In this episode, I sit down with my friend Stephanie Latchford to talk about how God has been wooing her closer to Him in this season of life. Stephanie shares how she’s stepping out of her comfort zone and learning to trust God even in the unknown, holding tight to the truth of Joshua 1:9 “Be strong and courageous.”

We dive into why it’s so important to practice Sabbath and truly unplug , not just from work, but from technology , so we can be present with our families and recharge spiritually. We talk about the idea of a technology fast and how it helps us realign our priorities and quiet the noise. And Stephanie shares a season where God encouraged her to turn off the radio (and noise) in the car and sit quietly with her thoughts and in the presence of God.

Stephanie also shares how God has been reminding her that her testimony matters, and how sharing it not only strengthens her own faith but encourages her daughters to live boldly and confidently in theirs. And the importance of asking people if they are willing to give their life to Jesus.

We discuss the deep human desire to feel needed and why community matters so much. Friendship is a big part of this conversation, how we can lift each other up, rally together, and encourage one another when life feels heavy. Stephanie shares how she organized an event for our kids this summer and gathered so many volunteers so that they could feel a sense of being needed and collaborate by sharing their strengths.

We even talk about those moments when we ask God “why,” and why sometimes simply bringing that question to Him is more important than having an answer. And Stephanie shares her life verse Matthew 6:33 "But seek first His kingdom and righteousness and all will be given to you as well", and the importance of putting God first above all things.

If you’re looking for encouragement to be bold in your faith, to slow down and rest, and to surround yourself with people who make you better, this episode will speak to you.

In this episode, I’m talking about the difference between knowing about God and actually knowing Him—walking with Him, having a relationship with Him, and trusting Him no matter what comes.

I share my own story of how I began seeking God before my cancer diagnosis and how that made all the difference when my world was turned upside down. My testimony didn’t feel dramatic at first—it was simply me loving Jesus in the middle of ordinary life. But when crisis hit, I learned the power of already having a relationship with God instead of waiting until I was desperate to seek Him.

We’ll dig into what the Bible says about suffering, why bad things happen, and how God’s presence shows up in the middle of it all. I’ll share how I knew He was with me in my hardest season, plus practical ways you can grow your own relationship with Him so you recognize His voice even when life doesn’t make sense.

Some of the scriptures I share in this episode:

• Romans 8:22 – Creation groaning under the weight of sin
• Genesis 50:20 – God bringing good out of Joseph’s suffering
• 2 Corinthians 12:7–10 – God’s power made perfect in weakness
• John 10:27 – Recognizing the Shepherd’s voice
• Hebrews 13:8 – Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever
• James 1:22 – Do what the Word says
• Psalm 34:18 – God is close to the brokenhearted
• John 11:35 – Jesus wept with His friends in their grief
• Romans 8:28 – God works all things for good

If you’ve ever wondered whether your story with God “counts,” I want to remind you that every testimony matters because God is always the hero. And if you’ve only known facts about Him but haven’t yet experienced a real relationship, this episode will give you encouragement and practical steps to take that next step of faith.

Thanks for joining me. If this episode encouraged you, I’d love for you to share it with someone who needs to hear that knowing God is about more than head knowledge—it’s about a relationship that brings peace, strength, and hope in the fire.

In this episode, I’m sharing some of my favorite book recommendations that have encouraged, challenged, and filled my mind during difficult seasons. Whether you’re the one sitting in a hospital room, going through treatments like chemo, or you’re a family member waiting and watching alongside someone you love, books can be a lifeline.

I truly believe that what we feed our minds matters. When we’re in the middle of a waiting season—whether it’s in an infusion center, at the bedside of a loved one, or just walking through uncertainty—having the right words, truth, and encouragement can help anchor us.

I’ll be talking through a handful of books that have personally impacted me and sharing why I think they’re worth adding to your reading list. My hope is that these resources give you strength, comfort, and maybe even a fresh perspective for your own journey.

Books Mentioned in This Episode:

Life Without Limits - Nick Vujicic

The Tears That Taught Me- Morgan Richard Oliver

God So Close- Becky Thompson

The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry- John Mark Comer

What Women Fear- Angie Smith

Fruit- Alabastor Company

You’ll find some more bible study recommendations HERE on my website.