anxiety

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I’m learning a lot about regulating my nervous system and recovering from stress.

Yesterday, we had an emergency during which I literally lost my mind.

Prior, Bean, our fur baby, and I were enjoying a lovely spring morning, popping in and out, me to work and her to chew sticks and sniff the air. Walking back inside, I noticed the azaleas I’d recently purchased had fallen off the porch. As I got closer, what I saw immediately raised concern. The plant was lying on the ground, out of the pot, leaves, branches, and buds gone, nothing left but a stump of roots.

I ran into the house to Google and discovered this plant is highly toxic to dogs.

Not knowing how much she’d eaten or how long it had been in her system, I felt sick to my stomach and lightheaded.

“I’m taking her to the vet,” I told my husband, rushing to get Bean leashed and out the door.

I called her doctor while driving, a bit fast and reckless, fearing she might die before I got there. It didn’t help that our AC is broken, it was above 90 degrees, and our pup showed signs of distress, likely related to the heat.

Praise God, she’s okay. Now, 24 hours later, she’s doing well. They purged her stomach and found nothing but yard debris, no trace of azaleas, and sent us home with medicine to soothe her upset stomach.

Needless to say, I wasn’t the only one shaken by that event.

My poor Bean, unable to understand what was happening and highly attuned to my dysregulated emotions, was terrified, whisked into the car, handed off to strangers, rushed to the back, given medicine that made her throw up, and a shot of fluids, all without mom nearby.

Once home, she spent the rest of the day and evening snuggled close to me, her source of comfort and security. She slept between my husband and me all night, and this morning, retreated under the bed, her safe space, until shortly before nine, well beyond when she’s normally up and asking to go out.

After some research, I learned her behavior was her way of recalibrating after stress, because her nervous system needed time to recover.

And I wondered…

How often do I do that?

How often do I pause to recognize the mental and emotional toll something created and intentionally allow myself to recover, whether that’s reading, doing something creative, or, most importantly, drawing near to Christ?

He is my safe place, my strong tower, and my greatest source of peace.

Scripture reminds us, “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge” (Psalm 18:2).

I know this intellectually, so why am I often so quick to push through stress and anxiety?

Actually, I know the reason.

Somewhere along the line, I believed the lie that productivity matters more than the health of my soul and that ignoring intense emotions will make them go away.

But as Faith Over Fear guest and therapist Kristin Faith Evans shared in Tuesday’s podcast episode, stress builds, and if it’s not processed, it can begin to rewire our brains, to our detriment.

Looking back on one of the most painful and unsettling times in my adult life, when I developed debilitating insomnia, I can see how my failure to pause, breathe, and recalibrate only compounded my overwhelm.

I kept pushing forward, thinking that was strength, when what I needed was restoration.

Granted, I don’t have time to take a tropical vacation every time I get stuck in traffic, receive an unexpected deadline, or face a problem.

But I can pause and breathe, intentionally turning my attention to the Lord and making space for His peace to steady my heart.

How do you normally decompress from difficult situations?

How might regularly practicing calming techniques, especially when something feels destabilizing, help increase your peace and protect your focus?

If you’re interested in some quick and easy calming exercises you can practice when stress begins to climb, whether you’re driving in rush hour traffic, in the middle of a work meeting, or wanting a reset at the end of an overwhelming day, make sure to check out my cohost Carol’s conversation with therapist Kristin Faith Evans in the Faith Over Fear podcast episode titled “Managing Anxiety with Christ and Practical Tools”

And may you sense God’s calming presence the next time anxiety hits.

Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor – Faith Over Fear

We've probably all walked into a room and felt unseen, out of place, or excluded. Those experiences can cut deep and leave us feeling alone in the very place where everyone else seems connected with friends. In this episode, Jennifer talks with Dr. Heather Holleman to explore how powerful truths in Ephesians helps us reframes those painful experiences and related insecurities. Together, they unpack what it means to be chosen, included, and seated with Christ and how those realities speak directly into anxiety, comparison, and loneliness. Drawing from Scripture and personal story, this conversation invites listeners to move from striving for belonging to resting in the secure place they already occupy with Jesus. They also discuss the impact of the narratives we carry, what Dr. Holleman calls “shadow stories”, and how replacing those with God’s biblical truth fosters healing and transformation. Through practices like expressive writing and sharing personal “Savior stories,” listeners will discover practical ways to process pain, renew their thinking, and step into their God-given purpose. This episode ultimately shifts the focus from isolation to mission, reminding us that we are not only included in Christ but also sent to reflect Him in a world longing for connection. Resources referenced: Included in Christ: Living A New Story from Ephesians (A Bible Study) by Dr. Heather Holleman "Embracing Your True Self: Living in Your Christ-Centered Identity" Bible reading plan (on the YouVersion Bible app) Connect with Dr. Heather Holleman: On her website On Instagram On Facebook 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. Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor
  2. When Your Loved One is an Alcoholic or Addict
  3. Bonus Episode: Faith in the Fire: When You Feel Betrayed by God
  4. Fighting for Your Heart When Suffering Pulls You Toward Despair
  5. Managing Anxiety with Christ and Practical Tools

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What do you do when you feel bombarded by chaos and hardship in numerous areas of your life? How can you navigate relational tension, or financial challenges or health concerns when you’re already feeling frazzled and like you’re one more catastrophe from a total meltdown?

Disclosure: I don’t handle emotional overwhelm well, which is why I find today’s post, by AWSA sister Melissa Heiland so helpful–and important. It reiterates a message God has been speaking into my soul: I’m not stuck in today’s crisis or my reactive response. Each day, by His grace, I can grow in the peace and confidence befitting a well-cared for child of Almighty God.

May her words encourage you as well.

