of it.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling devotional
Past interview: Jonathan Pitts
Upcoming interview: Ruth Chou Simons
Ruth & Patrick Schwenk
John 3:30
Moody Bible Institute
Psalm 9:10
1 Peter, 1:3-4
In a Boat in the Middle of a Lake: Trusting the God Who Meets Us in Our Storm
Harold & Rachel Earls
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Earls Family Vlogs
Earls Fam Foundation
Florida State University
West Point
Mount Everest
Veteran suicide statistics
Arlington National Cemetery
A Higher Calling
Interview Quotes:
“I had to give up everything that I had been and I had to follow Him with my whole heart.” - Ruth Schwenk
“I feel like God used that suffering and that uncertainty and that fear to really deepen my faith because I had a choice. I could either trust Him or I couldn't. And there was literally no earthly thing that I could do to change my situation.” - Ruth Schwenk
“There are so many ways that chaos and pain and suffering and loss can be places of great anxiety, but they also can be places of great abundance where God is beginning to do something new and something powerful.” - Patrick Schwenk
“We believe that God hears our prayers. He loves us. He desires to take care of us just as His child. He desires to take care of us just like we as a mom or a dad desire to take care of our own child.” - Ruth Schwenk
“I am grateful and it helps me to see the good around me and all the blessings that God has just given me, which really carries me through those hard moments.” - Rachel Earls
“Everything that makes me proud to be an American, I would see on a daily basis [at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier]. And so for me to have the opportunity to serve there with an extraordinary group of young men and women honestly has been a highlight of my life so far and something that I am thankful for.” - Harold Earls
“This country, although we have our flaws, our flaws are still worth fighting for.” - Harold Earls
“Men and women that were so brave, that we don't even know who they are, made those sacrifices for you and I, so that we could have the religious freedoms that we have so that we can worship the God that we worship, so we can go to church on Sunday and say Jesus in public.” - Harold Earls
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
God has blessed each of us with a special gift, a talent, a unique way that we can spread His Word in the world. Our gifts are given to us for a reason—no one else can do what we do. It is the way we were formed, and it’s why it’s so crucial that we learn to hone into God’s voice and what He’s calling us to do, lest the world suffer from the lack of our obedience. Former Bachelor star and founder of Generous Coffee, Ben Higgins, had a moment in his childhood that made him realize that people’s stories are more complex than he ever thought possible, and that pain and suffering are interwoven with joy. After Ben’s following boomed from the publicity that being on national television brought, he realized he had an opportunity to use his platform for good, for change in the lives of those who desperately need it. That’s when he founded Generous Coffee, seeking to fulfill a purpose greater than himself and connecting with stories that truly mean something to us as humans. Author and speaker John Bevere had an encounter with God in 1991, when God told him to write. John laughed at God, thinking he was surely mistaken and calling on the wrong follower. After several nudgings, John gave in, and now his books are being used to build Christ’s kingdom worldwide. These two men show that when we harness our God-given abilities and surrender to His callings, lives and hearts can be changed, and we can have an impact greater than we ever thought possible.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling for Armed Forces edition
JesusCalling.com
Past interview: Cynthia Garrett
Upcoming interview: Patrick and Ruth Schwenk
Ben Higgins
ABC’s The Bachelor - 20th season
Generous Coffee
Alone in Plain Sight
Humanity Hope United
generousmovement.com
John Bevere
Messenger International
X: Multiply Your God Given Potential
2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV
COVID
Colossians 3:23-24 NIV
1 Peter 4:10 NIV
2 Timothy 1:6-7 NIV
messengerinternational.org
Interview Quotes:
“I think the scariest thing that we could have in our life is experiencing pain and feeling alone in that pain. I don't know a scarier feeling than feeling alone.” - Ben Higgins
“What if pain is the connector? What if pain is the thing that we can look at each other and feel less alone? And what if pain is the place that we not only grasp for God, but that God enters into our pain?” - Ben Higgins
“I want to share empathy. I want to hear your story. I don't want to argue with you. I want to understand more than be understood.” - Ben Higgins
“The more I become vulnerable, the more I let people understand who I am, the more that I also believe that I want to understand who others are.” - Ben Higgins
“The callings on our lives are beyond our natural abilities.” - John Bevere
“Being faithful means multiply, even if you're working for somebody else. If you're a line worker at the factory, if you're a janitor, you multiply where God has placed you. Be faithful, believe for the supernatural gifting to multiply, to shine as a light in that arena.” - John Bevere
“God has called us to take what is uniquely gifted in us and multiply it to impact many. If you look at God's first commandment, it was be fruitful and multiply.” - John Bevere
“That gift on your life is not for you. It's for the people that in your world of influence that God is sending you to. So if you don't operate in your gift, then the people in your world of influence don't get what God intended them to get.” - John Bevere
God calls us to two highly important responsibilities: to love our Him with all of our being, and to treat our neighbors as we would want to be treated. By doing so, we can help turn our world into a better place, and appreciate the beauty of God’s creation. Travel expert Rick Steves has seen, tasted, and experienced many different cultures, and of all the memories he’s made and souvenirs he’s collected, he believes none are as important as the broadened perspective his adventures have helped him gain. Rick’s faith has deepened after seeing how God works in various cultures of humanity, and worshipping with different people has helped him see the true value of different communities and faith traditions. Thomas Morstead, a punter for the NFL’s New Orleans Saints, applied a mantra early on in life that no matter what, he would always give things his best shot, and leave the rest up to God. Following that principle has led Thomas to major success in the NFL, and has helped him use his influence to impact lives through his What You Give Will Grow Foundation.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Past interview: Joanne Rogers
Upcoming interview: Ben Higgins
Rick Steves
Rick's public television program
San Juan Islands
Guatemala
RickSteves.com
Thomas Morstead
What You Give Will Grow Foundation
Super Bowl XLIV
Coach Payton
What You Give Will Grow
American Cancer Society
American Heart Association
Good Friday
The Middle School Rules of Thomas Morstead
Interview Quotes:
“I think it carbonates your whole world when you get out there and you realize, Wow, different people find different truths to be self-evident and God-given. It makes you less fearful. It's a beautiful thing. “ - Rick Steves
“We're a great country, but we're four percent of this planet, and there's ninety-six percent of humanity out there. And it really makes sense to get to know the rest of the world.” - Rick Steves
“I love to meet other people of faith. And I love to share my faith with people who have no faith. Very fundamentally, we are children trying to figure out our relationship with God and trying to get close to our Heavenly Father.” - Rick Steves
“But once in a while, it's good for me to get out there and worship with people who don't have the same hymnal, who don't have the same accent, who don't have the same blonde hair. It's exciting. And it's a beautiful thing. It's a celebration. I would imagine God likes to see that, too.” - Rick Steves
”For me, the most beautiful souvenir is bringing home a broader perspective.” - Rick Steves
“Travel helps you appreciate how many people over how many centuries with how many styles of faith have praised God. We have a deep seated need to just to have quiet time to be with our creator, with our Heavenly Father.” - Rick Steves
“I've always attacked things and tried to do the best I can at whatever I'm doing, and that's just opened up other opportunities that you didn't even know would be out there.” - Thomas Morstead
“Accountability always, always rests on yourself and not on anybody else. And so I think when you start to live your life that way, it's a very quick way to get to some arbitrary thing called happiness when your life isn't dictated by others.” - Thomas Morstead
“I just think if you're surrounded by negativity all the time, you're going to be negative. And if you're surrounded by positivity, you're going to be positive. And so I think everyone should guard their heart.” - Thomas Morstead
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
Have you ever wished you’d made a different choice? Or imagined how different your life might have been if you’d taken a different path? No matter how bleak things might have been at one point, God can take your story and use it for good, and He can point you on the right path to healing. Nurse and author Tana Amen experienced more pain and chaos in her life than one person should ever have to face. She shoved all of the hurt deep down inside, building a façade to convince others she was okay, when she actually was about to crack. When she met her future husband, Dr. Daniel Amen, Tana learned some ways to heal herself and was loved so well by Daniel (and by God) that she began to find the restoration she so desperately needed. It was in that time that she realized God cares way more about where you’re going than where you’ve been. Cheryl Parks, Mila Brown, and Corday Rice join us from the Jobs Partnership organization in Peoria, Illinois, which seeks to help people transition from a life of incarceration back into society as healthy, healed individuals. These women share how they’ve seen the power of God operating in their lives, and how He rescued them from situations where they couldn’t escape of their own power. Now, they’re passionate about sharing about their pasts in hopes that they can change the lives of others the way they’ve been changed by God.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling book
Sarah Young
Jesus Always book
Jesus Calling for First Responders editions
Past interview: Dr. Daniel Amen
Past interview: Rebecca Bender
Upcoming interview: Rick Steves
Tana Amen
Dr. Daniel Amen
Amen Clinics
Leave It to Beaver
Thyroid cancer
1 Corinthians 6:9-11
EMDR
Jobs Partnership organization
Cheryl Parks
Jobs Partnership Reentry
Interview Quotes:
“If I only took fifty percent responsibility, it meant someone or something else had the other fifty percent. It meant I wasn't really in control. It wasn't me just relying on God. It was like me giving up control and being a victim.” - Tana Amen
“What I learned is that when I put myself out there and helped when I didn't want to, I just had no idea how much the help was for them, but the healing was for me.” - Tana Amen
“I think it's important to draw boundaries, but also understand when God's calling you to do something.” - Tana Amen
“God cares less about where you've been than where you're going. And I'm so grateful for that grace and that mercy.” - Tana Amen
“I feel like my life is so much better today not in spite of my struggles, but because of them.” - Tana Amen
“Meditation is when I listen to God and I listen for what He's saying to me. And prayer is when I'm talking to God and I tell Him my joy, my frustration, everything that there is, and I get it out of my head and it just really stills my soul and it's so helpful.” - Tana Amen
“If my story can help anybody, one person, I've done what I needed to do.” - Mila Brown
“The whole time that I was incarcerated, in my mind, I'm like, God, where am I going to go? I know no one. I have nobody. I have no family, no friends. No one has reached out to me for the four and a half years that I have been incarcerated. What am I going to do?” - Corday Rice
“People say that change is scary, but change is good.” - Corday Rice
“It was good to have women just look at me and just say that, “I love you.” And they didn't even know me. So I knew right then and there that that could only be the love of God that's working through them in the Jobs Partnership program.” - Corday Rice
“I feel like God knew that I didn't have the strength to get out of the situation that I was in, so He forced my hand.” - Mila Brown
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
We live in a world where achievement is largely used as a motivator, and much of our time is spent consumed, looking for the next win—whether it be personally or professionally. It would benefit each of us to remember that in the long term, the ultimate win for us is establishing a relationship with Christ. Tony Dungy, the first African-American head coach to win an NFL Super Bowl, learned from mentors early on in his career that football wasn’t all that mattered—what mattered was the kind of man he was and the kind of men he shaped. A trailblazer, Dungy found a way to coach that aligned with his Christian values, showing the world that you can hold strong to your beliefs and find value in who Christ says you are, rather than who the world wants you to be. NFL linebacker and author Sam Acho grew up in a faith-based home, forming a relationship with God early on. But as he got more integrated in his career, Sam began to separate from his foundational values, and he suffered an identity crisis—he looked happy on the outside, but he didn’t feel it on the inside. It wasn’t until he went through a reckoning of sorts that Sam realized God believed he was worth getting to know, and when he started placing value on what really matters, things started to turn around.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling Podcast
Winter 2021 Jesus Calling Magazine
JesusCalling.com/magazine
Jesus Calling for First Responders editions
Past interviews: Lolo Jones and Evander Holyfield
Upcoming interview: Tana Amen
Coach Tony Dungy
All Pro Dad
National Football League
NBC’s Football Night in America
Sunday Night Football
Matthew 16:26
University of Minnesota
Steelers
Chuck Noll
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Spelman College
Super Bowl LII
Sam Acho
Let the World See You
Dallas Theological Seminary
Living Hope Bible Fellowship Church
Reggie Bush
Matt Leinart
Pete Carroll
Rivals
Brian Orakpo
Chris Ogbonnaya
Emmanuel Acho
Hebrews 11:1
Interview Quotes:
“Welcome to the National Football League. You're now getting paid to play football, so that makes it your profession. But please, please don't make football your whole life.” - Chuck Noll, to Tony Dungy
“I made a decision I was going to be different. And not everybody was ready for that.” - Tony Dungy
“You can honor the Lord and you can be openly expressive about your faith and still be excellent.” - Tony Dungy
“God takes you through things and you grow from them and then you look back and say, ‘Oh, that wasn't that big a deal.’ But at the time, it was monumental. God is giving you little trials to get you through, but you're going to keep your focus on Him.” - Tony Dungy
“Christ is so much a part of my life that if I can just help steer someone else, anyone towards Jesus, it's very important. Truth always wins. And we can't be afraid of sharing the truth.” - Tony Dungy
“We were created for relationship, we were created to love.” - Sam Acho
“You are worth getting to know. Your pains, your joys, your fears, your hurts, all of you. You're worth getting to know. Why? Because you're already fully seen, fully known and fully loved by Jesus.” - Sam Acho
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
Can you remember a moment when God washed your slate clean, and gave you the opportunity to start over? Think about the impact of second chances in your life—where would you be if it weren’t for His endless grace? South African farmer and evangelist Angus Buchan knows firsthand how much courage it takes to fall to your knees and say, “Help me, God.” Ever since he made the radical life change to Christianity, Angus has faced his fair share of heartache, including working himself to the bone on his farm, facing devastating fires, and coping with the tragic loss of his nephew. But even in hardship, Angus has experienced miracles that have infused him with a passion to share the Word of God all over Africa, lighting up the world with his energy and enthusiasm. Pie shop owner Tara Royer Steele grew up working hard in her family’s business, but all the focus on the business left her longing for affirmation of who she was—not just what she could do. After years in an abusive marriage, she was ready to give up, but felt God pushing her towards something better, assuring her that He would be enough for her. Tara found the courage to start over, ultimately leading her to reach her dream of creating a haven for people to connect at a warm, friendly place over slices of pie.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling book
Jesus Calling for First Responders editions
Angus Buchan
Faith Like Potatoes
KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa
2 Corinthians 5:17
2 Corinthians 9:8
Shalom Ministries
Mighty Men conferences
Randy Travis
Tara Royer Steele
Royer's Pie Haven
Match.com
Fruit of the Spirit
Jesus Calling for Kids
Eat. Pie. Love.
Interview Quotes:
“I knew in my heart that Jesus Christ was now the general manager of my life, my farm, my family.” - Angus Buchan
“Look, I've had some tragedies, as you probably know, like all of us, but miracles have taken place. Nobody will ever persuade me that Jesus Christ is not alive and the Son of God, never.” - Angus Buchan
“I had joy, I had peace, and I was ready for whatever God told me to do.” - Angus Buchan
“We are going to flood this beloved country of South Africa. We're going to preach the undiluted gospel of Jesus Christ, that that is what I'm praying for right at this very moment.” - Angus Buchan
“The cafe became a relational restaurant, and people that walked to the door felt safe and welcomed and loved and seen.” - Tara Royer Steele
“There is no way that I would be sitting here right now if God hadn't protected and provided through that whole season.” - Tara Royer Steele, on working in her family business
“God had to grab me and say, “Listen, this is your last chance. I love you. I see you. I am enough for you.” - Tara Royer Steele
“Someone asked me, ‘What's your business plan?’ I was like, ‘Well, God's my business plan.’” - Tara Royer Steele
“It's so easy for us in a world now where we quickly react and we don't step back and truly savor the moments that we have and these opportunities that we have to meet people exactly where they are and be the hands and feet of Jesus.” - Tara Royer Steele
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
No matter the trials that come your way, no matter how far gone you think you are, you are never alone in your suffering. God is beside you every step of the way, ready to rescue you when you reach for His hand. Professional skateboarder Ryan Sheckler was thrust into fame at the tender age of thirteen. Caught up in his wild success and a partying lifestyle, by the time he was eighteen Ryan started spiraling hard into alcoholism. And years later, when he finally checked into rehab, Ryan finally learned God had a bigger purpose for his life. Growing up in the Netherlands, pastor Henriët Schapelhouman always had open conversations with God. And as an adult, she knew that He placed her adopted son, Harrison, into her life for a reason. But when Harrison began to suffer from a drug addiction, Henriet questioned why God would let her family go through such a difficult trial. Henriët continued to pray faithfully, believing that God would rescue her son from those deadly grips—and after Harrison had a brush with death, she cried tears of joy when she watched her son leave his dark days behind him.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling book
Jesus Calling editions for First Responders
ChristianBook.com
Past interview: The Next Door addiction treatment center
Upcoming interview: Angus Buchan
Ryan Sheckler
The Life of Ryan
Michael Phelps
Make-A-Wish Foundation
Sheckler Foundation
Henriët Schapelhouman
True Hope Community Church
Mennonite Brethren Church
Free Methodist church
The Story Lives: Leading a Missional Revolution
henrietschapelhouman.com
Interview Quotes:
“The huge step for me was admitting that I was powerless and I couldn't do it without Him. I could not do anything else without Him.” - Ryan Sheckler
“It's not lame to be vulnerable. It's not bad to tell people how you're thinking or to really express emotion, or to cry. That's what we're supposed to do.” - Ryan Sheckler
“None of us are alone in this world. We're not alone. And we're supposed to go through pain to be able to teach this lesson.” - Ryan Sheckler
“Everyone's going to go through pain. We all go through pain. For me, pain is my teacher, my biggest teacher.” - Ryan Sheckler
“I'm a firm believer that the road home needs to stay open, just like the father of the prodigal son stood waiting for his son to return.” - Henriët Schapelhouman
“People thought it was enabling, but I was a firm believer that my job was to hang on to God and hang on to Harrison, that I basically was between them because Harrison wasn't connecting with God. So I felt like I was the conduit. And that was my job.” - Henriët Schapelhouman
“Without Jesus, I would not be standing. I mean, first and foremost, you need Jesus. And if you don't know Jesus, it's a great time to reach out to Him or at least reach out to someone who knows Him.” - Henriët Schapelhouman
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
Gifts come in all shapes and sizes, but there’s nothing greater than the gift of love, no matter its wrapping. As award-winning worship artist Chris Tomlin looked forward to welcoming his newest daughter in December, he was reminded of the miracle of Christ’s birth, and how Jesus was the greatest gift we could ever receive. Tom and Pam Banwart have been spreading love in a variety of ways in their Florida community since the start of COVID-19. Through acts of service and kindness like bagel deliveries, active prayer outside hospitals, and sharing worship music, the Banwarts are suiting up and showing up for our frontline responders and demonstrating a consistent, Christ-like love to those fighting every single day.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Always
Jesus Calling
Sarah Young
Past interview: RaeLynn
Upcoming interview: Ryan Sheckler
Chris Tomlin
Scripture: Birth of Jesus
Virtual Event - Christmas Songs of Worship: ChrisTomlin.com
New album: Miracle of Love: Christmas Songs of Worship
Tom & Pam Banwart
COVID-19 Pandemic
Interview Quotes:
“When I come to try to write songs, I'm always thinking, I want to write songs that bring worship to God, the reason that we have Christmas.” - Chris Tomlin
“Can you imagine what Mary must have felt when the angels came to Joseph and Mary in the tree and said, ‘Oh, by the way, you're about to have a baby and it’s going to be the Son of God.’” - Chris Tomlin
“I sat down and I thought, Here's a moment to write a song that's really personal to me, [because] my Christmas baby is coming, but [it] also has a parallel of Jesus coming at Christmas as well.” - Chris Tomlin
“Jesus is the greatest miracle that's ever happened to the world.” - Chris Tomlin
"When COVID-19 hit, we didn't know what to do, we were afraid. The thought that just kept coming to me was, What a wonderful opportunity for us as Christians, that God gave us this chance to fight the spiritual battle." - Tom Banwart
“The best thing for me in my life has been the consistency of Christ. And He has consistently been there, no matter what I'd done, where I'd been or anything. He's been there, and they need to know that they had that, too.” - Tom Banwart, on praying for first responders and patients outside their local hospital
________________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
Trying to follow God’s direction for our lives can feel a little intimidating. Are we sure we’re doing what He wants us to do? Are we on the path He’s charted out for us? Carlos Whittaker had built a successful and passion-filled career as a worship leader, so when he felt God’s nudge to go in a different direction, he took the plunge—only to be met with confusion and a bank account that was rapidly draining. But Carlos didn’t waver from his calling, and he was given a huge opportunity that changed the trajectory of his entire life. Pastor Sheryl Brady serves at a campus of Potter’s House in Dallas, TX, sharing God’s hope and goodness with the community. But when Pastor Brady experienced a dark season of loss, she struggled to share the message that once came with ease, and began to grow distant from God. But as she held onto the truth she knew deep down—that God loved her and she loved Him—Pastor Brady found the strength to be open and honest about her pain, and it led her to immense healing.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling book
Sarah Young
Parable.com
Recommended interview: John Maxwell
Upcoming interview: Chris Tomlin
Carlos Whittaker
New Book: Enter Wild
Colón, Panama
LAX
L.A. Community College
Monterrey, Mexico
First Bilingual Baptist Church
Integrity Music
Hillsong United
John Mark McMillan
Jeremy Camp
The Newsboys
My Utmost for His Highest
Elevation Church
North Point Community Church
Cross Point Church
WhiteHouse.gov
Song: ”What Can Wash Away My Sins? Nothing But the Blood of Jesus”
John 10:10
Compassion International
Sheryl Brady
New Book: Don't Miss the Moment
Potter’s House
Bishop T.D. Jakes
Romans 8:38
Interview Quotes:
“I prayed about it one day, and I felt very clearly the Lord telling me, ‘They're right, you are supposed to be a speaker and an author next. That is the next thing I have for you.’” - Carlos Whittaker
“It doesn't matter how long you're in the wilderness. If the Lord has promised you something, He will come through with it.” - Carlos Whittaker
“When the Lord tells you to do something scary, I promise you the risk is worth it.” - Carlos Whittaker
“We're not called to become Christians and wait for heaven. We actually are called to become Christians and bring heaven. And that potential and opportunity with the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives is available to us.” - Carlos Whittaker
“Life to the full has nothing to do with the abundance of things and everything to do with accessing the King.” - Carlos Whittaker
“We've got the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shoes of the gospel, the helmet of salvation, the shield of faith in the sword of the Spirit. And all of these things will allow us to be strong, not in our might, but in the strength of God.” - Carlos Whittaker
“I feel like so many times we underestimate and we undervalue the moments that God has given us. Moments are small enough to be missed, and yet there they are big enough that one minute can change your life forever.” - Sheryl Brady
“I realized that God is sovereign and I can't make Him do anything. But I also realized that if I would let Him, He would walk me through the decisions He makes that I don't understand.” - Sheryl Brady
“If you're grieving and you feel isolated and you feel like it's easier to isolate yourself, it might be easier to isolate yourself, but don't do it because somebody around you has what you need to help you get through this moment.” - Sheryl Brady
_______________________
Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Jesus Calling Website
We all struggle with insecurities and feeling like we aren’t enough. But we serve a God who loves us regardless of how much we love ourselves. And He can still use us, even when we don’t feel equipped. Mike Weaver, lead singer of the Dove-Award winning group Big Daddy Weave, lived much of his life from a place of low self-esteem, always comparing himself to others and wishing he looked different. But he had a special and unexpected moment with God when he realized that God doesn’t just love him—He likes him, too. That realization helped Mike begin to appreciate himself and his own special gifts, refreshing his perspective and perception of God. Dr. James Merritt, pastor of Cross Pointe Church in Atlanta, knows that more than anything, our character counts, even more than what others might think about us. He shares how we can cultivate strong character, and why standing for what we believe in holds a greater reward than getting approval from someone else.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling iPhone app
Jesus Calling book
Sarah Young
Parable.com
Past interview: Chelsea Crockett
Upcoming interview: Sheryl Brady
Mike Weaver
I Am Redeemed book by Mike Weaver
Big Daddy Weave
“Redeemed” song
University of Mobile
Jeremy Redmon
COVID-19
James 4:8, Jeremiah 29:12
Dr. James Merritt
Character Still Counts book by Dr. James Merritt
Cross Pointe Church
Touching Lives
Dwight L. Moody
Billy Graham
Interview Quotes:
“I just never felt like I belonged in front of people. However, worship would give me an opportunity to disappear and still do what I love.” - Mike Weaver
“The way I thought other people were accepting me is how I was able to accept me. The way I thought other people were liking me is how I gave myself permission to like me.” - Mike Weaver
"I was telling God this long list of things that I hated about myself, and then that still, small voice of the Holy Spirit interrupted: 'Michael, why don't you let Me tell you what I think about you for once?'" – Mike Weaver
“Jesus came in and He bailed me out again. He did it again. He broke through for me. And He always is the hero of my story. And so I was just like, ‘God, how amazing that You can bring this [song] out of self-hatred. That's how great of a Redeemer You are.’” - Mike Weaver, on the success of his song, “Redeemed”
“We have experienced Him in such incredible ways in that place of need, realizing, Jesus, we need You.” - Mike Weaver
“When God looks at us, He's not looking at our mistakes. He is looking at what Jesus has done on our behalf and our identity. Our entire identity is rooted not in our imperfection, but the perfection of Jesus Christ applied to our life.” - Mike Weaver
“At the end of the day, at the end of your life, character is everything.” - James Merritt
“Character is not taught, it's caught. And the best teachers of character are parents.” - James Merritt
“I think it all begins with saying, ‘You know what? Character is more important to me than my reputation. It really is the essence of who I am.’” - James Merritt
“At the end of your life, it really won't matter what anybody thought about you. The only thing that will matter is what God knew about you.” - James Merritt
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Have you ever experienced the pain of reaching the end of something you loved—a relationship, a job, a phase of life? Looking back, how was God able to lead you from that loss into a new chapter? Entrepreneur and author Zim Flores is familiar with the pain of letting go. A few years ago, she gave up her highly successful company, Travel Noire, because she felt God calling her to move to a new place. Looking back, Zim can see how God worked all things together for her good, which she talks about in her new book called Dare to Bloom. Mental health advocate Kayla Stoecklein experienced the tragic loss of her young husband to suicide, just as he was hitting his stride as the lead pastor of a large church in California. Reeling from her new life as a widow with three young boys, Kayla began to reexamine the way she thought about mental health, and God helped Kayla use her story to begin helpful and healing conversations around this issue.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling book
Other Interview of Interest: Brett Swayn
Upcoming interview: Mike Weaver of Big Daddy Weave
Zim Flores
New book: Dare to Bloom
Travel Noire
Biafran War
Mayo Clinic
Bangalore
John 15
Kayla Stoecklein
New book: Fear Gone Wild
Vanguard University
Inland Hills Church
Godsgotthis.com
National Suicide Prevention
Interview Quotes:
“I don't think that it should be something that is a rarity for women and men of God to talk about God in a way that inspires people to think a little bit differently about God in their own lives.” - Zim Flores
“I would say that my time in India being away from everything that I knew, everybody that I knew, speaking a different language completely, that was where my faith in God was strengthened.” - Zim Flores
“Your sacrifice unto God is not for naught. He will honor that sacrifice, whether it is tomorrow, whether it's next month, whether it's five months or a year from now. God always makes good on His promises.” - Zim Flores
“I am an open vessel. I think the best thing that we can be for God is available.” - Zim Flores
“I believed with enough prayer that God would intervene, that God would save [Andrew]. I was willing to do whatever it took to beg God for that miracle, and we didn't get that miracle.” - Kayla Stoecklein
“Oftentimes there's so much shame and stigma with that word suicide. I think oftentimes the family that's left in the shrapnel is afraid to say that word, is afraid to admit that it was a suicide and tries to hide it up or tries to cover it or thinks it's their fault. And I knew right away that it wasn't anybody's fault.” - Kayla Stoecklein
“God was on the move and He handed me this microphone, and I couldn't look away. And so I kept sharing and I really, truly felt the presence of God like I had never felt in my entire life.” - Kayla Stoecklein
“We serve a God that can squeeze so much purpose out of our pain and that can turn really horrible, horrific, ugly things into beautiful redemption stories for others.” - Kayla Stoecklein
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Many of us can think back on a moment—or many moments—that defined our lives for better or worse. But when we’re actually in that moment, it’s hard to see how it could potentially shape who we are down the road. It’s not usually until later that we can look back and see how God was working everything together for good. Academy Award-winning actor Matthew McConaughey recently pulled out thirty-six years of his journals, prepared to be ashamed and embarrassed by their contents. But when he flipped through the pages, he realized there was a through-line of beautiful moments, lessons, and experiences that all contributed to the man he is today. Author and speaker Rebecca Alonzo’s childhood was tainted by a member of her parents’ church who terrorized their family, ultimately leading to the tragic death of her mother and father. After years of wrestling with God, and being unable to see how He is good, Rebecca realized that she needed Him more than she needed to be mad at Him, and her anger dissolved into forgiveness, mapping out a new course for her future.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Free sample of Jesus Calling: Note-Taking Edition
Jesus Calling book
Past interview: Rebecca Bender and Patti Callahan
Upcoming interview: Zim Flores
Matthew McConaughey
Greenlights book
Just Keep Livin Foundation
University of Texas at Austin
Rebecca Alonzo
The Devil in Pew Number Seven book
rebeccaalonzo.com
Ephesians 4:31
Romans 8:28
John 15:12
Interview Quotes:
“I did go through an, ‘Okay, I need to figure out what matters and what doesn't’, because over one weekend my life changed so much.” - Matthew McConaughey, on the smash success of his film A Time to Kill
“My family, one of the best traits we have is resilience.” - Matthew McConaughey
"We need to take time where we stop and do inventory. That's what church is for me now . . . That's, Let's go back to our last week, who we were in it. How did we do?" - Matthew McConaughey
“The thing that really surprised me about writing is that I was writing about the exact same stuff, the same questions at fourteen is the same question that woke me up at 2:32 AM last night, it's essentially the same stuff. And going back and looking at [my younger self] and really diving into it has been extremely valuable my life.” - Matthew McConaughey, on keeping a journal for 36 years
“I can see myself in them and hear how they got back on the right track when they were on the wrong track. So that feels really good to me.” - Matthew McConaughey, on participants in his "just keep livin'" Foundation for youth
“Our hands are on the wheel, but God's laying out the highway.” - Matthew McConaughey
“I didn’t know if I was going to wake up in my bed, or if I was going to wake up in heaven.” - Rebecca Alonzo, on living through harassment as a child by a fellow townsperson
“When I lost my adoring father, oh, wow. It just spun me into two years of really being angry at God. And I said, ‘Lord, Mom, when she died, a man shot her and took her life. But when dad died, Lord, You took him.’” - Rebeca Alonzo
“I need God more than I need to be mad at Him. I need Him more than I need to blame Him, I need His wisdom, I need His direction, I need His comfort.” - Rebecca Alonzo
“It takes energy to hold on to anger.” - Rebecca Alonzo
“He knows everything that we've been through. He knows every thought that we struggle with. He knows every pain that we carry in our hearts. And every time God kept His promise.” - Rebecca Alonzo
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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From time to time, life has a way of making us feel that everything is crumbling down around us. Problems can shake us, and even break us. But what will still be there when nothing else is left is family: whether it’s the family you’re born into or the family you choose. Growing up in a remote Mennonite community in northern Alberta, Canada, Brad and Curtis Rempel of the country music duo High Valley cultivated a rich passion for music and tight-knit family. As they try to put music into the world that draws families together, Brad and Curtis have come to realize where their priorities lie—and that’s with raising their kids. Super Bowl-winning quarterback Trent Dilfer knows the value of appreciating your family, particularly since he tragically lost his son Trevin at a young age. Keeping faith as the foundation for his life, Trent has repurposed his pain into passion, and started saying yes to where God wanted him to go, which led to the unlikely decision to coach high school football and mentor young athletes in Nashville, TN.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Always
Jesus Calling Note-Taking Edition
Jesus Calling book
Past interview: Ron Hall
Upcoming interview: Matthew McConaughey
Brad and Curtis Rempel
Ricky Skaggs
Skaggs Family Records.com
Trent Dilfer
Super Bowl XXXV
Lipscomb Academy
Disneyland
Philippians 4:6–7
Interview Quotes:
“I've been a dad for almost seven years, and I'm still just trying to always pray that God will keep me humble, and if I want my kids to own their own mistakes, I’ve got to own mine.” - Curtis Rempel
“We pray as a family all the time that God will work in our hearts, help us to be servants of each other, and be humble.” - Curtis Rempel
”You do all the things that you think are the right things to do, but God has this story that He's writing.” - Brad Rempel
“God has this amazing way of just doing what He wants with what you've got.” - Brad Rempel
“Football has this unique way of not just impacting the individual that's playing it, coaching it, but especially here in the south, it impacts communities.” - Trent Dilfer
“I've been asked this question a million times about how my faith has impacted my life, and I can always give the same answer. It is my life. It's the foundation. It's the starting point for everything.” - Trent Dilfer
“I still to this day can't understand how somebody can get through how hard life is without that peace that transcends understanding.” - Trent Dilfer
“As these wounds were being opened, as I was dealing with some of this pain, again, it was bringing out a passion in me that I hadn't had in years—maybe more than I had ever had. That passion surfaced as thought leadership, has surfaced as capacity, has surfaced as energy, has surfaced as compassion.” - Trent Dilfer, on coaching high school football
“Sometimes we stay in our pain because we think that's where we should live. And we'd feel guilty if that pain turns into something positive. I would just tell you from life experience that that pain repurposed into passion is an incredible, redemptive quality that only the Lord Jesus Christ can provide.” - Trent Dilfer
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Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Can you remember praying for something with everything you had, but felt your pleas went unanswered? Maybe you’ve prayed a silent prayer, unable to find the words, and God moved everything into place better than you could’ve imagined. Regardless of how we perceive it or how we’ve experienced it, prayer is powerful, and it can change things—whether it’s your circumstances, or even you. Throughout his personal life and his forty-year ministry, Bishop T.D. Jakes has seen firsthand how the earth moves when women engage in prayer. And now that our world is facing battles on so many fronts, he urges everyone to pray both offensively and defensively, because it has the potential to change the world. Lieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney, a fighter pilot and PGA professional, considers himself a vessel of impact, noting that the only way he was able to achieve his goals was because God was on his side. By dedicating himself to 30 minutes of prayer a day, Lt. Col Rooney has learned how to engineer a life of fulfillment, noting that as a faith-based person, we often have to jump before we’re ready. Driven by his God-given purpose, Lt. Col Rooney’s organization Folds of Honor is assisting families of fallen and disabled veterans, showing that when we dedicate ourselves to the Lord, He will use you as an instrument for good.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling book
Past interview: Charles Billingsley
Upcoming interview: Trent Dilfer
Episode sponsor: Operation Christmas Child
Build a shoebox for a child online at Samaritan’s Purse.org/occ
Bishop T.D. Jakes
Potter's House
T.D. Jakes Foundation
T.D. Jakes Enterprises
When Women Pray book
Mother Teresa
COVID-19
Lieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney
Folds of Honor
University of Kansas
United States Air Force
Eglin Air Force Base
Luke Air Force Base
Fly into the Wind book
Interview Quotes:
“This is a good time to amass women and challenge them to pray, because we are being attacked on so many fronts today: personally, nationally, medically, economically.” - T.D. Jakes
“Every woman has to use prayer both as offense and defense.” - T.D. Jakes
“Every choice you make follows a logical path. And it starts with, I won't do that. I can't do that. I'd like to. I'll try. I can. I will.” - Lt. Col. Dan Rooney
“I dedicated myself to thirty minutes of daily prayer. And it was a life changing gift that the Air Force, probably above all else, gave me.” - Lt. Col. Dan Rooney
“I would say the defiant thread of true greatness in faith-based people is you get to a place in your life and you’ve got to go before you're ready...This reckless faith that I've learned as a fighter pilot in an inherently very dangerous business is such a gift. Life is not a dress rehearsal.” - Lt. Col. Dan Rooney
“He picks the least among us, but He picks the willing.” - Lt. Col. Dan Rooney
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Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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The greatest gift we can ever give—or receive—is love. It’s the only thing that multiples when we give it away, whether we’re showing that love to family and pets, friends and strangers. Michael and Zina Goodin of Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary share how they began to care for older dogs who often got overlooked, providing for them in such a way that brings out their best. Over the years, Michael and Zina have learned a few life lessons from their canine friends, which they share in their new book, Homecoming Tales. Orphan care advocate Beth Guckenberger of Back2Back Ministries is familiar with small beginnings—and if you ask her, she’ll tell you just how amazing it is that God was ever able to use her to create such a ministry. Through the miracles she’s seen, and the amazing children she’s met along the way, Beth has seen the value of stepping out in faith, and how God works all things together for good as we shower others with His love.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling book
Past interview: Kristen Chenoweth and Joanne Rogers
Upcoming interview: Bishop TD Jakes
Episode sponsor: Operation Christmas Child
Build a shoebox for a child online at Samaritan’s Purse.org/occ
Michael and Zina Goodin
Book: Homecoming Tales
Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary
Middle Tennessee Golden Retriever Rescue
Simon and Garfunkel song, “Old Friends”
Michael and Zina’s feature in the October 2020 issue of Jesus Calling Magazine
Beth Guckenberger
Back2Back Ministries
Young Life
Zachariah 14
BRCA2 cancer
BRCA2 positive
Interview Quotes:
“That's our goal: for as long as the dogs are with us, to keep them as happy and comfortable as we can.” - Michael Goodin
“Because of Lucy-Lu's attitude, we realized that these senior dogs, no matter what terrible background they came from, could appreciate the rest of their life and leave the past behind them and have a good life.” - Zina Goodin
“One of the greatest things about older dogs, especially when they have been in the shelters, when we bring them out of that shelter, they don't even remember the past. They just live in the day, and they get so happy.” - Michael Goodin
“I had to try to understand what it looked like for God to be sovereign in stories that were hard.” - Beth Guckenberger
“We knew that we were taking small steps, and this was a small beginning. We had no idea what was going ahead. But there was a lot of comfort in believing that God was just rejoicing in our obedience.” - Beth Guckenberger
“Watching the power of love in the life of an adopted child and what it does to a child to feel known and loved and seen, it definitely birthed all the rest of the stories that happened in our family.” - Beth Guckenberger
“This is exactly why we sow truth into our hearts, so that in a moment we most need it, It's right there at the ready for us. So for me, when I get big feelings like fear or anger or anything that can threaten to steal the peace that I have, I just remind myself of what's true.” - Beth Guckenberger
“The faster we get to that space where we can trust God to be good and right, the less energy we spend fighting what He has for us.” - Beth Guckenberger
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Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Have you ever felt pulled towards something, but you’re not sure what? Maybe God was nudging you to pursue the calling He has for you. Artist Anne Neilson, famous for her angel paintings, has felt those nudges all throughout her life, starting when she was a little girl and knew she was meant to be an artist. Now looking back, Anne can see God’s fingerprints all over her life, and how He shaped her art into a ministry beyond what she ever imagined, including the inspiration to write a new devotional called Anne Neilson’s Angels. Nikki Speer, founder of the nonprofit Redefined Courage, has watched many women in her family battle with breast cancer. When Nikki noticed that her mom—the woman she’d always seen as the most radiant in the room—no longer felt beautiful, she realized God was prompting her toward a new calling: to design clothing for women dealing with breast cancer that was not only comfortable and allowed them to heal, but also helped them feel confident in their fight.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith television show
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling Devotional
Jesus Calling Magazine
Jesus Calling for Kids
Past guest: Delilah
Upcoming guest: Michael and Zina Goodin of Old Friends Senior Dog Sanctuary
Episode sponsor: Operation Christmas Child
Build a shoebox for a child online at Samaritan’s Purse.org/occ
Anne Neilson
Anne Nielson's Angels: Devotions and Art to Encourage, Refresh, and Inspire
Steven Curtis Chapman
Kathie Lee Gifford
Nikki Speer
Redefined Courage
Breast cancer
Lymphedema
Interview Quotes:
“There were times that I really questioned, Is this what God has called me to do?” - Anne Neilson
“God has put these people in my path. He weaves us all together, and it's for a purpose that we might not even know.” - Anne Neilson
“Words are powerful—the words that come out of our mouth, the words that are spoken to our friends, our children, our colleagues, our employees, to ourselves.“ - Anne Neilson
“These angels do bring comfort and healing through the power and the presence of the Holy Spirit, through art. God is the master Artist. He is the master Creator.” - Anne Neilson
“We were walking out of the mall, and I made the bold promise that I would design clothing for [my mom] so that she could feel beautiful.” - Nikki Speer
“This is not a, ‘Man, I drew this sticky note, and this amazing thing was created.’ There were a lot of samples, and there was a lot of learning and growing and changing and mistakes, but a lot of God working.” - Nikki Speer
“When I was growing up, my mom would tell me, ‘You should always leave a conversation knowing more about the other person than they know about you.’” - Nikki Speer
“I have these What if? moments that well up inside of me. But in quietness and trust truly is my strength. And those What if? moments become my Even if... moments with God.” - Nikki Speer
“I really do believe that if you are feeling right now--a nudge or a calling or prompting from God, that you should go for it. I have always said that it was in the obedience I found the blessing.” - Nikki Speer
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Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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In times of hurt, sometimes our first instinct is to distance ourselves from God, because it’s hard to understand why He’d allow us to suffer. But what we don’t always realize is that He is a God of restoration. And when we turn to Him to find peace, He can bring good out of our brokenness. GRAMMY award-winning rhymist and activist Lecrae Moore’s early years were spent in a broken, abused environment, creating emotional trauma he had to learn to unpack. Curious about who God was, and terrified he would be responsible for his own destiny, Lecrae looked to Christianity for purpose. But as he began to find healing, the religious community turned their back on him because his views were different than theirs. In response, Lecrae turned his back on God, seeking affirmation in all the wrong places. Lecrae began seeing a therapist and was diagnosed with depression, and as he worked through his trauma, his heart was softened—and restored—by Jesus. Christian music artist Jeremy Camp’s first wife, Melissa, tragically passed away from cancer at only 21 years old. But through his grief, Jeremy knew God was still good, and he continued to pursue faith in all that he did. Eventually, God led Jeremy to find his wife Adrienne, and now they continue to build their faith as a family.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling book
Episode Sponsor: Samaritan’s Purse.org/occ
Past interview: John and Stasi Eldredge
Future interview: Anne Neilson
Lecrae Moore
“Cry for You” song
Jeremiah 30:17
Restoration album
I Am Restored book
Psalm 23
Jeremy Camp
Adrienne Camp
“I Still Believe” song
Psalm 34:18
Proverbs 3:5–6
I Still Believe movie
Interview Quotes:
“When you're neglected and abused, you can develop a massive sense of insecurity. And in order to deal with that insecurity, I performed because it was a way I could find affirmation.” - Lecrae Moore
“I had a friend tell me, “Well, since you're an atheist, Lecrae, you know that there's no hope or belief in anything except yourself.” And I never forgot how petrified I was, because I could barely tie my shoe, and now I was in control of my destiny and purpose.” - Lecrae Moore
“Even the toughest of people have a breaking point. I knew I had reached my breaking point, and I knew I needed professional help.” - Lecrae Moore
“The fear is that you're standing on the edge, the precipice of change, and you're afraid to jump because you just don't believe that change can really happen. But the reality is that the first jump is the evidence of change. You've already begun the process when you take the leap.” - Lecrae Moore
“That's one of the most beautiful realizations I came to is that even in my darkest place, God's there. If I return to that dark place, what's the worst thing that's gonna happen that I'm afraid of? God will be there with me.” - Lecrae Moore
“When we can see the massive length, the depth, the height of God's love, it's transforming. It transforms our views on everything.” - Lecrae Moore
“You're not gonna be able to change the world effectively until you own your story and allow it to turn you into someone amazing.” - Lecrae Moore
“When asked how she was doing, her response to me was, ‘I'm doing okay because I realized that if I die from this cancer, but if one person gives their life to Jesus, then it's all worth it.’” - Jeremy Camp, on his first wife Melissa as she battled cancer
“God definitely walked me through some grieving that was not easy.” - Jeremy Camp
