The Every Day Royalty Podcast

Faith Comes Through Hearing (and Reflections on Charlie Kirk's Legacy) with Crista and Debbie

In this powerful and deeply moving season recap, host Keri Kitchen is joined by returning guests Crista Hoffman and Debbie Reeves for a transparent, faith-filled conversation about the events shaking the nation, the legacy of Charlie Kirk, personal awakenings, and the ongoing journey of spiritual maturity. Together, they explore the themes of boldness, the strength of testimony, faith versus fear, and the irreplaceable peace that comes from true surrender and alignment with God. Heartfelt prayer, authentic emotion, and practical wisdom weave through stories of loss, courage in the face of negativity, and the unmistakable hand of God moving through even the hardest times. The guests bring encouragement about sharing faith, loving those who differ from us, and living out an emboldened, surrendered, and compassionate Christian life every day—right where you are. Key Points & Takeaways * The Transformative Power of Testimony: Sharing our stories builds faith in both the teller and the listener; "Faith comes by hearing." * Faith vs. Fear: The more we meditate on faith or fear, the more it grows. Speaking faith and voicing fears out loud diminishes fear's power. * Boldness in Faith: God calls His people to a bold voice—especially in challenging times—speaking the truth with authority and humility. * Ministry in Everyday Life: It's about everyday conversations, loving others well, and being 'the light' even in the workplace, at home, or online. * Spiritual Warfare is Real: There's a need to discern and confront the spiritual battles manifesting in society, relationships, and even personal struggles. * Open Dialogue & Love: Listening and respecting non-believers, not forcing truth but inviting honest conversation, breaks down spiritual barriers. * Identity in Christ: Remembering and embracing our identity as children of God is crucial, especially in a culture that often twists truth. * Living With Eternal Perspective: Urgency to love boldly and speak truth, knowing that tomorrow isn't promised—"Are we ready?" * Humility & Alignment: Surrender and humility are keys to alignment with God; pride is the root of much spiritual disconnect. * Rest in God: True rest is soul rest, not just a circumstantial reprieve—returning again and again to God's presence. Journal Prompts Inspired by This Episode 1. What testimony in your life could help build faith in someone else if you shared it? 2. Reflect on a recent situation where you had to choose between faith and fear. What did you learn? 3. Where might God be nudging you to speak with more boldness? What's holding you back? 4. What practical step can you take this week to be a "light" in your workplace or home? 5. Are there areas of spiritual warfare you've noticed in your life? How do you confront them? 6. How do you respond to people with different beliefs than yours? What might it look like to truly listen? 7. What lies or misconceptions about God's love do you struggle with? How can you replace them with truth? 8. Where in your life do you sense a need for surrender or deeper alignment with God right now? 9. Who is someone in your life you feel urgently called to pray for or share the gospel with? 10. What does true "rest in God" look like for you—and what practices help cultivate it? Where to Find More About Our Guests * Debbie Reeves: Find her faith-based content on YouTube, "Nana Feeding the Heart" [https://www.youtube.com/@NanaFeedingTheHeart]—where she shares spiritual encouragement and practical truths. * Crista Hoffman: Stay tuned for her upcoming book and ministry projects with Savor The Word [https://savortheword.org]. Contact for collaborations or ministry updates via the podcast. Hebrew Word Study Discussed in this episode: https://youtu.be/BT8EVLB_GL8?si=H7CqXhsfoFCmMB5x [https://youtu.be/BT8EVLB_GL8?si=H7CqXhsfoFCmMB5x] Call to Action 💌 Stay Connected & Encouraged! Don't just listen—take your place in God's royal family by sharing your story, loving boldly, and embracing your identity as a child of the King. Subscribe, rate, and review The Every Day Royalty Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Join the 7-day Incredible Prayer challenge at https://prayer.everydayincredible.net [https://prayer.everydayincredible.net] Share this episode with someone needing encouragement to step out in faith!