I woke up on Monday feeling completely overwhelmed, paralyzed by anxiety. I had so much to do yet felt completely unable to focus on even the most basic tasks. Some days, some seasons are like that. Chest pains, anxiety, lethargy, fear – these are all symptoms of emotional overwhelm. We love the Lord. We trust in Him. We know He is all-sufficient, yet we can still become overwhelmed with circumstances, past and present. Sometimes it is a result of current situations. Sometimes a culmination of hurts that hit us like a ton of bricks. Sometimes we know why – an anniversary, a phone call, the sight of someone who looks like someone else.

In my case, it was a storyline seen on television. It started a cascade of memories and feelings that are always there, but not always at the surface of my thoughts. And I was drowning, unable to do the things I needed to do because of the weight of the thoughts. We can know the Lord, love the Lord and trust the Lord and still feel the weight of emotions in our mind, heart and soul. As a woman who has dealt with much trauma, I am quite familiar with overwhelm, Jesus is the answer to all life’s problems, and I’d like to share some things I’ve learned that helped me deal with emotional overwhelm as a daughter of the King.

For me, the most important thing is to give myself grace. I’m learning not to beat myself up for the bad days or seasons. Jesus knows my pain; He keeps my tears in a bottle. He suffered on earth as well. Feeling the pain and the hurt is not a sin. It is a result of sin. When I am feeling this way, it’s not only okay, but necessary to slow down. God has control of my life. When I need to step back, I know that He’s always there filling in the gaps. He is faithful.

Spending time in nature helps me in the seasons. It’s tempting to stay inside, locked away from the world, but fresh air and a change of scenery can be healing. God created so much beauty for us in the mountains, the beach, the flowers, the trees. He’s used all his creation at times as a salve to my wounded soul.

Exercise can be healing. I’m not an athlete by any stretch of imagination, but walking restores balance to my mind. God created our bodies in an incredible way. We know that when we exercise, chemicals that promote feelings of calm are released in our bodies. Exercise, even in small amounts, helps up relax and cope with our emotions.

Listening to worship music when I am overwhelmed is very comforting to me. It helps me to get the perspective that is so easily lost. It reminds me of the truths of the Scripture. When I worship, my thoughts turn to Jesus instead of my circumstances, and I remember I’m not alone.

When I’m overwhelmed, I try to focus on gratitude. I try to remember the good in my life and to speak these things aloud or write them down. Sometimes, I’ll reread things I have written about the goodness of God in my life. This helps ground me when things feel out of control.

Feelings of overwhelm can take me by surprise, like they did on Monday. Monday was a hard day, but Tuesday was much better. I’ve experienced seasons of overwhelm that lasted much longer than a day. But God has always been faithful to me. He’s spoken words of kindness, love and grace to my heart in times of great distress. His presence and love is a constant in my life. My feelings may change like the wind, but God is never-changing. He is with me in the overwhelm comforting me, patiently bringing me back to the peace that passes understanding.

You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. ~ Psalm 16:11

***

If this post resonated with you, make sure to check out Carol and my conversation on the Faith Over Fear podcast in the episode titled “Emotional Overwhelm: Finding Christ’s Peace When You’ve Reached Your Limit“. Download the free companion guide HERE.

You might find February 10ths episode, titled “Finding God’s Peace When the World Feels Hostile and Out of Control“.

***

Get to Know Melissa Heiland:

Melissa Heiland is a wife, mother of 6, and grandmother of 14. She is the Founder and Executive Director of Beautiful Feet International, a ministry that starts international pregnancy ministries. She is an author, speaker, and missionary. Her passion is teaching others to share the Gospel and to protect life.

Check Out Her Latest Release, You Are Wonderful: Psalm 139 for Children

Who knows you better than anyone? Discover the answers in Psalm 139! No matter where you come from or where you are in the world, you are loved, and you are never alone. Through this timeless message found in Psalm 139, using heartwarming illustrations and simple language, You Are Wonderful brings joy, security, and comfort to little children everywhere. Available in English and also in Spanish as Eres Maravilloso. This beautiful full-color book is a perfect size for little hands, on sturdy paper, perfect for bedtime or anytime. Each captivating illustration represents children from all over the world. In easy-to-understand language, children will receive the comforting security of knowing God is with them and thinks they are wonderful!

Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor – Faith Over Fear

We've probably all walked into a room and felt unseen, out of place, or excluded. Those experiences can cut deep and leave us feeling alone in the very place where everyone else seems connected with friends. In this episode, Jennifer talks with Dr. Heather Holleman to explore how powerful truths in Ephesians helps us reframes those painful experiences and related insecurities. Together, they unpack what it means to be chosen, included, and seated with Christ and how those realities speak directly into anxiety, comparison, and loneliness. Drawing from Scripture and personal story, this conversation invites listeners to move from striving for belonging to resting in the secure place they already occupy with Jesus. They also discuss the impact of the narratives we carry, what Dr. Holleman calls “shadow stories”, and how replacing those with God’s biblical truth fosters healing and transformation. Through practices like expressive writing and sharing personal “Savior stories,” listeners will discover practical ways to process pain, renew their thinking, and step into their God-given purpose. This episode ultimately shifts the focus from isolation to mission, reminding us that we are not only included in Christ but also sent to reflect Him in a world longing for connection. Resources referenced: Included in Christ: Living A New Story from Ephesians (A Bible Study) by Dr. Heather Holleman "Embracing Your True Self: Living in Your Christ-Centered Identity" Bible reading plan (on the YouVersion Bible app) Connect with Dr. Heather Holleman: On her website On Instagram On Facebook 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. Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor
  2. When Your Loved One is an Alcoholic or Addict
  3. Bonus Episode: Faith in the Fire: When You Feel Betrayed by God
  4. Fighting for Your Heart When Suffering Pulls You Toward Despair
  5. Managing Anxiety with Christ and Practical Tools


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I could hear her weariness, though her message was merely a short text–I tossed and turned all night. I’m so stressed about finding a home and getting settled. I want to put up a tree and buy gifts for the kids, but I’m afraid I’m failing miserably. My dear friend and her three children were temporarily living in another’s home. As the time she’d anticipated moving drew nearer, she was anxious, and I sensed anxiety rising up within me as well.Lord, how do I encourage her?And right then, I heard God’s quiet voice–

What does Psalm 62 say?