“Okay, God, I'm going to acknowledge You in this. I’ll acknowledge You and acknowledge my pain. I’ll acknowledge my hurt, be real with You. And I know that You'll direct me.” - Jeremy Camp, on his faith after his wife Melissa's death
“I was blown away by somebody who could watch his wife suffer and die and still be standing up saying, ‘Lord, I believe. And even though I don't understand everything and even though this is hard, I'm choosing to trust You and I'm choosing to walk through this just clinging on to You.’” - Adrienne Camp, on her husband Jeremy
“This is just a story of someone who went through a hardship, went through pain, and realized that the only thing that got him through it was Jesus. And that is the only hope and the only true source of peace and joy. He's the answer to everything.” - Jeremy Camp
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Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Often in life, unexpected changes can lead to new dreams. God has proven time and time again that He can use any moment—good or bad—to change the trajectory of our lives for His glory. Legendary entertainer Kathie Lee Gifford was born with dreams that unfolded as she pursued her passion to perform. As she’s moved through the entertainment world for the past fifty years, Kathie has followed where God has called her, including a new season where she’s helping kids pinpoint the dreams God has in store for them with her brand-new book children’s book Hello, Little Dreamer. NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly, and his wife, philanthropist Jill Kelly were living what they thought was the perfect life—Jim had just retired after a successful career with the Buffalo Bills, they had a beautiful daughter and had just welcomed their son Hunter into the world. But their world was rocked when Hunter was diagnosed with a rare disorder and projected not to live past his second birthday. The Kellys realized they couldn’t rely on the things they had before, like their own ability to make things happen, and had to instead reach for something greater. Both Jim and Jill came to faith because of a desperate need for hope, and when they realized how much healing God can bring, they started the Hunter’s Hope Foundation to provide that same light to others.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith television show on Circle TV
Note-Taking edition of Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Jesus Lives
Jesus Today
Jesus Always
Past interviews: Matthew Barnett, Richard Cowdrey
Future interviews: Lecrae Moore
Kathie Lee Gifford
Hello, Little Dreamer
Jim Kelly
Jill Kelly
National Football League
Buffalo Bills
Super Bowl
University of Miami
USFL
Pro Football Hall of Fame
Hunter’s Hope Foundation
Cerebral palsy
Krabbe leukodystrophy
Interview Quotes:
“People asked me this my whole life: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” And I think that's the wrong question to ask children. I think it's not what they want to be so much as what does God want you to be?” - Kathie Lee Gifford
“I can't tell you how many people I was honored and privileged to lead to the Lord because I happened to be on a movie set, on a TV set, or in a recording studio or on location.” - Kathie Lee Gifford
“Preach the gospel at all times, and when necessary, use words. Love people. When you love people, that's when they sense Jesus.” - Kathie Lee Gifford
“I've never been confused at all about what I'm supposed to do. And I think that's because I was pursuing my dreams. I can't even imagine what God's got for me next.” - Kathie Lee Gifford
“In that moment of just tremendous fear and anguish and devastation, I knew that I was going to have to seek beyond what this world has to offer.” - Jill Kelly, on her son Hunter’s Krabbe leukodystrophy diagnosis
“We realized . . . that it was God using the suffering of our one and only son to point us to the suffering of His one and only Son, Jesus.” - Jill Kelly
“He is the reason, without doubt, that I've seeked the Lord and that I am where I am now in my walk with my faith.” - Jim Kelly, on his son Hunter
“God, through Hunter, taught us the greater hope. And that's eternal life. So that's our greater hope for the foundation as well.” - Jill Kelly
“As long as what I'm doing today is making somebody want to seek tomorrow, make them want to thank the good Lord for that tomorrow, that's what it's about. “ - Jim Kelly
“What an honor it is and so humbling to be a conduit of God and to be His ambassador and to allow Him to work through us.” - Jill Kelly
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Jesus Calling Website
Losing someone you love is one of the most devastating, heart-breaking things we can go through—and the pain feels especially sharp when that person is taken from us by the hands of another. Even though we’ll always carry grief from losing our loved one, God offers us a chance to find life again as we reach for Him and remember He’s still there, leading us toward a hope and a future. Award-winning country music songwriter Casey Beathard, along with his sons—San Francisco 49ers quarterback C.J. Beathard and country music artist Tucker Beathard—share stories of a close-knit, loving family of seven surrounded by football and music. But tragedy struck the family in December 2019, when their son and brother Clay was the victim of a fatal stabbing in Nashville. In the days that followed, the Beathards dug deep into faith, finding hope in God and encouragement in the memories of Clay’s strong conviction and light. As they healed together, the Beathards found there’s freedom in forgiveness, and they take heart in knowing that one day, they’ll see Clay again.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith television show on Circle TV
jesuscalling.com/TV
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Past interview: Eddie Montgomery
Upcoming interview: Kathie Lee Gifford
Casey Beathard
Kansas City Chiefs
Miami Dolphins
Don Shula
Redskins
San Diego Chargers
C.J. Beathard
Junior Seau
Rodney Harrison
Tucker Beathard
Interview Quotes:
“If he didn't believe in something, if he didn't didn't agree with something, he was not going to get peer pressured into doing something he didn't think was right.” - C.J. Beathard on his brother, Clay
“He wanted to do what was right and fight for the people that were oppressed.” - Casey Beathard, on his son Clay
“The only thing that possibly got us through this is at the end of the day: our core foundation. We were all at least rooted with the mindset of knowing that the only way to get through this was diving in and asking Jesus and and relying on the Lord to handle it.” - Tucker Beathard
“We dug hard looking for hope...We were just feeding off each other about who God is and what He really has for you. And all sudden, the despair turned into a gigantic hope.” - Casey Beathard
“I literally used to pray, like, “God, please let me be the first one to go in my family, because I can't—I wouldn't be able to handle it.” But I'd totally underestimated the power of Jesus Christ. I mean, that's just the bottom line. That's all that really matters. And it's like with Him, this world can't faze you.” - Tucker Beathard
“I truly believe—I know [my brother Clay is in heaven]. And we'll be there someday, and I know I'm gonna get to see him again." - C.J. Beathard
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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The world is a noisy, chaotic place. At any given moment, there are countless voices shouting at us, trying to command our attention. But we can find peace when we train ourselves to mute those voices and listen to the only One who matters: God. Pop singer Ally Brooke rode a rollercoaster of highs and lows during her stint in the iconic girl group Fifth Harmony, and over time she felt her voice was drowned out by the demands of the music industry on the group. After branching out as a solo artist, Ally began to uncover her authentic self, thanks in part to the strong foundation of faith her tight-knit Mexican American family helped her build, which she talks about in her brand-new book Finding Your Harmony. Podcaster and author Jamie Ivey knows all about comparison culture, and how it always seems the grass is greener on the other side. But she’s learned a new phrase that’s set her free: You Be You. Now she shares how to utilize the gifts God has given you, and that it’s how you use your influence—not how large it is—that really makes a difference.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith television show on Circle TV
jesuscalling.com/TV
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Note-taking edition of Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Past guests: Morgan Harper Nichols, Kel Mitchell
Upcoming guests: Casey Beathard, CJ Beathard, Tucker Beathard
TV show host: Lauren Alaina
Ally Brooke
Fifth Harmony
Finding Your Harmony
The X Factor
Jamie Ivey
You Be You
Interview Quotes:
“Number one in our house is God and Jesus. And having that type of foundation in my life has completely changed everything for me.” - Ally Brooke
“When I took a beating from the music industry, being in Fifth Harmony and the real challenges that came my way afterwards too, God was right there to say, ‘Trust me. I have a plan for you and I'm here with you. You're not alone. We're going to get through this together.’” - Ally Brooke
“I'll have my days where maybe I'm going through something or I'm sad or I have a ton of anxiety or I have a ton of worry or doubt. And Jesus Calling, through that devotion, I'm able to silence those thoughts and those worries and to help put them at ease.” - Ally Brooke
"It takes a lot of spiritual maturity to say, 'I'm very thankful for the people I'm having lunch with. And I'm going to spend my life doing whatever God wants for me right where I am, and not constantly look at the other table wondering what they're doing.'" - Jamie Ivey
“I started recognizing so many moments of people wishing that they had a different life, a “better” life, her life. And I noticed that they were missing the moments that God had created for them.” - Jamie Ivey
“There's this idea that you begin to matter and what you have to say begins to matter when a lot of people are listening. And I just want to encourage people that believing that lie keeps people paralyzed and not doing the things God's asked them to do.” - Jamie Ivey
“Every one that God's put in front of you matters. And we don't need to put our eyes on what we hope to happen five, ten years down the road, because we will waste a lot of time wishing for something we don't have.” - Jamie Ivey
“If the only thing I was looking at and noticing was other people's lives, then I would struggle to think that my life mattered and my voice was enough.” - Jamie Ivey
"We can yearn for the day we don't have to wear a mask and we can go back to 'normal.' But we can also be in the moment and go, 'What do You have for me right here where I am?'" - Jamie Ivey
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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We are human, which means we will make mistakes and never reach a standard of perfection. But we live in a world that constantly whispers, You can never come back from this mistake, or, You’ll never be good enough—but God’s grace and mercy say otherwise. Actor and singer Jana Kramer and her husband, NFL alum Mike Caussin, faced their own share of uphill battles in their young marriage. Facing her husband’s infidelity and addiction publicly, Jana had a choice to make: walk away, or work through it together. Jana and Mike chose to fight for their marriage, and now they’ve filled their toolbox with skills that they put into practice every single day, reminding us in their new book The Good Fight that while relationships are hard work, they’re worth it. Author Margaret Feinberg felt herself begin to believe lies that whispered, You’re a has-been, and, You’re a failure. Her overthinking began a negative thought spiral, so she began a practice of declaring God’s truths over her life daily, leading her to see her worth through His eyes and writing a book to encourage others called More Power to You. We serve a God of mercy, love, and healing. And though we may not live the picture-perfect life we want, He can redeem any mistakes we make so we can show the power He gives broken people.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith television show
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling app
Cyntoia Brown-Long
Jana Kramer
Mike Caussin
The Good Fight book
Dancing with the Stars
Whine Down podcast
Margaret Feinberg
More Power to You book
Interview Quotes:
“I'm constantly praying for our family. I want us to stay together. I'm praying for his recovery. I'm praying for our recovery. I just hope that we always choose to stay in it. And so I just pray that we're always strong enough to continue to grow.” - Jana Kramer
“When we finally started praying out loud together, I'm doing my stuff spiritually, she's doing her stuff spiritually, then we started to see where we allowed Him in and we could feel that vulnerability in the room.” - Mike Caussin
“Owning your side of the street, it's controlling what you can control. And as much as we find us trying to convince each other to see things our way, to convince each other to have our opinion or our outlook or believe our truth, we can't control someone else's thoughts or feelings. Control what you can control.” - Mike Caussin
“Where we're at now is just remembering all the things that we've learned and how to continue to keep using our tools and to continue to grow. We have the tool box filled with stuff, we continue to go to therapy. We continue to learn. And so I just pray that we're always strong enough to continue to grow.” - Jana Kramer
”We have a lifetime full of tools in our tool box. And we just need to use them, because we've learned them for a reason. They have helped us. They've helped us get this far. And so for the next five years and so on, we need to continue to implement them because that'll help us avoid some of these moments of disconnect.” - Mike Caussin
“God ultimately has control over the situation and we need to give Him more power.” - Mike Caussin
“What's incredible is God has given us the ability to literally renew our mind through the power of the Holy Spirit and scripture, and we can begin doing it today.” - Margaret Feinberg
“I began just carving out ninety seconds a day or so, just to begin declaring these and to declare them out loud. And they’re declarations like this: ‘Jesus is king of my life. I am who Christ says I am.’” - Margaret Feinberg
“There is something that happens when we begin declaring the truth of who we are and who were called to be.” - Margaret Feinberg
“When those lies start to enter in and try to tell us these things that just simply aren't true, we rise up with the truth embedded in us about our beauty, about the way that we're made, about how God is and the power of God guarding our thoughts.” - Margaret Feinberg
“Joy is the weapon that we use to fight life's battles.” - Margaret Feinberg
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Join us in celebrating 5 Million Downloads of the Jesus Calling Podcast!
Knowing that we have God on our side enables us to find the courage to overcome any fear. Lauren Akins—philanthropist, author, mom, and wife to country music superstar Thomas Rhett—longed to find her purpose. When she turned to God for help, He opened doors that led to a life of service and loving the ones in front of her, expanding her life to reach more than she ever hoped for. Now as a mom to three little girls, Lauren reflects back on her life, thankful for the many types of love she’s experienced, and recognizes “God-winks” woven into the fabric of who she is. Guinness World Record-holding tightrope walker Nik Wallenda comes from seven generations of performers. Through all the daring feats and dazzling challenges that he’s faced in his lifetime, he’s always kept his eye on the One who could get him through. But when one terrifying moment happened right in front of his eyes—when his family members fell off the wire—he faced a fear that almost crippled his career. After coming to terms with that fear and realizing God still needed to use him to inspire others, Nik found the courage to get back on the wire, and show the world the power of God.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Life in His Presence
Bear Grylls and Rhonda Vincent
Upcoming Guests
One Tree Hill star Jana Kramer
NFL player Mike Caussin
Lauren Akins
Live in Love book by Lauren Akins
Thomas Rhett
University of Tennessee
Suzanne Mayernick
Love One International
www.laurenakins.com
Nik Wallenda
Facing Fear book by Nik Wallenda
Guinness World record setting “King of the High Wire”
Funambulist
SeaWorld San Diego
Niagara Falls
Discovery Channel
PTSD
Interview Quotes:
“It felt like I was just kind of tagging along wherever Thomas Rhett went. I love being his cheerleader and supporting him, and I love watching him do what he loves. But I felt like I had more of a purpose.” - Lauren Akins
“I can see, looking back, where the Lord has shut doors and open doors, and I tried to have the motto of, ‘Where He opens the door, I'll walk through it, regardless of what I can see on the other side.’” - Lauren Akins
“There were times where I felt like I just couldn't pray another prayer, or when I felt the weakest in those moments, that is where I could just feel Jesus was carrying me on the backs of my friends spiritually and on His back.” - Lauren Akins
“Loving one at a time and doing what you can right just for the one, and then moving on to another one, and then another one—that's how Jesus works. Those are His hands and feet.” - Lauren Akins
“The Lord puts people in front of us to love.” - Lauren Akins
“That is the most important thing, inviting Him into your world so that you're able to see the world through His eyes and you're able to love the way that He loves.” - Lauren Akins
“To think that we still can't grasp just quite how much He loves and how good His love is something that is so hard for my mind to try to wrap around.” - Lauren Akins
“My great-grandfather said it best: ‘Life is on the wire, and everything else is just waiting.’" - Nik Wallenda
“I know for a fact that God has opened doors for me to get to where I am in order to bring glory to His name” - Nik Wallenda
“What I didn't realize was that was a seed of fear, of negativity, of doubt, implanted in my head right after that accident happened, and I just wouldn’t acknowledge it.” - Nik Wallenda
“I think that's what so many people do as they continue to water that seed of doubt, seed of negativity, that seed of I'm not good enough and I'm not smart enough and I will not make it through this, I'm not healthy enough, and people continue to water them. I think that's what holds people back from their greatness and often holds people back from their calling.” - Nik Wallenda
“I would much rather go to heaven knowing that I was bold in who I was and what I believed in, that some people were upset and offended by that, then offend those people and they not ever get the knowledge of who God really isn't and how much you really love them.” - Nik Wallenda
“I think we have such an amazing, gracious God. And He acknowledges that even to those who don't believe in Him, His Word still applies. His Word cannot return void.” - Nik Wallenda
“As my relationship with God has grown more and more, it took those valleys in order for me to get to those peaks.” - Nik Wallenda
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Sometimes before we know it, darkness can wrap itself around our hearts and minds. But when we feel ourselves lost and without hope, God is always there to lead us toward a new way of living, where we can find forgiveness for others—and ourselves. Beth Nimmo is the mother of Rachel Joy Scott, the first victim of the 1999 Columbine High School shooting. Beth didn’t know she’d ever see light again after the loss of her precious daughter, but God used Rachel’s strong faith and spirit of joy to guide Beth to help troubled teens. TJ Stevens was one such teen—after an abusive childhood and several suicide attempts, TJ walked into his Virginia high school with a gun, filled with a darkness driving him to do things he’d have never thought possible. But when TJ was on his knees in desperation, he felt God moving him toward a different outcome. As TJ says, “It’s never too late to turn around and do the right thing.” Beth and TJ’s paths crossed along parallel lines, and together, they share how God has met them in their lowest points, and how pain doesn’t have to be a life sentence.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling
Thomas Rhett
Lauren Akins
National Suicide Prevention line
I Am Second
Beth Nimmo
Rachel Joy Scott
Columbine School shootings in 1999
TJ Stevens
Interview Quotes:
“What we give focus to, we give strength to--I gave focus to nothing but darkness, and darkness filled me to a point where there was an abyss of nowhere to turn.” - TJ Stevens
“When the heart isn't changed, even if you have modified behavior and there's a certain amount of control there, eventually what's in the heart will manifest itself on the surface.” - Beth Nimmo
“It's never too late to turn around and do the right thing.” - TJ Stevens
“One of the things that we have a responsibility for to the next generation coming up is; we have to show them what you're in right now doesn't have to be your life sentence and it doesn't have to define the rest of your life.” - Beth Nimmo
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Jesus Calling Website
Fear and anxiety often worm their way into our lives, and it is easy to give into them. But we have a mighty God on our side, who replaces fear with a beautiful peace that reminds us everything will turn out exactly the way He intends it. Country music artist Sara Evans knew as a young girl that she was “Born to Fly,” because God had called her to a music career. And as Sara looks back on defining moments of her career and her journeys with family and faith, she can trace the moments when fear would try to take over but God gave her the resilience to push through. Growing up in Los Angeles with a passion for helping others, actor and singer Caitlin Crosby learned early on that real beauty and character are found in our flaws. As she prayed for God to show her how to give to others, Caitlin met a talented couple who helped turn her heart for helping into a real-life mission: a jewelry-for-good business called The Giving Keys, which helps people transition out of homelessness. Caitlin believes that embracing the things that scare us can help us uncover our purpose. And as she shares in her new book You are the Key, she’s seen that paying forward a word of encouragement, whether you sleep in a mansion or a cardboard box, can go a long way in helping others—and ourselves—keep reaching for faith and courage.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling Bible study
Jesus Calling, from July 27th
interview with heroic Southwest Airlines pilot Tammie Jo Shults and Vietnam POW Carlyle “Smitty” Harris
TJ Stevens
Beth Nimmo
Rachel Scott
Sara Evans
Vocalist of the Year by the Academy of Country Music
ABC’s Dancing with the Stars
Gideon's Bible
Grand Ole Opry
Born to Fly memoir
Caitlin Crosby
The Giving Keys
You are the Key book
LoveYourFlawz
Lifehouse
Flawz album
Invisible Children documentary
Interview Quotes:
“We just have so many people to love and so many people to take care of. That is such a blessing.” - Sara Evans, on her blended family
“I really, really, really believe in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and I believe that God understands our hearts and He knows where we are.” - Sara Evans
“God is the potter and I'm the clay, so I just need to trust Him every day, and really just have no fear.” - Sara Evans
“There's nothing more comforting than having a relationship with Jesus.” - Sara Evans
“The whole premise [of The Giving Keys] is you get a word that you need in your life, you embrace it, you own it, but then you're supposed to pass it on to somebody you feel needs it more than you.” - Caitlin Crosby
“Our model [at The Giving Keys] is the more products we sell, the more jobs we can create, and the more people we can try and get off the streets.” - Caitlin Crosby
“Everyone needs help. Everyone needs love. Everyone needs strength.” - Caitlin Crosby
“The things that they feel kind of secretive or shameful about, those are the things that really can bring your purpose alive and bring it to another level.” - Caitlin Crosby
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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With each new day, God is blessing us with another chance—a chance to say yes to the things we might’ve said no to before, and a chance to embrace the people we love. Lori Allen, star of the TLC reality show Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta and owner of Bridals by Lori, is adamant that the best days of her life are still ahead of her. From conquering challenges to keep her store open, to battling breast cancer and being the best working mom and grandma she can be, Lori has consistently said yes to savoring every moment, and grounding her life in her faith. Country music artist Raleigh Keegan was given a poignant second chance—a chance at life itself—when his mom gave birth to him while she was in prison, and then allowing him to be adopted into a loving family. Now, Raleigh seeks to demonstrate the love of God daily, thanking Him for the life he was given then, and the one he has now—which included eventually meeting and thanking his birth mom, too.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling website
Life in His Presence: A Jesus Calling Guided Journal
Jesus Calling book
Jesus Calling Podcast episode with author and activist Cyntoia Brown-Long and designer Liz Marie Galvan
Sara Evans
Lori Allen
TLC reality show Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta
Bridals by Lori
Say Yes to What's Next book
COVID-19
Raleigh Keegan
Boy Scouts
Eagle Scout
Psalms
Romans 8:1
University of Cincinnati
Interview Quotes:
“I've always had my faith, and I've always had a very strong will and conviction that I would succeed.” - Lori Allen
“What for women after age forty-five motivates us? We are very smart women that have a lot of life ahead of us . . . I plan to savor every last crumb, and I want to motivate other women to do the same.“ - Lori Allen
“I think that God wants us to live ‘till our very last day with meaning and hope.” - Lori Allen
“Life's never easy, but with your attitude and showing your faith and your fortitude, you can make it a wonderful life.” - Lori Allen
“I don't think the fact that I was adopted and came from a really hard start ever made me question God's love for me, that specific thing, because I always viewed it as, I had a chance.” - Raleigh Keegan
“On my worst day and on my best day, because of what Jesus did for me, I'm viewed the same. That just changed me.” - Raleigh Keegan
“My life's mission is just to be a Christian in whatever I'm doing.” - Raleigh Keegan
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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Jesus Calling Website
It’s a great privilege to make an impact on others by leading a life worth emulating—and having mentors in our lives who once gave us the same gift. Motivational speaker Trent Shelton grew up in a family of faith who supported his dreams of becoming a professional athlete. After Trent worked his way to the NFL, he realized he was sacrificing his future by chasing temporary fulfillment. When he hit rock bottom, Trent decided to make God the rock of his life, and after his son Tristan was born, Trent worked hard to become a father his son would be proud of. And now, as he shares in his new book Straight Up, Trent tries every day to become the best version of himself so that he can impact his family and show them how to live well. Author Peggy Rowe—mom to Mike Rowe of Dirty Jobs—was raised by loving parents who sacrificed time, money, and energy so Peggy could explore who she wanted to be. Now, Peggy seeks to impact others the way her parents inspired her through writing and sharing stories with millions of readers.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling book
Jesus Calling Podcast episode ft. The Bachelorette’s Luke Pell and pastor Jack Deere
Lori Allen, founder of the shop Bridals by Lori
TLC reality show Say Yes to the Dress: Atlanta
Trent Shelton
Straight Up
Rehab Time
Saints player Gene Atkins
Bengals player Geno Atkins
imposter syndrome
Peggy Rowe
Mike Rowe of Dirty Jobs
Dirty Jobs
The Discovery Channel
"About My Mother" by Peggy Rowe
'About Your Father" by Peggy Rowe
The Baltimore Sun
Misty of Chincoteague
Interview Quotes:
“What I realized, once I hit rock bottom, was I never really built a solid relationship with God for myself.” - Trent Shelton
“Oftentimes I feel like we place blame on God for situations we put ourselves in.” - Trent Shelton
“If my son follows my footsteps, where is my life leading him? What's the path that I've created? What's the mindset? What's the faith? And I wasn't happy with the answers that I told myself.” - Trent Shelton
“My prayers used to be asking God for things, and now my prayers are, ‘God, what do you need from me?’ And that has brought more clarity in my life.” - Trent Shelton
“I feel like God leaves a void in each and every one of us that can only be filled by Him. And until He fills that void, you will never feel that overwhelming internal peace in your life.” - Trent Shelton
“The most important work that you ever will do is the work that you do on yourself.” - Trent Shelton
“Maybe that light that comes from my life, because I did the work on myself, could be the light that they need to light up their dark world or their dark times.” - Trent Shelton
“We can't change the world if we don't change our households. We can't change our households if we don't change the way we think, if we don't renew our mind, if we don't renew our heart. And so it all starts with you. So, be the reflection of the change that you wish to see.” - Trent Shelton
“I think probably the greatest gift my mother gave me was an ability to treat people the way that I would like to be treated.” - Peggy Rowe
“[Mike Rowe] unfailingly respected and continues to respect the people that he worked with, the people that get up every day and do those less-than-desirable jobs. He treats those people and has treated them with the same respect that he would like to be treated.” - Peggy Rowe, on her son, Dirty Jobs host Mike Rowe
“I think that we human beings need constant reminders that we are not alone.” - Peggy Rowe
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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God puts people in our lives for a reason: to teach us, to inspire us, to allow us to be a blessing to them. There are no accidental encounters, only ones that shape us into who we were created to be. Victoria Damone grew up in a family of entertainment royalty, as the daughter of ‘50s crooner Vic Damone and actress Judy Rawlins. But show business wasn’t always kind to Victoria and her sisters, and they had to learn to survive by relying on each other through their parents’ absence and their mother’s struggle with addiction. As she grew older, Victoria forged her own path by working for a faith-based organization, OneShare Health, as a way to combine her love of people and God. Catherine Wood has always kept faith at the heart of her life, but that faith has been tested through the financial ups and downs she’s faced throughout her investing career. After Cathie tried to navigate the financial peculiarities leading up to the 2008 economic crash, a member of her church introduced her to Jesus Calling, which Cathie’s read every day since. In 2014, Cathie founded her own company called ARK Invest, to find and fund transformative technologies that could change lives and make the world a better place.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling App
Jesus Calling on YouTube
Interview with country music artist Josh Turner and NASCAR driver Michael McDowell
Apple Podcasts
Stitcher
Jesus Calling Facebook
Jesus Calling Instagram
Victoria Damone
Vic Damone
actress Judy Rawlins
OneShare Health
Catherine Wood
ARK Invest
Art Laffer
Jennison Associates
Reuters and Telerate
Ark of the Covenant
Upcoming guest: Trent Shelton
Interview Quotes:
“I know that God was watching over me in my younger years.” - Victoria Damone
“Even though we all fail miserably, we can aspire to do the best we can. But I think that's when God walks in.” - Victoria Damone
“I love what I do, but I also love the thought that we're part of something that can really help people emotionally with their health care needs, but also that we can help other organizations and we can make a difference.” - Victoria Damone, on working at OneShare Health
“When I think of Jesus, I think of Him sitting at the table and ministering and teaching people that were perhaps the unsavory characters, the people that were abandoned. And yet those are the individuals that need the most love and understanding.” - Victoria Damone
“I never felt that God was leaving me or deserting me. I felt like I had to hold on a little tighter.” -Catherine Wood
“I would kneel down and say, ‘Okay, God, You're in control. Even if this company fails, I know I've done the right thing. This is a walk of faith for me. Your will be done.’” - Catherine Wood
“I believe that in starting ARK Invest, I was fulfilling His will for me here on Earth and that if I had not done it, that I would have died an unhappy woman not having not fulfilled my promise here.” - Catherine Wood
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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YouTube
Jesus Calling Website
Our stories are a combination of pain and beauty, of grief and love, of despair and wonder. In the moments when pain and isolation threaten to engulf us, God is there to lift us up and, as our guest Mattie Jackson Selecman says, sprinkle “tidbits of joy” along our darkest paths. Growing up, Mattie watched her dad, country music superstar Alan Jackson, sing songs that connected with people across the country, and she knew she was born to tell stories just like him. But Mattie never could’ve imagined one of the stories she’d tell would be a tragic story of her own: losing her newlywed husband Ben in an accident. With God’s help, and with her Jesus Calling devotional by her side, Mattie began to put the pieces of her life back together and found healing in the very ministry that she co-founded to heal others, NaSHEville. Music journalist Deborah Evans Price passionately chased her dream to tell stories behind some of country and Christian music’s biggest stars, becoming a full-time journalist at Billboard Magazine. But Deborah learned firsthand that just because part of your dream works out doesn’t mean your whole life will fall into place. As Deborah tackled an unexpected cancer diagnosis, she learned there’s true joy in allowing others to come alongside us and care for us when we’re at our lowest.
Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling Peace for Everyday Life video series
Jesus Calling Magazine [FREE!]
Jesus Calling Podcast Episode with Dawn Barton: Joy: God’s Antidote to Pain
Mattie Jackson Selecman
Alan Jackson
UT [University of Tennessee]
NaSHEville
Human trafficking
Deborah Evans Price
Billboard Magazine
Billboard.com
First for Women Magazine
Redbook
Woman's World
Sounds Like Nashville
LSU [Louisiana State University]
Victoria Damone
1950’s Big Band crooner Vic Damone
Interview Quotes:
“Jesus is the only hope, not because He's the only thing left to turn to, but because He's the only thing that will bring light in the dark.” - Mattie Jackson Selecman
“You kind of take [faith] for granted until you have real reason to buckle down and understand and evaluate, Why is this my faith, and why is this not just what I've been told and taught?” - Mattie Jackson Selecman
“Don't feel like it's your job to plan out every step of your life—go live it. And what happens to you will be the story that you'll end up telling.” - Mattie Jackson Selecman
“He walked the way Jesus walked. He saw people for who they were, and not for what they did, or for something that he expected or wanted from them.” - Mattie Jackson Selecman, on her husband Ben
“On paper, we did all the things we were supposed to do, you know, to “get the miracle.” But we didn't. And part of understanding and processing and finding joy amidst the pain doesn't come from having that question answered.” - Mattie Jackson Selecman
“Wherever you are in your faith, He'll find you.” - Mattie Jackson Selecman
“God will bring tidbits of joy. That's what I've learned above all else. And I tell people, pain and joy are not mutually exclusive. They can dance in the same scene together.” - Mattie Jackson Selecman
“God's put me here to help tell people stories. That's a privilege.” - Deborah Evans Price
“It’s hard to be vulnerable and let people see when you're when you're hurting.” - Deborah Evans Price
“I just wake up every day thinking, You just don't know what God’s going to bring in your life or what exciting door He’s gonna be opening. Every day is a new adventure.” - Deborah Evans Price
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PrbuwH
Video Playlist: https://bit.ly/2PsmEkJ
What’s Good? Playlist: https://bit.ly/3i7VUlZ
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We all value connection: to our loved ones, to the world around us, to the principles that matter to us. And our most important connection is with God, which can feel so powerful through our praise. Worship leader Matt Redman shares how music became his escape from the darkness he endured in his youth—his father’s suicide early in his life, then abuse in his teen years. But when Matt was introduced to Steven Curtis Chapman’s music in college, he found a path that would draw him near to God through living in a state of constant wonder. Singer/songwriter Mark Schultz was struggling to make it big in the Nashville music scene when he met a youth pastor who would change his life. After working with kids and singing songs from the heart, Mark landed a record deal, and today, he’s built a beautiful life by putting praise for Jesus above everything. Plus, after being adopted in his childhood, Mark finally understood the heavenly meaning of that word when he adopted his own little one.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling Prayer Call
Jesus Calling Kids/Childrens
Jesus Calling Podcast Episode with Steven Curtis Chapman: "A Father's Love Is Special"
Matt Redman
BibleGateway.com Psalms
10,000 Reasons song
Let There Be Wonder album
If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, there’s help. Please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.
Mark Schultz
Remember Me Mission
Kansas State University
Ryman Auditorium
Grand Ole Opry
Mattie Jackson Selecman
Interview Quotes:
“I needed to talk to God. I needed to cry out to God. Music seemed like a really powerful way to do that.” - Matt Redman
“I loved that we weren't just singing about Him, but we were singing to Him.” - Matt Redman
“One of the challenges of trying to portray God through music is to do with trying to paint the biggest picture of Him that you can.” - Matt Redman
“He's the lion and the lamb, He is the God who thunders and whispers. He's a God who terrifies, and yet He befriends. He's the one who knelt down, washed the feet of His disciples, even though He's the one whose footstool is the earth.” - Matt Redman
“There's something special about hearing a father's words speak over you, that they believe in you, and cast a vision for you, and I think there's something about that that you kind of grow into that as your story unfolds.” - Mark Schultz
“That would be one of those moments that I look back on that I feel like it was a dad's vision and a belief in me, just following that.” - Mark Schultz, on a dream fulfilled to play at Ryman Auditorium
“God doesn't want something from us—He wants something for us.” - Mark Schultz
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Jesus Calling Website
We have a tendency to see black and white in our stories. We believe we’re doing the right things because we don’t seem to be encountering many problems. We think we’re loving others well because we don’t see any evidence that says otherwise. But the truth is that no matter how hard we try, we will face hard problems and tough situations. We will face division and anger. But God will equip us with the tools we need to navigate life with profound faith and great love. Pastor and author Scott Sauls asks us to think about what our world would be like if we approached others with compassion and gentleness like Jesus, to try and heal a hurting world. Advocates Jay and Katherine Wolf faced the unimaginable when Katherine, a twenty-six-year-old mother of a six-month-old son, suffered a brain stem stroke that turned their world upside down. Now a full-time caregiver, Jay shares how God brought them closer to Him through each other, and how sometimes healing and despair go hand in hand.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling: What’s Good? (YouTube video series)
Jesus Calling Podcast Episode - The Broken Road to Joy: Ann Voskamp & Emily Stroud
Gary Sinise Foundation
Scott Sauls
A Gentle Answer: Our Secret Weapon in an Age of Us Against Them book
Christ Presbyterian Church (Nashville, Tennessee)
BibleGateway.com (Luke 7)
Fred Rogers (Jesus Calling podcast interview with wife Joanne Rogers)
Jay and Katherine Wolf
Suffer Strong: How to Survive Anything by Redefining Everything
Samford University (Birmingham, AL)
Pepperdine Caruso School of Law
Bel Air Presbyterian Church (Los Angeles, CA)
CaringBridge
BibleGateway.com (Isaiah 45:3)
Matt Redman
Interview Quotes:
“What could it look like for followers of Christ, especially, to give ourselves to a gentleness movement or a kindness movement in a climate where kindness is so scarce?” - Scott Sauls
“Cynicism and negativity are very contagious, but so are love and kindness.” - Scott Sauls
“Every single square inch of the universe—people, places, and things—belongs to God, is created by God, and is entrusted to our care.” - Scott Sauls
“Everybody's job is an opportunity to serve God in the same way that a pastor's job is an opportunity to serve God.” - Scott Sauls
“Christians have that resource to be more difficult to offend, because Christ chose not to be offended by us. He chose instead to love us and to forgive us and to draw us into His family and adopt us.” - Scott Sauls
“Looking back on your story, it's important and it's profound to see some things you didn't see in the moment because it was up close, and to see how God was putting those pieces together.” - Jay Wolf
“The idea that God had spared her life was the beginning of hope for me.” - Jay Wolf
”We thought [Katherine’s being on life support] was really just a sign and a little sort of glimmer that God was saying, ‘I'm still here. I haven't abandoned you, even if I'm silent.’” - Jay Wolf
“I think we want to say it's one or the other, ‘Oh, you're in this healing mode,’ or, ‘You're in this despairing mode.’ Sometimes they're right in the same place together.” - Jay Wolf
“‘You get to put into practice everything you believe, and I'm going to supernaturally supply you. My divine power will give you everything that you need to do this. And it is going to be hard. It's going to be good’.” - Katherine Wolf speaking how she believes God rallied her husband Jay
“We knew the presence of God would sustain, and His power would make a way for us to move forward.” - Katherine Wolf
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Dreaming, planning, preparing for the future—it’s in our nature to map out where we’d like our lives to go. But in the midst of our dreaming, it’s important to take a step back and ask God, “What do You want for my life?” Because He might have a different—and better—answer for us. When Christian music artist Jaci Velasquez was pregnant with her son Zealand, she knew he’d have a ministry of his own one day. But when Jaci discovered Zealand had autism, she wondered how he’d ever spread God’s love if he couldn’t communicate. Over time, Jaci learned to shift her perspective from “Why me?” to “Why not me?” and she began to see how God can use anyone or anything for good. Worship pastor Andy Harrison was raised in a Christian home, but never really felt connected to God. After attending a youth camp and a Planetshakers conference, Andy was struck by how passionate the people around him were, and he wanted to discover this Jesus that had everyone so shaken up. Today Andy’s a mentor to youth and shows them how to be strong in faith while growing up, and how, even when we don’t know where to turn, we can find everything we need in Jesus.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Gary Sinise Foundation
Jaci Velasquez
When God Rescripts Your Life: Seeing Value, Beauty, and Purpose When Life is Interrupted book
IEP—Individualized Educational Program
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder - pervasive developmental delay
Andy Harrison
Jesus Over Everything album
Jesus Over Everything: Notes for the Next Generation of Planetshakers book
Planetshakers Youth Ministry
Planetshakers Music
Planetshakers Conference
BibleGateway.com (Psalms 139 & Matthew 6:33)
Jay and Katherine Wolf
Interview Quotes:
“I stopped asking the question, ‘Why me?’ And I started asking the most important question, which was ‘Why not me?’” - Jaci Velasquez
“Sometimes what He wants for our lives and what He wants for our families looks different than what we had pictured.” - Jaci Velasquez
“We have to continuously dive into what God is trying to show us.” - Jaci Velasquez
“He forgives you sooner than you forgive yourself. So why do we continue putting ourselves on the cross? “ - Jaci Velasquez
“Listen for His interpretation. Our dreams and God's calling are not always the same thing.” - Jaci Velasquez
“[Growing up] I knew a lot of things about God, but I didn't know Him for myself.“ - Andy Harrison
“I'm really passionate about seeing young people encounter Jesus, because that was the season in my life where I came to know Him, and I want to see other young people come to know Him, too.” - Andy Harrison
“Everything that we need is found in Jesus.” - Andy Harrison
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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YouTube
Jesus Calling Website
[Special Series] Las Vegas Raiders kicker Daniel Carlson and his wife Katherine join us as we search for Peace in Uncertain Times to share how they’re rediscovering what matters most in this trying season: rest, reflection, connecting with one another, and trusting God with the future. They remind us that when we look back on times of trial, we’ll often see where God’s light was shining through.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Social Media
Daniel & Katherine Carlson
NFL
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“One of the best things that's come out of this [time of quarantine] is that we were able to sit back and just really enjoy each other's company and enjoy growing together and learning together and learning from our Lord and learning about our Lord and, you know, spending time on word and spending time worshiping.” - Daniel Carlson
“If we really press into God and begin to hand over our worries and our concerns to our Lord and Savior, He will sustain us and that He will be faithful.” - Daniel Carlson
If there’s one thing our world needs at this moment, it’s love—the kind of 1 Corinthians 13 love God asks us to show each other. TBN host Cynthia Garrett walks us through how to understand that love is not found only in words—love is an action. She explains how, when we learn to release society’s distractions, we can truly listen to the hearts of those around us, learn from their experiences, and work together for what is good and right. MMA fighter Paige VanZant turned to fighting as a coping mechanism for the horrific bullying she faced in high school. And when fighting turned into her career, Paige began to use her platform to help others facing emotional trauma, letting love heal both her heart and theirs.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Always devotional
The Joy of Spreading Love, One Heart At A Time: Delilah and Gary Thomas episode
Gary Sinise Foundation
Cynthia Garrett
Cynthia Garrett Ministries
The Sessions with Cynthia Garrett on TBN
Cynthia Garrett Ministries YouTube
BibleGateway.com - 1 Corinthians 13
Paige VanZant
Rise: Surviving the Fight of My Life book
UFC
Jaci Velasquez
Interview Quotes:
“One of the things that I think that we can all do is to listen. We have to listen more. I think we are here because we stopped listening to each other.” - Cynthia Garrett
“There's someone you know who’s different from you, and the best way to have understanding and wisdom is to ask them questions about their experience in life and to listen.” - Cynthia Garrett
“When you love your neighbor, racism does not exist.” - Cynthia Garrett
“If we examine our hearts and seek righteousness in our hearts, we can make a difference.” - Cynthia Garrett
“Love is an action. Love is messy. Love is inconvenient. But love is also the most powerful word in the Bible.” - Cynthia Garrett
“I know that I can stay positive because it's all in God's plan.” - Paige VanZant
“God's given you all these talents. Why waste them?” - Paige VanZant
“I think it says, “Do not be afraid,” 365 times in the Bible. So that means every single day you need to be reminded, don't be afraid.” - Paige VanZant
“I'm still working every day to try to use my platform to connect to people and help people grow and help people through these emotional times.” - Paige VanZant
“In every fight I go through, both in the cage and outside of the cage, I know that there is somebody who is on my side and is fighting with me the entire time, and that's God.” - Paige VanZant
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
There comes a point when our faith has grown strong enough that we can turn outward and put it to work serving those who need it most. Gary Sinise comes from a long legacy of supporting the military, from brave family members who served as far back as World War I, to portraying wounded Vietnam vet Lt. Dan Taylor in the iconic movie Forrest Gump. After the events of 9/11, Gary was inspired to find more ways to serve those who sacrificed for our nation, which he details in his book Grateful American. Dr. Derwin Gray created a successful life for himself in the NFL, desperate to escape the dysfunction that surrounded him in childhood. But after achieving his career dreams, Derwin realized he wouldn’t ever be satisfied without a greater purpose. He bravely stepped into God’s calling for his life and founded Transformation Church, a multi-ethnic church seeking to help others live a Jesus-centered life—what Dr. Gray calls in his new book The Good Life. These two men have grown their faith and been encouraged by the people they serve, and they demonstrate the beautiful things that can happen when we use our gifts and talents to bless those around us.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Courage to Use Your Voice: Mark & Danielle Herzlich episode
Gary Sinise
Gary Sinise Foundation
Grateful American: A Journey from Self to Service book
Vets Night
Disabled American Veterans Organization
Lt. Dan Band
Battle of the Argonne
Steppenwolf Theater in Chicago
Forrest Gump
Brooklyn Wall of Remembrance
Dr. Derwin Gray
Transformation Church
The Good Life: What Jesus Teaches About Finding True Happiness book
Paige VanZant
Interview Quotes:
“September 11th, 2001, our country is attacked and our men and women start raising their hands to deploy in reaction to that terrible event. And I just felt compelled and called in a certain way to serve. And so you go from this singular focus on self to this broader focus on serving others.” - Gary Sinise
“I am a grateful American. I'm grateful for so many things.” - Gary Sinise
“Having veterans in my family, having been involved with supporting Vietnam veterans, I just knew where I was going to employ my services, and it was going to be to help our men and women get through the next phase of deploying to the war zones and helping them and their families get through that. And that just that lit a fire under me.” - Gary Sinise
“The more I got active, the more I gave, the more I healed, the more I wanted to do.” - Gary Sinise
“I've seen the needs in all these different places and I want to try to continue to help fill those needs.” - Gary Sinise
“When Jesus called me, when Jesus loved me, when Jesus met me, He literally put things in me and brought gifts out of me that I didn’t even know was possible.” - Dr. Derwin Gray
“By my third year in the NFL at age twenty-five, I said ‘There's got to be more to life than this.’” - Dr. Derwin Gray
“It was like I was chasing my shadow and I finally caught it, but realized it went right through my hands, and I was looking for things that only Jesus can give.” - Dr. Derwin Gray
“He gave me unconditional love. He gave me a new identity: beloved child of God. He gave me a new purpose, and that is to know Him and to make Him known through every facet of my life.” - Dr. Derwin Gray
“Jesus's blood not only forgives our sins, but He gives us a family with different colored skins.” - Dr. Derwin Gray
”So often we are so self-sufficient that we can't be God sufficient. So often we're so centered upon ourselves that we can't be Jesus-centered.” - Dr. Derwin Gray
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
[Special Series] TV host Cynthia Garrett joins us as we search for Peace in Uncertain Times to discuss why it’s so important for Christians to listen to and love their neighbors. Cynthia reminds us to “turn your love into an action, into a verb.”