His Yoke is Easy and His Burden is Light, with Pastor Aaron

In this heartfelt episode, host Keri Kitchen sits down with Pastor Aaron Rayburn for a deep, encouraging conversation about what it really means to rest in Jesus and take on His easy yoke. Drawing from personal experiences as pastor's kids, Aaron and Keri talk openly about the pressures of ministry, family, and daily life—and how easy it is to slip into striving to do it all on our own strength. Aaron shares how God is teaching him, especially in this season, to find identity in Christ instead of performance, surrendering all burdens and expectations at His feet. Together, they explore the powerful invitation found in Matthew 11:28-30 to come to Jesus for soul-level rest, unpacking what it means to live in alignment with Him instead of battling burnout and anxiety. From the influence of culture on our sense of control, to the beauty of submission and learning directly from Christ, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom, biblical encouragement, and honest personal stories. Key Points * Ministry and Family Heritage: Growing up in a pastor's family shapes both Aaron and Keri's outlook, but each has to learn their own way of leading, loving, and resting in God. * The Weight of Expectations: Both church culture and society can make us feel that success or failure is all on our shoulders, fueling anxiety and overwork. * True Rest in Christ: Jesus offers us a rest that is deeper than physical relaxation—He offers rest for our souls, inviting us to cease striving and walk step-by-step with Him. * Performance vs. Surrender: Learning to let go of performance-based faith and choosing to trust God's timing, methods, and outcome brings freedom from heaviness. * The Power of Submission: It's countercultural and hard to yield control, but aligning ourselves with Jesus—being "yoked" with Him—brings peace, growth, and maturity. * Staying in Alignment: When we are yoked to Jesus, we not only share the load but also walk in alignment with Him, allowing His steady pace and wisdom to lead. * Journaling Like David: Pouring out your heart honestly to God, then choosing to focus on His truth and faithfulness, strengthens faith during hard times. * God in the Hard Seasons: Difficulties become places of learning and transformation when we remain focused on God's presence and reflect back on His faithfulness. 10 Journal Prompts Inspired by This Episode 1. In what areas of your life are you carrying burdens alone rather than inviting Jesus to share the load? 2. How has your upbringing or family background shaped the way you view ministry, leadership, or faith in general? 3. Describe a time when you tried to "prove yourself" to God or others. What was the result? 4. What does "rest" mean to you personally? How is it different from simply relaxing or taking a break? 5. Are you currently facing any expectations (your own or others) that feel heavy or relentless? What might it look like to surrender those to Jesus? 6. Reflect on a situation where you saw God working through your weakness or limitations rather than your strengths. 7. Is there an area in your life where you struggle to submit or let go of control? Write a prayer of surrender for that area. 8. How do you respond to anxiety or stress? What would it look like to choose trust over control? 9. When have you noticed God's faithfulness in the middle of difficulty? Journal about a specific instance and what you learned from it. 10. Using Psalm 71 or a favorite Scripture, write your own honest "lament and praise"—pour out your burdens, then declare God's truth over your situation. More About Our Guest Aaron Rayburn is a pastor, high school science teacher, and the host of the Together for the Mountains Podcast [https://www.togetherforthemountains.com], a movement in Eastern Kentucky dedicated to church revitalization, economic development, and encouraging pastors and entrepreneurs across Appalachia. You can find more content, interviews, and stories of God moving in the mountains on all major podcast platforms and on YouTube. Learn more at togetherforthemountains.com [https://www.togetherforthemountains.com]. Call to Action If you were encouraged by this conversation, don't keep it to yourself! Share this episode with a friend who needs the reminder that Jesus' yoke is easy and His burden is light. Ready to go deeper? Grab your journal, pick a prompt, and invite the Holy Spirit to meet you in the process. And remember—true royalty in Christ comes not from what you do, but from resting in whose you are. Stay connected and stay encouraged! To join the mailing list and receive the FREE "Finding Spiritual Breakthrough" Prayer guide, visit https://breakthrough.everydayincredible.net You are royalty—rest in that truth today!