I knew. Having committed portions of this particular passage to memory, the words were hidden in my heart, so I answered—Find rest in You alone, God. Our hope—yes, our expectation—should only come from You.The Amplified and King James versions both use expectation, not just hope, in their exhortation, and with regard to the holiday hype—the world’s voice particularly loud, vying for attention—this reminder from the Lord seemed a simple grace.

As I pondered this passage, applying it particularly to my friend’s situation—her stress over unmet expectations causing her unrest—I discovered several timely truths. First, we can unwrap rest from stress. Look at both words. Can you see it? Takes a little rearranging perhaps—reevaluating the use of one’s time, one’s resources. Ask the Lord to reveal His expectations for the Christmas season, enabling us to prioritize according to His best, reordering our plans so they align with His will, not necessarily the ways of the world—the urges and temptations to do more, buy more, be more.

After all, there’s no rest apart from God’s best.

Second, to unwrap rest in the season’s stress, some things may need to be omitted. Literally speaking, letters don’t only need to be rearranged but several must be dropped to reveal the word rest in stress. Ask the Lord what needs to be relinquished so that better rest becomes a reality.Though perhaps contrary to one’s tradition, this might mean omitting plans to travel, choosing instead to stay home rather than accruing added expenses. It may mean omitting elaborate, pricey presents from the gift list or resisting the expectation to buy costly decorations and groceries. Ask the Lord what He would omit that His presence might be experienced best.

After all, the sweetest rest is while snuggled at His breast.

Finally, the truth that rearranged plans and diminished expectations lead to rest, even in the midst of life’s stress, is nothing new, and it’s not merely for the month of December.Take, for example, the Holy Family all those years ago. Nothing about Jesus’s conception within the womb of an unwed girl met Mary’s expectations. Joseph’s or others’ either.The couple’s plans in the little town of Bethlehem changed unexpectedly when Jesus pressed upon His young mother. Labor told her it was time, creating panic, no doubt, in the heart of a protective husband and father.A smelly barn wasn’t likely what these new parents expected as the birthplace of their firstborn. Nor had they imagined a feeding trough being Emmanuel’s first bed—God with us welcomed by cows and sheep, perhaps a mourning dove’s song His first lullaby.The humble shepherds on the Judean hillside would have been the least expected to witness the new King’s arrival, and their message of the Messiah undoubtedly made some raise an eyebrow, questioning the accuracy of their account.Indeed, little about Jesus’s conception and birth was according to the world’s expectations. Still, He came just as God intended—a Gift of perfect peace and rest to all who intentionally come, pressing in despite the stress of life, to bend low, to be still in His presence.

After all, the sweetest rest is when one knows that—yes!—Emmanuel is God.

May we unwrap rest in the One who was wrapped in swaddling clothes.May we rest in Christ alone.Dear Jesus, it seems we’re most susceptible at Christmas—feeling the dichotomy, that tug-of-war in our souls, between resting in the quiet of the manger and being caught up in the world’s expectations, in a flurry of holiday frill. Nothing gives the enemy more delight, because it only pulls us further from You, the Reason for the season. Forgive us, sweet Savior. Remind us daily—moment by moment—why You came, and help us be worthy messengers of Your peace and rest in a weary, worried world. Amen.**(This post appeared first in Inspire A Fire, an online publication I’m privileged to write for each month. Check it out!)**

(If this post resonated with you, check out THIS podcast episode on practical ways to decrease our stress and anxiety and experience more peace.)

Get to Know Maureen Miller:

Maureen Miller is an award-winning author with stories in more than twenty collaboratives. She contributes to Guideposts’ All God’s Creatures, her local newspaper, and several online devotion sites, including the award-winning Arise Daily and Inspire A Fire. Married for thirty-six years to her childhood sweetheart Bill, she enjoys life with their three born-in-their-hearts children and three grand-girls, not to mention a variety of furry beasts. They live on Selah Farm, a hobby homestead nestled in the mountains of western North Carolina. She blogs at “Windows and Wallflowers” (Maureenmillerauthor.com), telling of God’s extraordinary character discovered in the ordinary things of life, and her debut novel, Gideon’s Book, is now available.

Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor – Faith Over Fear

We've probably all walked into a room and felt unseen, out of place, or excluded. Those experiences can cut deep and leave us feeling alone in the very place where everyone else seems connected with friends. In this episode, Jennifer talks with Dr. Heather Holleman to explore how powerful truths in Ephesians helps us reframes those painful experiences and related insecurities. Together, they unpack what it means to be chosen, included, and seated with Christ and how those realities speak directly into anxiety, comparison, and loneliness. Drawing from Scripture and personal story, this conversation invites listeners to move from striving for belonging to resting in the secure place they already occupy with Jesus. They also discuss the impact of the narratives we carry, what Dr. Holleman calls “shadow stories”, and how replacing those with God’s biblical truth fosters healing and transformation. Through practices like expressive writing and sharing personal “Savior stories,” listeners will discover practical ways to process pain, renew their thinking, and step into their God-given purpose. This episode ultimately shifts the focus from isolation to mission, reminding us that we are not only included in Christ but also sent to reflect Him in a world longing for connection. Resources referenced: Included in Christ: Living A New Story from Ephesians (A Bible Study) by Dr. Heather Holleman "Embracing Your True Self: Living in Your Christ-Centered Identity" Bible reading plan (on the YouVersion Bible app) Connect with Dr. Heather Holleman: On her website On Instagram On Facebook 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. Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor
  2. When Your Loved One is an Alcoholic or Addict
  3. Bonus Episode: Faith in the Fire: When You Feel Betrayed by God
  4. Fighting for Your Heart When Suffering Pulls You Toward Despair
  5. Managing Anxiety with Christ and Practical Tools

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I first wrote the below for the Crosswalk Devotional. I’m sharing it here with permission.