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Social Media
Cynthia Garrett
Cynthia Garrett Ministries
YouTube
1 Corinthians 13; BibleGateway.com
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“Turn your love into an action - into a verb and do something, stand up when you need to stand up.” - Cynthia Garrett
“We can’t really call ourselves Chrsitians if we don’t seek to love - to love our neighbor.” - Cynthia Garrett
“I’ve learned how to choose victory every day, and that is a daily choice” - Cynthia Garrett
“One of the things that we can all do is listen. We can listen more….Listen to people because you’ll hear their heart” - Cynthia Garrett
“I believe there is hope. When you love your neighbor, racism does not exist.” - Cynthia Garrett
“Love is messy, but it gets involved with other people. Love stands up for right.” - Cynthia Garrett
“Love is the most powerful word in the Bible. It is the most powerful lesson that we learn from Christ, the most powerful command that we’re given because Jesus said that all the law and all the commandments are summed up in one simple word, love.” - Cynthia Garrett
[Special Series] Musician Adam Hambrick joins us as we search for Peace in Uncertain Times to share his experience as the spouse of a front line worker, the fear in facing the unknown, and the inspiration he’s found in his wife’s bravery. He reminds us to look for a source of hope and to find peace in knowing that God is in control. Adam also shares his touching new song, “Between Me & The End of the World,” written for his wife and other first responders who are battling the coronavirus on the front lines. 🎶
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Social Media
Adam Hambrick
Website
YouTube
Spotify
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“When I'm afraid, I try to look for the good. I try to look for the thread of hope in and through the course of this big trying time throughout the world.” - Adam Hambrick
“It's easy to think that [God’s] in control when things are easy. But when things feel unjust, when things feel completely out of control--where does my help come from? Who has me? Who has me in His hand? Do you actually believe this? That's God.” - Adam Hambrick
“[God’s] challenged me to believe and to have hope that He is who He is even in these dark times [of the pandemic].” - Adam Hambrick
“I hope that this time [of the pandemic] drives us more toward each other. By the time this is over, we realize how much we need people and we realize how much we need to be invested in each other emotionally and spiritually--that's connection as community.” - Adam Hambrick
We spend so much time trying to choose a path for our futures, and it’s easy to get wrapped up in what we want versus what God wants. Artist, musician, writer, and creator Morgan Harper Nichols struggled to find her purpose, her identity, and her place to belong. By pushing herself to go deeper into connection and following God’s nudges to use her artistic gifts, Morgan found hope in showing up for others, and she realized the true definition of “grace.” Actor and producer Kel Mitchell spent most of his childhood in the Nickelodeon spotlight on shows like All That and Kenan & Kel. As he suffered through mistakes in his young adulthood, Kel realized he needed to discover who he was outside of television—and that instead of leading his own way, he needed to let God show him the way forward. Kel came back to his spiritual roots, where Jesus showed him his true calling: youth ministry. Today, Kel reminds us that we can never be too busy for God, because it’s only when we hand over our time and our plans that we see our lives begin to fall into place.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling by Sarah Young products at Target.com
When Dream Are Far From Reach, Trust God’s Vision: Matthew Barnett and Richard Cowdrey
Morgan Harper Nichols
Morgan Harper Nichols’s Pinterest
All Along You Were Blooming book
Kel Mitchell
All That
Kenan & Kel
Nickelodeon
Kel Mitchell’s Facebook
Dr. Derwin Gray
Interview Quotes:
“What does it mean to serve and to love and to give to others while also simultaneously feeling like you're not enough?” - Morgan Harper Nichols
“But all along, [my purpose] was just about how I can be present to other people with what I have, with what I've been given, even though I don't feel good enough.” - Morgan Harper Nichols
“We're still being called to go deeper. We're still being called to come out on the water and to not be afraid of engaging with what's bigger than us.” - Morgan Harper Nichols
“One single word can really, really impact someone in a way that matters in their life, whether they tell you or not. Connection happens through the imperfections and it happens through the broken places.” - Morgan Harper Nichols
“I decided to say, ‘Hey, I'll figure this out on my own. I'll figure this out.’ And when I did that, it put me on the wrong path a lot of times.” - Kel Mitchell
“As Christians, there are troubles you're going to go through, because we live in a sinful world. But at that same time, you have to know that God knows the way of getting you out of trouble.” - Kel Mitchell
“It's awesome to be an ambassador of Christ and lead [kids] to the Lord as they see the light within you.” - Kel Mitchell
“I feel like you have to learn and you have to go through those setbacks so you can have an amazing and beautiful, divine comeback.” - Kel Mitchell
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Fathers play a lasting role in our lives, and we learn countless lessons from them, like who we want to be and how we want to lead. Master communicator and motivational speaker Dr. Rick Rigsby grew up with a father who, despite being a third-grade dropout, sailed across the world, learned multiple languages, and instilled in a young Dr. Rigsby the basic life lessons that profoundly impacted the way he viewed himself and his potential. Above all, Dr. Rigsby’s father helped him see how living with faith and keeping our word can grow our influence to impact other people for the better. From the time he was a young boy, Jerrad Lopes couldn’t wait to be the dad he never had. But as an adult, when Jerrad hit a wall of professional setbacks that sent him into depression, he knew he wasn’t being the best dad and husband he could be. After a bitter fight with his wife, Jerrad turned to God to help show him how to lead. Now, Jerrad ministers through his organization Dad Tired to other men who face shame and a lack of confidence, so they can become dads and husbands who help their families grow more rooted in faith.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Dr. Meg Meeker: Seeking the Love of a Father
Jesus Calling Large Deluxe Orange, available exclusively at Barnes & Noble
Jesus Calling Small Deluxe Blue, available exclusively at Barnes & Noble
Dr. Rick Rigsby
Lessons from a Third Grade Dropout: How the Timeless Wisdom of One Man Can Impact an Entire Generation book
Texas A&M
California Maritime Academy in Vallejo, CA
Chuck Noll, Pittsburgh Steelers NFL football coach
John Wooden, UCLA basketball coach
Jerrad Lopes
DadTired.com
Dad Tire Podcast
Dad Tired: Stumbling Your Way to Spiritual Leadership book
BibleGateway.com Psalm 1
Kel Mitchell
Interview Quotes:
“How you do anything is how you do everything. It's never wrong to do the right thing. You tell somebody you're gonna get there at five, get there at four. Be ready to work.” - Dr. Rick Rigsby quoting his father
“[My parents constantly raising the bar was] something I hated as a kid, something I couldn't stand as a teenager, but something that brings water to my eyes as an adult.” - Dr. Rick Rigsby
“If you don't learn character in the trenches, if you don't learn the basics in the trenches, what in the world makes us think that when we get to the big stage, it's all of a sudden going to happen?” - Dr. Rick Rigsby
“Faith encourages me to go beyond my comfort zone and to have a visceral reaction for the people of Jesus and encourage them.” - Dr. Rick Rigsby
“Your ability to influence people within the sphere of your periphery will determine the impact that you make.” - Dr. Rick Rigsby
“Think for a moment about the person who led you to the Lord. Was it that person's words, or was it that person's lifestyle?” - Dr. Rick Rigsby
“I’m going to have a bunch of titles on my business card one day, [but] the thing that will go with me to the grave are the titles of husband, father, and disciple.” - Jerrad Lopes
“If you believe you're too sinful or you're not equipped or you're not spiritual enough to lead your family, you're not believing in the God of the Bible.” - Jerrad Lopes
‘I'm just reminded that for me to be filled with life, to give life, to see the goodness of God used and fruit come out of it, I just have to be in the Living Water, which is the Word and Jesus Himself.” - Jerrad Lopes
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Jesus Calling Website
Everyone is placed in our lives for a reason. God intentionally chooses to put people in our path to teach us and to mold us into who He created us to be, and sometimes those relationships are not what we would expect. Dr. Dharius Daniels was studying to be a lawyer, until a mentor in college helped him realize that his true calling was ministry. As he began to study the Bible more intently, Dr. Daniels realized how we as individuals (and our relationships) have the ability to change lives, and that adding value to someone’s life is a calling of the highest kind, which he shares in his book Relational Intelligence. Ron Hall had one goal in life: to get out of poverty and create a life that matched his definition of success. He worked hard and achieved his goals, but his pursuit of success led to challenges in his relationship with his wife, Debbie. After reexamining his priorities, Ron committed himself to pursuing God the way Debbie did, and it led him to work with the homeless. On the streets of Fort Worth, Texas, Ron met a remarkable man named Denver, who would teach Ron more about life than he ever expected, as chronicled in the movie and New York Times bestselling book, Same Kind of Different as Me.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Always devotional promotion at Lifeway.com
Dr. Dharius Daniels
Relational Intelligence book
Ron Hall
Same Kind of Different as Me book
Same Kind of Different as Me movie
Texas Christian University
Ecclesiastes 9:15 (BibleGateway.com)
Dr. Rick Rigsby
Interview Quotes:
“What I began to see is the need for an expression of the gospel that did more than address people's morals, but addressed people's lives.” - Dr. Dharius Daniels
“You cannot have a high quality of life without doing relationships well.” - Dr. Dharius Daniels
“There is no area of our life that is not directly or indirectly impacted by our relationships: our physical well-being, our financial well-being, our relational well-being, our spiritual well-being.” - Dr. Dharius Daniels
“God knew what He was doing when He put [my wife Debbie] in my life.” - Ron Hall
“I told people that my wife and I at the time, we were both living purpose-driven lives. My purpose in life was chasing the almighty dollar and her purpose in life was chasing the Almighty God.“ - Ron Hall
“‘God is checking you out to see what kind of person you really are,’ Denver said, ‘because most of you folks look at the homeless as a problem. But through God's eyes, He sees this as an opportunity for the faithful to show the love of Christ. We’re all homeless. We’re just working our way back home.’“ - Ron Hall
“I witnessed the miracle of a homeless ex-con known as Suicide, who did not know how to read and write, become a number-one New York Times bestselling author . . . My good friend Denver, who was my homeless mentor, taught me more about life than anyone.” - Ron Hall
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It’s a hard truth that none of us is exempt from the pain of losing loved ones. And while Jesus tells us that, “In this world, you’ll have trouble,” He also promises that no matter what, He will never leave our side, and that He’ll remain a rock we can lean on through the pain of loss. Our two guests, country music artist Eddie Montgomery and Jesus Calling reader Kacie Clousing, have experienced tragic losses. But as they reached for God, He paved the way to survival and healing. Eddie Montgomery, of the award-winning duo Montgomery Gentry, talks about the deep bond he had with his music partner of three decades, Troy Gentry. When he lost Troy in a devastating helicopter crash, Eddie learned how to cope with his pain by remembering the good memories they made together, and turned to “the Man Upstairs” for strength. After battling infertility and having two healthy miracle babies, Kacie Clousing was thrilled when she and her husband discovered she was pregnant again. At a routine twenty-week ultrasound, Kacie learned that although she could feel her son kicking and moving within her, he wouldn’t survive the pregnancy. As she grieved the shattered dreams of what could’ve been, she kept reaching for God during her darkest days and held on to the belief that He would take care of her and her family, no matter how difficult the outcome.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Always devotional promotion at Lifeway.com
Jesus Calling podcast episode: God Brings Life After Loss: Jonathan Pitts and John Hill
Eddie Montgomery
Montgomery/Gentry
John Michael Montgomery
Kacie Clousing
Dr. Dharius Daniels
Interview Quotes:
“Me and Troy put this duo [Montgomery Gentry] together, Nashville did not. And I think that’s why it was different, because we’d get each other in and out of trouble, we had each other's back. We knew who we were.” - Eddie Montgomery
“There’s not a day that goes by I don’t think about [Troy].” - Eddie Montgomery
“Before we go on stage, we get together and thank the Man Upstairs that He’s let us live this long and let us do what we do.” - Eddie Montgomery
“That's how you get through [loss]. You remember all the smiles and the good times.”- Eddie Montgomery
“In a second, our life went from, Oh, my goodness, things are fine. We're having a boy. We're so excited, to just nothing but complete sorrow and grief.” - Kacie Clousing
“I started to have a mantra, where when I would start to think about the bad, I would just say, ‘I trust in you, Lord, to stop my negative thoughts and to not fall into the dark hole again.’” - Kacie Clousing
“God will take care of you and your family, and bring to your life what is meant to be.” - Kacie Clousing
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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[Special Series] Neuropsychologist and author Dr. Michelle Bengtson joins us as we search for Peace in Uncertain Times to discuss how we can learn to break anxiety’s grip on us and manage it by turning to God. Dr. Bengtson reassures us that God has already provided us with the weapons we need to defeat fear, and that “worry, fear and anxiety are not our portion, but God's peace is.”
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Social Media
Dr. Michelle Bengtson
2 Timothy 1:7 (BibleGateway.com)
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“What I've learned is that worry, fear and anxiety are not our portion, but God's peace is.” - Dr. Michelle Bengtson
“Worry, fear and anxiety are really a misappropriation of our trust. We have a tendency to trust in people or circumstances, and when we do, it's a slippery slope into worry, fear or anxiety.” - Dr. Michelle Bengtson
“You can know that you were praying God's will when you were praying His words back to Him because He has already spoken them. That’s a prayer He delights in answering.” - Dr. Michelle Bengtson
”If you want to trade your worry, fear and anxiety for God's peace today. Be in His word, be in His will and ask Him to replace that worry, fear and anxiety with his everlasting peace. I promise you He wants to do so.” - Dr. Michelle Bengtson
[Special Series] Actor, singer and podcaster Dennis Quaid shares about the faith that was instilled into his life at any early age by his mother, and the special song he wrote for her that appeared in the film “I Can Only Imagine.” He also gives us a peek into his routine while confined at home during the Pandemic, including taking the opportunity to be present with God through prayer, Bible reading and connection with friends and loved ones.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Social Media
Dennis Quaid
Dennis Quaid and the Sharks
Amazon
YouTube
Apple iTunes
Spotify
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“We are Americans. We're going to get through these times [of the COV-19 pandemic]...We're going to remember these times...for the rest of our lives. And we might even be grateful.” - Dennis Quaid
“I keep coming back to the Red words of Jesus; and every time I read the Bible, which is now going on my fourth time in my life, it reveals itself to me in a very different, incredible way that it's always bringing something new and something that is just the truth.” - Dennis Quaid
“You have to be present in the present moment to talk with God; because there, you will find God's presence when something wonderful happens.” - Dennis Quaid
“God is right there in this moment to help you through it.” - Dennis Quaid
“Try to use this time to pray to really deal with what's going on inside you.,,And know that you're all right and that there is going to be an end to this”- Dennis Quaid on this time of COV-19 quarantine
[Special Series] Olympic softball player and mom of three Jennie Finch shares her prayer of making the most of the time we have together; as many of us continue to shelter at home. Her hope is that God will reveal dreams we never knew we had before. She also gives tips on how her family has coped during the pandemic and how the ups and downs of a career in softball prepared her for this experience. Jennie encourages us to cling to God’s promises and through calmness and stillness, discover the joy He provides.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Social Media
Jennie Finch Daigle
BibleGateway.com - Psalm 27:1
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“As a family were appreciating this time of just being still and being calm and being in His Word and trusting and ultimately focusing on what we're here to focus on, and that's our purpose, our mission and what God is doing through us through this time and through this tragedy [of the COV-19 pandemic].” - Jennie Finch Daigle
“I want to be pruned in this time [of the COV-19 quarantine]. I want to come out stronger and be a better mother, a better wife, a better teacher through this trialing time that we're embracing. And so I just say hold tight, cling to His promises. We don't know what's to come, but He does promise that He'll be with us in those times. And that's where my peace lies.” - Jennie Finch Daigle
“I'm so thankful that we have the peace that surpasses all understanding, and we can look to Him and His word for the promises and the hope for what is to come.” - Jennie Finch Daigle
“No matter what storms we're gonna face, we can find our peace and hope and joy in Him. Our circumstances don't determine our joy. Our joy is in the Lord and his promises.” - Jennie Finch Daigle
[Special Series] Parenting expert Dr. Meg Meeker joins our Peace in Uncertain Times series to share ways we can give our fears about COVID to Christ and guide our children well, despite the turmoil of this season. Meg reminds us that we can be free of the pressure to be a perfect parent and instead be one that our kids truly need: by seeking ways to be peaceful and finding the simple joys in this time. (PLUS some handy tips on how to handle the kids when they are fighting!!)
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Social Media
Meg Meeker
Amazon
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“Trusting God and giving God our fears so that we can be relaxed enough and laugh is a tough thing to do.” - Meg Meeker
“I think it's important just to be honest with your kids...sit down and talk to your kids very truthfully...it's your job as a mom or dad to sort of take charge and make everything OK for them.” - Meg Meeker speaking in regards to parents working together to calm a child’s concerns during the COV-19 pandemic
“It's really important when you see your kids fighting to give them a plan, an alternate plan to fighting and let them know that anger and frustration is what triggers the fighting. So whenever they feel that anger and frustration, they now know what to do instead of fighting with their sibling. ” - Meg Meeker
“Parents, guilt will rob you of your joy.” - Meg Meeker
Through all the highs and lows that life throws our way, there is one constant: God. Despite uncertainties, despite pain, and despite hurt, God is always there, longing for us to rely on Him to become our source of Joy. Author and joyologist Dawn Barton has faced more fall-to-your-knees pain and loss than most can imagine. And after every setback, Dawn shares she found the secret to moving forward: choosing to stand back up and look for joy. Singer/songwriter Ashlyn Grayce was raised in a home filled with music and faith, and now she’s branching out into a career of her own. Ashlyn dedicates every performance to the One who got her there, and shares her faith and life story to write songs that she hopes will bring healing to people of all ages from the inside out.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling for Kids
Jesus Always
Jesus Calling and Jesus Always available exclusively at Costco.com
Peace in Uncertain Times YouTube Series with Alena Pitts
Dawn Barton
Mary Kay Cosmetics
Laughing Through the Ugly Cry: And Finding Unstoppable Joy book
Ashlyn Grayce
Alan Jackson
Lifeway Christian
BibleGateway.com, Isaiah 41:10
Eddie Montgomery
Montgomery/Gentry
Interview Quotes:
“I've had so much that I think gives me every excuse in the world to be not joyful. But I really want to scream from the mountaintops why we should be joyful and why it's a choice.” - Dawn Barton
“It’s no one's job to make you feel better but yours.” - Dawn Barton
“I think it's important to have a friend that will say, ‘This is enough. It's time for you to get up.’” - Dawn Barton
“I think that's that little gift God gives you, sometimes just that feeling of, ‘Don't let go. Hold on a little tighter, a little longer, this time.’” - Dawn Barton
“I'm so glad that I used tragedy as the fuel for something that was beautiful.” - Dawn Barton
“It's just so powerful that one three-minute song can really change the life of a listener or someone writing it.” - Ashlyn Grayce
“I just think that it's so important to not be afraid and know that Jesus is right there with you every step of the way.” - Ashlyn Grayce
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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In observance of Memorial Day, veteran and country music artist Craig Morgan and the First Lady of Louisiana, Donna Edwards, join the Jesus Calling Podcast to share how their faith, families, and a dedication to public service have shaped their lives in incredible ways. Craig Morgan served in the Army for 17 years before pursuing a country music career, which now allows him to serve military members via USO shows and special tours. After losing his 19-year-old son Jerry in a tragic accident, Craig felt moved by God to share his pain through a song called “The Father, My Son, and the Holy Ghost,” which has touched countless lives. First Lady Edwards shares why she and her husband, Governor John Bel Edwards, were inspired to dedicate their lives to serving the public. As part of that service and in devotion to God, First Lady Edwards felt led to share Jesus Calling with incarcerated women in her state, and visited them in person to deliver the books, which had an enormous impact on her and women in the facility.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Today devotional
Sarah Young products at Target
Jesus Calling Podcast episode: Becoming an Everyday Hero: Neal McCoy & Rodney D. Bullard
Craig Morgan
Grand Ole Opry
Video: The Father, My Son, and the Holy Ghost
Craig’s World on Circle TV
Louisiana First Lady Donna Edwards
See Donna at Work: Governor’s Mansion
Dawn Barton
Interview Quotes:
“It was when I left home and joined the military, I think that's when I developed the aspirations for writing. Being away from home, creating a sense of appreciation for all the things that I had left and got away from.” - Craig Morgan
“I thought I was exempt from something like that [when my son died], because our faith was so strong. We were a good Christian family, and I thought that something like this would never happen to us.” - Craig Morgan
“When I lost Jerry, I felt like I didn't know enough about God because I needed to know more to understand what was going on.” - Craig Morgan
“God wrote this song. I did not write this song.” - Craig Morgan, on his song "The Father, My Son, and the Holy Ghost"
“I can't hug people that aren't standing before me, but I still very much feel their presence. Everybody talks about these God moments, you know, where you feel something and you feel the presence of God. That's what that is. I still feel that I have those moments with my son.” - Craig Morgan
“We’ve always been firm in our direction and what we felt were our morals and values.” - Louisiana First Lady Donna Edwards
“We don’t necessarily have to agree — but I’m called to love you regardless.” - Louisiana First Lady Donna Edwards
“150 women who were imprisoned stood up and applauded the fact that I stepped into their life that day,” - Louisiana First Lady Donna Edwards
“Only with God’s help and praying and asking for God to help you, can one truly forgive.” - Louisiana First Lady Donna Edwards
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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We don’t have to be perfect to receive God’s love. He longs to meet us in our brokenness so that He can be a part of our healing. Olympic gold medal gymnast Shawn Johnson East and her husband, NFL player Andrew East, share their love story that’s now blossomed into parenthood. And in their young marriage, Shawn and Andrew have weathered highs and lows, including a painful miscarriage, and they remember how sharing with their online community and hearing stories from thousands who had experienced the same pain helped them heal. Jewelry designer Lisa Leonard was juggling so much—a loving marriage, being a mom to two sons (one with special needs) and a passion for her burgeoning business—that she worked herself into a burnout, which took a toll especially on her marriage. As she began to work through these hard feelings, Lisa realized God didn’t require her to be perfect and put together all the time. Slowly but surely, Lisa’s zest for life returned, and she began to build a peaceful life that allowed her to keep creating new resources and loving others the way she always wanted.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Today
Jesus Calling exclusives from Barnes & Noble online
The Next Door Treatment Facility interviews on Jesus Calling podcast
Andrew & Shawn Johnson East
YouTube channel, The East Family
Shawn Johnson East website
Andrew East website
London Olympics
Dancing with the Stars
Lisa Leonard
Be You book
Brave Love book
Your Spark book
Gary Sinise
IMDB - Gary Sinise as “Lieutenant Dan” in the film Forrest Gump,
Interview Quotes:
“I remember going to the Olympics, winning an Olympic gold medal, standing on the medal podium with a gold medal around my neck and feeling almost empty.” - Shawn Johnson East
“Shawn's career was just kind of ending when we met, and my career was about to begin in the NFL. It's such a unique position, and I'm so thankful that Shawn is very uniquely qualified to be a part of the ups and downs of the NFL.” - Andrew East
“[Sharing about my miscarriage with my online community] helped me heal so much, just seeing how many thousands of stories came back of people who had gone through the same thing.” - Shawn Johnson East
“There's so much power in the community.” - Andrew East
“I'm excited about the marriage aspect of parenting, but I'm also excited about the responsibility of what it means to be a thoughtful parent and how you do that well.” - Shawn Johnson East
“I felt like I wanted to do something different and bring beauty into the world.” - Lisa Leonard
“I felt like as a mom with two boys, one with special needs, and my husband and my friends and my extended family, the easiest way to simplify things was to take my needs and wants and put them way up high on a shelf.” - Lisa Leonard
“God can handle our brokenness. He is not surprised by it. He's not scared of it. He's enough to fill that space.” - Lisa Leonard
“This is a journey. We don't have it all figured out. And there's grace, so this is love, right? We don't do everything perfectly, but we're in it together.” - Lisa Leonard
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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God is the restorer of all, and He often works through us to rebuild lives, to touch hearts, and to transform people here on earth. Stars of HGTV’s “Restored by the Fords” brother-and-sister-duo Leanne and Steve Ford share how their supportive parents paved the way for their creative careers, encouraging their kids to try new things, even if they made mistakes along the way. When they understood failure is a normal part of life, Leanne and Steve learned to push their creativity to new heights, and today they inspire others to create homes that help them feel safe and loved. Dr. David Vanderpool has also taken part in rebuilding, but in a different way: by living in Haiti and serving others through his relief organization Live Beyond, Dr. Vanderpool has discovered that living simply and focusing on connecting with others has brought his family closer to God and allowed him to share God’s love with those in need.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Today devotional
Jesus Calling, the new botanical edition
Jesus Calling podcast episode: God Lifts Us Up to Our Full Potential: Philanthropist Melinda Gates & Pastor Tony Evans
HGTV Show Restored by the Fords (Leanne & Steve Ford)
Work in Progress book
Country Living Magazine
Dr. David Vanderpool
Live Beyond relief organization
Britannica, 2010 Haiti Earthquake
Olympic gold medal gymnast Shawn Johnson East
Interview Quotes:
“I realized that it was our family and our faith that created this life where we didn't care what anyone else thought.” - Leanne Ford, remembering her childhood
“We are in a society where if you mess up, it's looked down upon. And the problem with that is that the fear of failure kills creativity.” - Leanne Ford
“I really believe that when you love your home, it really translates into the rest of your life.” - Leanne Ford
“The ability to bring joy and happiness to people, whether it be a giggle or a laugh or a house they're proud of or an idea that gets them inspired, what an awesome gift that we’re able to do that.” - Leanne Ford
“Jesus came to fill the gap between this disparity.” - Dr. David Vanderpool
“When you divest yourself of material things and Plan B starts to fade away a little bit, I think what happens is the Lord becomes nearer and He becomes a whole lot more apparent.” - Dr. David Vanderpool
“There's nothing that is more gratifying or supporting than knowing that you're walking exactly where God wants you to walk.” - Dr. David Vanderpool
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
[Special Series] Dad, pastor, author, and president of For Girls Like You Jonathan Pitts shares 4 Ways to Weather the Storm Well as we search for Peace In Uncertain Times. Jonathan shares how we need to give ourselves a little grace in this season, how saying yes to family time can bring us joy, and how being transparent about our struggles can help us lead effectively and grow our relationship with God.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Social Media
Jonathan Pitts:
Church of the City (Franklin, TN)
For Girls Like You
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“This life in the kingdom is just a crazy adventure where we can't expect anything, but we can trust that God is in control regardless.” - Jonathan Pitts
“Family has been a thing for me that God has reminded me is really where most of my joy comes from.” - Jonathan Pitts
“Living in the presence of Jesus is really critical to our relationship with God.” - Jonathan Pitts
:I really just try to practice being in God's presence because it's not necessarily easy. It's like any other relationship. Sometimes they can be difficult to be with people, to relate to people. And so I just practice showing up to him and I ask that when I show up to him, he shows up to me and he never fails me.” - Jonathan Pitts
[Special Series] Brett Swayn, Executive Chef of the Cookery in Nashville, TN is one of the people on the front lines, helping others during times of crisis. He shows us what can happen when we invest in each other, invest in our world, and invest in prayer; using this time to strengthen our hearts and come closer together as God’s people.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Family Devotional
Jesus Calling Social Media
Brett Swayn (The Cookery)
Lambscroft Ministries
Bible Gateway (Psalm 46)
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“The spirit in the Cookery cafe has blossomed because [the team] know that they are doing God’s work, and they can feel His Spirit encouraging them.” - Brett Swayn speaking on behalf of his team members working without pay to serve others during the pandemic.
“I’ve encouraged the men here to look for places to invest; and from the beginning, they have. They’ve invested in each other, they’ve invested in time in the Word, they’ve invested in time in prayer, they’ve invested time in those that needed help, and they’ve become richer.” - Brett Swayn speaking on behalf of his team serving each other and those in need during the pandemic.
“People can help right now with prayer and pursuing the things that matter on a deeper level.” - Brett Swayn
“Some of us are being taken care of with salary, so now is the time for us to look to those who may be in need and help them with your gift, with your acknowledgement, by your compassion, by your love.” - Brett Swayn
[Special Series] Children’s book author and musician Ellie Holcomb (and her kiddos!) join our Peace in Uncertain Times series to share some ways they are connecting as a family while staying at home, including reading stories, making music together, and having family devotional time. Ellie reminds what we might be able to take away in this season, sharing that, “there's so much that we always have to be grateful for, because God is always faithful and He's always near.”
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Family Devotional
Jesus Calling Social Media
Ellie Holcomb
Don’t Forget to Remember children’s book
Amazon
Spotify
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“God is in the business of making all things new. And so I am so grateful for those tangible reminders of God's faithfulness.” - Ellie Holcomb
“Something that's really helpful during this season [of quarantine] is to name our losses rather than spending the energy, just burying them or trying to just stuff them down.” - Ellie Holcomb
“It helps us anytime we think about other people, it helps us get out of just our own selves and our own story.” - Ellie Holcomb
“[I am] so grateful for God's truth that can ground us and anchor our hearts down during a very uncertain and crazy storm that we are riding through.” - Ellie Holcomb speaking in reference to living life during COV-19 pandemic
Whether or not we see Him, whether or not we feel Him, God is always near, walking beside us no matter where we go. YouTuber and mother of eight Angela Braniff shares how she checked all the boxes to gain a “perfect” life, until she realized Jesus’ life was about far more than giving her what the world considered “perfect.” By warily trusting God’s plan, and learning that she didn’t have to please others, Angela stepped out in faith and discovered a life more fulfilling than she’d ever imagined for herself. Jennifer Greenberg was a victim of abuse for twenty-one years, and in her darkest moments, she cried out to God, wanting to know if He was there. When she clearly heard God say that He would never forsake her, it all changed for Jennifer. She learned to trust God with her anger, moving forward into freedom and healing.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling Prayer Call
Jesus Calling® for Graduates
Angela Braniff, founder of the popular YouTube channel This Gathered Nest
Love Without Borders book
Jennifer Greenberg
BibleGateway.com (Hebrews 13:5)
Not Forsaken book
PTSD, post-traumatic stress disorder
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
HGTV Show Restored by the Fords (Leanne & Steve Ford)
Work in Progress book
Interview Quotes:
“I just thought that if I did all the right things, then my life would turn out how everyone told me, and it would be happy and fulfilled and everything would be great.” - Angela Braniff
“I cried out to God and said, ‘I need you to give me Your eyes. Break my heart for what breaks Yours. If there's more to this life, I need You to show me.’” - Angela Braniff
“They will grow up and have questions, things I can't answer, things I can, and wounds that I, in my humanness, no matter how much I love them as their mother, cannot fix or heal. But the one thing I can do is point them to Jesus, who loves them and who can heal those wounds for them.” - Angela Braniff, on her adoptive children
“Trust that the plan He has is just so much better than any plans we could have ever made for ourselves.” - Angela Braniff
“I knew that no matter what happened, God would never forsake me. He would never abandon me.” - Jennifer Greenberg
"When you grow up with abuse, that is your normal. And so when you start to leave that environment, you're going to come to new realizations for how dysfunctional your past environment was." - Jennifer Greenberg
“I was able to come to a place in my life where I realized that the reason I was angry at my abuser was because I was angry at evil...I realized that I could trust God to be angry for me.” - Jennier Greenberg
“I realized at one point that sometimes we talk about clinging to faith in God, but really, it's God who clings to us.” - Jennifer Greenberg
”Not only do we have a Savior who redeems us from our sins, we have a Savior who can relate with us in an extraordinarily personal and profound way.” - Jennifer Greenberg
________________________
Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Jesus Calling Website
[Special Series] Dawn Barton is author of Laughing Through the Ugly Cry, and her personal journey through traumatic experiences have led her to believe that the obstacles in our lives should not beat us down, but give us reasons to more fully embrace joy wherever we can find it. In this edition of Peace for Uncertain Times, Dawn gives us tips on how to create joy in lives--even during difficult seasons.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Dawn Barton
Laughing Through the Uglly Cry: ..and Finding Unstoppable Joy
Jesus Calling Social Media
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“I am a woman who loves to spread the message of joy.” - Dawn Barton
“It was in those seasons of heartache that I learn what joy felt like.” - Dawn Barton
“Even though I turned from Him [God], He never turned away from me..He had me always in the palm of His hand.” - Dawn Barton
“Great things can come from horrible, traumatic times.” - Dawn Barton
“There’s a moment, a pivot point, when we come out of any situation where we get to make a choice of what’s the next part of the story.” - Dawn Barton
“Positivity and joy do not just happen...they are something we have to work at day by day, hour by hour, minute by minute sometimes.” - Dawn Barton
“I promise you wherever there is heartache, there are immeasurable amounts of joy.” - Dawn Barton
“Joy is a choice. Joy is God, God is joy.” - Dawn Barton
[Special Series] Lady Antebellum’s Hillary Scott and husband Chris Tyrrell share 4 Ways to Find Balance When Life Is Turned Upside Down. The musicians share how balancing routine with flexibility, checking in with each other to stay in the right mindset, juggling responsibilities and goals, and maintaining our relationships with others and God can help us achieve Peace In Uncertain Times, and the answer to an important question: Who do we want to be when this is all over? Includes a live at home performance of the beloved hymn “Great Is Thy Faithfulness!”
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Hillary Scott Facebook
Lady Antebellum
Bible Gateway (Ecclesiastes 9:10)
“Great is Thy Faithfulness”
Jesus Calling Social Media
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“Just because the world is shut down for a few months or few weeks, it doesn’t mean God’s stopped calling us to things It doesn’t mean He’s stopped working through us--on behalf of others and others on behalf of us.” - Chris Tyrrell
“We want to give our kids the peace and calm that can come from having routines and healthy habits.” - Chris Tyrrell, speaking in regards to how the pandemic has tossed so many priorities of life into the air.
“The healthy perspective is to try to find the balance of looking at what is in front of you & prayerfully looking at who God has placed within your grasp right now.” - Chris Tyrrell
“Lord, who do you want me to be, how do you want me to grow at the end of all this [pandemic].” - Hillary Scott
“Let that be our prayer, that we worry less and walk alongside the path of peace with our Lord.” - Hillary Scott
One of God’s greatest gifts is the healing we can find in forgiveness, whether we’re learning to to love and accept others or even ourselves. April 19, 2020 marked the 25th anniversary of the Oklahoma City Bombing, when Bud Welch’s 23-year-old daughter Julie was tragically killed in the blast. Bud shares how he turned his grief into compassion for Bill McVeigh, father of the bomber Timothy McVeigh. Bud is joined by Jeanne Bishop, who recounts how these two fathers shared losses and became the unlikeliest of friends in her new book Grace from the Rubble. After years of struggling to find her way as a young adult, Christine Carter found herself trying to fill the hole in her heart with food. After a heartbreaking encounter with a family member, Christine embarked on a journey to learn how to change from the inside out. Along the way, Christine learned God loved her just as she was, she began to love herself too—and now she’s striving to help others learn to love themselves and cultivate a healthier mindset and lifestyle in her brand-new book Weight-Loss Hero.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Always devotional
Jeanne Bishop, Author
Change of Heart book
Grace From the Rubble book
Bud Welch
25th anniversary of the Oklahoma City Bombing
Timothy McVeigh
Marquette University
St. Charles Borromeo Church in Oklahoma City
Communicant at her Catholic Church,
Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, Oklahoma City OK
Christine Carter, founder and CEO of Weight Loss Hero
Weight-Loss Hero: Transform Your Mind and Body with a Healthy Keto Lifestyle
Mayo Clinic, weight loss surgery
Bible Gateway Matthew 22
Angela Braniff, founder of the popular YouTube channel This Gathered Nest
Love Without Borders book
Interview Quotes:
“What I learned that day about Bill McVeigh was that he and I had the exact same thing in common: we had both buried our children.” - Bud Welch
“There’s such a hunger out there for these stories of people who found a way to get out from under that burden of hate and bitterness, and found this freedom and the grace and mercy and compassion.” - Jeanne Bishop
“I wanted to uplift these two men, these extraordinary men, these two fathers who should have been enemies and instead became these unexpected friends precisely because they were willing to see in one another that they had this common ground.” - Jeanne Bishop
“When your parents die, you go to the hilltop and you bury them. When your children die, you bury them in your heart. It’s forever. It never goes away.” - Bud Welch
“To have that redemption come from such tragedy is just a way of doing what God calls us all to do, which is to forgive others as we've been forgiven.” - Jeanne Bishop
“I thought I had a weight problem, and I didn't know the weight I was carrying was a symptom of what was lurking beneath the surface.” - Christine Carter
“I think that if you've ever overcome something in your life, I feel that part of what God calls us to do is to help someone else, even if it's just one person, help somebody else do the same.” - Christine Carter
“I think a lot of our habits that we have and a lot of our mindsets are really what's holding us hostage.” - Christine Carter
“We put ourselves last—and certainly there's something to be said about having a servant's heart—but you can never pour from an empty cup.” - Christine Carter
“It's easy to fall into that temptation of picking the things that satisfy in the moment. But those things rarely satisfy for a lifetime. I've learned to put my eyes on Christ, put my eyes on God, to say, ‘What does He want for me?’” - Christine Carter
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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[Special Series] Beloved GRAMMY Award winning and platinum album selling singer Sandi Patty announced in early March that she and her husband had contracted the Coronavirus while traveling. Sandi shares how, along with following the protocol for self isolating, she and her husband coped with having to be separated from family in the early days of the crises, the pain of missing important family events like the birth of a grandchild, and how she created new routines to heal her body and her spirit--intentionally connecting with her family in new ways and connecting with God through music, prayer and devotional time.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Social Media
Sandi Patty
Sandi Patty Social Media
YouTube
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“It's a time to see God at work and it's a really hard time.” Sandi Patty discussing the current COVID19 pandemic
“There’s power in reading God’s word out loud in the Psalms, which really gives voice to our own feelings.” - Sandi Patty
“I have been reading Jesus Calling for a very, very, very long time, and it is amazing to me how it is so spot on for what we're going through.” - Sandi Patty
“I ask God that you continue to guide us. That you continue to be a lamp so we can see just what the next step should be. You've given us faith, Father, but You've also given us wisdom. So may we exercise Your wisdom in this season, and may we remember the best place to start is just centering our hearts in Your presence.” - Sandi Patty, prayer
[Special Series] Sixteen year old actress and author Alena Pitts shares how she’s seeking joy as we search for Peace In Uncertain Times. Alena shares what it’s like for teens whose lives have been upended by the quarantine, how she finds comfort in family time and knowing that God’s got this, and how prayer and devotion time is bringing her hope, including an encouraging passage from Jesus Calling for Teens.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Social Media
Alena Pitts
Alena Pitts
War Room movie
Lena in the Spotlight book series
Alena Pitts Social Media
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“The God I serve Who loves me and everyone on this earth, He’s in control. So that definitely gave me a lot of peace,” Alean Pitts discussing her faith in the midst of the COVID19 pandemic.
