Curious For Christ | Spiritual Healing, Trust in God, Anxiety Bible Verses, God's Peace, Biblical Encouragement

124. Identity before Roles: Learning to Trust God

At the time this episode is airing, it’s December 26. Wherever this Christmas season found you—full of joy, quiet reflection, grief, complexity, or somewhere in between—I hope you were able to encounter God’s presence in a meaningful way. Today’s episode is a little different. I’m replaying the most listened-to episode of Curious for Christ of all time: “Struggling to Trust God in Gender Roles,” a thoughtful and grace-filled conversation with author and evangelist Gordon Ferguson. This conversation continues to resonate deeply because beneath questions about roles—whether in marriage, family, work, or ministry—there is something even more foundational: identity. Identity Before Roles One of the clearest things God revealed to me this past year is this: > Before He builds anything through us, He builds something within us. Identity is the foundation of everything. When our sense of worth is rooted in productivity, performance, approval, guilt, or even “doing the right thing,” exhaustion eventually follows. Even good and godly goals can wear us down if they’re built on the wrong foundation. Scripture reminds us in Psalm 127:1: > “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” If God isn’t the one building, sustaining, and leading—no amount of effort will ever feel like enough. A Year of Shedding and Surrender This past year was a season of shedding for me—unlearning patterns, expectations, and beliefs that had quietly placed distance between me and God. While that process wasn’t easy, I’m deeply grateful for it. God gently reminded me of something simple and freeing: I am first His child. Not a role. Not a result. Not a résumé. Jesus is enough. God is enough. As a woman, I’ve spent many years wrestling with who I thought I needed to be, how I thought I needed to show up, and what I thought faithfulness required of me. What God has patiently shown me is this: Before anything else, I am His daughter—and I am deeply loved. And whatever He places on my heart, even if no one around me sees it or understands it, I can walk in peace knowing that He does. Why This Conversation Still Matters That’s why I wanted to replay this episode. Because when identity is rooted in God, roles stop being a burden—and trust begins to grow. This conversation with Gordon Ferguson explores Scripture with depth, humility, and compassion, inviting us to step away from fear-based striving and into trust rooted in who God says we are. I invite you to listen again—or perhaps for the first time—with fresh ears and an open heart. Thank you so much for listening. My prayer is that this conversation reminds you that God is far more interested in your faith than simply in what you do. As we move toward a new year, may your identity be deeply rooted in Him—and may everything else flow from that place of peace, knowing you are deeply loved. Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/curiousforchristcommunity] and become an Insider [https://curiousforchrist.kit.com/insider] for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey. Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call [https://calendly.com/curiousforchristcoaching/discovery-call] today. See you next time!

