Some battles are far too important, far too consequential, for us to ever attempt to fight them alone.

This has become clearer to me now more than ever. God recently called me to engage in a battle so far beyond me, where the opposition felt so fierce and unconquerable, I knew Christ was my only hope. Therefore, I’m seeking Him and His will like I never have before, and I’m refusing to fight alone. I’ve gathered a group of women, nearly 30 in fact, to engage in the most powerful way possible—on our knees. And we’re experiencing Christ in a way, frankly, I never have before.

Something miraculous, completely mind-blowing, occurs when we come together, seek God’s heart, and diligently pray as He leads. He moves in powerful ways. In ways that remind us that He truly is our all-powerful, loving, sovereign faithful God.

And I’m wondering why I don’t pray more. The only conclusion I’ve come up with is that I tend to make far too much of myself—my wisdom and efforts—and far too little of God. Because if I truly believed everything I claimed, that He indeed is the God over all of history, who knows the best course of action for every situation and has the power to bring His hope-filled, life-giving will to pass, then prayer would be my first response. Always.

Prayer isn’t about us convincing God to act in a particular way. Effective prayer is about us surrendering our hearts to Christ and inviting Him to mold us so that like our Savior we’re able to say, “God, not my will but Yours be done.” When we do that, our prayers become strategic, and you and I become empowered warriors in the battle against darkness.

Consider this quote, from the anonymous author of the Kneeling Christian: “When Christ is all in all—when He is Savior and Lord and King of our whole being, then it is really He who prays our prayers.”

Lord, guide us. Move us. Empower us. Use us. We know this battle before us ultimately belongs to You, and we know You have already won. Help us to always walk as victors, with the confidence and assurance of knowing that we belong to the Lord of lords and King of kings. And help us to trust, to hold tight to faith, even if that means disregarding “sight” while we wait for Your victory to unfold. (Hebrews 11:1)

For those following my Thriving With Chronic Illness podcast, make sure to check out my latest episode with Wholly Loved team member Victoria Mejias on knowing when to rest and when to push through. You can listen here:

You can check out my latest Faith Over Fear podcast episode on Finding the Courage to Obey here:

Recognizing and Breaking Free from Harmful Relationships – Faith Over Fear

In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Jennifer Slattery welcomes Christian counselor and author Dr. Kris Reece for a candid conversation about toxic relationships, manipulation, people-pleasing, and the confusion many believers experience when love becomes unhealthy and emotionally draining. Dr. Kris shares insights from her experience in a narcissistic marriage and as a clinician and explains why unhealthy relationship patterns can be difficult to recognize, especially for those who have spent years trying to earn approval, keep the peace, or carry responsibility for others. Together, Jennifer and Kris explore what Scripture teaches about guarding our hearts, setting healthy boundaries, and identifying fear-driven motivations. Listeners will learn how to discern the difference between Christ-led love and unhealthy self-sacrifice, find freedom from people-pleasing, and pursue relationships marked by wisdom, peace, and truth. Resource Discussed: Breaking the Narcissist's Grip: A Christian’s Guide to Cutting the Strings of Manipulation, Setting Boundaries That Stick, and Reclaiming Your Life From Takers by Kris Reece (Author) Scriptures Discussed Psalm 34:18 Proverbs 4:23 2 Timothy 3:1–5 2 Corinthians 10:5 1 John 4:18 2 Corinthians 9:7 Matthew 5:37 Galatians 1:10 Psalm 139:23–24 Connect with Dr. Kris Reece: On her website On Instagram On Facebook On YouTube Follow her work on Amazon Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

1. Recognizing and Breaking Free from Harmful Relationships 35:01
2. From Bondage to Abundance: One Woman's Testimony About Learning to Live Free 18:40
3. How God Helps Us Get to and Resolve the Root of Our Anxiety 30:51
4. Calm Anxiety and Overwhelm Through Time With Christ 27:15
5. Break Free from Shame: Carol McCracken’s Story of Freedom and Restoration 33:15

And make sure to connect with me on Facebook and Instagram! Find Wholly Loved Ministries HERE.