“God will do anything it takes to disrupt our daily lives so that we all will depend on Him.” - Alena Pitts
Sometimes we have to take a step back and reevaluate, taking a different approach to the things we can control—such as nutrition and wellness—in order to open our hearts and minds to spiritual connection with God. HGTV’s Christina Anstead shares how her stressful career and crumbling marriage took a toll on her emotional, mental, and physical health, and how she fought her way back to wellness by seeking God’s help. Food Network’s Melissa d’Arabian has always seen food as a base for connection, realizing that God has always held space at the table for every single one of us, no matter our differences. By pursuing a higher calling than just being the next Food Network Star, Melissa has discovered the power of seeking daily time with God, and the realization that we can never be fully whole and at peace without connection to the Father.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling Family Devotional
Jesus Calling®: 365 Devotions for Kids
Jesus Calling Peace in Uncertain Times Series (YouTube)
Emily Stroud
Dr. Henry Cloud
HGTV’s Christina Anstead
HGTV’s Flip or Flop
HGTV’s Christina on the Coast
The Wellness Remodel: A Guide to Rebooting How You Eat, Move and Feed Your Soul book
Cara Clark Nutrition
WebMD: Naturopathic Doctor
Mayo Clinic: Hashimoto's thyroid
Food Network’s Melissa d’Arabian
Ten Dollar Dinners
Next Food Network Star (Melissa d’Arabian - Winner of Season 5)
Tasting Grace: Discovering the Power of Food to Connect Us to God, One Another, and Ourselves book
Christine Carter, the founder and CEO of Weight Loss Hero
Interview Quotes:
“I was able to mentally refocus and know there was a bigger purpose in all this, which was huge for me.” - Christina Anstead, on growing closer to God
“Every night before bed, I just pray that doors that need to be shut, that don't bring me something to my greater good, shut them and lock them. Doors that need to be open, that are better for my spirit, then open those up.” - Christina Anstead
“When you go back and focus on the Lord and focus on peace, joy will come.” - Christina Anstead
“Food saved me, which is not something I say lightly.” - Melissa d’Arabian
“That school cafeteria was that first peek into the compassion and the unifying and the equalizing power of food.” - Melissa d’Arabian
“I think our life mission statement is a bigger thing, that we might be called to show up for and be open to the details of how that plays out.”- Melissa d’Arabian
“I love the beauty of us trusting God and getting our daily bread, our daily fill. I love how generous that God is.” - Melissa d’Arabian
“What if all of these features of the food system aren't flaws, but actually invitations into a greater joy and into a greater connection with our Maker and with each other?” - Melissa d’Arabian
________________________
Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
[PEACE FOR UNCERTAIN TIMES SERIES - Eps 2] As we seek to find peace during uncertain times, psychologist and best-selling author of Boundaries Dr. Henry Cloud shares some practical ways to take care of ourselves and re-adjust our lives during difficult times.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling Books
Boundaries Book by Dr. Cloud
Dr. Cloud’s Website
Dr. Cloud’s Instagram
Dr. Cloud’s Facebook
Dr. Cloud’s Twitter
Jesus Calling Social Media
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“The foundation of a house--like you pour a slab--and the foundation of a human being is our sense of connectedness; how connected we feel to God and to other people.” - Dr. Henry Cloud
“When you’re thinking about getting those connections rewired and making sure you have a list of the people you're going to reach out with and connect with, you know, regularly, almost like a dosage of a medicine, because it is medicine.” - Dr Henry Cloud
“When we don't have control, then we start to feel powerless. And so when that sets in, and then depression can set in, anxiety can set in, and fear can set in.” - Dr Henry Cloud
“If you’ve never been a to-do list maker, think about the three or 4 things that are most important each day and every day, make a daily list of “this is what I do have control of.” That will move the needle and move the ball forward and help.”- Dr Henry Cloud
[PEACE FOR UNCERTAIN TIMES SERIES - Eps 1] As we search for peace while navigating uncertain times, financial planner Emily Stroud shows us how to look at our finances while going through tumultuous life events.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Stroud Financial Management Website
Faithful Finance Book by Emily Stroud
Jesus Calling Social Media
See more videos around finding Peace for Uncertain Times on YouTube.com/JesusCalling Book
Interview Quotes:
“I want you to look at [the COVID-19 Pandemic] as a storm. The rain will eventually stop. This will not go on forever. I know it's very unsettling when you don't know what the endgame is and how long it's gonna go on for. But you have to remember that this is temporary. “ - Emily Stroud
“Do not let your emotions drive your investment decisions.” - Emily Stroud
“God's still in control. He is not surprised by what is going on in the world right now. We were surprised. He is not surprised. He has good plans for you.” - Emily Stroud
“He knows exactly what your situation is. True wealth really does come from God--and blessings may not look like financial blessings.” - Emily Stroud
Emily Stroud, Registered Representative
Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC.
Investment Advisor Representative Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment
Advisor. Cambridge and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated.
Jesus Calling and Stroud Financial Management, Inc. are not affiliated.
Sometimes our dreams seem so far out of our reach, we don’t know if we’ll ever achieve them. And sometimes we’ve been chasing dreams for so long, we need to remember why we began the chase in the first place. Matthew Barnett, pastor of the Dream Center, shares how the organization is serving the people of Los Angeles during the COVID-19 pandemic. He talks about how, over the course of the center’s twenty-five year legacy, he’s learned God has placed the Dream Center in LA as a steady force for change in the community, and how little things we do for others have a big impact. With a few strokes of his pencil, Richard Cowdrey can bring to life whimsical children’s book characters like Marley from “Marley & Me” and Fiona the Hippo. Richard shares how, during a troubled adolescence, two teachers helped unveil the artistic dreams he’d always held in his heart and even led Richard to faith. Today Richard is paying it forward by speaking to students and helping them reach for their own passions.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling for Easter
Jesus Calling: The Story of Easter on special at Books-A-Million.com
Jesus Calling episode, God’s Perfect Purpose for Our Imperfect Lives: Rita Wilson and Lisa Osteen Comes
Matthew Barnett
Los Angeles Dream Center
Coronavirus epidemic
Queen of Angels Hospital
One Small Step: The Life-Changing Adventure of Following God's Nudges book
Richard Cowdrey
Fiona, It's Bedtime children’s book
Fiona books
Gray's Anatomy books
Columbus College of Art and Design
Bad Dog, Marley children’s book
Melissa D’Arabian (Food Network)
Interview Quotes:
“Just staying in the neighborhood, not leaving, and being there for people is one of the best things you could do at a time of crisis. [Let them] know that you're not going to run, you're not going to leave. You're still going to be a steady force of change in the community.” - Matthew Barnett
“In the twenty-five years of feeding fifteen hundred hot meals every day, we really believe that we were born for this era that we're facing right now.” - Matthew Barnett
“Every program that we build at the Dream Center is one year, and the reason why it's one year is because we want to give people the luxury of time to change.” - Matthew Barnett
“You're doing the urgent, but you're not responding to the important.” - Matthew Barnett, on times we wander away from God
"I still cannot actually come up with the words to describe what happened. I knew the answers. I knew who I was, why I was." - Richard Cowdrey, on reading the Gospel of John in college
"I have a real love for nature . . . even at a young age, I was aware there must be a God who created the animals and the woods." - Richard Cowdrey
“I'm looking for the ones that look like me, who weren't the straight-A students, who weren't the quarterback, who weren't the star students. They're the ones on the edges, on the fringe. I try to encourage them that they have a gift.” Richard Cowdrey, on speaking in schools
________________________
Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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In our weakest hour, when all hope is lost and we don’t feel like we can pick ourselves back up, God is there, waiting for us to release our burdens and ask for help. Writer and speaker Lisa Bevere had to overcome a hurt she didn’t even realize was holding her back: a difficult relationship with her mother. Lisa spent years trying to find a female mentor, only to discover God wanted Lisa to be the mentor to other young women she’d always wanted. Lisa had to learn that God had given her strength, and as she let go of the excuses she had made for herself, she stepped into the strength that was always there. Former WWE wrestler and Olympic gold medalist Kurt Angle had it all—he was in the spotlight on the world’s stage. But Kurt struggled as he followed a pattern of drugs and alcohol his dad set before him. He realized that he would never be strong enough to break the cycle on his own: he needed Jesus.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling for Easter
Jesus Calling: The Story of Easter on special at Books-A-Million.com
Jesus Calling episode, A Pilot & a POW Cling to Faith During Crisis: Tammie Jo Shults & Carlyle “Smitty” Harris
Lisa Bevere
Messenger International
Strong: Devotions to Live a Powerful & Passionate Life book
BibleGateway.com
Kurt Angle
Kurt Angle (Facebook)
ESPN
Interview Quotes:
“I have such a heart to see women empowered, to be strong, and to understand they don't have to take their strength from somebody else—they get their strength from God.” - Lisa Bevere
“God said to me, ‘I don't want a mentoring of pride. I want mentoring of brokenness. I want you to pour out of your longing, because this is what is going to actually bring healing.’” - Lisa Bevere
“When we think in the back of our mind that being a woman is a weakness, being a woman is a problem, when we think, I could be more powerful if I was a man, then we're actually buying into the enemy's lie, and we're devaluing who God created us to be.” - Lisa Bevere
“I didn't know how to do the, "I'm upset. I'm going to step back so that we can sit down together." What I did is I attacked people instead of problems. I attacked character instead of the crisis.” - Lisa Bevere, on her struggle with anger
“There are a whole lot of reasons that people can give on why they're broken, why they are wounded, why they are hurt. And I have so much compassion for that, but I have good news: what Jesus did for you is more powerful than what anybody did to you.” - Lisa Bevere
”I think it's important for women to have friendships with women that are older than them, women that are their same age and in the same season, and then women who are younger.” - Lisa Bevere
“Too many people think that God has somehow gone mute, and yet Jesus still speaks. He speaks love. He speaks redemption. He says, “I do not condemn.” He says, “I am your light. You don't have to walk in the realm of shadow anymore.” - Lisa Bevere
“One thing I did think about was, I don’t want to become that guy. And, you know, twenty-five years later, I was much of the same guy, my father in every aspect.” - Kurt Angle, on his father
“I had this love affair on the side with alcohol and drugs. And I also had my relationship with God, but I never mixed it. So I was like, “God, I'm going to turn off right now. I'm going to go to my drinking and my drugs and I'll get back to You in a few hours.’” - Kurt Angle
“So every day in rehab, I kept praying, ‘God, please, I don't want to be a screw up. I don't want to come out of here and go back to where I was. I want to progress. I want to move forward.’” - Kurt Angle
“I'm always changing and always asking, ‘What's the next step for me? Where do I go from here and how do I make it?’ And, you know, a lot of it is prayer and my relationship with Jesus, and asking Him, ‘Where do I go?’ I listen to Him quite a bit.” - Kurt Angle
________________________
Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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The more we work and serve alongside people who are different from us, the more readily we see the image of God in everyone. Former San Diego Chargers player Miles McPherson shares how he got mixed up in drugs and the wrong lifestyle in the NFL, but was saved by God when he called out to Him in his lowest moment. Today Miles pastors the Rock Church in San Diego shares that we all have one very important thing in common: God made us in His image, which means we’re all neighbors regardless of skin color. Since he was a little boy, Derek Evans knew he wanted to lend a helping hand to many. After a series of obstacles led him to question his purpose, God helped Derek discover how a small t-shirt company he’d started called Project 615 could change the lives of not only his neighbors at home, but across the world.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling for Easter
Jesus Calling episode, Heavenly Connections: Kristin Chenoweth, Joanne Rogers, & Montell Jordan
Miles McPherson
Rock Church in San Diego, CA
The Third Option: Hope for a Racially Divided Nation book
Pop Warner football
The Good Samaritan story
Derek Evans
Project 615
The Bridge Ministry
Made to Change the World book
Interview Quotes:
“Every NFL team has a Christian contingent. They all have chapels. They all have chapel before the game. They all have Bible study during the week. And so there was a group on our team, and I watched them and knew that what they had, I wanted.” - Miles McPherson
“The big difference for me was having people in my life to hold me accountable and just be there to be an example.” - Miles McPherson, on life after becoming a Christian
”Every race conversation is about us vs. them. And the third option is that we honor what we have in common.” - Miles McPherson
“Every time you see someone, rename them neighbor. You know, the greatest commandment is to love God with your heart, mind, and soul. And the second is just like it, to love your neighbor as yourself . . . If we would just start there and talk about people through the lens of a neighbor or brother or sister, we wouldn't say a lot of the things we say.” - Miles McPherson
“Anytime there's change in my life, I'm more excited than fearful because I know that God always uses those opportunities to really strengthen us.” - Derek Evans
“The beautiful thing about being at rock bottom is that God truly uses that time to mold you, to really speak to you, to really transform your life.” - Derek Evans
"As we're praying over [this homeless man], for the first time in my life, I felt God say, 'You're no different than this man you're praying for.'" – Derek Evans
“God calls us to different things, and not only does He call for different things, He plants different gifts and talents inside of us that He uses to further His kingdom.” - Derek Evans
“We must be the light, as Jesus calls us to be.” - Derek Evans
________________________
Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
In our darkest moments, when we’re searching for hope and healing, we can take comfort in this: we serve a God of restoration, and His greatest desire is to heal our hearts. And all around us, we can see God’s handiwork in the living testimonies of lives restored by Him. Husband-and-wife ministry team John and Stasi Eldredge share how they help others discover (and, for some, remember) the life-changing power of turning your focus back to God, which John outlines in his devotional Restoration Year. Chris Norton was a young college football player when he suffered a devastating injury that left him paralyzed below the neck. With grit and faith, he worked hard to overcome negative diagnoses and met the goal of walking across the stage at his college graduation. Chris and his wife Emily share how they’ve weathered some of their toughest times.
God works in mysterious ways. When we have the road mapped out, He can take us in an entirely different direction than where we thought we were headed. Auntie Anne’s Pretzels founder, Anne Beiler, shares how she was striving to keep up the pretense of a perfect life, but when her daughter was tragically killed and Anne was manipulated and abused by someone who should’ve been a counselor, Anne buried herself in secrets. Eventually Anne discovered the power of confession, and she decided to let go of guilt and live with transparency. And today God has taken Anne’s pain and used it to help her lead a life of compassion. Starting her entertainment career as a professional singer, Nancy Hicks felt God pulling her away from music to become a host at QVC, where she ministered to others on and off screen. As her life changed, Nancy felt God guiding her to a life in ministry, and today Nancy’s mission is to share God’s love with the world.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling for Easter
Lifeway’s $5 Promotion on Jesus Always
Jesus Calling episode, “Women Leading through Forgiveness and Grace: Nona Jones & Alex Seeley”
Anne Beiler
Auntie Anne’s Pretzels
Anne Beiler’s new book, “The Secret Lies Within: An Inside Out at Overcoming Trauma and Finding Purpose in the Pain
Bible Gateway
Bobcat Equipment
Nancy Hicks
QVC Broadcast Programming
Nancy Hicks’s new book, “Meant to Live: Living in Light of the Good News”
Parsons Institute (Fashion)
FIT in New York (Fashion)
Wheaton College (Chicago, IL)
Mayo Clinic (Colon Cancer)
John and Stasi Eldredge
Interview Quotes:
“Secrets leave you powerless, they keep you in a place of darkness, keep you defeated. These secrets that talk to us inside do not allow us to live in freedom.” - Anne Beiler
“Confession can change the trajectory of your entire life and your family.” - Anne Beiler
“I had to experience all this pain so that I could be compassionate with those who are suffering in our world today. “ - Anne Beiler
“Guilt says, ‘I did something wrong.’ Shame says, ‘I am something wrong.’ So in our pain, we believe lies.” - Anne Beiler
“When I feel decisions are tough, and things don’t always turn out the way I prayed for or believed that they should turn out, that's my go to: Life is hard, God is good. ” - Anne Beiler
“I was like, Where am I going here? At the end of this one event that I was singing at, I sensed the Lord saying, “Continue to use the gift to honor me.” - Nancy Hicks
“If you call yourself a follower of Christ, you don't get to pick whether or not you get to be a minister of the gospel, or whether you're in ministry. Everything is ministry.” - Nancy Hicks
“It didn't matter what time, I was in my car, I'd be praying and saying, “Abba, use me today. Use me in the green room. Use me in the makeup chair. God, use me as light and salt.“ - Nancy Hicks, on ministering while she was at QVC
“I remember holding my arms wide out, tears streaming down my face, and just saying, ‘God, what are we gonna do with the next chapter of this one life? I am all in for the kingdom, and I don't have anything holding me back.’ I just begged God, ‘Spend me. Just spend me.’” - Nancy Hicks
“I think there is no substitute for an authentic relationship which takes time with God.” - Nancy Hicks
________________________
Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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God will always be with you, supporting you in times of joy and carrying you through times of despair. This week’s guests tell how, after weathering success and loss, sharing their artistic talents with others have brought hope and healing: country music artist Lauren Alaina and hospitality pioneer Kreis Beall. Lauren traces her path as a young singer from the American Idol stage to Dancing with the Stars and beyond. After American Idol, Lauren remembers how, as a 15-year-old, the sudden pressure in the spotlight alongside horrific social media comments about her appearance spawned an eating disorder, and how her faith and family helped her through that dark time. And Lauren shares why she knows God is real, after her beloved stepfather described heaven as he slipped away from the earth. In the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Kreis Beall and her husband Sandy slowly built a luxury destination resort called Blackberry Farm, where Kreis’s talents soared as she shared her gifts for design and hospitality. Though she’s won considerable success, it wasn’t until she developed a relationship with God later in life that she truly felt successful—and she recalls how her new-found faith helped her through the devastating loss of her son, Sam, which she shares in her memoir called The Great Blue Hills of God.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling for Easter
Lifeway’s $5 Promotion on Jesus Always
Lauren Alaina
American Idol (Season 10)
Dancing with th Stars (Season 28)
Mayo Clinic (Melanoma Cancer)
“The Other Side” lyric video
Kreis Beall
Blackberry Farm
The Great Blue Hills of God: A Story of Facing Loss, Finding Peace, and Learning The True Meaning of Home book
Bible Gateway (Matthew 10:25)
Anne Beiler, the founder of Auntie Anne’s Pretzels
Interview Quotes:
“There are always going to be people who are going to have something to say that is not nice. But if I feel good about myself, and I have people around me that lift me up, that takes the power away from them.” - Lauren Alaina
“We turn our back on Him, but He never turns his back on us. And [if] we're willing to go back to Him, He's always there.” - Lauren Alaina
“I don't want some young girl out there looking at me and thinking that I'm just the most confident person in the world, because I choose to be confident. . . . I was very insecure for a long time, and I've had to work really hard on learning to love myself.” - Lauren Alaina
”I think the most important thing we can do is lift people up and love others and and know that someday we're all going to be reunited in the kingdom of heaven.” - Lauren Alaina
“I'm constantly thinking about the next step, where we're going, what we're going to do. I love to set goals, but I think it's also really important to count your blessings where you are right now.” - Lauren Alaina
“It's super important to find what God means to you. He means something different to everyone. He is my best friend and my Father and all of these things, but for me, He is just a source of strength, and someone that I can talk to when I'm weak.” - Lauren Alaina
“I think having someone who totally believed in me fueled the fire. And it kept pushing me to dream and create.” - Kreis Beall
“Sometimes the role of success can put a blinder on the things that are really important in life.” - Kreis Beall
”As I slowed down, I could experience more than in all the busyness and success that ruled my life.” - Kreis Beall
“Once you uncover the joy that God provides for you, joy is always deep within. And it remains, whether happenings are good or bad.” - Kreis Beall
“I don't know what I would have done without my faith if Sam had died five years earlier, if either one of my children had.” - Kreis Beall
“I have had a lot of sorrow and loss in my life, but it's important for me to look at all the joy.” - Kreis Beall
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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“Why me, God?” Sound familiar? We’ve all questioned why God has allowed bad things to happen in our lives, but this week’s guests, musician Dave Pittman and home designer Rachel Van Kluyve, have faced serious trials that caused them to question their purpose and how to move forward. Growing up, Dave faced bullies because of his Tourette’s Syndrome. After a deep, dark battle, Dave learned to embrace what made him different. As he’s built his music career post-American Idol, today Dave uses his music and experiences to help others find their reason to live. After Rachel had her first child, she grappled with postpartum depression that isolated her. As she began to post online about her decorating hobby, she began to build a supportive, close-knit online community that now helps women and girls around the world. Today Rachel shares her book She Built Herself a Home and how people can easily create spaces to build closer connections to God and to each other.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling book
Jesus Calling for Easter
Jesus Calling ‘What’s Good’ YouTube series featuring Dave Pittman
Jesus Calling podcast episode with Elisabeth Hasselbeck and Jeremy Cowart
Davd Pittman
“Crazy Brave’ song
“Different Kind of Love” album
Tourette Syndrome
ABC’s American Idol
Neil Patrick Harris
Bible Gateway
Rachel Van Kluyve
CrateandCottage.com
She Made Herself a Home: A Practical Guide to Design, Organize, and Give Purpose to Your Space book
Facebook Marketplace
Lauren Alaina
Interview Quotes:
“I was more afraid of living through that again than I was of dying.” - Dave Pittman, on being bullied as a child with Tourette Syndrome
”My mom—both my parents—just drilled into my head and my heart the importance of accepting yourself for who you are, and not just who you are, but who you are in Christ, your identity, who you've become in your walk with Christ.” - Dave Pittman
“I think it's okay to ask why, even now, because Job did. We look at Job in the Bible, he asked God, ‘Why? Why is this happening to me?’” - Dave Pittman
“Anyone can accept something they have to do, but when you can embrace something that you get to do, it’s different. It changes things.” - Dave Pittman
”After I had my first baby, it just kind of all fell apart. I got postpartum [depression]. I lost myself. You know, I was a smart magna cum laude graduate, and I just didn't know what I wanted to do or who I wanted to be, and it spiraled quickly out of control.” - Rachel Van Kluyve
“When I started my Instagram journey, I felt the Lord specifically saying, ‘Everyone knocks social media for not being a good thing for this generation. But I want to use it for good.’” - Rachel Van Kluyve
“We have the power to do so much as moms, as women. [We can] sit at home with a touch of a button and some ingenuity, and we can put together this great thing for people around the world.” - Rachel Van Kluyve
“When we built this house, I prayed specifically that we'd always be hospitable. And it's really the home that's never closed. So because of that, our why has become hospitality, and letting people see Christ at all times, and that they're welcome here.” - Rachel Van Kluyve
“It's all about creating that space that gives security and peace so that you can give it to others.” - Rachel Van Kluyve
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Fear of the unknown and fear of change are some of the greatest struggles we will ever face. How can we possibly leave behind what’s familiar to us? How will we know where to go next? What will happen to us and our loved ones? It can be terrifying, lonely, and confusing. Today’s guests share how they found the courage to make a change, which led them to freedom and joy like they had never experienced. Human trafficking survivor and activist Rebecca Bender opens up about the life she was manipulated into and how, by listening to God’s voice and the strong spirit that He gave her, she found a way out. Novelist Patti Callahan Henry shares how she left her job as a nurse to become a writer, and the story she wrote about C.S. Lewis’ wife, Joy, who also took a leap of faith that led her to a love that she never could’ve imagined for herself. If you’re considering making a change in your life, remember this: it is in the uncomfortable and the unfamiliar that we grow and have an opportunity to depend on God like never before. And He has plans for hope and a future for each one of us.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling book
Jesus Calling: The Jesus Calling Magazine
Jesus Calling for Kids at Barnes & Noble (PINK and BLUE versions)
Rebecca Bender
Rebecca Bender Initiative
In Pursuit of Love: One Woman’s Journey from Trafficked to Triumphant book
National U.S. Trafficking Hotline: 1 (888) 373-7888 to get help today
Patti Callahan Henry
Becoming Mrs. Lewis: The Improbable Love Story of Joy Davidman and C.S. Lewis book
Behind the Scenes of Becoming Mrs. Lewis [Podcast]
C.S. Lewis
Yale Younger Poets Award
American Idol finalist Dave Pittman
Tourette’s Syndrome
Interview Quotes:
”I felt like an outsider, which pushed me, I think, even further away from wanting to be a part of a community of faith.” - Rebecca Bender
”You can't imagine going back to hopelessness, so you choose to look the other way because you really want the dream that's being dangled in front of you.” - Rebecca Bender
“I was so, so filled with knowing that I could hear the voice of the Lord, the voice of the Creator of the universe who chose to talk to me, and that really kept me through some of my darkest times.” - Rebecca Bender
“This is my favorite part about God: how He breaks off chains, He breaks up shame. He can completely redo our lives.” - Rebecca Bender
“You have to be real with God. He knows what you're thinking, and He knows even more than you do what's happening in your brain and in your mind and your heart. So just crying out to Him helps really shift and give you some revelation and helps you take your eyes off of your circumstance to see what He has in store.” - Rebecca Bender
“What I love about the work that God allows me to do today is not only do we get to bring justice for the victim . . . but I love that it's also creating constant change in the community.” - Rebecca Bender
”You know, Jesus loves girls like me—we’re all over the Bible. Put the shame on who should own the shame, which is the perpetrators.” - Rebecca Bender
“[My faith] transforms, and it transforms me. As long as it's always about the indwelling God, I feel fairly safe in my faith.” - Patti Callahan Henry
“I do believe that it was the first time Joy ever truly loved, and it's because she first found her true self in God.” - Patti Callahan Henry
”We might need to pack up everybody's expectations and everybody's demands and everybody's definitions of us.” - Patti Callahan Henry
“My favorite quote by Joy is, ‘If we should ever grow brave, what on earth would become of us?’" - Patti Callahan Henry
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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We’re able to share our hearts and to love others because God chose to love us first. Today’s guests, Joseph “Rev Run” Simmons of RUN-D.M.C. and his wife Justine, along with evangelist and founder of Think Eternity Matt Brown share how they’ve learned to develop qualities of pure, selfless love and how this love has profoundly changed their lives. When he was at the height of his music career, Rev Run couldn’t ignore the void inside him, and it wasn’t until he discovered Jesus that he finally felt whole. He and Justine share their marriage secrets and what it takes to make a relationship work (spoiler alert: put God first!). There’s one nagging thought that keeps Matt Brown up at night: how will the world ever feel God’s love if Christians don’t accurately represent it? If we want to experience the full love that God has for each of us and spread that love to others, we need to set our intentions of seeking that love daily.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling book
Jesus Calling for Kids, Girls Edition devotional
BibleGateway
Patti Callahan Henry
Becoming Mrs. Lewis book
Rev Run & Justine Simmons
Old School Love: And Why It Works book
Joseph "Rev Run" Simmons
God, Can You Hear Me? Children’s book
Rolling Stone Magazine
Matt Brown
Think Eternity
Truth Plus Love: The Jesus Way to Influence book
Interview Quotes:
”It's just funny how you can visualize and set your intentions, and things just come to pass.” - Rev Run
“There's this void that success and money can't fill.” - Rev Run
“You’d think that making hit records or money or cars or fame or people saying, "Oh, you're the greatest," people praising you for making your music would do it. But actually, when you start praising God, that's when you get happy.” - Rev Run
“I love [my husband] so much, but I love God more.” - Justine Simmons
“Spending and dedicating time with God leads to a better hearing ear.” - Rev Run
“Enjoying each other's company is probably a big part of staying together.” - Rev Run
“God has a way of making it clear to us where He wants us to go and what He wants us to do. . . . To grow in the Lord, and to reflect God to the world around us, we need both truth and love.” - Matt Brown
“How is the world supposed to see the grace of God if the people of God are not gracious?” - Matt Brown
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
Jesus didn’t come for perfect people—He came to heal the broken and the hurting. Today’s guests, artist and author Amy Kavelaris and Christian music artist Austin French, share how God met them in their broken places and healed their lives and hearts. Amy draws inspiration from the awe-filled way her three little girls see the world, and it reminds her of the light God is in her life. When she gets overwhelmed by demands on her time or struggles to navigate life’s changing seasons, Amy remembers that God is creating opportunities for her. Austin French faced an internal battle with Christianity for years, only to realize he wasn’t hurt by a broken God, but by broken people. He finally found peace and healing when he learned that Jesus wants every piece of us. We are not defined by our scars—we’re defined by His.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling book
Jesus Calling App
Jesus Calling® for Easter. With 50 Jesus Calling devotions
Jesus Calling interview with Mercy Me’s Bart Millard
Amy Kavelaris
Bloom Print Studio
Harper Collins / Thomas Nelson / Tommy Nelson
Good Night, My Darling Dear book
Austin French
ABC’s “Rising Star”
NBC’s “The Voice,”
Interview Quotes:
“I just had this innate feeling that God existed and that I just wanted to follow Him with my life.” - Amy Kavelaris
”I think it's so important that we celebrate God's creation. It's fun to add a little whimsy and sparkle into the everyday, because our kids see the everyday as wonderful and extraordinary.” - Amy Kavelaris
”I get so much more from watching [my girls] and seeing how they react to [the world]. It's just this beautiful relationship that we have, where it 100 percent inspires what I do every day.” - Amy Kavelaris
”This is all about Him. He’s the only reason I'm doing any of this.” - Amy Kavelaris
“I find that the only joy and freedom is when we gaze upon His light and His truth. It's then that we find that true, indescribable joy, and stop chasing after what the world tells us we need.” - Amy Kavelaris
“I didn't understand why we had to change who we were at church and why we couldn't be who we were all the time. As an eight-year-old kid, I wrote down: I never want to be a Christian.” - Austin French
“I realized that I had been hurt by broken people, not Jesus. Jesus is what He told me He was—He was the Healer of broken people.” - Austin French
“We're very needy people, all of us. We need people. We need a God who's with us and working with us.” - Austin French
”I think the only way to find a relationship with Jesus and truly find freedom in Jesus is to understand that brokenness is a part of this story.” - Austin French
“We're not defined by our scars or the scars that you're walking through right now— we're defined by His. - Austin French
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Life will give us our share of dark times, but we can choose to be the light. Today’s guests share how they use the power of story to share messages of hope and purpose. Award-winning ABC News correspondent Linsey Davis shares how she has taken lessons from her childhood in church, her time as a reporter, and the values she’s trying to instill in her young son to show that what’s important is loving people, not focusing on our differences. After several miscarriages, when Angela Rodgers discovered she was pregnant again, she was told the baby would have several health issues—but Angela loved her little girl and knew God had a plan for her life. Dynamic mother-daughter duo Angela and Grace Anna Rodgers are now sharing nine-year-old Grace Anna’s gift of singing with the world, spreading happiness and reminding others that what matters about people is who they are on the inside, not the outside.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling book
Jesus Calling Family Devotional
Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids
Jesus Calling App
Linsey Davis
ABC’s World News Tonight
ABC’s Good Morning America
ABC’s Nightline
The World is Awake: A Celebration of Everyday Blessings book
One Big Heart: A Celebration of Being More Alike Than Different book
Angela and Grace Anna Rodgers
GraceAnnaSings.org
Grace Anna Sings: A Story of Hope Through a Little Girl with a Big Voice book
Who Do You See When You Look at Me? book
Grace Anna singing the National Anthem (Facebook video)
Conradi Hunermann Syndrome
Sammy Kershaw
Bobby Henline
Contemporary Christian Music artist Austin French
Interview Quotes:
“[My mom was] very much responsible for my falling in love with storytelling and with writing and with the English language.” - Linsey Davis
“When I look back now, I think [my time in church as a child] was so important to who I am today.” - Linsey Davis
“I can see God's hand in other people's lives, for sure. But when truly catastrophic things happen, I don't know how to explain it. But I have to believe that God has a plan.” - Linsey Davis
“My son's five, and when he comes home and he's met a new friend, he doesn't tell me about their race or their background or religion or culture. He just says what they have in common.” - Linsey Davis
“Let's say, ‘Hey, we have different color skin and hair and features and likes and dislikes. But guess what? God gave us all this one unique gift. He gave us all one big heart and that's the most important part, because that's where love starts.’” - Linsey Davis
“From the very beginning, we wanted Grace Anna, even when the doctors didn't give us a whole lot of hope.” - Angela Rodgers
“What would touch my heart so deeply is you would see these colonels and these generals with all these medals be brought to tears when Grace Anna would sing the national anthem.” - Angela Rodgers
“Sometimes you go through things that change who we become.” - Angela Rodgers
“I think God made each of us with unique gifts. We’re all different in some way. So we can show love by being kind and trying to learn from each other.” - Grace Anna Rodgers
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Our planet holds more than seven billion people, and each one reflects who God is—because He created every one of us in His image. Today we hear from two women who have learned the value of who God created them to be and now lead others into finding their own worth as they carve out new spaces to foster connection. Nona Jones, head of faith-based partnerships at Facebook, shares how she overcame years of abuse and trauma to learn that she’s more than what happened to her, and chose forgiveness as a way out of her shame. Today she connects with churches all over the world and people searching for God’s purpose for their own lives. Pastor Alex Seeley shares how difficult it was to uproot her life in Australia to follow God’s calling for her family in America, only to discover that churches in the US didn’t seem to have a place for her. Alex shares how she and her husband Henry created The Belonging Co as a place to help artists and musicians in Nashville without a church home to experience God’s presence, and the life-changing power of discovering His presence in our own journeys.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling book
Jesus Calling Weekly Prayer Call
Nona Jones
Success From the Inside Out: Power to Rise from the Past to a Fulfilling Future Book
Alex Seeley
The Belonging Co Church
The Opposite Life: Unlocking the Mysteries of God’s Upside-Down Kingdom Book
Biblegateway (The Beatitudes)
Planetshakers Ministry
Interview Quotes:
“The reason I was acting out [was] because of so much chaos at home. I was responding and reacting to trauma, and nobody ever asked me why I was acting that way. They just assumed I was a bad kid.” - Nona Jones
“I have this scar on one of my wrists that's a constant reminder of what I tried to do [to end my life], but it's also a reminder of God's grace, because He determined that my life was worth living, even when I didn't see it.” - Nona Jones
“Trauma really changes the way you see yourself. The thing I would like to encourage other people to know is you are not what happened to you.” - Nona Jones
“Twenty-five minutes after I resigned from my job in faith, Facebook called me out of the blue.” - Nona Jones
“If you look at the life of Jesus, He didn't tell people, ‘Hey guys, come see me at the temple on Sunday at 11:00, I have this amazing series that's coming up.’ He didn't do that. He ministered to people wherever they were.” - Nona Jones
“Just like a healthy family needs both parents to bring balance to home life, I think a church so needs the balance of male and female attributes of the father heart of God.” - Alex Seeley
“There are so many people that are hungry for an encounter with God, but they're being given a religious experience, but not this amazing encounter with the Holy Spirit and Jesus.” - Alex Seeley
“To have an encounter where Jesus changes your life, and then people take note of the change that's happening.” - Alex Seeley
“I think the world is confused, because people who call themselves Christians are not acting in an opposite spirit. They're acting like everybody else.” - Alex Seeley
“I've been a Christian for thirty-five years, and I can't get past the fact that He loved me while I was a broken mess.” - Alex Seeley
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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None of us is guaranteed a pain-free life. But when we can’t see the right way to move forward, that’s where God steps in to take us by the hand and leads us out of the dark. On today’s episode, Army veteran and Bachelorette contestant Luke Pell and author/speaker Jack Deere share some of their painful moments—an unexplainable, near-death experience; watching a spouse slip into an alcohol addiction; losing a child—events that almost caused them to give up. But each man reminds us: when it feels like we have nothing left to cling to, God is there. And He’s ready to guide us through those experiences so that later, we can support others who may not be able to find their way out, either.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling book
Jesus Always Family Prayer Calendar
Luke Pell
ABC’s The Bachelorette show
West Point - United States Military Academy
Mayo Clinic (PTSD)
BibleGateway
Jack Deere
Dallas Theological Seminary
Even in Our Darkness: The Story of Beauty in a Broken Life book
Young Life
C. S. Lewis
John Snyder Oil Company
Nona Jones, Facebook’s Global Faith-Based Partnerships
Interview Quotes:
“As you become an adult, you have to figure out what your faith really means to you.” - Luke Pell
“If you're not growing and getting stronger and [going in] the direction of your goals, you're going to be digressing in the wrong direction.” - Luke Pell
“One of the biggest victories in my faith was that I came back to a spot where I was completely surrendering my plans and my expectations back to God, and what purpose I was put on this earth for, instead of [wondering] what I could get out of this world and what people thought of me.” - Luke Pell
“Only one thing does matter: it’s the legacy that you left, the inspiration that you left in the world, the people that you inspired, your faith that you were able to show to the rest of the world around you, and the lives that you were able to change.” - Luke Pell
“Then God shows up and comes alongside you through somebody [who] gives you inspiration, or however that message comes, ‘You're gonna be okay. You're gonna make it through.’” - Luke Pell
“I've really learned to appreciate those moments of uncertainty, when you're feeling more alone and you're feeling like you don't know what tomorrow holds. . . . Those are the times when I get the most direct purpose from God in my life.” - Luke Pell
“We have to really stay true to ourselves and true to our faith, and keep that faith walk intact, regardless of what the rest of the world is throwing at you every day. The more we're thinking about the rest of the world and what they're thinking about us, the less we're thinking about what God has for us and where our faith walk should be.” - Luke Pell
“[My] childhood produced this desire to keep really tight control in my life. I blocked out some of the stuff and thought, Feelings are bad. Stay in your mind. Don't go to your feelings. That was the hardening effect that my childhood had on me.” - Jack Deere
“When you're seventeen years old and everybody you've ever loved has left you, to hear that God won't leave you is just too good to be true.” - Jack Deere
“The only Person who never needed any help chose twelve helpers. Why? For the pleasure it gave Him to love those twelve apostles and to teach them to love what He loved.” - Jack Deere
“Although I had plenty of my own shame, I didn't even think in those categories. I just thought, You have an unpleasant feeling. Just get rid of it. I lived out of my mind, not out of my feelings.” - Jack Deere
“I began to see that the most important thing in life is feeling the affection of God, actually being friends with Him. We love Him because He first loved us.” - Jack Deere
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Ever wonder exactly who you are and what you were made for? Today’s guests tell how, as they pursued ways to know God and themselves a bit more, He’s helped them understand their true selves—not what other people say they are. Enneagram coach Beth McCord shares how she and her husband, Jeff, used this popular personality test to understand each other and improve their marriage, finding out the attributes God gave them both along the way. Author Esther Fleece Allen explores the power behind the names that God gives us, and how this can help us shed labels others might give us so that we can hear who God says we are while discovering His purpose for our lives.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Weekly Prayer Call
True Connection with God and Each Other: Darlene Zschech and Margaret Feinberg episode
Beth McCord
YourEnneagramCoach.com
The Enneagram Collection Book Series
Becoming Us: Using the Enneagram to Create a Thriving Gospel-Centered Marriage book
Esther Fleece Allen
No More Faking Fine: Ending the Pretending book
Your New Name: Saying Goodby to the Labels that Limit book
Interview Quotes:
“If we learn why people do what they do, we can have more empathy, understanding, grace, mercy, compassion, and love in ways that really reflect the heart of Christ.” - Beth McCord
“God created us all differently, and each of the personality types have a beautiful way that we reflect in it.” - Beth McCord
“So often my heart wants to do it myself, to figure it out myself, to pull myself up by my bootstraps. But only Christ can fix me. Only Christ can love me. Only Christ has everything accomplished for me.” - Beth McCord
“Something that is very sacred and important to God is names.” - Esther Fleece Allen
“[I ask myself,] ‘Who does He say that I am and how can I begin to believe the new names He's given me, apart from the labels that I've associated with for far too long?’” - Esther Fleece Allen
“God does not speak to me in a condemning way like these labels are doing. God speaks to me in a new way, a language that I'm not even really familiar with, because we're so used to criticism in this life.” - Esther Fleece Allen
“There's power in a name. There's power in what we name others, what we name future generations, and there's power in the name we take on for ourselves, of who we're going to become.” - Esther Fleece Allen
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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No matter where we grow up, no matter who our parents are or which zip code we live in, each of us will meet challenges. And in those moments, we have a choice: do we give up, or do we keep going? Today we talk with two athletes who, with God by their sides, have endured the sting of defeat and the joy of victory. Lolo Jones is one of only ten athletes who have competed in both the Summer and Winter Olympic games. Lolo shares how some of the hardest moments of her childhood helped her to compete on the world stage. When he was growing up in Atlanta, Evander Holyfield found community (and a hint at his athletic future) at the Boys Clubs of America. He shares how his mother and his faith guided him into a storied boxing career, and why sometimes our defeats are more instructive than our wins.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Weekly Prayer Call
Jesus Calling app
Serving Our Savior in the Spotlight: Josh Turner and Michael McDowell episode
Lolo Jones
Salvation Army
Hurdles of Hope Foundation
London Olympics
Evander Holyfield
Atlanta’s Boy’s Clubs of America
Riddick Bowe
Michael Moorer
Mike Tyson
Lennox Lewis
John Ruiz
Muhammad Ali
Interview Quotes:
“I definitely think that my hardships molded me for the life that I would have to go through later.” - Lolo Jones
“This statistic of kids that have incarcerated parents—it tremendously increases their chance that at one point in their life, they will be incarcerated as well. I wanted to break that chain.” - Lolo Jones
“I know my childhood strengthened me for a time to stand on the world stage and compete.” - Lolo Jones
“If I go through hardships, I know to say, ‘Okay, this really, really hurt me. This is frustrating. I wanted this so bad, and it was ripped away,’ instead of being like, ‘How could you, God?’”- Lolo Jones
“As Christians, we try to predict how God's going to use us, and when He doesn't use us in that manner, we become hurt.” - Lolo Jones
“I became who I am because I really wanted to please my momma. My mom was so disappointed so much her life, and I wanted to be that joy.” - Evander Holyfield
“Having setbacks paves the way to show you how good God is.” - Evander Holyfield
“Every time you mess up, you've got to have Somebody who will give you another opportunity.” - Evander Holyfield
________________________
Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
Some of God’s greatest miracles come when He brings good out of dark places. In Ogden, Utah, pastor Matt Roberts felt he didn’t feel comfortable inviting his friends and neighbors to church as it didn’t feel like a place where people could be vulnerable, so he decided to create an open community he thought they—and he—would feel like they belonged. When his former youth pastor, Rob Cowles, came for a visit, Rob knew The Genesis Project was something special and decided to plant his own location in Fort Collins, Colorado—in, of all places, a former strip club. Carrie Stuart Parks was a young woman with a flair for art when her father, the head of the School of Law Enforcement in northern Idaho, decided to invite Carrie to use her talents on crime scenes. Carrie became enamored with the work, helping victims close the chapter on some of the darkest moments of their lives. She even began a second career as a thriller novelist—not knowing her mentor was a wildly successful author himself—and work to help reach not knowing her mentor was a wildly successful author himself—now reaches the world through stories and emotions we all can relate to.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Large Text Cloth Botanical Cover
God Can Redeem Your Struggles: Joel & Luke Smallbone and Sandi Patty
Lolo Jones Olympic athlete
The Genesis Project
Matt Roberts
The Genesis Project, Ogden, UT
Rob Cowles
The Genesis Project, Fort Collins, CO
The God of New Beginnings: How the Power of Relationship Brings Hope and Redeems Lives book
Gary Haugen International Justice Mission, founder
Carrie Stuart Parks
FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia
Secrets to Drawing Realistic Faces book
Frank Peretti author
Unitarian Universalism
HarperCollins Christian Publishing
Interview Quotes:
"It was really hard to invite [my friends and community] to church with me. It was such a cultural gap . . . " - Matt Roberts
“That time in Portland was very monumental for us, really learning what it meant to be an embedded church in the middle of a culture that desperately needed a Savior.” - Matt Roberts
“What does it mean to live bravely in the way of Jesus?” - Rob Cowles, on Gary Haugen
“There was an authenticity about their worship [at The Genesis Project], because they really knew what it was to be brought back from darkness, brought back from death into new life.” - Rob Cowles
“Community doesn't happen by accident. We have to actually cultivate and create a space where people can come in and be real, be open, and be honest.” - Matt Roberts
“What happens is if you create a culture where it's not safe to talk about your brokenness, to talk about your failure, to talk about your pain, that then you naturally create a culture where you have to be fake.” - Rob Cowles
“I pray that I will be salt and light to them as I speak to them. I wear a cross, I let them know, just by having that cross on the outside, where I'm coming from. I don't say anything to them. I just let the presence of that and my words be, hopefully, helpful.” - Carrie Stuart Parks
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Christmas can be a time for joy, but also for reflection—and for many, a reminder of lost moments and loved ones. This week’s guests, musicians Dailey & Vincent and Ernie Haase, remind us this season is filled with hope, because God loved us so much that He sent Jesus into the world. These artists tell us how they fell in love with music (from bluegrass to gospel) and why they center their songs and shows around positive messages. Dailey & Vincent recently released The Sounds of Christmas project, and share their warmest (and most hilarious) Christmas memories and family traditions. Ernie Haase gives a behind-the-scenes look at the way his new album with Signature Sound, A Jazzy Little Christmas, was born out of a fun-filled holiday trip to New York, and how we can still celebrate the holiday while honoring those who are no longer with us at Christmas.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling for Christmas
Dolly Parton Belives with God, All Things Are Possible episode
Celebrating the Power of Jesus’ Love: Mark Lowry and CBD President Ray Hendrickson episode
Choosing Christ Through Doubt & Fear: Bear Grylls & Rhonda Vincent episode
Lifting Up Others Through Service: Country Singer Jimmy Fortune and US Army Veteran Jess Key episode
Shining God’s Light Through Music: Oak Ridge Boys & Aaron Watson episode
Dailey & Vincent
The Sounds of Christmas album
The Dailey & Vincent show on RFD Television
“Jingle Bells” video
International Bluegrass Music Association
Ricky Skaggs
BibleGateway (1 Timothy 6:12)
Hallmark Channel Christmas
Ernie Haase
“A Jazzy Little Christmas” album
Cathedral Quartet
The Message Bible, Eugene Peterson
New York Cares (Winter Wishes program)
Interview Quotes:
“The most important part about all the music, just boiling it down to the bare bones, is the way you speak to other people. The songs that we pick and the way the songs speak to their hearts and give them such peace and joy.” - Darrin Vincent
“It's a universal language—music speaks to everybody.” - Darrin Vincent
“We don't know what all these people are going through. But many people in that audience are going through something. It is our job to go out there and take them on a 90-minute ride that will make them forget whatever they're dealing with, and hopefully leave there feeling a lot better.” - Jamie Dailey
“My testimony is that a perceived no might be just a not now from God.“ - Ernie Haase
“What Sarah has done with the Jesus Calling book, for me, she’s made Jesus very personal, very relatable.” - Ernie Haase
“Hopefully, by people listening to our music and enjoying our music, it'll make the season a little bit brighter for some people.” - Ernie Haase
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Whether our friends walk on two legs or four, connection gives meaning to our lives. God often uses these bonds to show how we can care for others, but what we don’t often realize is that those opportunities help us learn how to care for ourselves, too. Bull rider Cody Nance talks about how his faith and career blossomed through his family and through friends he met on the rodeo circuit. HIS Haven Ranch mentors Laurie Baer and Janice Larsen share how they serve kids who are hurting in their community through horse therapy by providing an additional support system to their lives, reminding us all how God's creatures, big and small, can bring joy to our lives.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Weekly Prayer Call
God’s Gift of Pets: Animal Rescue Advocate Lavonne Redferring and Country Singer Irlene Mandrell
Cody Nance
Paris, Tennessee
Cody Nance Instagram
Cody Nance Facebook
Cody Nance Twitter
HIS Haven Ranch
Dailey & Vincent
Interview Quotes:
“I've been able to be used on a platform like I've never imagined before, and I'm just thankful that God is allowing me to do that.” - Cody Nance
“I do believe that God saved me when I was young, but I believe I lost track of the most important thing, and that was being faithful in my love for Him and His worship.” - Cody Nance
"[When] I'm strapped to the back of a [2,000 lb. bull] jumping in the air and kicking . . . sometimes it gets a little wild. But He's always there and He's always taking care of me." - Cody Nance
“Our four-legged friends gave us a picture and a model of something that God could do on a greater level.” - Laurie Baer
“Our mission was to make a place that would empower and transform lives through healing and the Savior.” - Laurie Baer
“We pray that the perspective that [our riders] have will be an eternal perspective, so we'll use a horse and we use the Word of God. And they seem to work really well together.” - Laurie Baer
“It's not our job to judge the growth. It's not our job to judge the fruit. It's our job to sow the seed, to water the seed, and that means giving God's Word and dispensing it freely.” - Janice Larsen
“We're all at risk for something, if we're being honest with ourselves. We all have vulnerabilities.” - Laurie Baer
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Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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God never leaves our side, no matter what. On today’s episode, 24-time PRCA rodeo champion Trevor Brazile shares how bull rider Cody Custer helped him rededicate his life to Jesus, and why he is instilling strong cowboy values of honor, respect, and faith into his children. Christian music artist Zach Williams shares how God reclaimed his story as a struggling rock star and transformed his life toward creating a different kind of music, touching more lives than Zach could have ever imagined—thanks, in part, to a surprise collaboration with Dolly Parton. Both Trevor and Zach show how God stuck by them in good times and bad, even if they didn’t feel His presence, and how they honor Him by using their platforms to spread His love to others.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Textured Gray Leathersoft with Full Scriptures
Trusting God to Fill the Gap: Rodeo Stars Tyson Durfey (w/ wife Shea Fisher) and Cody Custer
Dolly Parton Believes in God, All Things are Possible
Trevor Brazile
Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association
Zach Williams
Rescue Story album
Rescue Story video
“There Was Jesus” Live CMA Performance with Dolly Parton
Redeemed by Big Daddy Weave
His Haven Ranch
Interview Quotes:
"[My son] may not choose to be a rodeo cowboy . . . but I wanted him to grow up in a culture of respect, not only for people, but for animals." - Trevor Brazile
”Philippians 4:13—I like that [verse]. ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’ Because we can't do everything under our own power. We need God's help sometimes—all the time.” - Treston Brazile
”Unconditional love is perfected when we love Him back, and that's why it's so important to spend that time in the Word and just build on that relationship.” - Trevor Brazile
“The success that we've had has given me a platform to let people know that it wasn't all me. It was my Savior.” - Trevor Brazile
“I just fell in love with this idea that I could start writing these songs and telling these stories in this season of life that I was going through.” - Zach Williams
“I was thinking that I should be happy for all the things that I have, but nothing I was doing was filling this hole in my life.” - Zach Williams
“My wife invited me to go to a prison with her and share some of these songs. And for me, that was like the first time that God had really spoken to me and said, ‘These are the songs. These are the people. These are places. This is the music that I have for you to write.’” - Zach Williams
“To hear people share a story with me and be like, 'Hey, man, I heard your song, "Fear's a Liar," and it saved my life' . . . it's better than any award you're going to get or any kind of recognition." - Zach Williams
“God has been doing some pretty amazing things in my life over the last few years.” - Zach Williams
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Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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As we walk unexpected paths in our lives, we’re joined by a God who never leaves our side and is involved in every step of our journey. On today’s episode, John Maxwell shares the joy of understanding the God who speaks in Jeremiah 29:11, who has “plans to prosper us and not to harm us, plans to give us a hope and a future.” He also shows us that we all have leadership qualities if we’re positively influencing others’ lives.