123. Could Sharing Your Faith Be the Answer to Anxiety? Featuring Greg Stier, CEO of Dare 2 Share Ministries

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of Curious for Christ, Alexandra sits down with Greg Stier, Founder & CEO of Dare 2 Share Ministries, to explore a surprising and deeply encouraging truth: > Sharing your faith may actually be one of the most healing practices for anxiety—especially during this season. Greg opens up about his own dramatic childhood story, growing up in a violent, broken family that was transformed by the Gospel through one man’s courage to share Jesus. That transformation shaped Greg’s mission: to equip teenagers, parents, and leaders to confidently share their faith and ignite Gospel movements across the nation. Together, Alexandra and Greg discuss: ✨ What You’ll Hear in This Episode * Greg’s incredible testimony and how God rescued his family from chaos and fear * Why teenagers are uniquely positioned to spark revival * How evangelism isn’t just another church program—it’s actually where our faith grows the deepest * The powerful connection between sharing the Gospel and overcoming anxiety * How Greg helped his own daughter battle crippling anxiety through dependence on the Holy Spirit * New research from A Generation in Reach showing: * 3x overall youth ministry growth * 10x more Gospel conversations * 3x more students discipling other students * Why parents are the #1 spiritual influencers—and how modeling faith-sharing transforms families * The difference between “come and see” Christianity and the “go and rescue” mission of Jesus * Practical steps to help teens and adults start sharing their faith with courage and love 💬 Key Takeaway Evangelism isn’t about pressure—it’s about participation.  When we step out in faith and depend on the Holy Spirit, our anxiety diminishes, our joy increases, and our relationship with Jesus grows deeper. Sharing the Gospel isn’t just for others; it’s also for our own healing. 📚 Resources Mentioned Explore the tools Greg shared in today’s conversation: * Dare 2 Share Ministries: free curriculum, training, and events 👉 https://dare2share.org [https://dare2share.org] * A Generation in Reach Research Report: 👉 https://dontmissit.org [https://dontmissit.org] * Books by Greg Stier (highly recommended for families and adults): * Unlikely Fighter – Greg’s memoir of transformation * Radical Like Jesus – 21 challenges to deepen your walk with Christ All links will be available in the show notes for easy access. 🎄 Christmas Blessing As we approach Christmas, may the wonder of Jesus—born as a tiny, vulnerable baby—fill your heart with peace and renewed hope. He came close… so we could be free, healed, and deeply known. 📅 Next Episode Alexandra returns on December 26, right after Christmas, with more faith-building conversations. See you then. Bye for now! Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/curiousforchristcommunity] and become an Insider [https://curiousforchrist.kit.com/insider] for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey. Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call [https://calendly.com/curiousforchristcoaching/discovery-call] today. See you next time!

122. Growing a Heart of Thanksgiving — Even in the Challenging Seasons

In this post-Thanksgiving episode, I invite listeners into a personal and Scripture-rich reflection on what it truly means to cultivate a heart of gratitude — not only when life feels abundant, but especially when it feels uncertain, stretching, or emotionally heavy. Through a biblical study of thanksgiving and a deeply personal parenting story, we explore how God grows our hearts in hidden, humble, everyday ways. What This Episode Covers 1. Giving Thanks In All Circumstances We discuss the difference between giving thanks for everything versus giving thanks in everything — and why Scripture calls us to live from God’s reality rather than our circumstances. Bible Verse: * 1 Thessalonians 5:18 — “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 2. Gratitude in the Valley — Jeremiah 29 and Parenting Alexandra shares a meaningful moment with her 11-year-old daughter who has been navigating friendship challenges at school and church.  Through tears, prayers, and divine wisdom, God reminded her: “She is Mine before she is yours. And I love her more than you ever will.” This leads into a powerful application of Jeremiah 29: how God calls us to grow where we are planted, even in seasons that feel uncomfortable or unclear. Bible Verse: * Jeremiah 29:5 — “Build homes and settle down. Plant gardens and eat what they produce.” 3. The Silent Work of God We explore how God often works quietly in our lives — through steady, subtle transformation rather than loud breakthroughs — and why gratitude helps us recognize His presence. Bible Verse: * Philippians 2:13 — “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” 4. A Biblical Framework for Growing in Gratitude Alexandra introduces a simple 3-step process rooted in Scripture: Remember Look back on God’s past faithfulness. * Psalm 103:2 — “Bless the Lord… and forget not all His benefits.” Recognize See His hand in the present moment. * James 1:17 — “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” Respond Practice intentional thanksgiving. * Colossians 3:15 — “…and be thankful.” 5. A Five-Minute Thanksgiving Practice Listeners are guided into a simple exercise: * What has God done that I need to remember? * Where do I see His hand today? * What promise am I holding onto for tomorrow? A beautiful way to end Thanksgiving week with renewed gratitude.  Scriptures Mentioned in This Episode * 1 Thessalonians 5:18 * Jeremiah 29:5 * Philippians 2:13 * Psalm 103:2 * James 1:17 * Colossians 3:15 If This Episode Encouraged You… Share it with a friend or parent who may be walking through a challenging season.  Leave a rating or review so others can find Curious for Christ and grow in their walk with Jesus. Thank you for being here.  Happy Thanksgiving weekend — may God continue to cultivate gratitude and peace in your heart. Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/curiousforchristcommunity] and become an Insider [https://curiousforchrist.kit.com/insider] for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey. Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call [https://calendly.com/curiousforchristcoaching/discovery-call] today. See you next time!

