When life is hard or sad, it can feel like joy is out of reach. And when we’re in a really difficult season, the “overflowing joy” spoken of in Scripture can seem impossible to experience. But it’s not true, my friend! We can experience joy in any circumstance and experience it in full.

Today’s guest, author and Bible teacher Tara Dew, explains that if you’re willing to take Jesus up on His word, you’ll find that God’s pruning, God’s presence, and God’s commands have the power to deliver a ton of joy to your life.

As we look at Jesus’ instructions in John chapter 15, Tara will point out three surprising paths to a truly joy-filled life, as well as reveal the paths we often think lead us to joy but are actually dead ends.

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Get ready! You are coming with me to a Fresh Grounded Faith event where we’re hanging out with Ann Voskamp, Tammy Trent, and Michael O’Brien.

We’re talking about the importance of community, tips for memorizing Scripture, and how to stay on fire for God. Oh, and there’s even a special—and hilarious—call out to all the single ladies.

Then we tackle some heavy topics like what to do if you feel anger toward God, how to deal with others who lack empathy for your struggle, and where to turn if you feel like you just can’t go on.

I’m telling you—what’s shared around the bistro is so deep and wise! It will encourage your heart and lift your spirit, so pull up a chair and let’s spill some beans!

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/324

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Do you ever beat yourself up when how you feel doesn’t line up with how you think you should feel? You may be saying, “I shouldn’t feel this way” or “Why does this even bother me?”

Well, my friend, there's a reason you feel the way you feel, and those inner tensions don’t have to result in guilt, shame, or being frustrated with yourself.

Today on the 4:13, Dr. Alison Cook is back to help you walk through the conflicting thoughts and emotions that leave you confused and feeling defeated. She’ll show you how to name, tame, and transform those unruly thoughts so you don’t have to be stuck in them anymore, but instead experience emotional freedom.

Alison will help you identify false guilt and get rid of it, trade that mental chaos for curiosity, and break those cycles of defeat once and for all. It’s time to stop beating yourself up for the way you feel and say, “You know what? I do feel this way! And I am going to do something about it.”

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/323

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Life. It seems to move so fast, doesn’t it? Our days are filled with noise, pressing deadlines, and ever-increasing demands. And with all that’s going on in the world, worry and fear easily become our constant companions.

So in the middle of all this chaos, is it even possible to experience peace in this world?”

Well, good news, my friend! Jesus offers peace because He IS peace. And today’s guest, author and Bible teacher Melissa Spoelstra, reveals how it really is possible to slow down and linger with the living Word.

You’ll learn to imitate the pace of the Savior who never hurried but never failed to do everything God called Him to do. And you’ll discover how growing in intimacy with Jesus will help you live, serve, and rest in His peace.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/322

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As Christians, we’re instructed to imitate Jesus, right? But is that even possible? Think about it! Jesus was sinless, He performed miracles, and He was God’s beloved Son! So how could we possibly come anywhere close to being like Him?

Well, today’s guest, author Cynthia Heald shares how God Himself makes this possible. Through Scripture, she’ll teach you how God shapes our hearts, motivations, and actions so we’re conformed into His likeness.

Plus, she shares the biggest myths or misconceptions we have when it comes to becoming like Jesus, as well as how to avoid falling into a perfectionist, works-based faith in our attempt to be more like Him.

It’s time to embrace the call to imitate Christ and discover the joy and fulfillment that come from reflecting His character.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/321

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In a tense and divided cultural climate, is it possible to engage in conversations with others who think differently? And if so, how do you disagree without compromise and be respectful without disregarding your convictions?

Whew! This can seem impossible sometimes, right?

Well today, Distinguished Professor of Law and Religion John Inazu teaches you how to balance being gracious and kind with being honest when you do have disagreements. Not only will he help you handle interactions with those who see life very differently than you do, but he’ll also show you a better way to live joyfully in a very complex society.

Plus, he’ll help you discern when it’s important to engage in a conversation and when it’s best to walk away.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/320

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Do you want to experience the presence and love of God through every joy and struggle in your life? Do you long to enrich your prayer life and grow closer to God?

Well, the psalms can help you do just that. They can guide you into fresh encounters with God, and today’s guest, author Leslie Leyland Fields, is going to show you how.

You’ll learn how the psalms invite you to talk with God, and you’ll be inspired when you understand how the living Word of God can affect your whole self—mind, spirit, and body.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/319

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God has given you a divine purpose, but sometimes life has this way of beating us down and robbing us of our confidence. So instead of following God’s calling, we’re left paralyzed with feelings of insecurity, doubt, or fear of being unqualified or unworthy.

But today, Nancy Gavilanes will help you break free from the chains of doubt and fear so you can live out God’s purpose for your life. She’ll speak directly to your heart, offering hope and encouragement through six transformative truths about your divine purpose.

Plus, you’ll learn how to discern if your dreams are God-given and reflect His purpose for your life, or if they’re actually rooted in your own plans and desires.

SHOW NOTES: 413Podcast.com/318

Enter to win the GIVEAWAY and read the episode TRANSCRIPT in the show notes.

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