When he was a young husband, pastor Nate Pyle never imagined he’d have to face the “for worse” part of his marriage vows so early. As he and his wife experienced infertility and struggles with mental health, Nate began to think about the difference between giving up and letting go, and how God helps us move through grief and times of suffering.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling App
Jesus Calling weekly prayer call
T. D. Jakes and Don Moen: Where Is God When Our Dreams Are Crushed? John Maxwell
Leadershift: The 11 Essential Changes Every Leader Must Embrace book The Leader's Greatest Return: Attracting, Developing, and Multiplying Leaders book Nate Pyle
More Than You Can Handle: When Life's Overwhelming Pain Meets God's Overcoming Grace book Bible Gateway
Trevor Brazile
Interview Quotes:
“Everything I know about leadership is from the Bible.” - John Maxwell
“I think God's Word is the ultimate leadership book.” - John Maxwell
“God’s incredibly interested in all your junk.” - John Maxwell
“If I'm 1000 steps from God, He takes 999 steps to my door.” - John Maxwell
“The moment I ask questions, I start connecting with people, because now I'm valuing their opinion and I'm starting to influence and lead them from where they are, not from where I am.” - John Maxwell
“This idea that God won't give you more than you can handle, I think, is a way in which we try to shelter ourselves from the world, because the world is more than you can handle.” - Nate Pyle
“We read through the Bible, what we see, more often than not, is that the way God chooses to save His people is not to save them from the negative experience, but rather to save them through it.” Nate Pyle
“We have to remember that sometimes God shows up through the people who show up next to us as we're walking through something difficult.“ - Nate Pyle
“Suffering is the common denominator for all humans. It's the thing we have in common.” - Nate Pyle
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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One of God’s greatest blessings to us are friends and neighbors. And in fact, God designed us to care for each other, to learn from each other, and to support each other in life’s most difficult moments. In today’s episode, entertainer Kristin Chenoweth shares how good friends have mentored her and shaped her—and how actor/producer Rita Wilson sharing a copy of Jesus Calling strengthened her faith. As the wife of Fred Rogers, Joanne Rogers saw firsthand how an open heart and a soft word can change a relationship, and she shares how important reconciliation and being a good neighbor was to her husband. R&B sensation and now-pastor Montell Jordan tells how, even in the midst of worldwide music success, a family friend saved him from the brink of losing everything he loved, including his marriage, by sitting him down to have a painful discussion. More than ever, we need connection with others who will walk alongside us through thick and thin—and God wants us to be that friend to others as well.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Always
Jesus Calling weekly prayer call
God’s Perfect Purpose for Our Imperfect Lives: Rita Wilson and Lisa Osteen Comes
The Joy of Spreading Love, One Heart at a Time: Deliliah and Gary Thomas Kristin Chenoweth
Kristin Chenoweth Arts and Education Fund
Broadway Bootcamp
Kristin Chenoweth Theatre
Hallmark’s A Christmas Love Story
Kristin Chenoweth’s Christmas Concert with the Tabernacle Choir
For the Girls recording
Art of Elegance recording
Joanne Rogers
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood movie
Montell Jordan
Victory World Church
Lecrae
Interview Quotes:
“Work hard, play hard, love what you do. Life's short. Don't live beyond your means. All those things—stay humble. A smile goes a long way. Don't sweat the small stuff. Those kinds of things that I heard growing up helped me a lot.” - Kristin Chenoweth
“A lot of people say you should do your prayer or meditation or your quiet time, whatever that is for you, in the morning. But for me, it's a nighttime thing.” - Kristin Chenoweth
“I believe that sometimes things happen to you so that God can speak, because sometimes you can't hear when you get too busy.” - Kristin Chenoweth
“I think it's important, when you have been given opportunities and had success, you need to give it to the people behind you.” - Kristin Chenoweth
“[Fred and I] did have a very good friendship, which I think is very important for young married people.” - Joanne Rogers
“His program was his ministry.” - Joanne Rogers
“Everything is so divisive right now. Someone said to me, ‘He would be on his soapbox,’ and I said, ‘Oh, no, I don't think so. He would just be walking the walk and trying to do what he could with reconciliation.’“ - Joanne Rogers
“A lot of times I was in church, but church wasn't always in me.” - Montell Jordan
“Everything changed for me, having a number-one record as your first record out of the box. I didn't recognize that great success did not come with an instruction manual.” - Montell Jordan
“[My wife Kristin and I] are still regularly recovering to make sure that that we maintain what God restored.” - Montell Jordan
”When God closes the door, no man can open it. And when he opens the door, no man can close it.” - Montell Jordan
“Maybe this is something that people need, and our story is something that makes sense to people who are navigating through landmines and fields that we've already crossed.” - Montell Jordan, on sharing his story
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Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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We were not designed to be perfect; we were designed to be uniquely us. Today’s guests, authors Sally Clarkson and her son Nathan, and writer Hayley Morgan share their stories of struggling to accept their differences and imperfections. Though Nathan was discouraged because he didn’t fit into society’s mold, and Hayley feared she wasn’t perfect enough, God revealed His purpose for their lives and has helped them utilize their gifts in ways they never knew possible. Their stories remind us even if we can’t see it, God has a bigger plan ahead for each one of us, and He can use our differences to do all kinds of good.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling weekly prayer call
When Your Purpose Seems Unclear, Seek God: Jeremy Cowart & Elisabeth Hasselbeck Sally Clarkson
Nathan Clarkson
“Only You Can Be You: What Make You Different Makes You Great” book
“Different: The Story of an Outside-the-Box Kid and the Mom Who Loved Him” book
Hayley Morgan
The Twig Goes Out On a Limb blog
“Always Enough, Never Too Much: 100 Devotions to Quit Comparing, Stop Hiding, and Start Living Wild and Free” book
Interview Quotes:
“Even in the midst of my adolescent angst, I found a God who says He loved me as I was, and I found a God who said I was made for a purpose, and that all these differences could be used for His glory and for the story that He wanted to tell with my life.” - Nathan Clarkson
“Let's rejoice in this place and find out how we can bring light to any of our dark corners, but also to learn to be content within the story that we've been given.“ - Sally Clarkson
“Every single personality, whether they're loud or or whether they're shy, whether they like adventure or they like sitting at home reading—we wanted to give a book to parents that would imprint the minds of their children to say, ‘All of us are an incredible, magnificent reflection of the fingerprints of God as He made us each individually for His own glory.’“ - Sally Clarkson
“I started to untangle the idea of grace and grace for every day, not just grace as a one time event.” - Hayley Morgan
“Once I really understood grace, I had to apply the gospel to my life every day, to myself every day. I'm never going to grow out of needing it. That freed me up so much to then walk with the Lord, not just try to please Him and try to impress Him.” - Hayley Morgan
“The Lord has used my failures in equal or greater measures than He has used my successes to draw me closer to Him.” - Hayley Morgan
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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There is always light, even in the darkest times. Today’s guests faced the most unimaginable circumstances, but by clinging to faith, they survived and protected others. Southwest Airlines pilot Tammie Jo Shults saved the lives of 148 passengers when she safely landed a plane after an engine exploded mid-flight. In the middle of chaos, Tammie Jo’s conversation with God gave her peace during the crisis and helped reveal a solution to landing the plane. Retired Air Force pilot and former Vietnam POW Col. Smitty Harris spent years in prison teaching others a method of communication called the tap code, which helped boost morale and spread information among other prisoners. Smitty shares powerful stories of secret church services and moments that helped prisoners survive mentally, physically, and spiritually. Through the uncertainty of survival, Tammie Jo and Smitty realized that God will never forsake us—He will always provide a way.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling weekly prayer call
Becoming an Everyday Hero: Neal McCoy & Rodney D. Bullard
Tammie Jo Shults
Nerves of Steel (Young Readers Edition) book
Holloman Air Force Base
Jungle Pilot Book (Nate Saint)
Col. Carlyle “Smitty” Harris
Tap Code: The Epic Survival Tale of a Vietnam POW and the Secret Code That Changed Everything book
Hanoi Hilton
Ho Chi Minh
Tap Code, Chapter 1 on audiobook
Interview Quotes:
“Whenever I dreamed about what I wanted to do in life, I dreamed without fences.” - Capt. Tammie Jo Shults
“There are some times when we just have to take what's not fair and and work around it.” - Capt. Tammie Jo Shults
“He asks us to pray for people that don't treat us very well, because He'll deal with them. But dealing with us, in our own heart, in that situation, is really the first step to overcoming it.” - Capt. Tammie Jo Shults
“Hope doesn't have to change our circumstances to change us.” - Tammie Jo Shults
“Our communication [with the tap code] became so fast and so good, and we were interested in so many things, between each other and trying to find out information. . . . We talked about God, religion, and how important it was, especially now. It turned out that we were all Christian.” - Col. Carlyle “Smitty” Harris
“We used our time [as POWs] productively. We had classes in almost anything you'd want. There would be someone in that group—it was pretty educated group, everyone had at least a Bachelor's degree and [there were] quite a few Masters.” - Col. Carlyle “Smitty” Harris
“The hardest part about those eight years being away from my family was just that—being away from my family.” - Col. Carlyle “Smitty” Harris
“And I knew, even in the darkest times, when things were at their lowest, lowest ebb, I knew I could always pray and I knew someone was listening, they could do something about it.” - Col. Carlyle “Smitty” Harris
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Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Some days, it feels like we’re facing battles alone. But the truth is, God is always with us. And He shows His presence through the connections we have with others. Today’s guests share how cultivating strong friendships over time have transformed their lives. TV actor Jeremy Miller (best known as Ben Seaver on Growing Pains) and pediatric cardiologist Brandon Lane Phillips met when they were kids, and eventually, Brandon’s fight for Jeremy would end up saving his life. Indiana friends and contractors Josh Arnett and Aaron Gray were propelled to fame when they put aside their tools to record a spontaneous hymn of worship—and one Facebook video later, the viral singing sensations “The Singing Contractors” were born. With these stories, we remember that when we step outside our comfort zone and reach out to others, God can use those people and those moments for His purpose.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling weekly prayer call
NEW! Jesus Calling Magazine
The Unfailing Kindness of Christ: Candace Cameron Buré and Kristin Fry Jeremy Miller & Brandon Lande Phillips
When I Wished Upon a Star book
IMDB: Jeremy Miller, ‘Ben Seaver on Growing Pains’
IMDB: Kirk Cameron
IMDB: Alan Thicke
Congenital Heart Defect
Tetralogy of Fallot
Starlight Children’s Foundation
The Singing Contractors
“How Great Thou Art” song
“Working on a Building” CD
Interview Quotes:
“If I could go from my little town in Louisiana to meet these people in Hollywood, then as far as I was concerned, I could do anything.” - Brandon Lane Phillips
“I started running from God. I wasn't angry at God, I was just ashamed. I knew I was doing everything wrong. I quit going to church. I quit praying. I quit everything. I just ran the other direction. And it was a miserable way to live, I can tell you that. “ - Jeremy Miller
“My family, my faith, and my recovery are the center of my life every single day.” - Jeremy Miller
“[I am] able to utilize all the hurts, all the problems, all the horrors that I went through in my addiction, and even growing up, to help others.” - Jeremy Miller
“The fact that God gives us that opportunity to take that pain and those struggles and use them for something good and give them a purpose is such a blessing. And in my mind, it makes all of it worth it.” - Jeremy Miller
“God's plan—good, bad, or indifferent as it's affecting our life at that moment—is exactly how He meant it to be. So wherever we are, whatever we're dealing with right now, at this moment, is exactly perfect.” - Jeremy Miller
“What did Jesus do? He equipped the unequipped . . . I feel it's what He's doing with us. We're unequipped, but He's helping us every step we take.” - Aaron Gray, The Singing Contractors
“What keeps us going is when we know that something as little as what we're doing can encourage somebody else—that encourages us to keep going and to keep pressing on. That's why we do it.” - Josh Arnett, The Singing Contractors
“The ultimate friend and the ultimate encourager is Jesus himself.” - Josh Arnett, The Singing Contractors
“When tools, beards, Jesus, and our music collide—it's fun to talk about the tools and beards and everything. But at the end of the day, we just want to uplift Jesus’ name.” - Aaron Gray, The Singing Contractors
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Many of us spend our lives trying to match our talents with the world’s need. We want to feel useful, after all. But when we’re hustling to get dinner on the table, or shuttling loved ones to doctor’s appointments, or rushing to meet a deadline, “finding our purpose” feels like a task that’s way too big to check off the list. But even if we don’t feel it, God has a purpose for our lives, and is doing great things, even through imperfect humans. Our guests, actor/producer Rita Wilson and pastor Lisa Osteen Comes, remind us that God has put greatness inside each of us, and as we travel through our lives, He reveals new gifts we can use to reach others.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young
Jesus Calling Podcast
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling weekly prayer call
Jesus Calling podcast - “Using Our Gifts for Good: Musciaian RaeLynn & Writer Kristy Cambron
Rita Wilson
Halfway to Home album
The Spark song
Throw Me a Party song
My Big Fat Greek Wedding movie
Mamma Mia! Movie
Screen Actor’s Guild
The Brady Bunch sitcom
Lisa Osteen Comes
Lakewood Church (Houston, TX)
You Were Made for More: How to Become All You Were Created to Be book
The Singing Contractors’ “How Great Thou Art”
Interview Quotes:
“We're works in progress. We're not really finished, and we are constantly trying to be better.” - Rita Wilson
“But at the end of the day, you want to be remembered for making someone's life better.” - Rita Wilson
“Having been blessed with an extraordinary life, you almost become more thankful. You can't take credit for it. In a way, I feel like everything that I do—anything good that is coming out of it, I believe—is from a higher power.” - Rita Wilson
“Creativity is time independent.” - Rita Wilson
“All these things come against us in life, and sometimes it looks like we're not gonna make it, we're not going to live out our dreams. But with God's help, we can.” - Lisa Osteen Comes
“What did God put in you naturally? What are your gifts, what are your talents? Because whatever He puts in you, He's going to use for your destiny, for His purpose, for His glory.” - Lisa Osteen Comes
"I am God's child and He has a plan for me. He will help me if He calls me. He will equip me and help me to do whatever He has called me to do." - Lisa Osteen Comes
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Sometimes we picture our lives going one way, until we encounter impossible choices and painful struggles we never saw coming. But no matter your past, your pain, or your mistakes, when we give our stories over to God, He can write a new ending for us—one filled with potential and purpose. On today’s episode, author and activist Cyntoia Brown-Long is joined by her husband Jamie Long as she shares her redemptive story of an adolescence marred by trafficking and drug use that led to a murder conviction and a life sentence in prison. Despite the walls around her and no guarantee of freedom, Cyntoia determined to expand her horizons and better herself personally in prison. But Cyntoia found it was when she began to give her life back to God that a new chapter really started to unfold. Cyntoia’s husband Jamie tells how God miraculously brought the couple together, and how He’s using them to not only strengthen each other, but to help others find justice and mercy. Interior designer Liz Marie Galvan tells the story of a life seemingly filled with joy and opportunity. Married to the love of her life, she had a budding career in design and dreams of a family—until she was confronted with the harsh reality of infertility. Hesitant to share her pain with others, she eventually found community with those who were walking through the same issues. Now, through the work she does to create cozy homes and being open about her personal story, Liz Marie sees how God can be a light during our darkest of hours and how He can redeem our stories for a greater good.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling weekly prayer call
Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith [Original Video Series] featuring Rita Wilson
Cyntoia Brown-Long
Simon Shuster Book publisher
‘Free Cyntoia: My Search for Redemption in the American Prison System’ book
Libscomb University
PBS Documentary: Me Facing Life
#FreeCyntoia hashtag (Twitter)
Bill Haslam (Tennessee Governor)
Liz Marie Galvan
Cozy White Cottage: 100 Ways to Love the Feeling of Being Home
The Found Cottage
Christopher Lowell
Trading Spaces
Interview Quotes:
“I knew that there was some way that I could live some type of meaningful life [in prison].” - Cyntoia Brown-Long
“Jesus is always calling. He has a word for you 365 days every year. It doesn't stop. He's always there. He's there when you need Him. He's there just to say, "Hey, thank you." - Jamie Long
“But to experience true freedom—whether in prison or out of prison—it comes through Him.”- Cyntoia Brown-Long
“He is a God of second chances.” - Cyntoia Brown-Long
“Even though I was in a physical prison, I was in prison within prison. I was in a prison of anger. I was in a prison of my past, constantly letting that anxiety hold me captive.” - Cyntoia Brown-Long
“No matter what your prison is, you just have to submit to Him and cast all your cares on Him and let Him do what He does. That's who He is. He's God.” - Cyntoia Brown-Long
“I was able to meet an entire community of people that were going through the same struggle [through my blog]. It was so helpful to be able to rally together and give each other hope and pray for each other.” - Liz Marie Galvan
“I was starting to stumble a little bit and wonder why I was going through this. And I was looking to God, wanting to know why I was not able to bear a child. It was one of the darkest seasons of my life.” - Liz Marie Galvan
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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When we’re mired in shame, it’s hard to believe we could ever be worthy of God’s grace. But when we step aside and allow God into the pit, He can pull us out of our mess and use our lives to show His glory in ways we could never imagine. Today we hear from Lauren, Aja, and Natalie—three women who have traveled through The Next Door, a nonprofit, faith-based organization that helps women coming out of incarceration to rebuild their lives. With vulnerability and strength, these women remind us there is nothing we can do that can separate us from God’s love.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young, author of Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling weekly prayer call
Jesus Calling interview with Next Door graduates Janie & Tammy
The Next Door non-profit organization
Nashville, TN
Interview Quotes:
“The Next Door has completely changed my life. I had to find me again.” - Lauren, The Next Door
“There’s a difference between guilt and shame. Guilt is, ;I feel bad for something I've done,” but shame is, “I feel bad because of who I am.’” - Lauren, The Next Door
“God really shows up when we get out of the way and let Him.” - Lauren, The Next Door
“[The Next Door] took me in. And I'll never forget walking in the building and taking the biggest deep breath, because it was like coming home again. You know, I didn't have a home. And that's what they've become for me.” - Lauren, The Next Door
“When I finally stop trying to save myself, to let Him save me, He does it's much bigger than I could have ever done for myself.” - Lauren, The Next Door
“You have no idea what you'll do until you're in the grips of [addiction]. It was really hard. But because it was so hard, it helped someone else, and it qualifies me to speak life into other women. That, to me, is all the hope I need.” - Lauren, The Next Door
“When I came to The Next Door, I found a greater relationship with God.” - Aja, The Next Door
“We would read Jesus Calling at the beginning of group every day, and it would just fall right in line with what was going on in my life. And today, it is still falling in line with what is going on in my life, right in the middle of my struggles.” - Aja, The Next Door
“There is a God and He is real. AlI you have to do is hold onto His hand and He will do the rest. Hold on to Him. He will lead you where you need to go.” - Aja, The Next Door
“I found that not only does He know broken people, but He loves broken people that can help broken people.” - Natalie, The Next Door
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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We humans love to feel powerful and in control. But each of us has a handful of weaknesses, and we try desperately to hide them from the rest of the world. But time and again, God tells us when we’re weak, He is strong. And when we turn over our weakness to Him and make Him the hero of our lives, He can transform that weakness into our greatest strength for His glory. Our guests this week, pastor Derek Grier and publisher Wayne McKay, share how God’s used some of their pain points to reach others. As an introvert, Dr. Grier never expected to be a pastor. With God’s help, he’s learned how to refuel so he can lead the rapidly-growing Grace Church and reach others through new book When God Stops. When he was a child in Sunday School, Wayne McKay had a hard time understanding the Bible. As an adult, he developed BibleForce, a graphic novel brand that would help kids engage with the life-changing messages of God’s Word and show them heroes to look up to.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young, author of Jesus Calling
Jesus Always
Jesus Calling (Textured Gray Leathersoft): Enjoying Peace in His Presence (with Full Scriptures)
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling interview with David Crowder & Francesca Battistelli
Bishop Derek Grier
Grace Church (Dumfries, VA)
When God Stops: Faith That Gets God’s Attention
Howard University
Wayne McKay (Founder of BibleForce)
BibleForce Graphic Novel
The Next Door ministry organization
Interview Quotes:
“The way I have learned to describe it is that introversion versus extroversion is about how you refuel.” - Dr. Derek Grier
“What captured me was [Jesus’] character. He became my hero, even before He became my Lord.” - Dr. Derek Grier
“I don't really think I grew my church as much as my church grew me.” - Dr. Derek Grier
“If you begin to really communicate God's truth caringly, consistently, and clearly, hungry people will beat a path to your door, because people want to know God.” - Dr. Derek Grier
“Sometimes, we just stay in that place where God revealed Himself to us twenty years ago, and that's it.” - Dr. Derek Grier
“We have to continue to step out in our faith journey and do things that we have not done before, in order for us to continue to get a growing revelation of who God is.” - Dr. Derek Grier
“I wasn't a very good student of the Bible when I was a kid, because I just didn't understand it. If I'd had a picture story where I could’ve looked at something, then I would have been far more interested when I was younger.” - Wayne McKay
“I think heroes should be displaying good moral code, standing up for others, unafraid to take on confrontation, and should be a good member of the community.” - Wayne McKay
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Our journey of faith can be a long, slow process, or one where a single life event can jar us into discovering our true relationship with God. Singer Gloria Gaynor, the voice behind one of the world’s most powerful anthems, “I Will Survive,” knows what it’s like to be moved into a space where she needed to know about “this Jesus” she had heard about all her life and if she really believed who He said He was. Former physician Jeff Huxford also knows, all too well, what it was like to have a “comfortable” faith, until a devastating accident turned his world upside down and caused him to reassess everything. Through both their stories, we’ll see how they arrived at a place of deep trust in Jesus—when everything else was going awry in their lives—and how God’s grace, mercy and faithfulness helped them survive their toughest moments.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young, author of Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling (Textured Gray Leathersoft): Enjoying Peace in His Presence (with Full Scriptures)
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling interview with NFL Mark Herzlich and his wife Danielle
Gloria Gaynor
Gloria's new gospel album, "Testimony"
Jason Crabb, Bart Millard, & Yolanda Adams
“He Won’t Let Go” ft. Bart Millard
“I Will Survive” Video
“Why Do Fools Fall in Love” by Frankie Lymon
“Save Your Love For Me” by Nancy Wilson
Isaiah 7:14 on BibleGateway
Jeff Huxford
Finding Normal: An Uninvited Change, An Unexpected Outcome
“Traumatic Brain Injury” – The Mayo Clinic
Interview Quotes:
“Children don't know they're poor, as long as they're loved. So we didn't know we were poor, because we were very much loved.” - Gloria Gaynor
“I just wanted somebody to hear me sing. I didn't care about accolades or applause, I just wanted somebody to hear me sing.” - Gloria Gaynor
“So I was just leaving [my problems] up to Him. I was fully assured that God would do something, I just didn't know what.” - Gloria Gaynor
“I like songs that are meaningful, that have lyrics, that touch people's hearts, and that have good melodies.” - Gloria Gaynor
“My pastor AR Bernard says, ‘If you want to be successful in life, find out what God is doing and get in on it.’” - Gloria Gaynor
“He is so faithful. It is incredible how He is always there for you.” - Gloria Gaynor
“When God has a timetable, and you run out ahead of God, you end up out there by yourself.” - Gloria Gaynor
“Hold on. Stay on the path. Keep the faith, and know that He won't let go.” - Gloria Gaynor
“My head went through the open window, slammed against the concrete pole, and I suffered a traumatic brain injury.“ Jeff Huxford
“After a brain injury, the [affected] person essentially becomes a new person. Who they were before is a thing of the past.” - Jeff Huxford
“My faith was based more on the don'ts rather than the do's.” - Jeff Huxford
“I like the way Jesus Calling seems to make you slow down, rest, and think about what Jesus is trying to tell you right now.” - Jeff Huxford
“I grew up believing that it makes you uncomfortable, don't do it. But the truth is, there's a lot of things in the Bible that God calls us to do. And it's not always going to be comfortable, because He knows that when we do things that are uncomfortable, that's when we grow, and our faith gets stronger.” - Jeff Huxford
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Even after we know Jesus, many of us struggle with mistakes from our past. It seems like those memories will always haunt us and influence decisions we make. How do we learn to let go of the past and let God guide our future? This week’s guests, pastor Robert Morris and singer/songwriter Matt Maher, share how we can use our experiences and the constant presence of a supporting, loving God to become a blessing to others, whether we’re sharing our resources or learning to forgive our parents (and ourselves). In this episode, we’re reminded that God believes in us and He can help us peel back the layers of our souls; using our present to heal our past.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young, author of Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling (Textured Gray Leathersoft): Enjoying Peace in His Presence (with Full Scriptures)
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling interview with Jay DeMarcus & Kim Walker-Smith
Pastor Robert Morris
Gateway Church
Beyond Blessed: God's Perfect Plan to Overcome All Financial Stress book
The Blessed Life: Unlocking the Rewards of Generous Living book
Televangelist James Robison
Singer/Songwriter Matt Maher
Echoes album
Newfoundland
St. Johns, Newfoundland
Benedictine Order
Arizona State University
Interview Quotes:
“Even though I believed in Jesus, I'd never given Him my will. I'd never given Him control, and I wanted to. I wanted to more than anything.” - Robert Morris
“There's a different direction in my heart.” - Robert Morris
“I teach that we get to give, we don't give to get.” - Robert Morris
“For us to truly live a life of blessing, or a life that blesses others, we've got to be generous. But we've also got to be good stewards of what God gives us.” - Robert Morris
“One of the most important things that I learned in growing up in Newfoundland, you treat everyone as if you are encountering the face of God.” - Matt Maher
“I think there were plenty of times when I didn't realize how much God believed in me.” - Matt Maher
“When it comes to the psychology of faith and how faith develops, a lot of us end up having very stunted experiences of growth. And we don't even realize that subconsciously, we're still praying and talking with God the same way that we did when we were four or five years old.” - Matt Maher
“There was just a lot of undoing that God needed to do. He needed to peel back a lot of layers, there was a lot of inner monologues where I was speaking for Him.” - Matt Maher
“I've always said that songwriting comes out of the overflow of the human heart that [comes from] spending time with God. And that's how I express. That's how God made me, to express life and process the things that I see or the things that I'm going through.” - Matt Maher
“For me, fatherhood has been one of the ways in which God has brought a lot of healing into my life, as I've been able to lean into faith and grace and extend that to my kids. God uses those moments in the present. He repairs the past.” - Matt Maher
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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As people of faith, we can talk about some of life’s hardest moments openly, knowing when we share our struggles, our friends and family will rally around us. But what do we do when we have questions and doubts about our faith? Where will we find acceptance when we question the tenets of our faith or even the presence of God? God promises He is always near to us, no matter what—and that includes our questions and doubts. This week’s guests, pastors and writers Erwin McManus and Dominic Done, talk about the battles we fight to find hope and answers. And they remind us when we seek God, even in the midst of our hardest moments, we can find His peace, which passes all understanding.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young, author of Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling weekly Prayer Call
Jesus Calling interview with Bishop T. D. Jakes & worship leader Don Moen
Erwin McManus
Mosaic Church (Los Angeles, CA)
The Way of the Warrior: An Ancient Path to Inner Peace
Boulevard of Broken Dreams
Dominic Done
Westside: A Jesus Church
When Faith Fails: Finding God in the Shadow of Doubt
James K. A. Smith
Doubting Thomas
Bible Gateway
C. S. Lewis, A Grief Observed
Friedrich Nietzsche
Existential Nihilism vs. Atheism Worldviews
Interview Quotes:
“The reason there are wars that rage all around us is that there are wars that rage within us.” Erwin McManus
“The battle for peace is exactly that: it's a struggle, it's a battle, it's a daily engagement for peace within your soul.” - Erwin McManus
”For hope to exist, it has to be in the future. When our hope is placed in the past, it turns into regret.” - Erwin McManus
“I'm convinced the reason we're created in the image of God is that we're imagined by God to create” - Erwin McManus
“Anyone who ever aspires to do anything meaningful is going to have the loss of a dream. One huge challenge is to not put your identity in the dream, because if your value as a human being is based on the dream you're pursuing, then your value is really fragile.” - Erwin McManus
“Many of us can identify and relate to a guy like Doubting Thomas. We want a deeper form of faith, but we also don't know what to do with our struggles and our questions.” - Dominic Done
“I think it takes wisdom to learn how to live in the tension of an unresolved faith.” - Dominic Done
“I would actually argue that God designed [us] in such a way that questions are born and that questions can lead us into a deeper, richer, more meaningful relationship with God.” - Dominic Done
“I would argue that the mystery in a relationship is actually what makes a relationship beautiful.” - Dominic Done
“We get so obsessed with wanting all the answers. But it's not about having every single answer. It's about the wrestle. It's about the struggle. It's about intimacy with God.” - Dominic Done
“I'm learning that God is speaking, but I'm not always listening.” - Dominic Done
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Some moments feel like you’re playing in a big game. It’s the 4th quarter, your team is down by 6, and you’re the quarterback—the outcome rests on your shoulders. You’ve spent hours watching your opponent on film, and you’ve played against them for nearly 60 minutes. You’ve been watching their patterns and strategies, and you come up with a play you’re certain will outsmart them and lead you to victory—but your Coach doesn’t agree. He gives you another play to run, one you don’t quite understand. So you’re faced with a dilemma: should you run your own play, the one you understand? Or do you trust your Coach’s wisdom and run with His strategy, leaving the game in His hands? Our guests this week, NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner and CBS Sports broadcaster James Brown, decided to live according to God’s playbook. And each of their journeys is a testament to the amazing things that happen when we lean on God’s wisdom and trust His timing.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young, author of Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling weekly Prayer Call
Jesus Calling interview with Mark Herzlich
Jesus Calling interview with Erwin McManus
Kurt Warner, NFL Hall of Fame quarterback
TreasureHouse Organization
James Brown, Sportscaster
60 Minutes
CBS Sports
Fox NFL Sunday
Fox Sports
NFL Network
NFL Today
Thursday Night Football
DeMatha Catholic High School
Bill Bradley
The Cove (Billy Graham Training Center)
Interview Quotes:
"When I finally did get to the NFL, it was so much bigger than [people wearing my jersey]. It was, 'How can I use this to inspire and impact other people?'" - Kurt Warner
“[I have] this unique story that has a chance to impact more people because of the journey [itself] than anything accomplished on the field.” - Kurt Warner
“Every time something goes against us, the first thing we want to do is scream out to God, or blame God, or blame someone else. And [now I] have that constant reminder: Hold on, we've been here before. And you've seen how God has taken something that you think is horrific and [He has] made it into something unique, special, and impactful.” - Kurt Warner
"My [high school basketball coach] stressed those of us playing for him had to have four priorities in place: God had to be first. Family second. Then school, then your sport." - James Brown
“Many things that are very simple are really profound and leave an indelible impression, a life-changing influence.” - James Brown
“So even though in the work environment, you may not find me running around beating people over the head with the Bible, I pray that I am modeling God's word with all the characteristics being displayed in what I do.” - James Brown
“God has got each of us right where He wants us, so let's maximize that lean, that sphere of influence where we are.” - James Brown
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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In our world, it’s easy to let others define our worth. After all, we interact with people and get feedback on our performance all day long at work, at school, in communities online and off. We feel great when other people compliment us or “like” our posts—but what happens when people don’t like what we’re doing? What happens when we try to chase that affirmation from people and fail to live up to their ever-changing standards? This week, we talk with two actors in the spotlight—Priscilla Shirer and Jeremy Ray Taylor—who try diligently to remember God defines their worth, not the world, and that our days are so much better when we live for His glory and not our own.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young, author of Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling weekly Prayer Call
Jesus Calling Interview with Tony Evans
Jesus Calling Interview with country singer Josh Turner and NASCAR driver Michael McDowell
Priscilla Shirer
Going Beyond Ministries
Overcomer Movie (official website)
Overcomer Movie (IMDB)
Overcomer Movie trailer (YouTube)
Alex Kendrick
Kendrick Brothers
I Can Only Imagine movie
Jeremy Ray Taylor
Harrison Ford
NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner
Interview Quotes:
“Sometimes we are wishing away the very things about our uniqueness that are designed to be used for a purpose we can't even comprehend.” - Priscilla Shirer
“Each and every one of us have to decide who or what we're gonna give permission to identify us, to label us, to name us.” - Priscilla Shirer
“Who you are in God can still anchor you even when there is chaos swirling around you.” - Priscilla Shirer
“What [defines] you? Who have you given that authority to? And in the end, it better be God, because everything else is up one day and gone tomorrow. But what God says about you remains, no matter what happens in this life.” - Priscilla Shirer
“I've just enjoyed the creative outlet of doing something different, and yet the same, in the sense that it's an opportunity to still share the love of Jesus just in a different way.” - Priscilla Shirer
“That's what overcoming is. It's having a peace that literally passes your understanding. You literally don't understand how you have peace in the midst of the storm that you are suffering and struggling through.” - Priscilla Shirer
“Life on a farm definitely has prepared me for acting. It definitely built a work ethic, I’d say.” - Jeremy Ray Taylor
“I recognized [him] and I was like, “Oh gosh, that’s Harrison Ford,” and he's just a normal guy, too. That was one crazy thing that I realized is that everybody [in Hollywood] is just normal.” - Jeremy Ray Taylor
“The more we're around people [in the film industry], the more we love it, and the more we're just able to love on people.” - Tracy Taylor
“For us, staying connected to God, that’s important as a conversation. And it’s just trying to keep that focus, to keep that the center of what you do and where you are.” - Tracy Taylor
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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We live in a world that’s more connected than ever but, ironically, more isolated. We disappear into our smartphones and tablets, ignoring the the people God placed us with right in our own living rooms, schools, workplaces and out in the world. Perhaps it’s easier to tap “like” on a screen than ask someone about their day or how we can help them—but that’s not the kind of relationship God called us to have with others. Today we talk with four women—Laurie Crouch, Victoria Osteen, and Dr. DeeDee Freeman of TBN’s Better Together, and novelist Rachel Hauck—to learn how they’re intentionally cultivating their relationships with others, especially their friendships, and how taking time to nurture those relationships with love reaps lasting rewards for everyone.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young, author of Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling weekly Prayer Call
Jesus Calling Interview Candace Cameron Buré
BetterTogether.tv
Laurie Crouch
Trinity Broadcasting Network
Victoria Osteen
Lakewood Church
Dr. DeeDee Freeman
Spirit of Faith Christian Center
Rachel Hauck
The Memory House book
Asbury Seminary
Laura Ingalls Wilder “Little House” book series
Once Upon a Prince (Hallmark Channel)
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
Interview Quotes:
“One of the biggest lies that the enemy put in the church is what we have taken from the world to say, ‘Women can’t get along.’ But we can get along. We can be here for one another. We can encourage each other” - Dr. DeeDee Freeman
“When you hear someone's story, their challenge, what they've been through, it causes you to understand that person better.” - Victoria Osteen
“I believe the diversity of how we are is a representation of what Christ is. And so we have to learn how to come together, bring our differences together, and really share and look like what God intended for us to look like.” - Dr. DeeDee Freeman
“It's so important to find people you can pray with, and that can agree with you to lift each other up.” - Laurie Crouch
“If women knew their worth, if they really understood their value in the eyes of God—and that's where it starts. It's not in the eyes of man, but it's in the eyes of God—I believe we tap into a superpower.” - Victoria Osteen
“You know, you can hear scriptures all your life. You can read a scripture a hundred times, but sometimes a friend or someone close to you can read it to you and bring out something that you have never, never thought of.” - Laurie Crouch
“I believe God is so awesome with the creativity of how He made us so unique, if you will, to bring our strengths and our talents together to make the whole picture of what God truly looks like.” - Dr. DeeDee Freeman
“Love is in everything. Is there any story where there's not a love angle, be it parental or sibling or friendship?” - Rachel Hauck
“About the time I started going into full-time writing, I was also on this journey of understanding this amazing love story in scripture.” - Rachel Hauck
“When you're confident you're doing the thing that God designed you to do, then you can endure the hard times, or the disappointments, or the ups and the downs.” - Rachel Hauck
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Every one of us is fighting a hard battle. Day in and day out, we try our best to care for loved ones and spread a little of God’s goodness in the world—and sometimes that load feels heavier than others. But as we stumble around with the weight of our burdens, we forget we don’t have to carry them alone. Our guests this week, author and speaker Matthew Kelly and nonprofit leader Tammy Bullock, remind us that despite the burdens on our backs, we can choose to view our world through the lens of joy. And that joy helps us remember no matter what we’re carrying, God is always by our side, helping to lighten the load.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Sarah Young, author of Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling weekly Prayer Call
Jesus Calling Interview Candace Payne
Matthew Kelly
Dynamic Catholic
Rediscover the Saints: Twenty-Five Questions That Will Change Your Life book
Tammy Bullock
Nashville Rescue Mission
Bible Gateway – Philippians 4:13
Marian Love artist
Sony Records
Brentwood Baptist Church
Preston Taylor Ministries
Interview Quotes:
“Humanity is broken and messy.” - Matthew Kelly
“I still believe the gospel of Jesus Christ is the best way to live." - Matthew Kelly
“I think it's very important that we monitor our joy, that we stay attentive to our joy.” - Matthew Kelly
“If we're mindful that everyone we meet is carrying a heavy burden, we treat people with a different gentleness or with a different respect.” - Matthew Kelly
“We talk about having a personal relationship with God, but it's hard to connect to that sometimes, and I think [Jesus Calling] effortlessly creates that connection and creates a bridge.” - Matthew Kelly
“In any situation we turn to God and say, ‘God, what do you want me to do right now?’ And if we just set aside self-interest, what we feel like doing, what we want to do, and we just do what we feel God is calling us to do in that moment, we've created a holy moment.” - Matthew Kelly
“The saints didn't live holy lives. They lived holy moments, and between the holy moments.” - Matthew Kelly
“But we all are called to be saints in the way Paul envisioned in his letters. I think that’s a concept that needs to be rediscovered, because it leads us to understand that we have a part to play in the revitalization of our society and the renewal of our world.” - Matthew Kelly
“As Christians and as a society, we need to give our leaders permission to be human, because we'll see an astounding new authenticity if we do.” - Matthew Kelly
“The spirit of God's relationship with [humanity] throughout the Judeo-Christian tradition has always been one of collaboration.” - Matthew Kelly
“At nine years old, I understood [the meaning of] faith: a hope for something I cannot see, but I can believe it.” - Tammy Bullock
“If You will save me, I will use this voice You have given me. I will use my voice, my speaking voice, all that I am to bring You glory." - Tammy Bullock
“Some of her last words I can remember [my mom] saying to me are, ‘Tammy, don't scratch with the chickens. You were made to soar.’” - Tammy Bullock
“I have seen so many women feel loved, feel embraced, and feel as if Jesus is talking to them. [Jesus Calling] is very personal, and they need to feel loved because perhaps each woman, depending upon her life story, has never felt loved unconditionally.” - Tammy Bullock