As someone prone to anxiety and who comes from a long line of worriers, I’m intrigued by the phrasing of Colossians 3:15, which reads:

 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

I find it interesting that Scripture doesn’t say “gain” or “discover” the peace of Christ. Instead, it tells us to allow His peace to control, to reign over, and to direct our hearts, the seat of our emotions and intellect. This suggests, even in my angsty moments, that I possess His peace.  

Scripture affirms this. Shortly before His death, knowing all His disciples would soon witness and experience, Jesus said He gave them His peace, indicating that it came not from their circumstances but instead, from Him. We’re also told, in Galatians 5:22 that the fruit, product, or result of the Spirit’s work in us is, among other things, peace.

When I combine these truths with the Bible’s directive to “let” God’s peace reign, I’m invited to consider ways in which I might be resisting this precious gift given me through my faith in Christ. Granted, I recognize there are numerous circumstances, from job loss to health challenges and unresolved trauma, that create worry and fear. I won’t diminish that. I also acknowledge the effect biology can play on our mental health. Yet, God has shown me, during some of my most unsettling seasons, how much of my anxiety stemmed from the state of my heart.

I can’t experience the peace of Christ while actively nursing a grudge or harboring bitterness. The more I ruminate on my offenses, the greater my angst. 

I “let” Christ’s peace rule as I follow the guidance recorded in today’s passage. Verse 1 tells me to focus on and prioritize those things of eternal value, which helps place today’s frustrations in proper perspective. Verses 5-10 tell me to “put to death” or turn from, sinful cravings and self-destructive behaviors. As I do, these “urges” lose their grip over me, making me less apt to hurt others and plunge into the pit of regret. 

Verse 12 reminds me of my secure standing as God’s child. Remembering that I’m His chosen and dearly loved daughter quiets the anxiety that leads to defensiveness. It also helps me rest in the knowledge that my Father has good planned for me and the power to bring His plans to pass. The more I receive His love and grace, the better I’m able to offer others, including those who have hurt me, these same transformative, healing gifts. 

Intersecting Life & Faith:

To summarize, based on the context surrounding Colossians 3:15, here are powerful ways we “let” the peace of Christ rule in our hearts: We intentionally and regularly focus on Christ, everything we have in Him, and all that awaits us in eternity. We don’t give in to or dwell on those things that pull our hearts from the thriving life for which we were created. We relate to others with honesty and integrity, living like the redeemed and empowered children of God we are. And we don’t hold on to and ruminate over past offenses.

Imagine the freedom we’d experience if we prayerfully read through Colossians 3 each night before we went to bed, inviting God to search and cleanse us of everything that steals our peace. And then ended our prayers speaking to ourselves as Colossians 3:16 instructs us to talk to one another—with hymns, songs, and thanksgiving. 

Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor – Faith Over Fear

We've probably all walked into a room and felt unseen, out of place, or excluded. Those experiences can cut deep and leave us feeling alone in the very place where everyone else seems connected with friends. In this episode, Jennifer talks with Dr. Heather Holleman to explore how powerful truths in Ephesians helps us reframes those painful experiences and related insecurities. Together, they unpack what it means to be chosen, included, and seated with Christ and how those realities speak directly into anxiety, comparison, and loneliness. Drawing from Scripture and personal story, this conversation invites listeners to move from striving for belonging to resting in the secure place they already occupy with Jesus. They also discuss the impact of the narratives we carry, what Dr. Holleman calls “shadow stories”, and how replacing those with God’s biblical truth fosters healing and transformation. Through practices like expressive writing and sharing personal “Savior stories,” listeners will discover practical ways to process pain, renew their thinking, and step into their God-given purpose. This episode ultimately shifts the focus from isolation to mission, reminding us that we are not only included in Christ but also sent to reflect Him in a world longing for connection. Resources referenced: Included in Christ: Living A New Story from Ephesians (A Bible Study) by Dr. Heather Holleman "Embracing Your True Self: Living in Your Christ-Centered Identity" Bible reading plan (on the YouVersion Bible app) Connect with Dr. Heather Holleman: On her website On Instagram On Facebook 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. Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor
  2. When Your Loved One is an Alcoholic or Addict
  3. Bonus Episode: Faith in the Fire: When You Feel Betrayed by God
  4. Fighting for Your Heart When Suffering Pulls You Toward Despair
  5. Managing Anxiety with Christ and Practical Tools

by on

I once heard a pastor say, when we sense God’s call in an area, it’ll often feel like a death. Some of my most frightening and courageous steps of obedience have proven that statement true. Often, I must let something go to embrace whatever new assignment the Lord lays before me. This might sound selfish, but my greatest struggle usually involves relinquishing my agenda, likely because doing so also requires conceding my illusion of control.

When I allow anxiety to drive my actions and freeze my steps, God still fulfills His plan. I simply forfeit my part in them and miss out on encountering the miraculous. The converse is true as well. When I courageously obey God rather than self-protect, I receive the joy and fulfillment of knowing He used me to bring light and life to our dark and hurting world.

Jehosheba and an unnamed nurse mentioned in 2 Kings 11 must’ve wrestled with similar emotions while hiding a baby ordained to one day sit upon Judah’s throne.