Seekers in the Hands of an Elusive God with Dr. Jeffrey Leonard

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, host Keri Kitchen welcomes Dr. Jeff Leonard, author of Seekers in the Hands of an Elusive God, to explore the depth of seeking God through life's uncertainties and hardships. Dr. Leonard shares his personal journey of grief and faith, beginning with the loss of a dear colleague and how that season of struggle pushed him to dig deeper into Scripture, specifically examining the elusive nature of God. Keri and Dr. Leonard discuss the importance of spiritual vulnerability, the necessity of seeking after God (rather than expecting constant clarity or comfort), and the value of reframing everyday life through a "divine grid." They weave in personal stories of loss, academic insights, and practical encouragement for anyone who feels distant from God or envious of others' apparent closeness to Him. The episode also covers: * The role of suffering and loss in maturing faith * How God's elusiveness can actually draw us closer * The power of authenticity in our relationship with God and others * Recognizing God's presence in humanity, art, and daily moments * Practical steps for beginning (or reigniting) a journey of seeking God Stay tuned as Dr. Leonard offers hope, encouragement, and actionable wisdom for anyone navigating seasons when God feels far away. Key Points * Personal Testimonies: Both Keri and Dr. Leonard share stories of personal grief and how these experiences catalyzed a deeper spiritual search. * God's Elusiveness: Dr. Leonard argues God's "hiddenness" is intentional—it compels us to seek and grow closer rather than becoming complacent. * Spiritual Processing: The process of seeking God is multifaceted, involving intellectual, emotional, and practical dimensions. * Authenticity: Honest wrestling with doubt and feeling distant from God is a common (and biblical) part of faith. * Reframing Life: Viewing daily life through a "divine grid" helps us notice God's presence in unexpected places and people. * Encouragement for Seekers: It's normal to struggle with feeling close to God; what matters is choosing to keep seeking. * Serving Others: Continuing to seek God, even in doubt and suffering, can encourage and uplift others on their faith journeys. 10 Journal Prompts Inspired by this Episode 1. When have you experienced a season when God felt distant? How did you respond? 2. Reflect on a difficult experience. Where can you see evidence of God's presence, even in hindsight? 3. What does "seeking God" look like practically for you right now? 4. In what areas of life do you try to put God "in a box"? How can you let Him out? 5. Describe a time when you witnessed God in someone else—through their actions, words, or creativity. 6. Where might you be wearing a "mask" in your faith or in community? What would it look like to be more authentic? 7. How do you handle doubt, especially doubts about God's goodness or presence? 8. Create your own "divine grid." What ordinary activities or environments might be reframed as spaces to meet God? 9. Who in your life might be encouraged by your ongoing faith, even through hardship? 10. Write a prayer or reflection expressing your desire to seek God more intentionally. Where To Find More About Dr. Jeff Leonard * Book: Seekers in the Hands of an Elusive God (Available on Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Seekers-Hands-Elusive-God-Embracing/dp/1496476182/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3RPZUVA367C9H&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8y9w3BsG5yem3hlSJ0RTgsetiFr-MKswSBjVCgNImyWY8Rb8bRIwYcKkurdEHEqp.YclhBXs7Bkk2zIw79Jxsk8O5JqDANlpGKKiUL57kRGs&dib_tag=se&keywords=seekers+in+the+hands+of+an+elusive+god&qid=1756595032&sprefix=seekers+in+the+hands+of+an+%2Caps%2C473&sr=8-1] and Hendrickson Publishers [https://www.hendricksonpublishers.com/p/seekers-in-the-hands-of-an-elusive-god/9781496476180]) * Website: biblicalexplorations.com [https://biblicalexplorations.com] — Learn about Dr. Leonard's trips to Israel, Greece, Rome, and more, and connect for group travel or biblical study opportunities. Every Day Royalty Call to Action Are you ready to embrace your royal identity in Christ, even in the everyday ups and downs? If this conversation inspired you, we invite you to: * Subscribe to the Every Day Royalty podcast so you never miss an episode. * Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement in their faith journey. * Visit https://breakthrough.everydayincredible.net [https://breakthrough.everydayincredible.net] to get your FREE Prayer Guide, Finding Spiritual Breakthrough Remember: You are God's royalty—called to seek, to struggle, to grow, and to reign in everyday life! Thank you for listening! Don't forget—royalty isn't just for someday. It's for you every day.