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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When God created our world, the first thing He said was, “Let there be light.” And since then, the people of God have been beating back the darkness by shining His glorious light. This week, three music artists—Anthony Evans and duo Jenny & Tyler—tell us how they came to the realization of their calling, and why it’s so meaningful to them to spread Christ’s light to others.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Always Prayer Calendar
Anthony Evans
Dr. Tony Evans
Dr. Lois Evans
NBC’s The Voice
Unexpected Places book
Press Release: Anthony Evans as ‘Beast’ in Beauty & the Beast Live Tour
Promise Keepers
International Justice Mission
Bible Gateway
JC Interview with Another Artist Spreading God’s Light: Ellie Holcomb
Jenny and Tyler
Official Music Video: Waters Roll
Interview Quotes:
“I have never tried to take on the identity of my parents or siblings, because I know that God has created me with a very unique build, and [it’s] the same thing with you.” - Anthony Evans
“I believe that my faith and my abilities were not just built for inside of the four walls of a church.” - Anthony Evans
“I'm always challenged to make sure I'm not compromising my faith in order to connect.” - Anthony Evans
“I define success by, Am I at peace internally? Because you can't go out and write a check for peace after you do the biggest thing in the world.” - Anthony Evans
“I have people in my life here in LA, in Hollywood who don't know church, but [Jesus Calling] has impacted their life.” - Anthony Evans
“When you step boldly into the unknown, God is always faithful to light up the next step.” - Anthony Evans
“When we know that we have been crucified with Christ and it's no longer us who live but Him who lives in us, it's a lot easier to live beyond our circumstances and live in hope and in victory.” - Tyler Summers
“I think we'll never get past that message of ‘Abide in Me.’” - Tyler Summers
“It's so easy to hide behind the artist facade, or to look at ourselves as artists instead of as children of God who are loved deeply.” - Tyler Summers
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
The farther we get into our faith journeys, the more difficult and complex they seem to be. Obstacles block our paths, daylight dims and the road grows hard to see. But after a while in the dark, the light of dawns breaks through the night, warming the world and showing the way forward. God’s love is that light for our paths, and our guests this week—adventurer Bear Grylls and musician Rhonda Vincent—remind us that even when challenges barrage our faith, we can choose to stay on the road and follow the path He laid for us.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling books
CMAfest
Bear Grylls
Man vs Wild TV Show
Running Wild TV Show
Soul Fuel daily devotional
Rhonda Vincent
Live at the Ryman with Bluegrass Legends
Ryman Auditorium
“Where I Come From” song
Interview Quotes:
“But the great message of grace is that through all of that, somehow despite ourselves, despite our fallenness, we're actually still held, and we're still forgiven.” - Bear Grylls
“If I ever sense the presence of God, it’s actually in relationships,” - Bear Grylls
“The journey of faith can be sort of a difficult one to navigate.” - Bear Grylls
“The moments you think would be the greatest triumphs have often been in my place of real doubt and struggle.” - Bear Grylls
“Somehow through the fog of being a human being, I choose to trust in this message of grace and this message of love.” - Bear Grylls
“I have seen so many blessings and miracles that God has given us.” - Rhonda Vincent
“I am so thankful that I have that faith, and I got to have the Bible as a guide and as a road map of life.” - Rhonda Vincent
“I love the connections that that music brings.” - Rhonda Vincent
“[When you’re an artist] there becomes a responsibility and expectation to make sure, number one, that you are representing yourself [well. I think], How does God perceive me? “ - Rhonda Vincent
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Jesus Calling Website
When life brings us to our knees, it’s nearly impossible to remember that one day the pain won’t feel as sharp, and somehow we’ll find new life beyond the sorrow. In fact, God can redeem our darkest moments by bringing love and joy and newfound purpose to our days. That’s what He’s done for our guests this week: pastor and author Jonathan Pitts, who recently lost his 38-year-old wife author Wynter Evans Pitts, and entrepreneur John Hill, who struggled to find his way in life until He trusted God for each moment.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Always
CMAfest
Jonathan Pitts
Church of the City, Franklin TN
Emptied: Experiencing the Fullness of a Poured-Out Marriage Book
For Girls Like You organization
Anthony Evans, Jr. singer & artist
Mitral Valve Prolapse (Mayo Clinic)
Factor V Lieden (Mayo Clinic)
Urban Alternative (Tony Evans)
John Hill
The Good Contractors List
C12 Group
Interview Quotes:
“Our identity, although it included our race, had nothing to do with our race. Our identity was much deeper than that.” - Jonathan Pitts
“It would take me years to discover just the level of woman that I married.” - Jonathan Pitts
“The beautiful thing of our marriage wasn't that it was perfect, but it was progressional.” - Jonathan Pitts
“Wynter accomplished her mission and God called her home.” - Jonathan Pitts
“[Slowing down] allows my girls to grieve even better, because with me being present, that allows me to be there for them.” - Jonathan Pitts
“As hard as it's been [to lose a wife and mother], there's been a lot of sorrow, but there's been a ton of joy coupled with it.” - Jonathan Pitts
“As a teenager, I started falling away from God, realizing, If it's black or white, there's no way I'm ever gonna make it to heaven.” - John Hill
“I just want to love You like I loved You when I was a kid, before I knew what sin was, before I knew what all this stuff was.” - John Hill
“I want to live every day--not just be alive.” - John Hill
“We get way too involved in trying to help God. God doesn't need our help. He needs our obedience.” - John Hill
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Life can be a long, difficult ride and there are times that fill us with despair, especially when giving our best isn’t enough to help us change our circumstances. While we wrestle with fear and uncertainty, God works quietly in the background, filling the gaps in our efforts, carefully nudging us forward so we can keep going. Our guests have held onto their faith as they’ve traveled the winding roads of Western sports: world champion rodeo athlete Tyson Durfey and his wife, country music artist Shea Fisher, and former champion bull rider Cody Custer.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling.com/daily-email
Tyson Durfey
Shea Fisher
Central Park by the Bethesda Fountain,
Cody Custer
National Finals Rodeo
PBR
Interview Quotes:
“I go in 100 percent with whatever I decide to go after. I picked up the Bible, and it grabbed hold of my heart. It was just that transition, and it was truly amazing for me.” - Tyson Durfey
“When you hear the word of the Lord that vivid and that audible, it shakes you to your core, it really does.” - Tyson Durfey
“Where you don't see the way, God sees the way.” - Tyson Durfey
“It's important to remember that if you can't do it, God will fill in the gap.” - Tyson Durfey
“I don't know if everything happens for a reason, but I believe there's a reason in the middle of what happens.” - Cody Custer
“I don't believe that God ever takes His hand off any of us, no matter what we're doing, no matter what's going on in our lives.” - Cody Custer
”I think people get too wrapped up in circumstances and forget [success is] not the end all.” - Cody Custer
“I learned a lot more from my boy than I ever thought I did.” - Cody Custer
“[Jesus Calling] is just a book with words until the Spirit hits it, and then it's life.” - Cody Custer
“Everybody grieves their own way. Grieve how you grieve. There's no there's no cookie cutter way to grieve.” - Cody Custer
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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No matter how careful, each of us will go through life with bumps, bruises and scars. Behind each wound we receive is a story of how we tried, failed, and persevered through hardship. And one of the ways God can redeem our scars is to help us share those experiences with others so they feel less alone. Our guests this week—pastor and writer Mark Eaton, and country music singer/songwriter Kelsey Lamb—come from different places and circumstances. But Mark and Kelsey have each rolled up their sleeves to do the hard work of sharing their scars with others, helping them walk through or avoid pain in their own lives.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Always July 2019 Family Prayer Calendar
Mark Eaton, Eaton Leadership
Susie McEntire Eaton
Kelsey Lamb
Pali Adventures
Interview Quotes:
"[When I became a Christian], I somehow had the impression that life was going to get better the next day." - Mark Eaton
"I met the Lord when I was 14 because of a church that cared enough to . . . bring a youth pastor onto their staff." - Mark Eaton
"What was a tool became an addiction and later became a compulsion. 'I have to be popular. I have to be liked.' . . . And there's a point when those tools fail." - Mark Eaton
"What a gift [my dad] gave me by stepping off his platform and being willing to change and adjust our relationship." - Mark Eaton
"To me, every day not not divided up into good and bad, but easy and hard . . . because what's a bad thing one day might be the thing that saves you the next." - Mark Eaton
“I want to be around people who have scars, who are willing to talk about them and not afraid to show them.” - Mark Eaton
“Almost all of my songs come from personal experiences: my break ups, moving to Nashville, college. All of that is in my music, hoping to help someone else get through it.” - Kelsey Lamb
"When you jump back into [Jesus Calling] you start to realize that every devotion ends up being completely applied to what you're going through." - Kelsey Lamb
"I don't think [my career] will ever just be handed to me. I think [God] puts opportunities in my path to help me work to get to the next step." - Kelsey Lamb
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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While we may not realize it at the time, struggle is a blessing because down the road, remembering the struggles we have endured helps us empathize with others going through the same hardship. Our guests—country and gospel music legend Jimmy Fortune and US Army veteran and dragon boat racing champion Jess Key—have used their lives to spotlight this truth: no matter what you’ve been through, God is not done with you yet. He can use anything in your life, the good and the bad, and make it beautiful.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling on Zulily
Jimmy Fortune
Jimmy Fortune’s new album God and Country
Jimmy Fortune, I Believe music video
Jimmy Fortune, Meet at Arlingon video
The Statler Brothers
Bill Gaither Music
Cracker Barrel
JESS KEY
Childhood PTSD
National Dragonboat Team
National Suicide Hotline
Interview Quotes:
“[My dad’s true character] came to the forefront when he let God have his life.” - Jimmy Fortune
”The Statler Brothers were a safe place for me because they were all about God and family and their country.” - Jimmy Fortune
“Whatever I do with my music, I want it to be in a positive way to help people in their lives.” - Jimmy Fortune
“God works through us. And in His love for us, He works through people and He works through books like this Jesus Calling.” - Jimmy Fortune
“So we [need to] all work together to accomplish the goal that God wants us to accomplish, and that's to help the downtrodden and the people of this world who need to hear about Him.” - Jimmy Fortune
“It's so important that we acknowledge our soldiers and thank them for what they did for us. They gave, they sacrificed their lives for us.” - Jimmy Fortune
“God is where you need to turn to and give your life, because He's going to be the one that's going to help you through all this, because it is no secret what God can do." - Jimmy Fortune
“I grew up seeing this abuse, and I was abused myself. I thought it was normal thing, but come to think of it, I was becoming the abuser. I would get drunk and ballistic with an uncontrollable kind of anger. If you imagine an MMA fighter, that's the kind of rage I had inside and I didn't know why.” - Jess Key
“One night I got drunk, and I attempted suicide. I was not in my right mind. I thought that was the way out. I had suffered so much that I didn't know how to cope.” - Jess Key
“As a kid, I always said to myself I would never grow up and be my mom. Yet I was living that same life, choosing the same path that she did.” - Jess Key
“Through it all, God worked these miraculous things out.” - Jess Key
“Your story is not over. It's just beginning. God will use any circumstance, whether it be good or bad, and He'll turn it into something beautiful.” - Jess Key
“The waves of adversity crashed over me all throughout life, but God is simply saying, ‘Keep your focus on My presence, and be in the present.’” - Jess Key
“You can find freedom once and for all, and it's through Christ. He is our freedom. He is our hope. He is our everything. You’ve just got to trust in that.” - Jess Key
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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One of the hardest parts of our Christian walk is to make that walk consistent, especially in the storms of life. But today’s guests, pastor Rich Wilkerson, Jr. and entertainers David & Tamela Mann, have found when they draw near to God, especially when they’re in the valley, He remains faithful to us. And in fact, God’s presence gives us the strength to keep going so we can perform one of our highest callings: to nurture relationships with the people around us and fill them with His love.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling June Prayer Calendar
Rich Wilkerson, Jr. (Facebook)
Vous Church
Rich Wilkerson book, Friend of Sinners: Why Jesus Cares More About Relationship Than Perfection
David Wilkerson book, The Cross and the Switchblade
The Cross and the Switchblade movie trailer
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) David and Tamela Mann (Facebook)
David and Tamela Mann book, Us Against the World: Our Secrets to Love, Marriage, and Family
The Manns television reality show
Kirk Franklin & The Family
Tyler Perry
Interview Quotes:
“[Our time at VOUS church] has been an amazing three years, getting to see people's lives changed and transformed by the message of Jesus.” - Rich Wilkerson, Jr.
“I'm just thankful for the heritage [to] know so many things that have happened in my life are because I stand on the shoulders of the giants in the faith [who] have gone before me.” - Rich Wilkerson, Jr.
“From a young age, I was always very sensitive towards God. I knew I loved God, and I knew that God loved me. I don't think I was always sure how I fit in. I didn't really see how I was going to play my part.” - Rich Wilkerson, Jr.
“I think so often in church, we're so good at talking about things after the miracle happens. I think we need more people to be open when they're actually in the midst of pain.” - Rich Wilkerson, Jr.
“Many times we don't allow ourselves to be honest with God in our pain, in our worry, in our fear to ever discover that He's actually right there with us.” - Rich Wilkerson, Jr.
“When it comes to God, there are certain things you can't learn on the mountaintop. You actually have to learn it in the valley.” - Rich Wilkerson, Jr.
”Storms either have a way of pushing you away from God, or you can choose to allow your storm to push you towards God.” - Rich Wilkerson, Jr.
“Ultimately the way that you view God is going to dictate how you receive and communicate with God.” - Rich Wilkerson, Jr.
“I want people to hear the truth, that the gospel is good news, that God is not mad at you. He’s madly in love with you.” - Rich Wilkerson, Jr.
“In any marriage you're gonna have some challenges, [but] you have to make up your mind that you love each other enough to fight for each other.” - Tamela Mann
“Singing was our passion, it was our heart.” - Tamela Mann
“I'm just so happy to be able to share my gift and to be where we are today. We take no credit. All glory goes to God.” - Tamela Mann
“[Jesus Calling] gives you some practical things I can take home [and go,] ‘Oh okay, I can do that.’” - David Mann
“People won't judge you on your perfection. They'll judge you on your consistency.” - David Mann
“We just want to let people know there is still hope. Our Savior still lives.” - David Mann
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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We all have seasons when we feel crushed by the weight of our problems. A job loss. A loved one grows seriously ill. An unexpected bill in the mail. In the middle of overwhelming anxiety, it’s hard to remember, let alone believe, the promise God gives us in Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” But today’s guests, Bishop T. D. Jakes and worship leader Don Moen, remind us that in the middle of our problems, we can take a step back and remember that “God will make a way,” and He can redeem everything, even our darkest moments, for His glory.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Daily Email
T. D. Jakes
The Potter’s House Church
T. D. Jakes’ book, Crushing: God Turns Pressure Into Power
Don Moen
Don Moen’s book, God Will Make A Way: Finding His Hope in Your Story
Integrity Music
Oral Roberts University
Interview Quotes:
“The cross itself was a horrific emblem of suffering and shame. It was not something that Jesus enjoyed. The Bible says He despised the shame of it, but for the joy that was set before Him, He endured the suffering of the cross.” - T. D. Jakes
“There may be some things that are bad that still work together for [our] good.” - T. D. Jakes
“You have to be gentle with people that are hurt. You have to be empathetic.” - T. D. Jakes
“I'm at that stage of my life now that I really want to leave footprints behind about what it really costs to be who you are and how to survive crushings that people don't see.” - T. D. Jakes
“God develops us through the crushing. God develops the world around us. . . . There will be something good that comes out of it, if you can resist the temptation to become bitter and take the more difficult choice of becoming better.” - T. D. Jakes
“I did not ever try to be an artist. I never wanted to be an artist.” - Don Moen
“And as human vessels, we need to just get out of the way and let God do what He wants to do.” - Don Moen
”God will make a way where there seems to be no way.” - Don Moen
“We look at setbacks in our lives sometimes as way too permanent, but God uses these setbacks to bring us to the place where He wants us to be, to help transform us into the men and women He wants us to be.” - Don Moen
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Dads hold a tender place in our hearts. Like our heavenly Father, they have a unique way of showing they see us, we matter, and we are loved. And as we become parents, we want to shower our children with the same kind of love and provision a good father graciously gives. Our guests are Christian singer/songwriter Steven Curtis Chapman and his daughter Emily Chapman Richards, and Sawyer Brown frontman and Christian music producer Mark Miller and his daughter, TV host Madison Brown. These dads and daughters talk about special moments they had with their own fathers, along with the faithful legacies they’re working to pass on to their children today.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling calendar
Steven Curtis Chapman
Deeper Roots: Where the Bluegrass Grows, Steven Curtis Chapman’s latest album
Show Hope
Compassion International
Mark Miller, frontman to Sawyer Brown
Madison Brown, host of Chasing Down Madison Brown
Casting Crowns
Star Search
American Idol
Interview Quotes:
“My dad, even if he's not here in physical presence, I know that I'm in his heart and I'm on his mind. I'm in his prayers and his thoughts. He's got my back, and he sees with me." - Steven Curtis Chapman
“I love my dad. Dad has always, and continues to remain to this day, always very intentional with every moment he has.” - Emily Chapman Richards
“There's nothing sweeter to the heart of a dad than to hear his children bless him.” - Steven Curtis Chapman
“That’s what’s so beautiful about Jesus Calling, I think. It's just the approach of speaking in a language where you feel like Jesus is speaking these things to you and right into your situation.” - Steven Curtis Chapman
“There were several other things throughout my career that were crossroads that really challenged my faith. I always went in the direction of my faith, and it always was the right thing to do.” - Mark Miller
“I want [my kids] to grow up the way that I did, to know that if you're willing to work, you can achieve anything you want to. But you have to work to get it.” - Mark Miller
”[Jesus Calling has] become not only a great way for all of us to have a good daily devotional, but at the same time a great way to stay together as a family.” - Madison Brown
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Sometimes we look at the path before us, and we can’t see the way ahead. But there are two things that bolster our courage and help us take a step forward: a God we know will see us through, and family standing by our sides. Country superstar Randy Travis and his wife Mary, and country artist John Berry have seen their share of highs and lows: humble beginnings, family tragedies, award-winning songs and medical trials. And through it all, they’ve made it to the other side thanks to the love of their God and the unwavering faith of their families.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling devotional
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling calendar
Randy Travis
Randy Travis memoir: “Forever and Ever Amen”
Nashville Palace
Randy Travis, Rise & Shine album
Randy Travis, Three Wooden Crosses video
Randy Travis, When Mama Prayed video
Randy Travis, 1982 video
Randy Travis, On the Other Hand video
John Berry
John Berry, Saddle in the Wind
John Berry, You Love Amazes Me video
Inspirational movie, Beautifully Broken on DVD
Interview Quotes:
“The more [Randy] heard [his music] touched somebody, the more inclined he was to sing a new song, write a new song. So I think that's why now . . . we have such a beautiful catalog of Randy Travis music straight from the heart.” - Mary Travis
“Randy’s life and music has had an impact on millions of people.” - Mary Travis
“I think the great thing about love is that you know the worst about each other, but you only see the best.” - Mary Travis
“To watch [my dad] grieve and watch him to lean on Christ and to get up in the morning to deal with face and every day, it was quite a lesson to see my father cling to Christ throughout that time of his life [after my mom’s death].” - John Berry
“I found out later every time I was off the bus, the guys in the band would go rummage through the back room, trying to find the drugs they knew I had to have been on.” John Berry
“I have to think our Heavenly Father every day for the love [my wife Robin] has for me.” - John Berry
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Every year, the women of Brookland Baptist Church in Columbia, South Carolina hold an annual Women’s Day for the community, where they endeavor to lift each other up in Christ. We were honored to listen to mothers, daughters, and friends discuss the importance of community and talk about their weekly prayer call, where they read Jesus Calling together, pray for each other and pray for the women attending their event.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Devotional
Jesus Always Devotional
Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids
Jesus Calling books
Jesus Calling Groups
Brookland Baptist Church
Interview Quotes:
“Jesus Calling really helps prepare me for that workday because it asks me to get in His presence and go to Him and not to try and carry all of it with me.” - Angela, Brookland Baptist Church
“[Jesus Calling] has really brought my daughters and I together.” - Johanna, Brookland Baptist Church
”Jesus Calling book has shown me that God loves us, no matter what. No matter what. Through it all, He loves us. - Josephine, Brookland Baptist Church
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Altar'd State is a faith-based retail company that gives back and works with organizations to help people around the world. One of their partners is Compassion That Compels, who provides hope and emotional support to women fighting cancer, one compassionate act at a time.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Devotional
Jesus Calling books
Altar’d State
Compassion that Compels
Interview Quotes:
“One of the things I love about Altar’d State is I'm able to do what I'm passionate about and what I really love, but also live out my faith and give back to my community.” - Aaron Walters, Altar’d State
“I am a living testimony of if you follow God's plan, He will take care of you.” - Aaron Walters, Altar’d State
“We provide hope and emotional support to women fighting any type of cancer, one compassionate act at a time.“ - Kristianne Stewart, Compassion That Compels
“Instead of telling people we're Christians, we just show them that we're Christians.” - Mary Beth Fox, Altar’d State
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Olympic runner Ryan Hall and inspirational thought leader Holly Dowling have found their true worth comes from God, not the world.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Devotional
Jesus Calling books
Ryan and Sara Hall website
Ryan Hall’s book, Run the Mile You’re In: Finding God in Every Step
Team World Vision
Holly Dowling website
Young Life organization
Girl Up organization
Interview Quotes:
“God was telling me that He gave me a gift to run with the best guys in the world, but He gave me that gift so that I could help other people.” - Ryan Hall
“I started seeing myself how God sees me, and that was a really, really powerful shift for me.” - Ryan Hall
“I want to extract all these lessons that God's taught me, all the things I feel like He's told me along the way, and I want to share those with people so I can help them on their journey.” - Ryan Hall
“I believe that it's in our imperfections that we're beautiful. When we're broken, we’re beautiful.” - Holly Dowling
“I think the greatest gift we can give to ourselves is permission to love ourselves for who we are.” - Holly Dowling
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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There are 7 words that can change the way we worship. Today, Christian music songwriter Chris Tomlin and pastor Darren Whitehead let us in on a few and explain how we can revolutionize our relationship with God when we learn the true meaning of worship.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Devotional
Chris Tomlin & Darren Whitehead book: Holy Roar: Seven Words That Will Change the Way You Worship
Chris Tomlin, How Great Is Our God song
Chris Tomlin, Good, Good Father book
Church of the City (Franklin, TN)
Watoto Children’s Choir of Uganda
Ocean Way Studio (Nashville, TN)
Interview Quotes:
“Toldah is the idea of lifting your hands in praise...thanking God for what He has done, but it's also thanking God for what He has not yet done.” - Darren Whitehead
“This is the essence of Toldah. It is, ‘I will trust You when I'm uncertain. I will trust You when I'm afraid. I will worship You when I'm anxious. I will lift my hands to You for that which has happened and that which has not yet happened. I will trust You.’” Darren Whitehead
“When we make praising God a lifestyle, He guides us in ways that we are aware of and ways that we are not aware of.” - Darren Whitehead
“Worship is, it's universal. It is a universal language. And just to play a small role in that has been an incredible journey in my life.” - Chris Tomlin
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Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
________________________
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Rascal Flatts’ Jay DeMarcus and Jesus Culture’s Kim Walker-Smith remind us how God can use the shattered pieces of our lives to create a beautiful mosaic that shows His glory.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Devotional
Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions for Kids
Jay DeMarcus’s book, Shotgun Angels: My Story of Broken Roads and Unshakeable Hope
Max Lucado’s book, Grace for the Moment: Inspirational Thoughts for Each Day of the Year
Kim Walker-Smith’s book, Brave Surrender: Let God’s Love Rewrite Your Story
Jesus Culture
Jesus Culture Conference
Interview Quotes:
“I'm grateful I had a mom who cared enough to really lay the groundwork for me for later on in life.” - Jay DeMarcus
“[My mom] kept pushing me and telling me that I was right where God wanted me to be and that I didn't need to let the enemy defeat me.” - Jay DeMarcus
“As long as you keep your ears and your eyes and your heart open, you also can recognize those God moments.” - Jay DeMarcus
“You have to be very deliberate about making time for everything that's important to you in your life.” - Jay DeMarcus
“The thing I love about Jesus Calling is I feel like He's speaking right to me when I'm reading it.” - Jay DeMarcus
“Man makes his plans, but the Lord aligns his steps.” Proverbs 16:9
“I feel Jesus constantly pulling me back and reminding me to live in that moment with Him.” - Kim Walker-Smith
“Freedom and authenticity and vulnerability in worship is something that I have contended for in my life.” - Kim Walker-Smith
“I poured out my heart into this book with as much vulnerability and honesty as I could, because I wanted people to see the reality of Jesus in our circumstances, our pain, our mess, whatever it is we're facing.” - Kim Walker-Smith
“One thing that I have learned in my journey with Him is that it's really easy to surrender when you feel beatdown, broken, at the end of yourself. “ - Kim Walker-Smith
“[God] is a kind and loving Father that comes to us and meets us where we are and answers when we call out to Him.” - Kim Walker-Smith
“As I surrender to Him and [am] present with Him in the moment, He can transform that and create something beautiful out of that.” - Kim Walker-Smith
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Enjoy these videos on Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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YouTube
Jesus Calling Website
For decades, Melinda Gates and Dr. Tony Evans have empowered women and men to reach for lives of dignity and hope. Since she and her husband Bill began their foundation in 2000, Melinda has been working tirelessly to improve the lives of women and children worldwide. And in that time, she’s seen when you lift up a woman, she lifts up everyone else. She’s written about her experiences in her new book The Moment of Lift. Dr. Evans believes God wants every man to be a world changer, and in order to do so, he needs to take responsibility for his life and his actions. He shares how an ordinary man can become extraordinary in his new film Kingdom Men Rising.
Links, Products and Resources:
- Melinda Gates book, The Moment of Lift
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Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
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Tony Evans documentary film, Kingdom Men Rising
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Tony Evans’ The Urban Alternative
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Jesus Calling 365 Day Devotional Book
- Jesus Calling Daily Email
Interview Quotes:
“We have this need as human beings to connect to one another.” - Melinda Gates
“If you lift up a woman, she lifts up everyone else.” - Melinda Gates
“I spend quiet time every morning. That's where I find my soul and my inspiration, and where I focus closely on who is it that I want to be in the world.” - Melinda Gates
“Men have to be willing for God to tell them what to do in their personal life, in their family life, their church life, and in their civic life.” - Dr. Tony Evans
“The way a man leads his family best is around the table—praying and blessing, guidance, correcting—he does all that at the table.” - Dr. Tony Evans
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Connect with Jesus Calling
YouTube
Jesus Calling Website
Today we hear the miraculous true story of one mother’s belief in the power of prayer that not only brought her son back to life, but continues to inspire people around the world in a new inspirational movie called Breakthrough, starring Chrissy Metz from NBC’s This Is Us. On a cold winter’s day in Missouri, John Smith was a 14-year-old boy playing on a frozen lake with two of his best friends. But a carefree day soon grew dire as the ice gave way and boys fell into the lake. While John’s friends were able to escape, John remained underwater for fifteen minutes. And by the time he was pulled out by first responders, he didn’t have a pulse. John’s mother Joyce was summoned to the hospital, and when she saw her son’s lifeless body on the hospital bed, she turned to God for a miracle. Later, we hear how the Smiths’ story traveled from a Missouri hospital room to a Hollywood studio, and how the cast and crew of Breakthrough were able to see God’s hand throughout the creation of the film.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
“Breakthrough” movie
“Breakthrough” book
Beth Moore’s “Believing God”
“Miracles from Heaven” movie
NBC’s “This Is Us”
Interview Quotes:
“I had drowned and was underwater for 15 minutes.” - John Smith
“I lay lifeless. They did everything medically, scientifically that they could do.” - John Smith
"I believe God is who He says He is. I believe God can do what He says He can do. And I believe in God." - Joyce Smith
“Anybody would be [upset] when they tell you that you know they've just pulled your son out of the lake and he doesn't have a heartbeat. . . . But my first go-to was God to pray. That was what I had been prepared to do over the weeks beforehand.” - Joyce Smith
“[God], You say we can come to You with the things going on in our lives, and You're there to be faithful to us and answer our prayers." - Joyce Smith
“Holy Spirit, please come and bring me back my son." - Joyce Smith
“When [Mom] prayed, something so powerful rushed up my body that it pushed three nurses searching for a pulse physically back, and they can't explain it.” - John Smith
“Because God is omnipotent, and we are created in His image, our words have potency to them, they have power.” - Joyce Smith
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast: https://bit.ly/2uCnNM0
Original Series video podcast: https://bit.ly/2WzFY0O
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Connect with Jesus Calling
YouTube
Jesus Calling Website
We’re celebrating one of God’s most special gifts: our pets. Animal rescue advocate Lavonne Redferrin and musician Irlene Mandrell have been deeply touched by God’s creatures and share sweet stories of how animals have impacted their lives. Lavonne Redferrin is the founder and executive director of Proverbs 12:10 Animal Rescue, which not only matches animals up with loving families, but works with local organizations, like prison ministries, to provide the therapeutic benefits of being around animals. Lavonne tells us about the earliest days of the organization and why she thinks God blessed us with the gift of pets. Growing up, Irlene Mandrell saw her fair share of miracles as she watched her sister Barbara rise to country music fame, then saw her sister Louise’s star rise alongside her own as the three formed the group Barbara Mandrell and the Mandrell Sisters. Irlene reflects on everyday miracles and special relationships she’s had with her family, her pets, and with God.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling Devotional
“6 Things Pets Teach Us” download
Proverbs 12:10 Rescue
Chewy Pet Food & Supplies
Davidson County TN Second Chances (Offender Dog Program)
Irlene Mandrell’s “God Rains Miracles” book
Interview Quotes:
“Proverbs 12:10 is an organization dedicated to saving as many of His helpless as we can.” - Lavonne Redferrin
“[The] animal has blessed [inmates] or taught them patience or given them something to wake up for inside those bars.” - Lavonne Redferrin, on the Second Chances program with the Davidson County Sheriff’s Office
“[Proverbs 12:10 is] at the point that we place an average of a thousand animals a year.” - Lavonne Redferrin
“We truly are dedicated to all [animals] in our care.” - Lavonne Redferrin
“The best way to show your animals that you love and care for them is to give them a proper home in which to live.” - Lavonne Redferrin
“We've had animals surrendered to us, and they will literally sit and watch for hours and days for that person to come back.” - Lavonne Redferrin
"Push back the demands pressing in on you, and create a safe space around you, a haven in which you can rest in Me." - Jesus Calling
“I truly believe that [animals are] everything God meant for us to be.” - Lavonne Redferrin
“You’d wish God would just slow down time a little bit because everything's so wonderful. And I just find myself thanking Him.” - Irlene Mandrell
“God rains miracles all around us—we just have to look for them!” - Irlene Mandrell
Connect with Jesus Calling
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Enjoy watching these additional videos from Jesus Calling YouTube channel:
Audio podcast
Original Series video podcast
Former WWE wrestlers Ted DiBiase and Marc Mero learned just how powerful our choices could be: they can either leave us empty, or allow us to be used by God for His good. Wrestling fans may know Ted DiBiase as “The Million Dollar Man,” but today, we get a look at the man behind the persona. Ted looks back on how his father, who was also a wrestler, influenced Ted to pursue the sport he loved. As Ted rose through the ranks and became a world-famous wrestler, he reveals how he got caught up in a destructive lifestyle that led him to the brink of losing everything that really mattered to him. A talented athlete from an early age, Marc Mero always had dreams of being in professional sports. As he acquired all the things he had dreamed of since he was a little boy—fame, wealth, status—he quickly realized his choices had consequences. After he recognized he’d been dreaming of the wrong things, Marc took a long, hard look at what he was living for.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jesus Calling devotional by Sarah Young
Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase
Heart of David Ministry
Marc Mero
Champion of Choices Ministry
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Crisis Text Line
Interview Quotes:
“But before you can commit your life to Christ, you have to surrender it first. And you're either all in or you're not in.” - Ted DiBiase
“Be a leader, not a follower. Be the head, not the tail. If you're willing to sacrifice, if you're willing to pay the price, you can be anything you want to be in life.” - Mike DiBiase, Ted’s father
“I had been so faithful to my convictions until God gave me what I wanted.” - Ted DiBiase
“I want to tear up and cry because of the realization that there's a God that big who could love me that much.” - Ted DiBiase
“I'm at the height of my career. I've got everything I ever dreamed, I ever wanted. Plus I've got this unbelievable wife and these three beautiful children, but I have no character. I have no integrity. I don't have the stuff that counts. And wow, that was a wakeup call.” - Ted DiBiase
“God, I don't know where we're going. All I know is this: I don't ever want to feel like this again. I don't ever want to feel this lost, this low. I know You have a plan for me, and I know You’ll help me figure it out. . . . You take the helm of the ship. . . . I'm giving You my world to take care of.” - Ted DiBiase
“You always want to be a part of things. You always want to be liked. You want to be a good teammate or a good person. And I think because I wasn't good at first in sports, it made me work that much harder.” - Marc Mero
“I often tell kids that failure's not aiming high and missing. Failure's aiming too low and hitting. And I just say, ‘Dream big, aim high.’” - Marc Mero
“When you realize it's you that has to change, everything around you starts to change.” - Marc Mero
“We all go through hard times. We all go through storms in life. . . . Don't give up because I promise you, after every storm, the sun will eventually shine brighter than you could ever imagine.” - Marc Mero
“Many people are guilty of just being too hard on themselves. And when you're hard on yourself, you have to learn to love and value yourself because you can't give away what you don't have.” - Marc Mero
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Jesus Calling Website
Jeremy Cowart and Elisabeth Hasselbeck are driven by their faith to find a greater purpose for their lives, and use their talents to help others and reflect God’s glory in our world. Jeremy is a renowned photographer and the founder of The Purpose Hotel. As an artist, he endeavors to use his creativity to spotlight situations of need. Today Jeremy discusses his mission to create an intersection between empathy and creativity, and finding his true purpose. Elisabeth rose to prominence as a contestant on the second season of the reality television show Survivor, where she finished in fourth place. In July 2002, she joined the daytime talk show The View, and after ten years, she went on to join Fox & Friends. Elisabeth shares her experiences in each of her roles in television and relates how, in looking for her “calling,” she found herself running ahead of God. During these seasons of change, she related how she’s learned to wait for God’s guidance as He’s helped her identify her unique purpose in the world.
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Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Jeremy Cowart
The Purpose Hotel
Jeremy Cowart’s I'm Possible: Jumping into Fear and Discovering a Life of Purpose
book
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Elisabeth Hasselbeck
Elisabeth Hasselbeck’s Point of View: A Fresh Look at Work, Faith, and Freedom book
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Interview Quotes:
“Greatness should serve a greater purpose.” - Jeremy Cowart
“In every failure, we still learn.” - Jeremy Cowart
“My mission is to explore the intersection of creativity and empathy.” - Jeremy Cowart
“I just love trying to figure out how to be an innovator in times of need.” - Jeremy Cowart
“I just crave to see more people trying to help with their tools, use their [social media] accounts to do good things, to showcase others, to tell others’ stories.” - Jeremy Cowart
“My greatness should serve a greater good, and that is our greater God. It's His purpose.” - Jeremy Cowart
“I just grew up knowing that prayer was not something for one time a day, but something that was essential all times of day.” Elisabeth Hasselbeck
“God does not need you as His attorney.” - Bob Goff
“Understanding someone's point of view requires being next to them and with them, and just kind of like snuggling up behind their lens.” - Elisabeth Hasselbeck
“Only God can change your heart, and He still had work to do in my heart.” - Elisabeth Hasselbeck
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Jesus Calling Website
Parenting expert Dr. Jim Burns, along with husband-and-wife ministry team Dave and Ann Wilson teach us about caring for our loved ones through all seasons of life. As a father to three grown daughters, Jim has been through every stage of parenting. But when his daughters reached their adult years, Jim and his wife Cathy realized their parenting style needed to evolve with their changing relationship with their children. Jim took what he learned through the experience and shared it through his latest book, Doing Life with Your Adult Children. In 1990, Dave Wilson was traveling with the Detroit Lions as their chaplain. And when he was home, he and his wife Ann were building their young family and a new church, Though Dave and Ann seemed to be living the life of their dreams, on their 10th anniversary, Ann made a revelation that put their marriage into a spin and would forever change their relationship.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
HomeWord
Jim Burns’ Doing Life with Your Adult Children book
Dave and Ann Wilson: daveandannwilson.com
Kensington Church
Dave and Ann Willson’s Vertical Marriage book
Interview Quotes:
“I heal broken hearts . . . and broken relationships.” –Jesus Calling
“The book is called Doing Life With Your Adult Children. We say ‘Keep your mouth shut, keep the welcome mat out.’” - Dr. Jim Burns
“The bottom line in parenting—they could be a five-year-old or an adult—is not that you raise obedient children, but that you raise responsible adults.” - Dr. Jim Burns
“When kids stray, whether it be lifestyle choice or whether it be faith issues, I think what we do is we still stand by them, and we have to understand where they're coming from.” - Dr. Jim Burns
“I think Jesus had some disagreements with people. No doubt He said it. He was verbal about it, but then He still showed love to people that within His generation—you know, tax collectors—shouldn't have been at the party. The prostitutes shouldn't have been wiping her tears on His feet because that was not happening with the rabbis. But 2hat Jesus did was He didn't tend to agree with how they lived their life, but He did show love and acceptance.” - Dr. Jim Burns
“Tough love says that you surround [your children] with love, and while you surround them with love, you don't bail them out. And you don't dump your anger and frustration on them.” - Dr. Jim Burns
“You're overwhelmed by the evidence that says this really did happen and Jesus died for me, forgave me, rose from the dead to give me a new life and power.” - Dave Wilson
“I want to use what God's done in our lives to reach other people.” - Dave Wilson
“Dave was fulfilling this dream and this call—I felt like we were both called, but as a mom, I kind of felt left in the dust.” - Ann Wilson
"God, I have made my marriage and my husband an idol, and I put you back on the throne of my life...I confess that I haven't put you first. And I put you first now and make our marriage and our family what you want it to be." Ann Wilson
“We kind of put some things in place that could help us restore our marriage, my feelings, our relationship.” - Ann Wilson
“In time, my feelings for [Dave] came all the way back to a 10, and I feel like that was only because of God's mercy and grace, but also putting it into practice my walk with God [and] really fighting for it and making it a priority.” - Ann Wilson
“You didn't marry the wrong person, you're looking in the wrong place. Only God can give you what you’re really looking for.” - Dave Wilson
Connect with Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling Website
Entrepreneur Helena Cho and radio host Susie Larson were devastated by different events that rocked their worlds and found themselves with nowhere to go—except to their knees in prayer. Helena Cho immigrated to the United States when she was just eight years old. Through hard work and the strong faith of her mother, Helena eventually began building a successful company at age 25. But in the 2008 financial crash, Helena lost everything. In the days that followed, she began to realize God had a much bigger plan for her life than she could’ve ever dreamed of. Through her radio show Live the Promise and now her new book Fully Alive, Susie Larson speaks as a survivor of physical traumas to encourage women everywhere that they are loved, they are strong, and through Jesus they can overcome.