The Background

After a season of religious reform, instituted by a godly king named Jehoshaphat, his son and successor, Jehoram, returned wickedness to the nation. When his son Ahaziah rose to power, he followed his father’s example, and was soon killed in battle. After this, we read, “When Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she proceeded to destroy the whole royal family. 2 But Jehosheba, the daughter of King Jehoram[a] and sister of Ahaziah, took Joash son of Ahaziah and stole him away from among the royal princes, who were about to be murdered. She put him and his nurse in a bedroom to hide him from Athaliah; so he was not killed” (2 Kings 11:1-3, NIV).

Can you imagine how terrifying this must’ve felt. Jehosheba risked her life to save this child. When chaos hit the palace, did she ever debate not getting involved? Did she contemplate fleeing to the hills or pretending to side with the queen?

Notice also, the dead king was her brother. This means in defying Queen Athaliah, she was going against her family.

Perhaps you know how that feels.

Can you envision how frightening this must’ve felt for the nurse as well? If you’ve ever tried to quiet a baby during church service or while on a plane, you can likely understand how challenging it must have felt to hide young Joash (also called Jehoash) for 6 years!

She must’ve wrestle with her involvement. While abandoning her post might’ve been equivalent to treason, so was hiding the future king from the present queen. When she received the child, did she have any indication as to how long they’d remain in hiding? What plans had she formulated prior? Was she isolated for over half a decade, or did she have help that allowed her to venture outside on occasion?

Did she ever want to quit?

I probably would have, numerous times. But I also would’ve found it incredibly gratifying to know, after those six years, that I had helped save a child.

But here’s the most beautiful part of this story. In rescuing baby Joash, both women also preserved the Messianic line that evil tried to extinguish.

Yet, to quote the study notes in my Tyndale Bible, “Athaliah’s attempts to kill all of Ahaziah’s sons was futile because God had promised that the Messiah would be born through David’s descendants.”

The next time God calls us into a holy battle, big or small, may we find courage in this truth: light always wins, and Christ’s victory is secure.

Join the conversation: What assignment has God invited you to accept? What tiny but necessary step can you take today?

Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor – Faith Over Fear

We've probably all walked into a room and felt unseen, out of place, or excluded. Those experiences can cut deep and leave us feeling alone in the very place where everyone else seems connected with friends. In this episode, Jennifer talks with Dr. Heather Holleman to explore how powerful truths in Ephesians helps us reframes those painful experiences and related insecurities. Together, they unpack what it means to be chosen, included, and seated with Christ and how those realities speak directly into anxiety, comparison, and loneliness. Drawing from Scripture and personal story, this conversation invites listeners to move from striving for belonging to resting in the secure place they already occupy with Jesus. They also discuss the impact of the narratives we carry, what Dr. Holleman calls “shadow stories”, and how replacing those with God’s biblical truth fosters healing and transformation. Through practices like expressive writing and sharing personal “Savior stories,” listeners will discover practical ways to process pain, renew their thinking, and step into their God-given purpose. This episode ultimately shifts the focus from isolation to mission, reminding us that we are not only included in Christ but also sent to reflect Him in a world longing for connection. Resources referenced: Included in Christ: Living A New Story from Ephesians (A Bible Study) by Dr. Heather Holleman "Embracing Your True Self: Living in Your Christ-Centered Identity" Bible reading plan (on the YouVersion Bible app) Connect with Dr. Heather Holleman: On her website On Instagram On Facebook 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. Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor
  2. When Your Loved One is an Alcoholic or Addict
  3. Bonus Episode: Faith in the Fire: When You Feel Betrayed by God
  4. Fighting for Your Heart When Suffering Pulls You Toward Despair
  5. Managing Anxiety with Christ and Practical Tools

by on

Have you ever endured a challenge that turned out to be the greatest blessing in your life?

My daughter is 16, and about seven years ago she was diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. A couple of years after that, depression started. The last several years have been difficult, and though this last year she’s been in a really great place, this season has taken a toll on me emotionally and physically. I’m her “person,” and I’m in the trenches with her.  It’s not easy.

These mental health challenges run in my family. Like heart disease, high cholesterol, and cancer, some people are simply genetically predisposed to it. Thankfully, I knew how to recognize it. My daughter was an extremely challenging toddler with sensory processing disorder and a very strong will. In the third grade, she started going almost daily to the nurse’s office at school for a stomachache and dizziness. Fast-forward through a lot of specialist appointments, lab work, and counseling, and we finally discovered it was anxiety. She was having panic attacks (disguised as overwhelming stomachache and dizziness), and we were able to get her the help she needed.

Then puberty kickstarted her depression, and it was touch and go for a couple of years.

Today she’s thriving in her faith, extremely mature, and a great student attending a virtual charter school. While she has not perfectly mastered managing her moods, she certainly knows how to do so better than I did at her age.

Walking through her mental health journey wasn’t easy for her. It also wasn’t easy for me, for my marriage, and for our whole family, but we committed to fighting through and we’re on the other side now.

Getting to the other side took learning and relearning so many critical lessons and skills, such as listening, healthy boundaries, and the importance of structure and self-care. It took rereading the Bible through the lens of mental health. It also took phenomenal doctors, counselors, and Christian mentors.

Now I’m so grateful I was able to walk through this journey with her because it taught me so much as a person and as a mother.

It also taught me a ton about God’s incredible love for us. Not only do we have the gift of salvation, but we also have a personal savior—a savior who’s not just there for the big stuff but the difficult everyday moments, too. He’s there in our grief and our pain, our depression and our heartbreak, our good times and our bad times.

He might not take that grief or pain or sickness away, but he’s there with us, walking right next to us. There, right there, in the trenches with us.

During the hardest moments of our family’s mental health journey, I didn’t always “feel God” right there with me every step of the way, but I trusted that he was there. I also knew he spoke and cared through the people he sent to help us through. And looking back, I saw the evidence.