121. Bringing the Early Church to Life: "Cry For Jerusalem" with Author & Scientist Dr. Ward Sanford

In today’s episode, we explore the world of the early church and the historical events surrounding the fall of Jerusalem in 70 AD. My guest, Dr. Ward Sanford, is a hydrogeologist, researcher, and biblical historian whose passion for truth led him to write The Cry for Jerusalem series — deeply researched Christian historical novels rooted in eyewitness accounts and the writings of Josephus. Together, we talk about: * How history supports and illuminates Scripture * Why understanding the culture of first-century Judea matters for our faith * The strength and courage of women in the early church * How faith and intellect work together, rather than in opposition * And how our questions can actually draw us closer to God This conversation is thoughtful, grounding, and deeply encouraging — especially if you’ve ever wrestled with doubt or wanted to understand your faith more deeply. Resources Mentioned: - The Cry for Jerusalem Series [https://www.amazon.com/s?k=cry+for+jerusalem&crid=MORUPH7TMUPS&sprefix=cry+for+Jerus%2Caps%2C131&ref=nb_sb_ss_fb_1_13_p13n-expert-pd-ops-ranker] Available in Paperback, Kindle, and Audible Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/wardsanford [https://www.amazon.com/author/wardsanford] - To learn more about Dr. Sanford's work, read his blog, explore historical research, and stay updated on future projects, visit:  https://cryforjerusalem.com/ [https://cryforjerusalem.com/] If This Episode Encouraged You: Leaving a quick rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify helps more listeners find these conversations. Thank you so much for taking a moment to do that — it truly means a lot. Schedule Update New episodes now release every two weeks. I’ll see you back here soon — stay curious, stay rooted, and stay close to Christ. Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/curiousforchristcommunity] and become an Insider [https://curiousforchrist.kit.com/insider] for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey. Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call [https://calendly.com/curiousforchristcoaching/discovery-call] today. See you next time!

120. When Your Plans Fail - Two Things That Never Will

Have you ever had a season where nothing seemed to work — your plans, your prayers, your patience? When it feels like you’re doing everything right…and still waiting? In today’s episode, we’re diving into Psalm 149:6, a short but powerful verse that teaches us what to do when life feels confusing or overwhelming: > “Let the high praises of God be in their mouths, and a two-edged sword in their hands.” This verse shows us the two things that never fail: Worship and God’s Word. When everything else is shaking, these are the anchors that keep us standing. In This Episode We Explore: * Why overthinking and analyzing can lead us into confusion * How praise becomes a weapon during seasons of delay or disappointment * How to use Scripture as truth and defense when fear, doubt, or lies speak loudly * The hidden purpose behind the wilderness seasons and refinement * How God uses pressure not to punish us, but to prepare and strengthen us * What spiritual maturity actually looks like and how to walk in it daily You’ll walk away with practical encouragement and declarations rooted in Scripture, including: * “No weapon formed against me shall prosper.” (Isaiah 54:17) * “He will never leave me nor forsake me.” (Hebrews 13:5) * “The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing.” (Psalm 23:1) Key Takeaway When nothing seems to be working, don’t spiral into overthinking. Instead: Lift your worship. Grip the Word. Let praise and truth do the fighting. Scripture References * Psalm 149:6 * Isaiah 54:17 * Hebrews 13:5 * Psalm 23:1 * Hosea 2:14 * Job 1 Closing Prayer We end the episode in prayer — asking God to give us clarity, peace, and endurance through seasons of refinement, and to remind us that wilderness is not abandonment, but preparation. Connect If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend — or leave a review to help others find the podcast.  Stay curious. Stay close. Stay anchored. Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/curiousforchristcommunity] and become an Insider [https://curiousforchrist.kit.com/insider] for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey. Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call [https://calendly.com/curiousforchristcoaching/discovery-call] today. See you next time!