Links, Products and Resources Mentioned:
Helena Cho's Website: Good Work(s) Make a Difference
Jesus Calling Prayer Calendar
Jesus Calling (September 18th)
Jesus Today (Day 33)
Susie Larson's Website
Susie Larson's Radio Show
Fully Alive by Susie Larson
Interview Quotes:
“With God all things are possible.” - Helena Cho
“[The September 18 entry of Jesus Calling reminds me,] Where is my focal point? It is not to please man. It is to please God.” - Helena Cho
"Lift your eyes to the mountain. Where does my help come from? It comes from above, the maker of heaven and earth." - Psalm 121
“Just because you have this joy, just because God gives you this amazing joy and peace, that doesn't mean everything just gets solved.” - Helena Cho
"The storms reveal the lies we believe and the truth we need.” - Susie Larson
"When you're a sufferer, to hear from someone who's suffered is just a great, great gift." - Susie Larson
"[God said to me] 'You rest while I work. You feast while I fight. You wait to take flight.'" - Susie Larson
Connect with Jesus Calling
Jesus Calling Website
Tim Tebow and the cast of the new inspirational movie Run the Race, and Josh Enck of Sight and Sound Theatres share the powerful way God works through stories to change our lives.
With locations in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and Branson, Missouri, Sight and Sound welcomes more than a million people each year to their immersive productions that feature stories from the Bible. Over the years, Josh Enck has seen the countless ways the Bible’s timeless characters continue to connect with audiences and how the stories hold tremendous power to change lives.
The Jesus Calling team had a chance to connect live with the cast and creators of the inspirational movie Run the Race during a special premiere of the film. Tim Tebow and his brother Robby are the producers of the film, and each were drawn to the story of two brothers who defied all odds to achieve a better life for themselves, and strengthened their faith in God and each other along the way. Tim and cast members Tanner Stine, Evan Hoffer, and Kristoffer Polaha talk about why it was so important to them to bring this story to life on the big screen.
Pastors Joel and Nina Schmidgall and writer Darlene Brock are finding balance in their lives by they committing their closest relationships to prayer and giving their worries and expectations to God.
Joel and Nina Schmidgall live in Washington, D.C. and minister to couples at National Community Church. Over the years, they have learned how to include God’s love and guidance in their marriage by praying to Him. Joel and Nina have collaborated with their friends, Mark and Laura Batterson, and put their discoveries into a new book called Praying Circles Around Your Marriage.
After spending 20 years in the Christian music business, Darlene Brock felt God leading her in a new direction: beginning a ministry to help women join together and support each other to become the best version of themselves. Today, she explains why this support and community is so needed by women as they face unique challenges in our current society.
Radio host Delilah and author Gary Thomas are two gifted communicators who spread the joy of God’s love to others and show us different ways we can nourish our closest relationships.
Every night on her show, Delilah hears stories of the heart from her listeners which she in turn shares with millions of other listeners around the world. Today we learn about the woman behind the microphone as Delilah tells us about her growing-up years and how she broke into broadcasting. Despite her broad reach, Delilah has discovered that the easiest way to change the world is by touching the lives of your own neighbors and friends, which she talks about in her new book, One Heart at a Time.
Gary is a teaching pastor who often counsels couples before their wedding day, and this journey has led to his latest book, Preparing Your Heart for Marriage: Devotions for Engaged Couples. Today he shares insights for couples looking to begin their marriages with God at the center, and tells us about the surprising blessings of Gary’s own stage of marriage: empty nester.
Authors Brenda Minton, Marta Perry, Lee Tobin McClain, and Shirlee McCoy write for Love Inspired, a line of books that shows how faith, forgiveness, and hope have the power to lift our spirits and change our lives. Through the books they create and the stories they tell us from their own lives, each author reminds us that love takes many forms, from love between parents, friends, partners, pets, children, and more. God gives us many kinds of relationships that bless our lives—all we have to do is look for them.
Kerri Rawson, had her identity ripped from her at 26 years old, when authorities arrested her father, Dennis Rader, who plead guilty in 2005 to being the notorious BTK serial killer. Through her tremendous faith, Kerri found the strength to forgive the man who ruined eight families, including her own, and the courage to tell her story, first through ministry and now in her book A Serial Killer’s Daughter: My Story of Faith, Love, and Overcoming.
NFL Hall of Fame wide receiver Tim Brown and Super Bowl champion quarterback Jeff Hostetler achieved amazing success in their sport, and have witnessed the power of God in their personal and professional lives.
Tim Brown’s career spanned a record-breaking 17 years in the NFL. His motivation to succeed in life and in football was driven by a desire to reconcile with his father, after a misunderstanding when Tim was only 12 years old drove them apart for years. Tim recalls the life-changing moment with his father that would define his path for over a decade.
We welcome back Jeff Hostetler for the continuation of his amazing story. Jeff led the New York Giants to their win in Super Bowl XXV some 1 ½ months after starting quarterback Phil Simms went out for the season with a broken foot. He tells us about his rocky start in the league, the family crises he endured during that time, and how he was able to realize the purpose for years of hard waiting as he learned to trust God’s timing in his life.
Darlene Zschech and Margaret Feinberg have seen God’s presence woven into the fabric of their lives and realized He’s closer to us in ways we might have never imagined.
First up, Darlene Zschech grew up in Australia and found commercial success in music at age 10, but decided to leave a career as an entertainer to seek a life in worship and ministry. During In 1993, during a stressful time in her life Darlene found herself at her piano, prayerfully singing her heart to God. The words that flowed out eventually became one of most recognized praise and worship songs of the modern era: “Shout to the Lord.” She shares about the joys and heartaches of being a pastor, and writes candidly about her cancer journey and reconciling the disease with her faith in her new book The Golden Thread.
Beloved Bible teacher Margaret Feinberg has been writing for more than 20 years. She tells us about her early experiences growing up with parents who moved around quite a bit, and how that shaped Margaret’s curiosity and love of exploring different people and cultures. Margaret uses that curiosity in her new book Taste and See: Discovering God Among Butchers, Bakers, and Fresh Food Makers, where she shares a culinary exploration of Scripture that profoundly changed the way she viewed gatherings around food forever.
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Surfer Bethany Hamilton and Switchfoot frontman Jon Foreman both believe that by being open to others with their experiences, whether triumphant or tragic, God can use them to have a mighty impact. First up, A surfing prodigy at just 13 years old, Bethany’s future in the sport looked promising, but in one tragic incident, her life was changed by a shark attack that resulted in the loss of her left arm. With faith and courage, she refused to be a victim, and her story of survival and her return to competitive surfing has inspired millions. Today Bethany tells us how her faith carried her through her darkest days, and about her reluctance to share her story until a sudden realization changed her mind. For more than 20 years, GRAMMY-winning recording artist Jon Foreman has been the lead singer of the alternative band Switchfoot, inspiring legions of fans across the world with guitar riffs and contemplative lyrics in songs like “Dare You to Move” and “Meant to Live.” Jon tells us about the band’s earliest days and the story behind their breakout moment when their music was featured in the movie A Walk to Remember. He shares about the band’s new album Native Tongue, and why they blur the lines between secular and sacred as they try to reach a broad audience with Christ’s love and life-giving purpose.
Devon Still and Keni Thomas have braved life-or-death moments. Now they strive to set an example for others and show them how they trusted God for His life-giving presence. First up, Devon Still is an All-American defensive end who spent his NFL career playing for the Cincinnati Bengals, Houston Texans, and New York Jets. In 2014, just weeks after his faith in God was re-ignited, Devon discovered Leah was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. He recounts a pivotal moment in a hospital chapel that changed the way he viewed his new faith and his daughter’s disease. Our next guest, country music artist and former Army Ranger Keni Thomas, was impressed with a strong sense of duty to serve in the military. In 1993 he was deployed to Somalia, where he found himself entrenched in the horrific events portrayed in the book and movie Black Hawk Down. Today Keni is a motivational speaker who draws on his military experience to inspire audiences worldwide. He reflects on the fateful day in Mogadishu and describes the work he does now to help veterans transition back into civilian life, while demonstrating how gratitude can drastically change your perspective.
David Crowder and Francesca Battistelli are Christian music artists trying their best to follow wherever God leads them to create, even if they end up somewhere unexpected. In 1996, while he was still a student at Baylor University, David and a few of his friends formed popular Christian rock and modern worship music group, The David Crowder*Band. The group went on to win numerous Gospel Music Association Dove Awards and were nominated for a GRAMMY. After 16 years together, and just having released the number 2 album in the world behind Adele,the band decided to part ways. Crowder went on to perform as a solo artist and has just released a new album called I Know a Ghost. Today David shares how his parents and growing up in church shaped his path, and how, through this latest album, he came to recognize the power of God’s spirit living inside each of us. Francesca Battistelli has been a recording artist for more than a decade, all the while touring and raising her young family. Today Francesca tells us about her Broadway musical background, how she strives to be a courageous example for her children, and why she’s thankful God sent her back to the drawing board more than forty times until she had written all the songs for her new album called Own It.
Will Graham, grandson of Billy Graham, and Myquillyn Smith have been blessed with rich family legacies, and honor the values and lessons they’ve been taught from previous generations. Today, Will Graham is the vice president of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. Although he grew up under the legacy of his grandfather, Will was given freedom to follow any path he chose. Will shares what it was like growing up in the Graham family, about the winding path he followed as God led him to serve in his family’s ministry, and some stories from his first book, Redeemed: Devotions for the Longing Soul. When Myquillyn Smith grew up, she learned to embrace home as a place where rest, creativity, and hospitality could flourish. And for the past ten years, Myquillyn has been encouraging women to embrace their home—imperfections and all—on her blog, The Nester, and now in her new book Cozy Minimalist Home. Today Myquillyn tells us how she began to let go of perfection and be content with what she has, right where God put her, and how she’s been able to use her home to connect with others.
Bo Stern and Justine Froelker have walked dark roads filled with grief and lost hope. Today, Bo and Justine share how God gave them strength during and in the aftermath of their personal heartaches, especially at the holidays. Author and pastor Bo Stern had a happy home filled with four children, lots of friends and a loving church family. After two decades of marriage, her husband Steve’s health gradually began to deteriorate and they came to learn he was battling the first signs of ALS. In her book When Holidays Hurt, Bo recalls how painful and disorienting the Christmas season was during Steve’s illness, and how she wrestled with how to hold sadness and joy in her heart during the holidays. As therapist and author Justine Froelker has grown closer to God and studied with shame and vulnerability researcher Dr. Brené Brown, she has learned how to share her painful journey so she can help others. One of Justine’s most painful battles has been her struggle with infertility, all the while witnessing her friends’ growing families. In an unlikely encounter with God on Christmas Eve, Justine realized He had been with her during every painful step of her journey, and He had great plans for her, though they might look different than Justine’s own plan for her life.
Kathie Lee Gifford and Andy Stanley are two gifted communicators. Today, they tell us about the ways they reach out to inspire people young and old with the love and gifts God has for them. Up first, Kathie Lee Gifford is a television host, singer, songwriter, and author. She is the co-host with Hoda Kotb of the fourth hour of NBC's TODAY Show. When we spoke with Kathie Lee about her various successes, she talked about how her faith has kept her grounded through it all. She also shared about a new project she has been working on: a children’s book called The Gift That I Can Give, which encourages kids to recognize the unique gifts God has given each of us. In 1995, pastor Andy Stanley founded Atlanta-based North Point Ministries. Andy is one of the world’s most influential pastors, and one of the most prolific: he’s written more than 20 books, including his latest, Irresistible: Reclaiming the New that Jesus Unleashed for the World. Today, we talk with Andy about why he has a heart for connecting in a relevant way with people who haven’t been to church or have left the church, and about why he feels it’s important to reach people the way Jesus did: by showing His love to others.
Country gospel singer Susie McEntire Eaton and professional team roper and minister Trey Johnson grew up in the world of Western sports and are spreading the message of Christ’s love through music and speaking. First up, Susie McEntire Eaton grew up in rural Oklahoma, the youngest of four kids in a family who worked their ranch and competed in rodeos across the state. She recalls the stories of her early music days, touring with her sister Reba, and meeting her husband on the rodeo circuit. When she became pregnant with their first child, Susie’s marriage took a turn she never expected. She candidly shares how she struggled with years of abuse and shame.
Country artist Aaron Watson and rodeo broadcaster Anthony Lucia are entertainers dedicated to sharing their struggles openly, along with the faith that has carried them through. First, we catch up with Aaron Watson, a man of deep conviction who uses his music to spread hope and joy, whether through albums dedicated to hurricane relief or filling our hearts with Christmas cheer. He also tells us why he’s so transparent with his fans about the joys and heartaches he’s faced, and how he’s able to find God’s peace through it all. Rodeo star and broadcaster Anthony Lucia was born into a family well-known across the rodeo scene. His father was a rodeo performer, and Anthony began joining him in performances at age 8. As Anthony’s star began to rise, he moved out his father’s shadow and into his own identity. As a result, Anthony’s relationship with his father became strained, but he tells a beautiful story of reconciliation and healing between father and son.
Rodney Atkins and Rope & Candice Myers join us to talk about their careers in music and Western sports, and why allowing God to guide their steps has help them celebrate success and heal from painful struggles. Rodney Atkins is a prolific artist who works to create music that connects with his fans. When we was just days old, Rodney was surrendered to the state by his birth mother. Today he tells us how he found his family, how he nurtured his love of music from a young age, and how his faith paved the long road to success in Nashville. Rope Myers came from a family of rodeo athletes and started competing at a young age. In 2001, Rope become the World Champion Steer Wrestler, breaking National Finals Rodeo records along the way. He and his wife Candice, a Christian singer and speaker, had the world at their feet until they were dealt a tough blow to their family and learned to rely on God new ways.
Today’s guests, author and internet sensation Candace Payne and singer/songwriter Ellie Holcomb, are invested in finding joy each day and showing others that they too can find joy, even during the most difficult seasons. Candace has a joy that is infectious. Her viral video of trying on a Star Wars Chewbacca mask is one of the most viewed Facebook videos of all time. Candace has written a new book called Simple Joys, where she helps readers connect with joy that is all around us. Today she tells us about the unlikely places she has found joy in her life, about her evolving faith, and how each of us can obtain the joy God has for us on a daily basis. Ellie began her musical career by touring the country with her husband in the Americana band, Drew Holcomb and the Neighbors. Her latest projects include a children’s book and music EP, both titled Who Sang the First Song? Ellie talks to us about how she tries to bring joy through her music to those who are hurting, and her heart for sharing the truths of God’s Word with others.
Today we talk with guests who have experienced and witnessed deep hurts and have helped others find hope and healing in Christ: Joni Eareckson Tada and Dedee & Greg Lhamon. Joni Eareckson Tada is the Founder and CEO of Joni and Friends International Disability Center, and an international advocate for people with disabilities. In 1967, when Joni was just 17, a diving accident left her a quadriplegic in a wheelchair, without the use of her hands. Today, she encourages us that even when we think there is no answer to our deepest hurts, we can find strength in Christ. Dedee and Greg Lhamon are the founders of The Covering House in the St. Louis area, a home for girls who have been involved in sexual trafficking or exploitation. Dedee and Greg recount how they have been used by God to reach many girls in their darkest moments and give them hope for a life free from the bonds of their hurtful pasts.
These two men of faith strive every day to use their platforms for good: multi-platinum country artist Josh Turner and NASCAR driver Michael McDowell. Throughout his career, Josh Turner has spoken frequently about his Christian faith, and he just released his first gospel album called I Serve a Savior. Josh tells us about his deep roots in the church and gospel music, how he and his family joined Bill and Gloria Gaither to produce the album, and why he feels compelled to be a good example for his fans. Michael McDowell has been racing since he was three years old, and always dreamed of becoming a NASCAR driver. He achieved this dream, but not without challenges along the way. He tells us about the ups and downs throughout his career, and how, through it all, he’s learned to surrender control and rely on God for true success.
Today we talk with two women whose lives were touched by painful struggles and can now see, despite their pain, that God has a plan to use their stories for good: author Rachel Hollis and cancer activist Gil Schaenzle. Rachel Hollis is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Girl, Wash Your Face. Rachel is a top motivational speaker and CCO of The Hollis Company, a media and lifestyle company, plus a mother of four. She shares some deeply personal tragedies and triumphs along her journey to success, and why she challenges women to reach for a better version of themselves every day. Gil Schaenzle is a tireless advocate for cancer awareness. When Gil’s daughter Anna was just 20, she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of neuroendocrine cancer and passed away just nine months later. To raise awareness for the horrific disease, Gil decided to run through all fifty U.S. National Parks in just nine months, a dream she and Anna shared together. Today, Gil tells us about her daughter and their dream, and how she finds the strength every day to press on in her memory.
Our guests this week have experienced what it’s like to be made whole through Christ: Christian musician Russ Taff and Proverbs 31 author and speaker Wendy Pope. Russ Taff is a GRAMMY and Dove Award-winning vocalist who has been hailed by Billboard magazine as “the single most electrifying voice in Christian music.” Russ shares harrowing experiences from growing up in an abusive and alcoholic home, his own battle with alcoholism, and his lifelong battle with shame. His experience and musical journey has been dramatized in the new film Russ Taff: I Still Believe. Wendy Pope has a heart for speaking to women and helping them step boldly into the lives that God has designed for them. Today, Wendy tells us about her newest book Yes, No, and Maybe: Living with the God of Immeasurably More. She shares how we can see past our disappointments and unfulfilled dreams and instead how we can discover treasures in our lives we may not be able to see at the surface.
Today’s guests discuss how families can work together to do good in the world and leave a legacy that will have impact for years to come: author and speaker Bob Goff and his daughter Lindsey Goff Viducich and businesswomen and philanthropists Jackie Green and her daughter Lauren Green McAfee. Bob Goff is author of the New York Times bestseller Love Does, and is daughter Lindsey is a schoolteacher. Together, they talk about their new book Love Does for Kids and why they’re passionate to help kids all over the world. Jackie Green and Lauren Green McAfee’s family runs the Hobby Lobby chain of stores. As co-authors, earlier this year Jackie and Lauren released the book, Only One Life: How a Woman's Every Day Shapes an Eternal Legacy. Today the mother-daughter team tell us what legacy means to them, and why every person is equipped to leave behind a life that can reach countless generations into the future.
Today’s guests show us the power of relying on God in our darkest moments and staying connected with Him so that He can see us through our struggles: Joel and Luke Smallbone of the band, for KING & COUNTRY, and gospel music legend Sandi Patty. Joel and Luke Smallbone are part of a musical heritage, but earning their path to success was certainly not easy. Today they talk to us about their new album, Burn the Ships, how they’ve created their own musical legacy, and why it’s so important for them to carve out moments to be still with God. Sandi Patty came to fame in the 1980s as she sang alongside Bill and Gloria Gaither and wowed crowds with her stunning rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” After four decades in the music industry, Sandi talks to us about how she fell in love with music at an early age, what it took for her to discover her voice, both personally and professionally, and why she believes showing up is the first step to having a deeper relationship with God.
Join us as we celebrate the release of two new Jesus Calling books for Christmastime! On this special episode, we talk with Christian singer/songwriter Mark Lowry about his favorite Christmas traditions and get a behind-the-scenes look at how he wrote one of the most beloved Christmas songs of all time, “Mary, Did You Know.” During the second half of our show, we continue the celebration as we talk with the president of Christian Book Distributors, Ray Hendrickson, and his staff as they commemorate 40 years of ministering to the world with Christian products. Ray and the CBD staff share how they take great joy in sharing products that help their customers through tough times and grow their faith—products like our very own Jesus Calling.
Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. Today we talk with two women who channel their artistic gifts into messages of hope that they use to inspire the world: country music star RaeLynn and Christian writer Kristy Cambron. RaeLynn believes in the power of music to tell stories and help others who are struggling feel they are not alone. After she was a contestant on NBC’s The Voice in 2012, RaeLynn saw her career skyrocket. RaeLynn shares how her passion for music was born in church, the winding road she traveled to launch her music career, and how God has helped her overcome personal and health struggles. Since she was a child, Kristy Cambron has loved telling stories. She tells us how one art history class in college inspired her to write first novel more than a decade later, why she decided to quit her Corporate America job after 15 years and begin writing books, and why a book on her desk at work inspired her to make that leap.
Today we talk with three guests who have dedicated their lives to ministry by bringing others closer to God, even when they themselves couldn’t always see the way forward: pastor and New York Times bestselling author Craig Groeschel, and husband-and-wife author and publisher team Jack & Marsha Countryman. Recently, Craig Groeschel released his newest book, Hope in the Dark: Believing God Is Good When Life Is Not. Today Craig tells us why asking God questions can create a stronger relationship with Him, and how we can endure challenges without losing our faith. Jack and Marsha Countryman have been married for 52 years, and have worked side by side each day of their marriage. They started their publishing company, J. Countryman, at their kitchen table almost forty years ago. Today they describe how they’ve been able to use their talents to connect millions of people to the promises of God, how they’ve been able to keep their marriage strong after five decades, and why they’ve decided to keep going to work every day, even in their later years.
Today’s guests, author and speaker Kay Warren and UFC fighter Cody Garbrandt, know firsthand what it’s like to help people they care about face circumstances that are too tough for them to face alone. Kay Warren is the co-founder of Saddleback Church with her husband, Rick. For more than ten years, Kay has been a tireless advocate for those living with mental illness. She shares how she and her husband Rick met, the beginnings of Saddleback Church, and her fight for her son’s life as he dealt with mental illness. When UFC World Champion fighter Cody Garbrandt was a young boy, he dreamed of becoming a champion. His family was filled with generations of fighters, and while growing up in a blue-collar town in central Ohio, his dream to become a champion seemed nearly impossible. After years of struggle, when Cody was 20, his brother introduced him to someone who would change Cody’s life forever.
Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. Today we visit with Mark and Danielle Herzlich. Mark is a Super Bowl-winning NFL linebacker with the New York Giants. Danielle is a new mom and a captain in the U.S. Army. By the time Mark and Danielle met in college, each had faced difficult battles in their young lives. Mark was a football star, destined for the NFL, when he found out he had a life-threatening cancer. And as Danielle began college, she was putting a life of domestic abuse behind her and recovering from the terror that her abusive father brought into her home. As they were seeking God to sort out their lives, God brought them together and showed them how they could use the pain of their experiences to help others find courage through similar challenges.
Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. Today’s guests, Scott Hamilton and Rhonda Hodge, are both cancer survivors and teach us the power of resilience when it comes to facing trials in their lives. Scott Hamilton is an Olympic gold medalist and champion figure skater. After losing his mother to cancer, then becoming a cancer survivor himself, Scott became an activist against the disease. Scott talks to us today about his journey to skating stardom, how his wife led him to a close relationship with God, and how surviving cancer gave him purpose. Rhonda Hodge is a wife, mom, and cancer survivor. Rhonda faced cancer in her family over the years—with her husband, her best friend, and even with her own college-aged daughter—only to find out she too had the disease. She describes how she faced the diagnoses of family members and friends, and how she clung to God through her own diagnosis.
Today’s guests, multi-platinum country star Hunter Hayes and drummer Jen Ledger from the Christian supergroup Skillet, have battled with dark feelings of inadequacy and anxiety. They have each found hope through these feelings by remembering how God views them. Hunter Hayes is a five-time GRAMMY nominee and one of the youngest solo male artists to top the Hot Country Songs chart. Hunter discusses how he grew into a singer/songwriter and how he works out the answers to hard questions through his songs, like his latest single “Dear God.” Hunter is candid about his insecurities; despite his monumental success at such a young age, he deals with feelings of not being good enough. Over the last ten years, Jen Ledger has been the drummer for Skillet as they’ve been nominated for GRAMMYs and played live for hundreds of thousands of people all over the world. Jen trusted God as He opened doors for her career, even when she didn’t believe in herself. Now she is releasing her first solo record that features a very personal song called “Not Dead Yet” that Jen describes as a song borne from a time when struggled with and battled internal fear and anxiety.
Today’s guests help us see that even when life gets hard, we can keep going, knowing that God’s plans for us will always bring us exactly where we need to be: Fox News anchor Ainsley Earhardt and author Andy Andrews. Ainsley Earhardt is the co-anchor of Fox & Friends. Ainsley has a robust background in broadcast journalism. She recounts her journey up to network television, and tells us how she has been able to trace God’s hand through her life, and how her faith has sustained her during some of her darkest moments. Andy Andrews is a New York Times bestselling author, speaker, and consultant for the world’s most successful teams and fastest growing organizations. Andy encourages us to keep going, even when life gets hard, by using our imagination and trusting God’s timing to help us move toward the life God has planned for us.
Our guests today address the key to finding hope in a sometimes dark world with an encouraging message for every generation; from teenagers to Baby Boomers. Pastor Max Lucado is a New York Times bestselling author who has a new book called Unshakeable Hope, in which he offers guidance for overcoming sadness and despair, renewing a sense of purpose, and triumphantly facing our fears of the future. Christian musician Phil Joel is best known for his long-standing role as bass player and vocalist for the multi platinum-selling band Newsboys. Phil shares his journey to becoming a part of the Newsboys, and how, with his new band Zealand, he brings hope to young people, enabling them to draw closer to God through worship.
Today’s guests, doctors Henry Cloud and Daniel Amen, help us see how science and scripture can be connected in ways that explain our hurts and heal our pain. Dr. Henry Cloud is a clinical psychologist and New York Times bestselling co-author of Boundaries. He shares Biblical and scientific support that show how healthy emotional boundaries honor God, ourselves and others. Dr. Daniel Amen is one of America’s leading psychiatrists and brain health experts. He has helped countless people change their brains and lives through his clinics, public television programs, and books, including the New York Times bestseller The Daniel Plan and his latest book, Memory Rescue. Today he tells us how taking care of our physical health helps us take care of our brain and spiritual well-being.
Our guests today have experienced first hand the faithfulness of God--even in difficult times--pastor and author Dr. David Jeremiah and cancer survivor Tracy Layman. Dr. David Jeremiah is the pastor of Shadow Mountain Church and the founder of the popular radio ministry Turning Point. Dr. Jeremiah speaks to us about God’s faithfulness—-even through the difficult seasons of our lives. Tracy Layman is a wife, mother and cancer overcomer who volunteers with Compassion That Compels, an organization dedicated to bringing hope and comfort to women who have been diagnosed with cancer. Tracy Layman shares how she faced the grim news from her doctors about her cancer and how God was faithful to bring people into her life to support her and how she also felt inspired to encourage and support others facing similar battles.
Sadie Robertson has appeared on ABC’s Dancing With the Stars and also A&E’s Duck Dynasty. Sadie shares her journey of finding freedom through being real and vulnerable to God and to others. Her book, Live Fearless: A Call to Power, Passion & Purpose is now available.
As followers of Christ, we all have the opportunity to treat others with integrity and love, making a difference in a sometimes unkind world. Full House and Dancing with the Stars actress Candace Cameron Buré is putting this into practice in her daily life by seeking ways to show little kindnesses to the people around her daily--even if only through a smile. Author and speaker Kristin Fry knows the challenges of being a single Christian woman in a community that prizes marriage and family. She gives her perspective on how to date with compassion and integrity--never forgetting that despite our marital status--God has chosen us for His purposes and loves us just as we are.
It’s easy to find heroes in history books or on the screen. But we can also find heroes in smaller moments, quietly leading others through service. Today’s guests, country music star Neal McCoy and Air Force Veteran and Chick-fil-A Foundation Executive Director Rodney D. Bullard, talk to us about service and why they feel it’s important they give back to their communities, their country, and their God. Neal tells us about his family’s legacy of service and why he thinks getting involved in your local community can have a huge impact. And Rodney D. Bullard, author of the new book Heroes Wanted, shares powerful ways we can reach out to others to become everyday heroes and create a life of service.
Dr. David Jeremiah is a writer, teacher and pastor of Shadow Mountain Community Church. Dr. Jeremiah speaks to us about God’s faithfulness—-and how even through the challenges of life, God remains faithful. Sharing from his own experiences, Dr. Jeremiah encourages people to seek God daily and to look for His faithfulness in their own lives.
Today we visit with two men who have experienced the healing power of sharing with others the pain of their personal struggles. Pastor Johnny Baker is the Pastor of Celebrate Recovery at Saddleback Church. As an adult child of an alcoholic who experienced addiction to alcohol, Johnny is passionate about breaking the cycle of dysfunction and pain by sharing his story and helping others find freedom through Christ. Jason Crabb is a GRAMMY and Dove Award winning singer. Jason and his wife Shellye learned the healing power of sharing their struggles with others after they experienced two devastating miscarriages. Jason connects others to God through his music, helping them to see how God has chosen them and that they are loved.
Our guests today have experienced the power of prayer in their lives and want to share with others what they can gain by talking to God. Holly Shivers is the author of I Can Learn the Bible and I Can Learn to Pray. Holly has served as a staff wife for over a decade at Prestonwood Baptist Church, where she stays involved in women's and children's ministries. Holly is passionate about encouraging both kids and adults to communicate with God through prayer. Erin Lundmark** is a wife, mother and business owner. During a standard physical Erin received some devastating news—the diagnosis of stage 4 colorectal cancer and was given just weeks to live. Erin shares how she faced this news and how her relationship with God and the prayers of others carried her through this difficult time.
Author and Pastor Max Lucado shares his thoughts on how to combat anxiety during fearful times. Max has written two books on this topic—one for adults called “Anxious for Nothing,” and another one for Children called “I’m Not A Scaredy-Cat.” Max tells us about why it was important to him to write on the topic of anxiety, which afflicts so many of us in a tense world.
Today’s guests share with us how they dealt with difficulties in their life, and with God’s help, ultimately achieved their dreams: former NFL football player and Dancing with the Stars winner Rashad Jennings and Christian artist Ryan Stevenson. Rashad Jennings is a former NFL football player and winner of Dancing With the Stars in 2017. Against all odds, Rashad overcame several obstacles in his early years (including a difficult relationship with his father) that might have crushed his dreams, but when one person believed in him, it changed the course of his life. Ryan Stevenson is a contemporary Christian artist who started his career as a paramedic. Seeing stories of people’s most tragic moments played out in front of him shook him, but a pivotal moment saving a woman’s life would eventually end up saving his and leading him to his true calling--music.
Today’s guests are allowing themselves to be used by God to bring a message of hope and light through their music--The Oak Ridge Boys and Aaron Watson. The Oak Ridge Boys have dozens of Country hits and a Number One Pop smash, and have earned them Grammy, Dove, CMA, and ACM awards. The roots of the group and for each man individually are steeped in Gospel music and faith in God. Aaron Watson Aaron started chasing his dream of becoming a country singer/songwriter while still in college. Through perseverance, a work ethic instilled in him by his father, and the grace of God, Aaron has seen his career come to life over the last 18 years, and as his audience grows, he is determined to let use his music and his words glorify God.
We continue our series about country music and faith with today’s guests Marty Raybon & Mike Maguire from legendary country music group Shenandoah, and the long-admired country vocalist Gene Watson. Marty & Mike share about the beginnings of their band and how grateful they are to God to be able to bring music to the world for over 30 years. Gene shares about his humble beginnings and how he wanted to honor God and his parents for their faithfulness in all the good and challenging things that have happened in his life by recording his first Gospel record.
Today’s guests are two young women who have faced the typical challenges that girls deal with in our culture today--self confidence, peer pressure, criticism and authenticity. Chelsea Crockett started making videos as a teenager just for fun, which eventually morphed into her highly popular YouTube channel Beautylicious Insider. Chelsea’s mission is to show girls how to be authentically beautiful--mirroring the love of Christ to encourage their self worth. Kaylee Rutland is an upcoming country music singer/songwriter who, before performing and singing, battled shyness. Her songs have a message for young women everywhere, including a very special song she wrote for her 13-year old sister who was dealing with self-confidence issues.
We continue a special series focusing on country music and faith as we countdown to the Country Music Association’s CMA Fest, held in Nashville from June 7-10. Our guests today are the legendary duo The Bellamy Brothers and emerging country music artist, Zach Seabaugh. The Bellamy Brothers broke onto the scene with a smash hit on both the pop and country charts with the classic song “Let Your Love Flow,” and continue to tour all over the world. They share a little about their roots growing up in the church, about a new reality show that gives a glimpse into their family’s life in Florida and their new autobiography, "Let Your Love Flow: Life and Times of the Bellamy Brothers. Zach Seabaugh is an up and coming country artist who competed on Season 9 of the NBC show The Voice when he was just 16 years old-- where he placed 5th in the overall competition. Zach discusses what it’s like to be thrust into the spotlight at such an early age, and what motivates him to share his faith journey with his fans.
Our guests today have both experienced encouragement from someone who believed in them—their mothers. Our first guest is Jeff Hostetler, a Superbowl champion quarterback who led the New York Giants to their win in Super Bowl XXV some 1 1⁄2 months after the starting quarterback went out for the season with a broken foot. Jeff shares the ups and downs, frustrations and rewards of his football career and celebrates the woman who never stopped reminding him “whose he was,” and that “God had a plan for his life,” --his mom. Shaunti Feldhahn is a researcher, a speaker and a writer who has studied the effects of rest on the lives of stressed out moms--and women in general. Her new devotional, "Finding Rest: A Woman’s Devotional For Lasting Peace,” guides women in the practice of recharging emotionally, physically and spiritually through finding rest.
This week’s episode features two women who have grappled with the hard questions we all ask of God. Lysa TerKeurst is an author and speaker and Dorothy Ruelas works in prison ministry in Texas. Lysa candidly shares her journey to realizing that she was “good enough” when she stopped letting her circumstances define her and began believing in who God says she is.
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Today’s episode touches on themes of acceptance and how God loves us just the way we are. Lisa Harper is a Bible Teacher and a speaker. She shares about how she moved past the shame and trauma associated with early sexual abuse in her life by being able to view herself as worthy in God’s eyes. Shelley Breen, Leigh Cappalino and Denise Jones join us from award winning contemporary Christian singing group Point of Grace. They share their joy and honor at being able to bring messages of hope and acceptance to the world through music for over 20 years; plus their thoughts on favorite hymns and worship songs that are part of their new record “Beautiful Name.”
Melanie Shankle & Marshawn Evans Daniels have both learned how to move beyond what they thought “should” happen for their lives, and develop willing hearts to allow God to move them to a place beyond what they could ever have imagined. Melanie Shankle is a writer and a speaker, who in her past, tended to “limit” herself, based on her fears, insecurities and what others thought of her. When she learned to dispel these lies, she learned to never again underestimate what God could do with a willing heart. Marshawn Evans Daniels, author, speaker, Miss America finalist and participant on “The Apprentice,” was the picture of a successful woman. She shares about what she calls her “split rock moment,” after finding out the day before her “dream wedding,” that her fiance had been unfaithful, and how she had to let go of her plans, and allow God to take over.
This episode of The Jesus Calling Video Story features Donna Edwards, the First Lady of the state of Louisiana. Donna shares a little about her life and background, including partnering with her husband, Governor John Bel Edwards, in public service. As part of that service and in devotion to God, Donna felt led to share Jesus Calling with women inmates in her state, and visited them in person to deliver the books. She talks about that experience and the effect that gesture had on her and the women she encountered that day. We also interview two women from the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women who received Jesus Calling books from The First Lady that day. They candidly share heart wrenching stories of their past and the hope Christ has given them for their futures.
Roma Downey and Jenn Gotzon Chandler are both actresses who are committed to shining the light of their faith in Hollywood. In addition to being an actress, Roma Downey is an author and producer. She is probably best known as the star of the iconic television show “Touched By An Angel.” In her newest book, Box of Butterflies, she talks about how important it is to recognize the blessings in front of us each day. She also shares about the special relationship she had with her Touched By An Angel Co-star Della Reese, who passed away last year, and the comfort she has in knowing that we’ll all be together one day in heaven. Jenn Gotzon Chandler aspires to inspire and uplift through the medium of film and storytelling. In her latest movie, “My Daddy Is In Heaven,” she plays the role of a young woman her loses her husband in a tragic accident, and how she comes to terms not only with his passing, but with raising her daughter alone and explaining to her why Daddy isn’t coming home. Her powerful portrayal of this role, and how God gives us the hope of heaven amidst our suffering, gave her strength when she was facing her own personal crisis.
Today’s guests exemplify excellence in their sports and a desire to honor God for their talents. Michael Chandler is a professional mixed martial artist who has garnered many wins since he came on the MMA scene in 2010. Michael is determined to use his platform to show the world that his strength comes from following Christ. Steel Lafferty has been wakeboarding since he was 12 years old and is considered to be one of the best in the world. His commitment to give God all of the glory for any accolades or achievements he receives in his sport is an example to young people everywhere.
Today’s guests feature a pair of brothers who have been pursuing excellence in the world of golf and also pursuing their relationship with God: The Bryan Brothers. Our second guest is Craig Johnson, a minister at Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas. Craig shares the story about how, when his son was diagnosed with autism, he trusted God’s purpose for his life and was inspired to write a book about that journey called “Champion.”
This week’s guests both have a legacy of inspiring and moving people through entertainment, one through music and both through film--Bart Millard and Jim Caviezel. First we have Bart Millard who is a GRAMMY nominated singer/songwriter and the lead vocalist for the band MercyMe. His mega-hit “I Can Only Imagine,” has inspired millions of listeners with its joyful anticipation of heaven. Bart has written a book about his life, which has now become a major motion picture that released this month in theaters. Our second guest is Jim Caviezel, a highly acclaimed actor who came to prominence after his groundbreaking performance as Jesus in the blockbuster movie The Passion of the Christ. Jim has gone on to choose thoughtful and inspirational roles that speak to his deep faith as a Christian, and has had commercial success in both the faith-based and mainstream entertainment world. He speaks to us today about a new movie he stars in called “Paul….” and gives us some background on his faith filled journey through hollywood.
This week’s episode features two women who have grappled with the hard questions we all ask of God. Lysa TerKeurst is an author and speaker and Dorothy Ruelas works in prison ministry in Texas. Lysa candidly shares her journey to realizing that she was “good enough” when she stopped letting her circumstances define her and began believing in who God says she is.
[VIDEO STORY] Country superstar Dolly Parton was raised to believe that “Jesus loves her, and that with God, nothing is impossible.” Dolly never forgot her roots, and as massive success came her way over the years, she always looked for ways to give back. In 1995, inspired by her father's struggles with reading, she launched the Imagination Library, providing books monthly to children during their first 5 years of life--they have given away over 100 million books to foster a love of reading. Now, 50 years from the release of her first record, Dolly continues to speak encouragement into the lives of families and children with her first ever children's album titled “I Believe In You,” for which all proceeds go to The Imagination Library.
Ann Voskamp is a mom, writer, teacher, speaker. Her book 1000 Gifts explored what it would be like to be grateful every day. Her newest book, the Way of Abundance talks about how joy can still spring from brokenness and suffering. She shares stories from her own life and urges us to drop our masks of perfection and embrace our scars, as our scars identify us with Jesus. Our second guest is financial planner Emily Stroud. Emily helps people think about their future not in terms of wealth, but in terms of living to our fullest potential. She helps us sift through being faithful in our finances and offers up hope for any of us who struggle with financial challenges
Today’s guests know what it’s like to seek God as a refuge and strength in times of trouble. Kevin and Sam Sorbo are Hollywood actors whose greatest desire is to bring light to the world through the medium of film. Kevin starred as the hero “Hercules” in the popular television series and movies, and Sam, is an actress in her own right and also hosts her own radio show. In the height of his career, Kevin suffered a series of strokes that would change everything, and put him in a place of deep dependence on God. Together, Kevin and Sam battled for his recovery and came back determined to give God the glory, starting by creating meaningful films that would reach people for Him. Currently, both Sam and Kevin star in the movie “Let There Be Light” which is now available on DVD. Pastor Robert J. Morgan served alongside Billy Graham early in his ministry and dreamed of one day being able to reach people like Rev. Graham did. He eventually became the pastor of his own church and has written a book that shows people how spending time meditating on the words of Scripture can have a life changing effect. He and his wife Katrina, have faced her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis with the assurance that God has been their “refuge and strength; a very present help in trouble.”
Today’s guests have had both fame and beauty, but ultimately came to realize that God’s definition of their value is far greater than how they’re seen by others, or viewed in their own mirrors. Deana Carter is an award winning country music star who is grateful for successful career in music, and even more grateful to know the truth of who she is as a daughter of Christ. Leah Darrow is a writer, speaker and a finalist on “America’s Next Top Model.” Leah’s view of beauty was shaped by a nearly impossible standard that left her feeling unworthy and defeated. It was only when she realized that authentic beauty comes from wholeness in God that her outlook began to change.
Songwriters and authors Mark Lowry and Andrew Greer are the hosts of the film series and podcast “Dinner Conversations: Turning the Light On, One Question At A Time.” They each share their backgrounds and their shared love for music and storytelling. They also discuss why they think conversations are an important facet of building our faith and deepening our knowledge of Christ and others.