How to Set Healthy Boundaries With Toxic People—Christian Strategies for Tough Relationships with Debbie and Crista

Pull up a chair at our favorite Denny's booth and join Crista, Debbie, and Keri for a lively, laughter-filled, and deeply insightful (though somewhat chaotic) conversation! This special in-person episode dives into the reality of setting boundaries as Christians, dealing with toxic relationships (even within the family or church), and holding fast to biblical truth—while keeping things light-hearted and real. Amid joyful laughter, breakfast banter, and the occasional check-in from their waitress, the ladies explore: * How to lovingly set boundaries, even when guilt, expectations, or people-pleasing get in the way * Why conflict and confrontation don't have to lead to quarrels, and how to stay teachable and responsive to the Holy Spirit * Praying for wisdom, discernment, and God's timing in hard conversations * The difference between boundaries and ultimatums—and why "no" is a holy word * The importance of accountability, support, and being rooted in your identity in Christ * Spiritual warfare, forgiveness, releasing offense, and protecting your peace * Real-life stories, practical tips for emotional safety, and a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness You'll leave this episode refreshed, encouraged, and equipped for the everyday battles of faith, relationships, and self-care. (Bonus: you'll probably want to find some sparkly coffee mugs and schedule your own breakfast get-together!) Key Points & Takeaways * Boundaries Are Biblical: Setting loving, firm boundaries is not unchristian. It's necessary for spiritual health and doesn't mean enabling toxic behavior. * Guilt & People-Pleasing: Guilt is a common struggle, especially when boundaries "hurt" others. Holding to truth and love frees you from unhealthy expectations. * Accountability Is Essential: Trusted friends help us spot enabling patterns and blind spots. You're not meant to do this alone! * Prayerful, Spirit-Led Communication: Before hard conversations, ask the Holy Spirit to pave the way, give you the right words, and reveal the right timing. * Emotional Safety Matters: It's OK to walk away, take a "grown-up timeout," and structure environments for your own well-being. * Forgiveness & Release: Forgiving and releasing someone to God doesn't mean continued exposure to harm. Boundaries protect YOUR heart, too. * Boundaries vs. Ultimatums: Boundaries protect YOU; ultimatums attempt to control others. Don't confuse the two! * Spiritual Perspective: Zoom out—remember the enemy wants offense, bitterness, and drama. Stay rooted in your identity and God's truth. * Every Victory Counts: Catching yourself sooner and sooner in old patterns is a win! Growing is a process. * Fun & Fellowship: Christians are anything but boring—laughter and honesty are vital parts of the journey. 10 Journal Prompts Inspired by This Episode 1. Where do I feel prompted to set healthier boundaries in my life right now? 2. When have I felt guilty for saying "no" or holding a boundary? What truth can replace that guilt? 3. How do I respond when someone I love gets upset with my boundaries? 4. Who is my accountability partner, or who could I invite to walk with me in this area? 5. What's a pattern of enabling I have noticed—and what's one step to shift that? 6. How does God's Word encourage me to respond to conflict and toxic behaviors? 7. When was the last time I prayed specifically for wisdom and timing before a hard conversation? What happened? 8. Am I holding on to unforgiveness or offense? What would it look like to release it to God? 9. Do I confuse boundaries with ultimatums or control? Where is God inviting me to let go? 10. What truth about my identity in Christ do I need to remember the next time I feel pressure to "fix" someone or keep the peace at all costs? More About the Guest Debbie Reeves: Debbie is a professional counselor and Christ-follower with powerful insights on faith, boundaries, and emotional health. She brings wisdom from both her therapeutic practice and personal journey, and she's passionate about equipping others to walk in freedom. Find her on Youtube @Nanafeedingtheheart [https://www.youtube.com/@NanaFeedingTheHeart] Crista Hoffman: Crista is a co-founder of Savor The Word ministries [https://www.savortheword.org], encourager, and joyful voice on the Every Day Royalty Podcast. She loves digging into God's Word and sharing real-life stories of victory and learning. Ready for more guidance? Download your free "10 Tips for Dealing with Toxic Behavior" PDF at everydayroyaltypodcast.com [https://everydayroyaltypodcast.com/] and equip yourself with practical, faith-based tools to strengthen your boundaries and protect your peace. Don't miss out—grab your copy today! What You Can Do Next—Every Day Royalty Family! You are called to live as royalty every day—not out of striving, but out of your identity in Christ! Don't go it alone: * Subscribe to The Every Day Royalty Podcast for more encouragement and practical equipping. * Share this episode with someone who'd be encouraged by honest conversation about boundaries and faith. * Join our community: Sign up for the newsletter at kerikitchen.com for devotionals, resources, and info on upcoming retreats and women's events! * Leave a review: Your feedback helps more people find hope and encouragement. * Reflect & Journal: Use the prompts above to anchor these truths in your journey this week! If you enjoyed this chat—sparkles, laughter, real talk and all—don't forget to share, journal, and lean into every day as the royalty God has made you to be! 💖👑

