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Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith

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Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith

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.

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  1. 505Living the Dash: Making Every Moment Count with Loren Ridinger and Lynda RandleThis 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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.20 min
  2. 506Engaging With God on a Heart Level: Dave Barnes & Justin GambinoThis 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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.27 min
  3. 507The Ripple Effect of Spreading Divine Love: Kurt Avery and Britney HiggsThis 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  ________________________ 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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.24 min
  4. 508Clinging to Faith When Our World Is Crashing Down On Us: Lisa Boullt & Judy HendersonThis 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 ________________________ 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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.26 min
  5. 509[JESUS LISTENS MONTHLY SERIES] Lord, Give Me Confidence When I Feel Small ft. Bethny RicksOn 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 Links Facebook: @mywaywithwordsofficial Instagram: @bethnyricks Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4iG0c3v  ________________________  Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest 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.10 min
  6. 510Leaning Into Our Divine Momentum: Mark Miller & Hope Reagan HarrisThis 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 ________________________ 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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.24 min
  7. 511Unconditional Love: The Key to Real Change with Richard Rohr & Zach Meerkreebs*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  _______________________ 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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.26 min
  8. 512Echoes of Courage, Whispers of Grace: Emily Compagno & Brooke MartinThis 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 ________________________ 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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.32 min
  9. 513[BONUS] Coping with Uncertainty and FearWelcome 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  ________________________  Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube 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.23 min
  10. 514A Counter-Cultural Guide to Joy: Tauren Wells & Out of EdenThis 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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.29 min
  11. 515[JESUS LISTENS MONTHLY SERIES] Prayers for Chasing Big Dreams: Paige MurrayOn 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 Links Facebook: @PaigeDukeMurray Instagram: @paigedmurray Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/4j7tpVi  ________________________  Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest 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.9 min
  12. 516Rebuilding After Life’s Setbacks: Jennifer Tucker & Cole PrasseThis 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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.24 min
  13. 517[BONUS] Healing For a World in Need with Saleem ShalashFor 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  ________________________  Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube 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.17 min
  14. 518Finding Your Footing in the Face of Uncertainty: Mike Nawrocki and Jennie SmytheThis 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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.30 min
  15. 519What God Will Do If We Just Say Yes: Becky Murray & Andrea Kazindra* 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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.26 min
  16. 520Trusting God in the “Not Yet” and the “What If”: DawnCheré Wilkerson & Erin Hicks MoonThis 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 Adjacent podcast. 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  ________________________  Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.26 min
  17. 521[JESUS LISTENS MONTHLY SERIES] Prayers for When You’re Full of Questions & Doubt: Quina AragonOn 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 Links Quina’s YouTube: @QuinaAragon  Quina’s Facebook: @QuinaAragon  Quina’s Instagram: @quina_aragon  Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/3T2C8fX  ________________________  Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest 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.11 min
  18. 522Rising Up From Our Lowest Moments: Benjamin Hall & Chris Janssen*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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.29 min
  19. 523Faith That Takes Us Beyond the Ordinary: Jared Orton & Rachel G. JordanThis 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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.29 min
  20. 524God Is Near to the Broken Hearted: Lola Sheen & Levi Lusko*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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.30 min
  21. 525Healing Stress From The Inside Out: Kerstin Lindquist & Kara StoutThis 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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.24 min
  22. 526Finding More by Letting Go: Niki Hardy & Danette Crawford*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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.30 min
  23. 527[JESUS LISTENS MONTHLY SERIES] Prayers for the Caregiver: Jessica RonneOn 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 Links Jessica Ronne’s Facebook: @jessronneofficial Jessica Ronne’s Instagram: @jessplusthemess    Watch this interview on our YouTube channel! https://bit.ly/447S4CS  ________________________  Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest 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.9 min
  24. 528The Sacred Space of Sorrow: Erin Leigh Nelson & Allie Marie Smith*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 Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.30 min
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