[VIDEO STORY] Emily Ley has a very interesting story to share about how God transformed her life and how she "started over.” Emily is a mom, business owner and author. Emily found the demands of her job and her own tendency to seek “perfection” in all that she did was taking away from time from what was really important—time with God and time with her family. Emily shares how she pared back and started simplifying in order to enjoy what really mattered in her life.
Today’s episode features two sets of guests who have similar perspectives on life and marriage and how they get through the rough times every relationship faces. Clayton & Ashlee Hurst are marriage pastors at Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas. They share personal stories of communication pitfalls in marriage and how they keep Christ at the center of their relationship. Alli Worthington is an author, business coach and the co-founder of Blissdom, who, with her husband, faced job losses, homelessness and chronic illness. She shares how she was able to loose the grip fear had on her during these difficult seasons, and where she found the courage to overcome her anxieties.
This week’s episode features an interview with Donna Edwards, the First Lady of the state of Louisiana. Donna shares a little about her life and background, including partnering with her husband, Governor John Bel Edwards, in public service. As part of that service and in devotion to God, Donna felt led to share Jesus Calling with women inmates in her state, and visited them in person to deliver the books. She talks about that experience and the effect that gesture had on her and the women she encountered that day. We also interview two women from the Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women who received The First Lady’s gift that day. They candidly share heart wrenching stories of their past and the hope they now have in their futures.
This week’s episode features 2 guests who discuss how they found authenticity and wholeness in God. First, we speak with Sadie Robertson, star of ABC’s Dancing With the Stars and also A&E’s Duck Dynasty. Sadie shares her journey of finding freedom through being real and vulnerable to God and to others. She is passionate about speaking and writing in the hopes of encouraging others to embrace who they really are. Her latest book is entitled Live Fearless and Walk in Confidence of Freedom. Our second guest is Toure’ Roberts, pastor of The Potter’s House. Toure’ shares his background growing up with a single mom in an at-risk area of Los Angeles, and discusses how we can overcome our limitations and begin the journey to becoming whole in Christ.
[VIDEO STORY] Reba McEntire is a country music legend who has had over 35 #1 singles and over 56 million albums sold worldwide. Reba has become a beloved household name who has made her mark in film, television, theater and retail. Her last project, a Gospel double CD entitled “Sing It Now; Songs of Faith and Hope,” has been nominated for a 2018 Grammy Award for best Roots Gospel Album.Reba’s faith has carried her through the ups and downs of life as a country superstar. She often turns to the pages of Jesus Calling and Jesus Always during her quiet times, and finds strength and inspiration there during every season of life.
Paul Teutul, Jr. was just 27 years old when American Chopper: Jet Bike premiered on the Discovery Channel, featuring “Paulie” and his father, Paul Sr., That show sparked a full series following the Teutuls and their business, Orange County Choppers, that aired in 2003,. Six years of family ups and downs ensued, culminating in 2009 with Senior firing Junior. Today, Paul Jr. has gone on to start his own very successful business, and has written a book entitled “The Build: Designing My Life of Choppers, Family and Faith.” Paul details the tumultuous time working with his Dad and his difficult home life as a child, and how his faith kept him going during all of it. Father Mark Keene has been the Pastor of the Church of St. Agnes since 1999. He describes how Jesus Calling has been meaningful to his church; a community of believers sharing their daily walk together.
Our first guest is Donna Barrett. While working in as a missionary in Nicaragua, Donna’s life was affected not only by the systemic poverty she witnessed in this country, but the relationships she formed by working alongside the team who accompanied her on the trip; in particular a gregarious young woman who God placed in her path, who would have an impact on her life for years to come. Our second guest is writer Kristen Kill. Kristen was exhausted, depressed and desperate for a change. Something sparked in her when she read the Psalms and discovered the true meaning of “selah” – the pause, rest or interlude between the notes in song. Kristen discovered the secret of finding selah in her own life, and shares how others can also find this rest.
Our guests today share stories of the hope and transformation that has happened in their lives as they were pursued by God and daily started following Him. From a young age, Lisa Delgado experienced trauma and abuse in her life. As she grew older, she pushed away from her family’s strict religious upbringing, but always knew something was missing. Struggling with depression and darkness, Lisa shares a pivotal moment where a friend’s kindness and compassion showed her something that would change her life forever. Lisa Whittle isthe daughter of a pastor, Lisa wasn’t interested in a life of ministry until she found herself being pursued by God for that very thing. Lisa has dedicated her life to writing and speaking about the truth of Jesus Christ and shares the joys and challenges of what happens when you let God lead you to the places He would have you go.
Josh & Sean McDowell are writers and teachers who are passionate about bringing the truth of the Gospel to a world hungry for the knowledge of Christ. As a young man,Josh McDowellconsidered himself an agnostic. Because of a troubled and hurtful home life, he truly believed that Christianity was worthless. However, when challenged to intellectually examine the claims of Christianity, Josh discovered evidence for the reliability of the Christian faith. Dr. Sean McDowellis a gifted communicator with a passion for equipping the church, especially young people, to make the case for the Christian faith. They each share about their early years and what motivates them to bring evidence for the veracity of Scripture to those who need the freedom truth brings.
Emily Ley & Shannon Rozenburg have two very different stories to share about how God transformed their lives and how they “started over.” Emily Ley is a mom, business owner and author. Emily found the demands of her job and her own tendency to seek “perfection” in all that she did was taking away from time from what was really important—time with God and time with her family. Emily shares how she pared back and started simplifying in order to enjoy what really mattered in her life. Shannon Rozenburg is the daughter of Steve and Donna Rozenburg, who appeared on Episode 2 of the podcast to share how their family had been shattered by addiction. Shannon now comes to the podcast to talk about her road to recovery and how “tough love” played a part in her turnaround. Ultimately, she credits God for restoring her life, her relationship with her family, and for giving her hope for a new season.
David Green is the founder and CEO of the country’s largest chain of arts and crafts stores, Hobby Lobby. David’s philosophy in life revolves around his faith and his family. His view of “wealth,” is not tied to how much money a person makes, but their relationship with the Lord, their relationship with others, and teaching others about God. His son Steve, who is the president of Hobby Lobby and Steve’s wife Jackie share these godly principles. They all discuss why it’s important to them that others know about the Bible and how to live generously.
[VIDEO STORY] Collin Raye is a country hit maker with over 24 top ten records to his credit. Always thankful to God for the blessings in his life, Collin shares how he how accepted both the triumphs and the heartaches, including the devastating loss of his 10- year-old granddaughter, trusting God through the good and the bad. Tell us the kinds of stories and topics you want to hear from the Jesus Calling Podcast! Click the link below to take a survey and let us know a little about you so we can continue to bring you the kinds of guests and inspirational stories you love. Survey link: http://bit.ly/2nJZtqj To subscribe to iTunes click here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/jesus-calling-podcast-touching-stories-of-faith/id1081967443?mt=2
Six-time Vocal Group of the Year Diamond Rio has been one of the most successful bands in country music history. They won a Grammy for their first Christian Record “The Reason,” and have also produced a Christmas album called “The Star Still Shines.” Currently, they are the artists in residence at Gaylord’s Opryland Hotel Resort in Nashville and have been bringing joy to audiences through their Christmas show “Holiday & Hits.” Lead singer Marty Roe and guitarist Jimmy Olander visit with us on the podcast to share what Christmas meant to them growing up and what it means to them now.
Reba McEntire is a country music legend who has had over 35 #1 singles and over 56 million albums sold worldwide. Reba has become a beloved household name who has made her mark in film, television, theater and retail. Her last project, a Gospel double CD entitled “Sing It Now; Songs of Faith and Hope,” recently won a Gospel Music Association Dove Award for Bluegrass/Country/Roots Album of the Year. Now Reba has gone on to record a new Christmas record called “My Kind of Christmas.” She shares her thoughts on Christmas, and why, for many of us, Christmas can be a difficult time of year, but also why she thinks it’s important to find joy, and to remember the Reason for this season.
O.S. Hawkins is the President and Chief Executive Officer ofGuideStone Financial Resourcesof the Southern Baptist Convention. Hawkins also served as senior pastor of the historic First Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas, and is the author of more than 25 books, including the best-sellingThe Joshua Code: 52 Scripture Verses Every Believer Should Know. He talks to us about his journey to becoming a pastor and a writer, and also about his new books, The Believer’s Code and The Christmas Code. Rick Smith is the founder of Rock Bottom Outreach, an organization the meets people at the time of their need. As a successful coach, Rick had it all, until a prescription drug addiction took over his life and he lost everything that mattered to him. After reaching his own “rock bottom,” through faith and determination, Rick rebuilt his life and is committed to help others who are facing their own “rock bottom” situations.
As the First Lady of Tennessee, Crissy Haslam believes in the power of second chances. Her priorities have been focused on working with change making organizations who are empowering families, women, and orphans. Crissy shares why it’s important to her to serve others, and how thankful she for the influence she has to make a difference in many people’s lives. Our second guest is Brenda Wilson from Thistle Farms. Brenda’s was devastated after the death of her grandmother who was her biggest caretaker and advocate. Left alone in an unfamiliar, she lost her way. After 20 years of wandering, she walked through a door that God opened for her at Thistle Farms. Given the chance to begin again, Brenda shares how the love of God and others showed her she could live differently.
Aaron Watson is a rising country music star who began chasing his dream of becoming a singer/songwriter over 18 years. Though faced with countless disappointments, family tragedy and rejection, Aaron trusted God for the path that he would take and is celebrating the release of a new hit record, Vaquero. Carlos & Joy host WAY-FM Christian radio network’s popular afternoon show. They share how a love for Christian music and a desire to spread the hope of Christ to others through the air-waves, inspired them to pursue their careers in Christian radio.
Christine Caine is a writer, speaker and activist. Her story of healing came over many years as she lived in faith to recover from sexual abuse that happened in her childhood. Her latest book, a 365-Day devotional, called “Unshakeable,” provides daily reminders that even in an unstable world, God is always stands firm. Jennifer Clinger is a graduate of Thistle Farms, a social justice enterprise. Jennifer describes how she gave up on life after being a victim of abuse and tragedy, and traded herself on the street to support the drug habit that numbed her pain. After years of unsuccessfully trying to fill the void in her life, she realized that when her heart became hard toward God, He never turned away from her.
Becca Stevens is the founder and president of Thistle Farms, a beautiful justice enterprise for women who are survivors of trafficking, addiction and prostitution. After experiencing abuse and trauma in her own childhood, Becca longed to open a sanctuary for survivors offering a loving community. Twenty years later, the organization is thriving and continues to welcome women and provides housing, medical care, therapy and education for two years. She has written a book called “Love Heals” that details her experiences. One of the beneficiaries of the Thistle Farms program also talks about her experience with the program, Dorris Walker’s childhood was happy, until the day she witnessed her own father’s fatal shooting. She went from a happy family life to a life in the streets of Nashville, trading herself to support the addictions that numbed her pain. A concerned friend reached out to Dorris and brought her to Thistle Farms. Dorris shares the life-changing experience she had there, and how love truly does heal.
Our guests today are writer and speaker Annie F. Downs and crisis counselor and writer Jamie Blaine. Both guests have experienced challenges in their lives that left them feeling scared and alone, but through the power of God’s word, they found strength to “show up,” for what God would have them do. Each shares their life stories and how they found the courage to keep moving ahead and the mercy to not look back.
Gloria Gaither is a lyricist, educator and speaker, who with her husband Bill, has written some of the most enduring and beloved songs of our time including “Because He Lives,” and “He Touched Me.” Gloria shares some of her early years and how she came to the point in life where she has decided to spend as much time as possible nurturing her most important relationships and finding something eternal in the “daily-ness” of life. Please also enjoy a rebroadcast of our interview with Dr. Emerson Eggerichs about love and respect in marriage. Dr. Eggerichs has also included a personal message to our listeners about his new book “Before You Hit Send: Preventing Headache and Heartache,” which shows us how we can prevent misunderstanding and allow for understanding in our communication with others.
[JESUS CALLING VIDEO STORY] Kathie Lee Gifford is an Emmy Award winning host of the Today Show. She is a singer, songwriter and author who brings her vivacious spirit to everything she does. Behind the public personality is a “truth-seeker,” who relentlessly pursues the deeper meanings of God’s Word in her spare time. She is working on a new book that details her many visits to the Holy Land to study the origins of Scripture entitled “The Rock, The Road and the Rabbi” which comes out in Spring of 2018. Kathie Lee discusses the passion she has for God’s Word, how she faces life after losing her husband, Frank Gifford, and what gives her joy and purpose every day.
Wild at Heart author John Eldredge is a counselor and teacher who is devoted to helping people through their recovery process. He shares how he himself “cried out to God,” as a young man, looking for hope wherever he could find it. This lifelong search for hope came to a pinnacle when he realized how many people he knew also lacked hope in their lives. He wrote a book about his findings, observations and inspirations called “All Things New: Heaven, Earth and the Restoration of Everything You Love.” Our second segment features country music singer Bradley Walker, whose latest album, “Blessed,” reflects his attitude toward his life. Born with muscular dystrophy, Bradley’s story has not been without heartache, but he reflects how God can bring joy even in the midst of pain.
Country superstar Dolly Parton was raised to believe that “Jesus loves her, and that with God, nothing is impossible.” Dolly never forgot her humble beginnings, even as she went on to achieve great success in her career and has received the highest awards for her music, songwriting, acting and other creative endeavors. Dolly is grateful for what she has been given and seeks ways to give back and bless others. In 1995, she had vision to foster a love of reading with preschool children and launched the Imagination Library, providing books monthly to children during their first 5 years of life. Now, 50 years from the release of her first record, Dolly continues to speak encouragement into the lives of children by releasing her first ever kid’s album titled “I Believe In You,” for which all proceeds go to The Imagination Library.
Welcome to the Jesus Calling Podcast. Today, we speak with Lisa Bevere who is a New York Times bestselling author, a teacher, as well as a wife, mother and grandmother. She and her husband John co-founded the ministry organization Messenger International.
Roma Downey is best known for her role as an angel named Monica on the beloved television series “Touched By An Angel.” She has earned multiple Emmy® and Golden Globe nominations as an actress and producer, and is now at the helm of new venture called Lighworkers.com. Andrea Logan White is a wife, mother, actress, producer, writer and speaker. Coming up as an actress in Hollywood, Andrea has walked through discouraging valleys, and emerged with an enduring passion to encourage people like herself who have struggled with issues of self-image and self-worth. Both of these women have a strong desire to bring stories of faith to the world through the mediums of film, television, books, and digital, radiating hope and light to those who are experiencing darkness in their lives.
Chrystal Evans Hurst is a writer, speaker and worship leader and the daughter of respected pastor and teacher Dr. Tony Evans. Chrystal’s upbringing was rich in love and God’s teachings, but even with that foundation, she still experienced uncertainty, fear and pain in her life. She describes how God was always the author of her story, even though the times that were difficult, and how she has been shaped for the better by those experiences. Our second segment features author Edie Sundby-- a woman who was given 3 months to live--and how she overcame this death sentence by her faith in God and a determination to start walking to keep living.
Pastor Max Lucado discusses how we can face anxiousness in an increasingly tense world by focusing on gratitude. Max has written two books on this topic—one for adults called “Anxious for Nothing,” and another one for children called “I’m Not A Scaredy-Cat.” Max encourages everyone, adults and children alike, to engage with God in a deeper way as a refuge against anxious thoughts.
John Cooper, is the lead singer of the band Skillet, one of the 21st century’s most successful rock bands, having received two Grammy nominations and 11 million records sold. John talks about some of the joys and struggles of his early years, and how Jesus became a friend to him through it all.
Kathie Lee Gifford is an Emmy Award winning host of the Today Show. She is a singer, songwriter and author who brings her vivacious spirit to everything she does. Behind the public personality is a “truth-seeker,” who relentlessly pursues the deeper meanings of God’s Word in her spare time. She is working on a new book that details her many visits to the Holy Land to study the origins of Scripture entitled “The Rock, The Road and the Rabbi” which comes out in Spring of 2018. Kathie Lee discusses the passion she has for God’s Word, how she faces life after losing her husband, Frank Gifford, and what gives her joy and purpose every day.
GregAlan Williams is an author and actor who stars in the Pure Flix motion picture “All Saints,” based on the true story of salesman turned pastor Michael Spurlock. GregAlan shares the ups and downs of his career as a performer and how a pivotal moment in the streets of L.A. made him an unexpected hero. Pastor Mark Batterson shares how men can achieve their greatest potential by living according to seven virtues, which he writes about in his book “Play The Man: Becoming the Man God Created You to Be.”
Ginny Owens is a Dove Award singer/songwriter whose latest record, “Love Be the Loudest,” chronicles her battle with her own doubts and fears, and how she learned to let God’s voice be the loudest in her life. Shauna Shanks is a wife, mother and the author of “A Fierce Love: One Woman’s Courageous Journey to Save Her Marriage.” Shauna’s world was rocked by her husband’s infidelity and subsequent request for a divorce. Shauna shares how God showed her how to live through the words of I Corinthians.
Nichole Nordeman is a singer-songwriter whose song “Slow Down,” and the accompanying video, touched millions of viewers everywhere with its theme of cherishing every moment we have in raising children. She has recently written a book inspired by the song called "Slow Down: Embracing the Everyday Moments of Motherhood. Jen Hatmaker is an author, a speaker and a mom to 5. Jen’s latest book “Of Mess and Moxie; Wrangling Delight Out of This Wild and Glorious Life” is a collection of stories from Jen’s own life that encourages women to “live in the moment, undaunted, no matter what the moments hold.”
Jennie Allen is a Bible teacher and the author of Nothing to Prove: Why We Can Stop Trying So Hard.” Jennie shares how her need for approval from others led to emptiness, and how she found fulfillment in the affirming words of Christ. Kristen Hatton is a Bible teacher, author and mom whose latest book is called “Face Time: Your Identity in a Selfie World.” Through teaching a Bible study to teen girls, Kristen began to see a destructive pattern of comparison; a standard of trying to live up to an unrealistic ideal of perfection. Kristen’s desire, through her book, is to help young women see their identity in Christ, to live for Him, and to let go of trying to be something they’re not.
Today’s episode features two guests who know what it’s like to lose everything. They share with us how their hope was restored through God’s promise that He will never leave us or forsake us. Our first guest is Brett Swayn who shares how his journey through homelessness brought him to a place where he is now able to share the hope he found in Christ with others going through the same situation. Our second guest is Sherry Taylor, a graduate of The Next Door, a faith based rehabilitation center. Sherry. She shares how she lost everything in the throes of addiction, and how God restored her from brokenness to wholeness in Him.
Today we visit with two guests who give us their unique perspectives on living honestly and fearlessly as women of God. Kelly Balarie, author of Fear Fighting: Awakening Courage to Overcome Your Fear, learned how to fight fear by stopping the cycle of fear in her life, and turning her darkest moments over to God. Esther Fleece, the author of No More Faking Fine: Ending the Pretending, realized that she could be honest with God and others about the trauma she faced as an orphaned child, through Scripture and trusting God with her laments.
Lee Greenwood and Charlie Daniels are legendary country entertainers and strong men of faith. With a deep love for our country and admiration for the service of our military personnel, they both endeavor to speak about their faith openly and are each deeply involved in Veteran relief organizations.“ Lee’s song “God Bless The USA,” has been voted the most recognizable patriotic song in America. In our first segment, we catch up with Lee by phone to talk about his faith, his career and the song that became one of our country’s most beloved anthems.
Kristin Schell, (author of the Turquoise Table) and Rick Rusaw and Brain Mavis (authors of The Neighboring Church) give us insight into what it really means to live out Jesus’ great commandment to “Love your neighbor as yourself,” with practical and life-changing ways we can create community where we live and expand God’s kingdom from our own front yards.
CeCe Winans is the best-selling female gospel artist of all time, as of 2015. She has sold over 12 million records worldwide and won ten Grammy Awards.. CeCe talks about taking a break from music to start a church with her husband, and how her life has been a series of saying “yes” to God whenever He has called on her.
Dr. Meg Meeker the author of Hero: Being the Strong Father Your Children Need. Dr. Meeker is a pediatrician, a mother and has become a leading authority on parenting, teens and children’s health, having appeared on the Today Show, Dateline, and more. Dr. Meg gives us insight into the special relationship between a father and his child, and encourages those who are striving to be good fathers, and those who are making peace with the way they were fathered.
Shane Owen is an up and coming artist who has had a love for traditional country music that began years ago, due to the influence of his grandmother. He talks about those early years, and how the belief his grandparents had in him kept him going when he wasn’t sure he was going to make it in the music world.
Jessi Colter is a singer, songwriter, and entertainer whose influence continues to echo across musical genres. In 1969, she married Waylon Jennings and their partnership yielded wonderful music along with personal triumphs and heartaches. She writes about their story in her latest book: An Outlaw and a Lady: A Memoir of Music, Life with Waylon and the Faith that Brought Me Home.
Collin Raye is a country hit maker with over 24 top ten records to his credit. Always thankful to God for the blessings in his life, Collin shares how he how accepted both the triumphs and the heartaches, including the devastating loss of his 10- year-old granddaughter, trusting God through the good and the bad.
T. Graham Brown is a legendary country music artist who has recorded over thirteen studio albums and charted more than twenty singles on the Billboard charts. He talks candidly about his life and his struggles with addiction, and the song that became a prayer that changed everything.
Walk with Me in the freedom of forgiveness. The path we follow together is sometimes steep and slippery. If you carry a burden of guilt on your back, you are more likely to stumble and fall. At your request, I will remove the heavy load from you and bury it at the foot of the cross. When I unburden you, you are undeniably free! Stand up straight and tall in My Presence, so that no one can place more burdens on your back. Look into My Face and feel the warmth of My Love-Light shining upon you. It is this unconditional Love that frees you from both fears and sins. Spend time basking in the Light of My Presence. As you come to know Me more and more intimately, you grow increasingly free.
Chonda Pierce is an author, actress and theRIAA’s most-awarded female comic in history. With 10 successful albums to date, she has also authored eight books, including Laughing In The Dark, which inspired a documentary by the same name. While Chonda spent years bringing joy to others through laughter, behind the scenes she experienced great challenges and loss. She shares about her battle with depression and her resolution to always live in the truth, no matter how hard it might be.
Cheryl Karpen is best known as the author of the “Eat Your Peas” Collection, a series of books dedicated to helping others communicate love, hope, and encouragement when they can’t find the words themselves. “Eat Your Peas for Mothers is a special title in the series that was inspired by Cheryl’s own mother. Cheryl recalls her early years and the moment she recognizes as her “beautiful broken heart” season and how her mom encouraged her all along the way.
Andrea Lucado, is a writer from Austin, Texas. Her new book “English Lessons: The Crooked Path of Growing Toward Faith,” describes what it was like to come from a family with a strong heritage of Christian faith; only to wrestle with doubts and her identity as she ventured away from home.
Ernie Johnson, Jr. is a three-time Sports Emmy Award-winner and popular host of TNT's, Inside the NBA, He is also author of a new book about his life; “Unscripted: The Unpredictable Moments That Make Life Extraordinary.” Ernie discusses his early life and how unexpected moments along the way led him to trust God in every situation.
Maria-Jose Tennison is the Vice President of Brand and Production for Sight and Sound Theaters. The purpose of their business is to present the Gospel of Jesus Christ and sow the Word of God into the lives of those who attend their shows, which are inspirational and visually stunning. Maria shares about the early years of her career rise, and how during a season of brokenness, God gave her strength.
Caz McCaslin is the founder of Upward Sports, the world’s largest Christian sports provider for youth. Upwards Sports mission is to promote the discovery of Christ through sports. Caz had a vision to create the best sports experience possible for every child, while providing an environment to nurture kids’ faith. Trusting God for direction, Caz has lead the program’s growth from several hundred children playing in a few church basketball leagues to over half a million children playing in 47 states and 72 countries.
Atheist-turned-Christian Lee Strobel is the former award-winning legal editor of The Chicago Tribune and best-selling author of The Case for Christ. Lee and his wife Leslie share the struggles and joys of finding faith at different times in their marriage and discuss "The Case for Christ" movie, which released to theaters in April 2017.
Understanding will never bring you Peace. That’s why I have instructed you to trust in Me, not in your understanding. Human beings have a voracious appetite for trying to figure things out, in order to gain a sense of mastery over their lives. But the world presents you with an endless series of problems. As soon as you master one set, another pops up to challenge you. The relief you had anticipated is short-lived. Soon your mind is gearing up again: searching for understanding (mastery), instead of seeking Me (your Master).
The wisest of all men, Solomon, could never think his way through to Peace. His vast understanding resulted in feelings of futility, rather than in fulfillment. Finally, he lost his way and succumbed to the will of his wives by worshiping idols.
My Peace is not an elusive goal, hidden at the center of some complicated maze. Actually, you are always enveloped in Peace, which is inherent in My Presence. As you look to Me, you gain awareness of this precious Peace.
Lee Ann Mancini is the author of the “Adventures of the Sea Kids” book series and a teacher of theology. Lee Ann’s mission is to teach young children about the love of Jesus and how to show love for others as well.
"I am with you and for you. You face nothing alone—nothing! When you feel anxious, know that you are focusing on the visible world and leaving Me out of the picture. The remedy is simple: Fix your eyes not on what is seen but on what is unseen. Verbalize your trust in Me, the Living One who sees you always. I will get you safely through this day and all your days. But you can find Me only in the present. Each day is a precious gift from My Father. How ridiculous to grasp for future gifts when today’s is set before you! Receive today’s gift gratefully, unwrapping it tenderly and delving into its depths. As you savor this gift, you find Me."
Lee Ann Mancini is the author of the “Adventures of the Sea Kids” book series and a teacher of theology. Lee Ann’s mission is to teach young children about the love of Jesus and how to show love for others as well.
"I am with you and for you. You face nothing alone—nothing! When you feel anxious, know that you are focusing on the visible world and leaving Me out of the picture. The remedy is simple: Fix your eyes not on what is seen but on what is unseen. Verbalize your trust in Me, the Living One who sees you always. I will get you safely through this day and all your days. But you can find Me only in the present. Each day is a precious gift from My Father. How ridiculous to grasp for future gifts when today’s is set before you! Receive today’s gift gratefully, unwrapping it tenderly and delving into its depths. As you savor this gift, you find Me."
Long time friends Marty Roe (lead singer of Grammy® Award winning country music group Diamond Rio), and J.T. Olson (founder and executive director of Both Hands Foundation and author of the book The Orphan, The Widow and Me) share how God led them to guide a ministry that is bringing help and hope to both orphans and widows.
Alan Graham is the founder, CEO and President of Mobile Loaves & Fishes. Sixteen years ago, a desire to help the homeless led Alan and 4 friends to purchase a catering truck. With this, he began to go straight to those in need and provide them with food and clothing. Since that time, the organization has grown to 20 trucks in multiple cities and serves over 1200 people daily. Alan shares a little about his background and the life-changing moment that led him to want to make a difference in the lives of others.
Man looks at the outward appearance, but I look at the heart. The ability to see is a great gift. I grant glimpses of My Glory via visual beauty in nature. Great paintings, sculptures, and cinematography can also help awaken your soul. Rejoice in these glorious gifts, but do not become enslaved to appearances. I am primarily interested in the condition of your heart, and I work to create beauty in it.
It is vital to set aside time for nourishing your heart. Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the well- spring of life. A wellspring is a source of abundant supply. Since you belong to Me, My own Life flows through you! However, to keep this Life flowing abundantly, you must protect your heart from evil influences and nourish it with Bible study and prayer.
Aligning your priorities with My teaching can be very freeing. When you don’t like the way things look in your world, close your eyes and gaze at who I am. Remember that I am Immanuel—God with you.
Josh Turner, is one of Country Music’s most successful artists. The multi-Platinum-selling singer has just released his sixth studio album, Deep South. Josh shares his heart about the music, about the challenges of being a Christian today, and what inspires him to be a better man.
"Relax in My healing Presence. As you spend time with Me, your thoughts tend to jump ahead to today’s plans and problems. Bring your mind back to Me for refreshment and renewal. Let the Light of My Presence soak into you, as you focus your thoughts on Me. Thus I equip you to face whatever the day brings. This sacrifice of time pleases Me and strengthens you. Do not skimp on our time together. Resist the clamor of tasks waiting to be done. You have chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from you." - Jesus Calling
Sheila Walsh is a Bible teacher and best-selling author with over 5 million books sold. Her international ministry has reached millions of women by combining honesty, vulnerability, and humor with the transforming power of God's Word. Sheila candidly shares some of the joys and heartache of her early family life and how she struggled to prove herself worthy of God’s love.
Joey + Rory are a GRAMMY nominated country music duo whose music weaves beautiful stories that are important to them. Life drastically changed for the couple when Joey was diagnosed with cancer, but they continued to share their painful and beautiful journey with the world. Rory Feek gives us a glimpse into his new book about his life with Joey and the greatest love story he would ever know.
“My rays of Light will reach you through the darkness.” - Jesus Calling
Lacey Buchanan, a wife and mother of two children. Lacey’s first child, Christian, has a rare syndrome that presented itself before his birth. Lacey shares the journey of his life, from finding out the diagnosis, to dealing with limited treatment options and ultimately learning to see God through the entire process. She has written a book about her son’s journey called “Through the Eyes of Hope.”
Reba McEntireis a country music legend with over 56 million albums sold worldwide. Reba’s faith has carried her through the ups and downs of life as a country superstar.Reba says that the Lord is “the Fortress that you lean upon when things go wrong.” She often turns to the pages of Jesus Calling andJesus Always during her quiet times, and finds strength and inspiration there during every season of life.
Janie is a graduate of The Next Door, a faith-based rehabilitation and re-entry program in Nashville, Tennessee. Janie spent most of her life looking for real love, and due to a background of abuse, she felt as if she mattered to no one. After years of toxic behavior and relationships, Janie found the one Love that was there all along.
If you or someone you know needs help with a substance abuse problem, please call 1-855-TND-HOPE or go to https://wwwTheNextDoor.org.
We follow up with Paul Shol after completing his bike trip across America, where he gave away thousands of copies of Jesus Calling to people all along the way. Raising over $50,000 for at-risk children in his community, Paul shares how God worked with him and through others for the entire 4000-mile trek.
Kari Kampakis’ mission is to reach young girls and their parents with a message about true worth. In today’s social media saturated culture, many girls start early, seeking approval through how many “likes” they receive on their social media pages. Kari endeavors to show girls that God gives the only approval that really matters, and He loves them just as they are.
Jason and David, The Benham Brothers, are successful business entrepeneurs with the heart of missionaries. They discuss their new book “Living Among Lions” and the notion of giving your best for God, no matter what kind of work you do.
Do not search for security in the world you inhabit. You tend to make mental checklists of things you need to do in order to gain control of your life. If only you could check everything off your list, you could relax and be at peace. But the more you work to accomplish that goal, the more things crop up on your list. The harder you try, the more frustrated you become.
There is a better way to find security in this life. Instead of scrutinizing your checklist, focus your attention on My Presence with you. This continual contact with Me will keep you in My Peace. Moreover, I will help you sort out what is important and what is not, what needs to be done now and what does not. Fix your eyes not on what is seen (your circumstances), but on what is unseen (My Presence).
Christy Nockels, a Dove Award-winning singer/songwriter, shares how God led her to spend a year studying the beauty of Advent and how she has found “The Thrill of Hope” in every season of her life.
I am Christ in you, the hope of Glory. The One who walks beside you, holding you by your hand, is the same One who lives within you. This is a deep, unfathomable mystery. You and I are intertwined in an intimacy involving every fiber of your being. The Light of My Presence shines within you, as well as upon you. I am in you, and you are in Me; therefore, nothing in heaven or on earth can separate you from Me!
As you sit quietly in My Presence, your awareness of My Life within you is heightened. This produces the Joy of the Lord, which is your strength. I, the God of hope, fill you with all Joy and Peace as you trust in Me, so that you may bubble over with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Amy Parker has written more than thirty books for children, teens and adults, including the best-selling “A Night Night Prayer.” Amy reflects on what first inspired her love for writing and how she came to realize her mission bring Christ’s love to kids through the gift of the written word.
Diane Cunningham is the president and founder of the National Association of Christian Women Entrepreneurs and the author of the book series “Rock Bottom Is a Beautiful Place.” Diane shares her journey through depression, job loss, alcoholism, infertility, and divorce, and how she found courage and restoration from God to keep going, and to help others who face similar challenges.
I am a God who heals. I heal broken bodies, broken minds, broken hearts, broken lives, and broken relationships. My very Presence has immense healing powers. You cannot live close to Me without experiencing some degree of healing. However, it is also true that you have not because you ask not. You receive the healing that flows naturally from My Presence, whether you seek it or not. But there is more—much more—available to those who ask.
The first step in receiving healing is to live ever so close to Me. The benefits of this practice are too numerous to list. As you grow more and more intimate with Me, I reveal My will to you more directly. When the time is right, I prompt you to ask for healing of some brokenness in you or in another person. The healing may be instantaneous, or it may be a process. That is up to Me. Your part is to trust Me fully and to thank Me for the restoration that has begun.
I rarely heal all the brokenness in a person’s life. Even My servant Paul was told, “My grace is sufficient for you,” when he sought healing for the thorn in his flesh. Nonetheless, much healing is available to those whose lives are intimately interwoven with Mine. Ask, and you will receive.
Hear more great stories about the impact Jesus Calling is having all over the world. Be sure to subscribe to the Jesus Calling Podcast on iTunes. We value your reviews and comments so we can reach even more people with the message of Jesus Calling. And if you have your own story to share, we’d love to hear from you. Visit JesusCalling.com to share your story today.
Zachary Bell is a husband, father, and veteran. He served as an infantry rifleman in the United States Marine Corps, and did two combat tours in Afghanistan. Zachary discusses his time in service to his country, how it affected his family, and how the Journey Home Project helped him successfully navigate his post-military life.
"Come to Me for rest and refreshment. The journey has been too much for you, and you are bone-weary. Do not be ashamed of your exhaustion. Instead, see it as an opportunity for Me to take charge of your life.
Remember that I can fit everything into a pattern for good, including the things you wish were different. Start with where you are at this point in time and space, accepting that it is where I intend you to be. You will get through today one step, one moment at a time. Your main responsibility is to remain attentive to Me, letting Me guide you through the many choices along your pathway.
This sounds like an easy assignment, but it is not. Your desire to live in My Presence goes against the grain of “the world, the flesh, and the devil.” Much of your weariness results from your constant battle against these opponents. However, you are on the path of My choosing, so do not give up! Hope in Me, for you will again praise Me for the help of My Presence."
Hear more great stories about the impact Jesus Calling is having all over the world. Be sure to subscribe to the Jesus Calling Podcast on iTunes. We value your reviews and comments so we can reach even more people with the message of Jesus Calling. And if you have your own story to share, we’d love to hear from you. Visit JesusCalling.com to share your story today.
Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Amy Grant shares how she finds God in times of stillness and tells us about the joy of making music with her new project “Tennessee Christmas.”
Meet Me in morning stillness, while the earth is fresh with the dew of My Presence. Worship Me in the beauty of holiness. Sing love songs to My holy Name. As you give yourself to Me, My Spirit swells within you till you are flooded with divine Presence.
The world’s way of pursuing riches is grasping and hoarding. You attain My riches by letting go and giving. The more you give yourself to Me and My ways, the more I fill you with inexpressible, heavenly Joy.
Hear more great stories about the impact Jesus Calling is having all over the world. Be sure to subscribe to the Jesus Calling Podcast on iTunes. We value your reviews and comments so we can reach even more people with the message of Jesus Calling. And if you have your own story to share, we’d love to hear from you. Visit JesusCalling.com to share your story today.
Pastor, teacher, and writer, Dr. David Jeremiah shares his thoughts on how God is still accomplishing His purposes in our world, even during tumultuous times. He also discusses his new book, People Are Asking, Is This The End?
To find out more about Dr. Jeremiah’s new book: “People Are Asking, Is This The End?” please click here.
I am your Refuge and Strength, an ever-present Help in trouble. Therefore, you don’t need to be afraid of anything—not even cataclysmic circumstances. The media are increasingly devoted to fear-inducing subject matter: terrorism, serial killers, environmental catastrophes. If you focus on such dangers and forget that I am your Refuge in all circumstances, you will become increasingly fearful. Every day I manifest My grace in countless places and situations, but the media take no notice. I shower not only blessings but also outright miracles on your planet.
As you grow closer to Me, I open your eyes to see more and more of My Presence all around you. Things that most people hardly notice, like shifting shades of sunlight, fill you with heart-bursting Joy. You have eyes that see and ears that hear, so proclaim My abiding Presence in the world.
Tammy Arnold spent her tender years in an abusive household, abandoned by her mother, and then by her father as well. Rejection left her searching for love, and eventually to numbing the pain with drugs and alcohol. At her most desperate, Tammy drew from the tiny spark of faith her grandmother had instilled in her long ago, and began her journey back to the one thing that had never abandoned her: God’s love.
"Together, We can handle anything." - Jesus Calling
Kristianne Stewart is a self-proclaimed “missionary to the cancer world.” She is the founder of Compassion That Compels, an organization that brings tangible items of encouragement to women currently battling cancer through the gift of “Compassion Bags” and spiritual support through the words of Jesus Calling.
"Draw near to Me with a thankful heart, aware that your cup is overflowing with blessings. Gratitude enables you to perceive Me more clearly and to rejoice in our Love-relationship. Nothing can separate you from My loving Presence! That is the basis of your security. Whenever you start to feel anxious, remind yourself that your security rests in Me alone, and I am totally trustworthy. You will never be in control of your life circumstances, but you can relax and trust in My control. Instead of striving for a predictable, safe lifestyle, seek to know Me in greater depth and breadth. I long to make your life a glorious adventure, but you must stop clinging to old ways. I am always doing something new within My beloved ones. Be on the lookout for all that I have prepared for you."
Millions have been impacted by the words of Jesus Calling, Now, 10 years later, Sarah Young returns with her first new 365-day devotional entitled Jesus Always; based on her exploration of the promises of joy in Scripture. Take a peek behind the scenes to hear how Jesus Always came to life.
Women who have struggled with addiction and incarceration are finding hope for a new life through the work of The Next Door. The first in a 4-part series of moving stories from this group of courageous women, they also share how Jesus Calling has been a key part of their restoration and healing.
Chuck Wallington is the co-founder of the Covenant Group and owner of Christian Supply in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Chuck tells the story of what led him to work in the world of Christian products and shares his thoughts on the new book from Sarah Young, Jesus Always.
Emily Ley seemingly has it all—she’s a wife, a mother, a successful business owner and now an author. Emily shares how she gave up always striving for perfection and found grace instead.
Emily Ley is the author of Grace Not Perfection (October 4th, HarperCollins Christian Publishing) and creator of the Simplified Planner®, a tool that helps busy women everywhere simplify their lives, organize their days, and prioritize what’s truly important to them in life.
With hopes to give back to local children, Fargo teacher, Paul Shol is cycling across the country, raising money for education, and sharing Jesus Calling along the way.
The Jesus Calling excerpt for this podcast comes from the Audiobook for June 13th:
"I am creating something new in you, a bubbling spirit of joy that spills over in others’ lives. Do not mistake this joy for your own, or try to take credit for it in any way. Instead, watch in delight as my spirit flows through you to bless others. Let yourself become a reservoir of the Spirit’s fruit.
"Your part is to live close to me, open to all that I am doing in you. Don’t try to control the streaming of my spirit through you. Just keep focusing on me as we walk through this day together. Just enjoy my presence, which permeates you with Love, Joy and Peace."
Charlie Daniels shares his journey of faith, his long-standing commitment to the military, and his passion for Jesus Calling.
The excerpt from this episode comes from the April 19th entry: "
Stay conscious of My loving Presence...and I will direct your steps."
Visit JesusCalling.com to read, watch, and listen to more inspiring Jesus Calling stories.
Dr. Emerson Eggerichs is an internationally known public speaker on the topic of male-female relationships. Dr. Eggerichs and his wife Sarah present Love and Respect conferences around the world. Sarah, an avid intercessory prayer warrior, loves to share Jesus Calling with others as part of her ministry as well.
The excerpt from this episode comes from the July 24th entry: "My plan for your life is unfolding before you."
Visit http://JesusCalling.com to read, watch, and listen to more inspiring Jesus Calling stories.
Deborah Jentsch and her husband practiced the habit of saying "I trust you, Jesus," daily. This faith would be put to the ultimate test as they faced their son's devastating accident. See other inspirational Jesus Calling stories at www.JesusCalling.com/blog/category/podcast/
Author and Speaker Sherri Gragg reflects on her daughter's upcoming graduation, and the unique challenges and joys a mother faces as she and her daughter embrace a new season of life.
Sherri Gragg is the author of Arms Open Wide - A Call to Linger in the Savior's Presence. She shares her heart as a mother who is preparing herself and her daughter for graduation; and her thoughts on what it means to "let go."
Find out more about Jesus Calling for Graduates here http://www.jesuscalling.com/books/jesus-calling-for-graduates/
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The excerpt from this episode comes from the Dec 21st entry: "My plan for your life is unfolding before you."
Visit http://JesusCalling.com to read, watch, and listen to more inspiring Jesus Calling stories.
Happy Mother's Day!
Mike Huether, the Mayor of Sioux Falls, South Dakota shares the walk of faith that led him to public service and the touching story of how he honored his only daughter with a very special wedding gift.
For more Jesus Calling inspired stories, visit & subscribe at http://JesusCalling.com/Blog
The Community of Grapevine United Methodist Church was in turmoil. After the sudden loss of their pastor, Associate Pastor Cindy Ryan set about to put the pieces back together for their flock. It was then that she was faced with another, very personal crisis; an unexpected cancer diagnosis.
For more stories of the impact of Jesus Calling visit the Jesus Calling Blog
Lina Finau exemplified the heart of a servant, even as she struggled with health challenges. Her life has inspired her daughter, Utther Finau, to take a similar road in pursuit of service and bringing joy to others.
For more stories of the impact of Jesus Calling visit http://JesusCalling.com
Brent and Monica Wicke discuss their mother's cancer journey; remembering her strength and determination, and talk about what they are doing today to honor her legacy.
To read more about how Jesus Calling is impacting communities visit JesusCalling.com
The Rozenburg's discuss their daily struggle as parents to a child suffering through substance abuse.
For more on the Rozenburg's and other Jesus Calling stories visit JesusCalling.com
In today's Experience Jesus Calling Podcast, we'll tell the amazing story of one church and the collective impact that has been made by sharing Jesus Calling within its community. In the coming weeks, we'll be sharing the incredible personal stories of members of this church, and many other Jesus Calling readers around the world...readers who have had their lives transformed.