From Brokenness to a Pure Heart with Tom and Donna Cole

This episode features Tom and Donna Cole, founders of Pure Heart Ministries, whose powerful testimonies of overcoming trauma, abuse, and broken identity through God's healing love have led them to minister healing to others. Host Keri Kitchen guides a heartfelt conversation about the long road toward freedom, the importance of facing pain, the necessity of forgiveness, and the transformative power of knowing our identity in Christ. Tom and Donna vulnerably share their journeys out of homosexuality, addiction, and deep wounds inflicted by family dysfunction and abuse. They discuss God's relentless pursuit and the turning point that led them to faith, and how He continues to use their histories as a springboard for healing others. The episode delves into practical steps of inner healing, the significance of recognizing wounds from both mother and father, the process of heart-level forgiveness, and the global impact of their Pure Heart ministry. Key Points: * Tom and Donna's Testimonies: Both experienced abuse, confusion, and broken homes, leading to a search for identity and longing for love. * The Power of God's Pursuit: Both Tom and Donna encountered God unexpectedly and experienced deep transformation as they surrendered to Him. * Healing the Father & Mother Wound: The conversation unpacks how unmet childhood needs impact identity and adult relationships. * Forgiveness Process: Donna shares a practical, step-by-step journey to forgiving from the heart, including how it doesn't always mean reconciliation. * Moving Forward in Ministry: Pure Heart seminars, training for missionaries, and ripple effects of healing in communities worldwide. * Identity and Calling: The enemy attacks the areas where God intends to use us most powerfully, yet God redeems and equips us through our greatest wounds. * Encouragement & Prayer: The Coles and Keri encourage listeners that their pain is not wasted, and lead a prayer for heart healing and a renewed sense of purpose. 10 Journal Prompts Inspired by This Episode: 1. Reflect on a season when you felt most pursued by God. What changed in your heart as a result? 2. In what ways have the wounds from your parents, or lack thereof, affected your view of yourself? 3. Are there experiences or traumas from your childhood that still impact your sense of identity today? 4. What lies have you believed about yourself because of pain, and how can God's truth rewrite those narratives? 5. Where do you sense God inviting you to bring him your brokenness and trust Him for healing? 6. Who in your life do you need to truly forgive, even if reconciliation isn't possible or safe? What emotions arise as you consider this? 7. What would it look like to "loose" your pain to the cross and invite God's love into that space? 8. Think of a time when the enemy used your greatest wound against you. How might God want to use that same area for His glory? 9. What practical step could you take this week to be more vulnerable with God or with safe people? 10. In your pain and journey toward healing, how have you seen purpose and hope begin to emerge? Where to Find More About Tom and Donna Cole: * Website: Pure Heart Rest [http://pureheart.rest] (Note: It's pureheart.rest, NOT .com!) * Ministry Resources: Free videos, book information, and ministry times are available on their website. * Book: "Pure Heart"—a step-by-step guide for heart healing and freedom. Call To Action (CTA) for Every Day Royalty Listeners: Are you ready to step into your identity as a son or daughter of the King? Don't let pain or your past define your present or your future! * Reflect using today's journal prompts to start your journey of healing. * Subscribe and share this episode with someone who is longing for breakthrough. * Find the FREE Finding Spiritual Breakthrough prayer guide at https://breakthrough.everydayincredible.net [https://breakthrough.everydayincredible.net]