That’s how it is for so many of us. Most of us have experienced struggles in our life, but often it’s only later, when we look back, that we can often see God’s hand clearly.

As Hebrews 4:13 tells us, “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account” (NIV).

And as 1 Peter 5:6-7 says, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

Sometimes we go through situations and we’re so grateful to be done with them that we don’t look back. We think we got through because of “luck” or our own hard work. But consider today the beautiful, personal, and sometimes intimate ways God speaks to us and walks with us through our most painful moments.

If you are in the middle of a difficult season right now and you doubt God’s walking beside you, thinking you’re maybe in all of this alone, pause. Breathe. Take a look around. Ask him to speak to you or show you a sign.

Then watch as his love comes to life.

Amen. Thanks be to God.

A prayer: Lord, thank you that you care for me so personally. Even in those times I can’t see you or feel you, help me remember that you are there. Amen.

Get to Know Jessica Brodie:

Jessica is an award-winning Christian journalist, author, blogger, and editor. She is the editor of the South Carolina United Methodist Advocate, the oldest newspaper in Methodism, which has won more than 118 journalism awards during her tenure. She is the author of two devotionals, Feed My Sheep (2019) and More Like Jesus (2018), and editor of Stories of Racial Awakening (2018) and Called by God (2020), all from her newspaper’s Advocate Press. 

She also writes fiction, represented by Bob Hostetler of The Steve Laube Agency, and her novel The Memory Garden won the 2018 Genesis contest for unpublished contemporary fiction from the American Christian Fiction Writers. A speaker and contributor to Crosswalk, Christianity.com, and the United Methodist News Service, she has a faith blog at JessicaBrodie.com. Subscribe to Jessica’s YouTube Channel HERE.

Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor – Faith Over Fear

We've probably all walked into a room and felt unseen, out of place, or excluded. Those experiences can cut deep and leave us feeling alone in the very place where everyone else seems connected with friends. In this episode, Jennifer talks with Dr. Heather Holleman to explore how powerful truths in Ephesians helps us reframes those painful experiences and related insecurities. Together, they unpack what it means to be chosen, included, and seated with Christ and how those realities speak directly into anxiety, comparison, and loneliness. Drawing from Scripture and personal story, this conversation invites listeners to move from striving for belonging to resting in the secure place they already occupy with Jesus. They also discuss the impact of the narratives we carry, what Dr. Holleman calls “shadow stories”, and how replacing those with God’s biblical truth fosters healing and transformation. Through practices like expressive writing and sharing personal “Savior stories,” listeners will discover practical ways to process pain, renew their thinking, and step into their God-given purpose. This episode ultimately shifts the focus from isolation to mission, reminding us that we are not only included in Christ but also sent to reflect Him in a world longing for connection. Resources referenced: Included in Christ: Living A New Story from Ephesians (A Bible Study) by Dr. Heather Holleman "Embracing Your True Self: Living in Your Christ-Centered Identity" Bible reading plan (on the YouVersion Bible app) Connect with Dr. Heather Holleman: On her website On Instagram On Facebook 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. Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor
  2. When Your Loved One is an Alcoholic or Addict
  3. Bonus Episode: Faith in the Fire: When You Feel Betrayed by God
  4. Fighting for Your Heart When Suffering Pulls You Toward Despair
  5. Managing Anxiety with Christ and Practical Tools

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(This first posted on February 6, 2020.)

Sometimes God must allow us to experience our greatest fears in order to free us from them. When it feels as if the ground beneath us will crumble to dust, we learn in a deeply personal way that “though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed” God’s unfailing love will always remain.

To put it simply, we often discover who God is in all His faithful and merciful glory, not during the tranquil periods but when we feel as if our lives have upended.

Some of you may be familiar with this story I’m about to share. I tell it often because, of all the things I’ve experienced throughout my life, this particular event led to my greatest freedom. Though at first, I felt anything but free!

At the time, I was enslaved to fear, primarily of relational loss and financial insecurity. We were living in Louisiana at the time, in a newly built, gated neighborhood and had plenty of money coming in to pay our bills and then some. My husband drove a company car, had a company pension, and managed our finances well. I had every reason to relax, but anxiety frequently won, resulting in a constant fight for control. I lived as an orphan, as if I were forced to navigate a harsh, unpredictable world all alone rather than the beloved, cherished daughter of Christ Scripture promised I was.

Had God not intervened, I’m certain I would’ve destroyed my marriage. But He did, tearing me from my highly-regulated safety plan and allowing me to land in one of my greatest fears—unemployment (my husband’s). This resulted in a three-year transitionary period where we lived off of savings for a while then moved, first to Texas then to Missouri. And with each move, God allowed falsehoods to rise to the surface so He could counter them with truth.

When I felt abandoned and unheard, He assured me He would never leave and was attentive to my every cry. When it seemed my prayers went unanswered, He reminded me that He was working out all things according to His good and loving plan, for my growth and His glory. For every fear, He gently guided me to timeless promises in Scripture, reminding me of who He was, what He’d done, and what’s yet to come. As my vision shifted off of my problems and concerns and onto my powerful, unconquerable God, my fears slowly died.

When I’m feeling frightened, I love to spend time in the psalms, which often seem to echo the cries of my heart. When it feels as if my circumstances are unjust and perhaps others have betrayed me, I know “the Lord reigns forever, executing judgment from His throne” (Ps. 9:7). When I feel exposed and helpless, I know where to turn for “the Lord is a shelter for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble” (Ps. 9:9).

“Those who know Your name,” the Psalmist says, “trust in You.”

Or to put it another way: If we truly grasp the fullness of Christ—His love, power, and attentive faithfulness toward all His children quote from post with blue and green background—we realize we have no cause for concern and every reason to trust. We can attempt to fight our fears countless ways, but nothing soothes and strengthens the heart quite like growing closer to Christ. He is the only One with the power to save. When all our attempts to control and salvage our situation fail, we discover we truly have all we need in Him. He alone stands firm, immovable, at our side, and He always will.

Let’s talk about this! What characteristics of Christ do you find most comforting when you’re afraid? How do those characteristics speak to your current fear? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments.

Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor – Faith Over Fear

We've probably all walked into a room and felt unseen, out of place, or excluded. Those experiences can cut deep and leave us feeling alone in the very place where everyone else seems connected with friends. In this episode, Jennifer talks with Dr. Heather Holleman to explore how powerful truths in Ephesians helps us reframes those painful experiences and related insecurities. Together, they unpack what it means to be chosen, included, and seated with Christ and how those realities speak directly into anxiety, comparison, and loneliness. Drawing from Scripture and personal story, this conversation invites listeners to move from striving for belonging to resting in the secure place they already occupy with Jesus. They also discuss the impact of the narratives we carry, what Dr. Holleman calls “shadow stories”, and how replacing those with God’s biblical truth fosters healing and transformation. Through practices like expressive writing and sharing personal “Savior stories,” listeners will discover practical ways to process pain, renew their thinking, and step into their God-given purpose. This episode ultimately shifts the focus from isolation to mission, reminding us that we are not only included in Christ but also sent to reflect Him in a world longing for connection. Resources referenced: Included in Christ: Living A New Story from Ephesians (A Bible Study) by Dr. Heather Holleman "Embracing Your True Self: Living in Your Christ-Centered Identity" Bible reading plan (on the YouVersion Bible app) Connect with Dr. Heather Holleman: On her website On Instagram On Facebook 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. Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor
  2. When Your Loved One is an Alcoholic or Addict
  3. Bonus Episode: Faith in the Fire: When You Feel Betrayed by God
  4. Fighting for Your Heart When Suffering Pulls You Toward Despair
  5. Managing Anxiety with Christ and Practical Tools

The Christian Way to Push Back Without Regret (Zechariah 7:9) – Your Daily Bible Verse

Today’s Bible Verse: “This is what the Lord Almighty said: ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.’” — Zechariah 7:9 Zechariah 7:9 brings faith into everyday action. God calls His people beyond outward rituals and into lives marked by justice, mercy, and compassion. It’s a reminder that what we practice toward others reflects what we truly believe about God. “Want to listen without ads? Become a BibleStudyTools.com PLUS Member today: https://www.biblestudytools.com/subscribe/ Meet Today’s Host: Carol Ogle McCracken 🎙️ Listen to more daily devotionals with Carol at Your Daily Bible Verse on LifeAudio Carol Ogle McCracken is a dynamic Christian speaker, author, and Bible teacher known for her warmth, humor, and transparency. She brings biblical truths to life through real-world stories and relatable experiences—whether navigating alcohol recovery, parenting a child with special needs, or walking through divorce. Today, she serves as Minister of Discipleship at her local church and shares God’s Word through women's retreats, conferences, and online devotionals. Her book, Wisdom: Where to Find It if You’ve Lost, Forgotten, or Never Had It, was released in 2020 and continues to encourage readers in their pursuit of godly wisdom. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.
  1. The Christian Way to Push Back Without Regret (Zechariah 7:9)
  2. When Life Seems Too Good to Be True (Luke 24:40-41)
  3. You are God's Beloved: Answering God's Invitation to New Life (Song of Songs.2:10)
  4. How to Trust God When You Fear What's Ahead (Genesis 31:2)
  5. Remembering God's Faithfulness: Lessons for Every Generation (Psalm 78:4)

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(This post first published on February 13, 2020.)

When I’m feeling anxious, which is often, my husband says he’s going to “sit on me.” This isn’t some idle threat, nor a threat at all. Rather, his words convey a promise to, literally and figuratively, cover me with his strength and love, though he doesn’t actually sit. Instead, he rolls over on top of me, completely enveloping me in his much bigger and stronger self. Perhaps he’s attempting to squeeze out all my angst, or maybe, not knowing what else to do, simply wants me to know he’s there, sees my inner struggle, and that he cares.

The first time he “covered me” in his love occurred around eight years ago. It had been a tough week during which God had allowed some deep, long buried hurts from my past to resurface. In the middle of this painful, fragile time, I received a phone call that left me sobbing so hard, I couldn’t catch my breath. It was as if every hurt once suppressed suddenly rose to the surface. It’s hard to describe the intensity of my emotions except to say that it literally felt as if my heart were shredding .

And in the middle of my ugly cry, as I lay in bed, tears coursing down my cheeks, my husband came to my side and immediately rolled on top of me, squishing me in the strongest, firmest, most immovable hug I’d ever experienced. “I love you, I love you, I love you,” he said over and over. Then, after maybe the tenth time, realization hit: “That’s Jesus.”

I understood, with tear-quieting clarity, that Christ was loving me through my husband in that moment. Though this experience and the understanding that followed didn’t alleviate my pain, it did make it more bearable, because I knew I wasn’t alone. Through my husband, Jesus showed me that He saw me, loved me, was with me, and would carry me through.

When my emotions and circumstances feel out of control, I love to spend time reading through the Psalms. Many of them were written by a man named David who was hunted down for years and, at one point, forced to hide in a cave. Though proven to be a courageous warrior, many of his psalms reveal he also struggled with fear. But in the midst of his most terrifying circumstances, he never lost sight of what he knew to be true: that sovereign creator God was always with him, would never leave him, and would one day turn everything to good.

When others warned him of threats, encouraging him to flee, he responded, in essence, saying, “I trust God to protect me, so why should I run.” (Psalm 11:1) Even if a thousand dangers lurked in the shadows (Ps. 11:3), David refused to Quote pulled from post
cower, because he knew God was both intimately near (in His holy temple) and reigning from heaven (Ps. 11:4), where He could see all. Though life and David’s circumstances might have felt out of control, truth told him otherwise. He knew with unshakable certainty that the all-powerful, all-knowing God was with Him, in the middle of his greatest challenge, engulfing him in love and truth.

As David Guzik from the Enduring Word puts it, “When David considers the greatness of God, the care of God, and the vision of God, it all outweighs the danger.”

When we’re anxious, may we consider and meditate on those same unchangeable truths, and may we wrap ourselves deeply, completely, in God’s loving, protective embrace. Though this may not alleviate our anxiety, it will make it more bearable as we cling to the certainty that God will carry us through.

Let’s talk about this! Do you struggle with anxiety? If so, what are some things you’ve found to help?

If you haven’t already done so, consider joining Wholly Loved’s private Faith Over Fear Facebook group where I share daily challenges designed to help all of us move from fear to faith. You can join HERE.

I also invite you to join Wholly Loved’s private group where you can share your struggles, celebrations, doubts, and prayer requests and link arms with other women learning to anchor themselves in grace. You can find us HERE.

Additional resources you might find helpful:

Breaking the Fear Cycle by Maria Furlough

When Our World Feels Out of Control

Tracing Our Fears to Their Proclamations

Faith Over Fear Bible Reading Plan

Fear and Faith: Finding the Peace Your Heart Craves by Trillia J Newbell

 

 

 

 

Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor – Faith Over Fear

We've probably all walked into a room and felt unseen, out of place, or excluded. Those experiences can cut deep and leave us feeling alone in the very place where everyone else seems connected with friends. In this episode, Jennifer talks with Dr. Heather Holleman to explore how powerful truths in Ephesians helps us reframes those painful experiences and related insecurities. Together, they unpack what it means to be chosen, included, and seated with Christ and how those realities speak directly into anxiety, comparison, and loneliness. Drawing from Scripture and personal story, this conversation invites listeners to move from striving for belonging to resting in the secure place they already occupy with Jesus. They also discuss the impact of the narratives we carry, what Dr. Holleman calls “shadow stories”, and how replacing those with God’s biblical truth fosters healing and transformation. Through practices like expressive writing and sharing personal “Savior stories,” listeners will discover practical ways to process pain, renew their thinking, and step into their God-given purpose. This episode ultimately shifts the focus from isolation to mission, reminding us that we are not only included in Christ but also sent to reflect Him in a world longing for connection. Resources referenced: Included in Christ: Living A New Story from Ephesians (A Bible Study) by Dr. Heather Holleman "Embracing Your True Self: Living in Your Christ-Centered Identity" Bible reading plan (on the YouVersion Bible app) Connect with Dr. Heather Holleman: On her website On Instagram On Facebook 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. Feeling Left Out? Christ Seats You at the Table of Honor
  2. When Your Loved One is an Alcoholic or Addict
  3. Bonus Episode: Faith in the Fire: When You Feel Betrayed by God
  4. Fighting for Your Heart When Suffering Pulls You Toward Despair
  5. Managing Anxiety with Christ and Practical Tools

by on

God has given us everything we need to live confident, peaceful lives. But we can spend so much time wandering about in our misery, we fail to seek out the best way to peace—time with God Himself. My guest today shares a cute story regarding her midnight-roaming feline to illustrate an unshakable truth.

What My Cat Taught Me About God by Karin Beery

When my husband and I got married, we moved into a small rental house. With less than a thousand square feet, there wasn’t room to move things once we put everything in its place. That’s why we never rearranged our bedroom furniture – lack of options.

cat peering in the nightAnd that’s why my cat’s 3 a.m. cries always surprised me. After four years in our small house, Midgie would still wake me up in the middle of the night as she stood in the living room meowing. Even though I always slept in the same location Midgie would somehow lose her way, then cry out in despair or frustration (she’s never confirmed which).

Then I’d call her and give a quick whistle, and she’d trot my way, and burrow under the covers with me.

It always amazed me. Midgie knew where exactly where I was, but it wasn’t until she panicked and cried that she’d finally find me.

How many times have I treated God the same way?

He never changes. He never moves. His words and promises are always faithful and trustworthy, yet time and again when I landed in desperate situations, feeling hopeless, lost and confused, I’d cry out as if He somehow hid from sight!

He didn’t always call my name or give a little whistle, but in the middle of my panic, I’d remember where I could find woman reading her BibleHim—on my knees in prayer or through reading my Bible.

Thanks to Midgie’s late-night meowing, I try not to wait until panic sets in before I talk to God about my concerns. And if I forget and anxiety gets the best of me, it doesn’t take long to remember how to connect with God.

Midgie, on the other hand, still gets lost at night, but I love her anyway, and when she’s frightened in the middle of the night, I’ll be right where I’ve always been—in bed, waiting for her.

***

God makes a similar promise in James 4:8: “Come close to God, and God will come close to you” (NLT). Therefore, whenever we call out to Him or take the slightest step toward Him, we can be confident that He is already moving toward us.

Let’s talk about this! What do you normally do when you feel anxious, uncertain, or unsettled? Do you normally run to God first, or do you wander about in your misery first, like Karin’s cat did? How can turning to Him first in prayer help give you peace and confidence?

***

Karin Beery's headshotKarin Beery – Writer. Editor. Novelist. Karin writes contemporary and speculative fiction with a healthy dose of romance. When she’s not writing fiction, she’s editing or writing business copy through her business Write Now Editing & Copywriting Services. And when she’s not doing either of those, she teaches – she’s currently teaching Substantive Editing for Fiction through the PEN Institute. You can connect with her on Facebook,Twitter, or at her website, www.karinbeery.com.