Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith

Cheryl Karpen is best known as the author of the “Eat Your Peas” Collection, a series of books dedicated to helping others communicate love, hope, and encouragement when they can’t find the words themselves. “Eat Your Peas for Mothers is a special title in the series that was inspired by Cheryl’s own mother. Cheryl recalls her early years and the moment she recognizes as her “beautiful broken heart” season and how her mom encouraged her all along the way. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Andrea Lucado, is a writer from Austin, Texas. Her new book “English Lessons: The Crooked Path of Growing Toward Faith,” describes what it was like to come from a family with a strong heritage of Christian faith; only to wrestle with doubts and her identity as she ventured away from home. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Ernie Johnson, Jr. is a three-time Sports Emmy Award-winner and popular host of TNT's, Inside the NBA, He is also author of a new book about his life; “Unscripted: The Unpredictable Moments That Make Life Extraordinary.” Ernie discusses his early life and how unexpected moments along the way led him to trust God in every situation. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Maria-Jose Tennison is the Vice President of Brand and Production for Sight and Sound Theaters. The purpose of their business is to present the Gospel of Jesus Christ and sow the Word of God into the lives of those who attend their shows, which are inspirational and visually stunning. Maria shares about the early years of her career rise, and how during a season of brokenness, God gave her strength. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Caz McCaslin is the founder of Upward Sports, the world’s largest Christian sports provider for youth. Upwards Sports mission is to promote the discovery of Christ through sports. Caz had a vision to create the best sports experience possible for every child, while providing an environment to nurture kids’ faith. Trusting God for direction, Caz has lead the program’s growth from several hundred children playing in a few church basketball leagues to over half a million children playing in 47 states and 72 countries. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Atheist-turned-Christian Lee Strobel is the former award-winning legal editor of The Chicago Tribune and best-selling author of The Case for Christ. Lee and his wife Leslie share the struggles and joys of finding faith at different times in their marriage and discuss "The Case for Christ" movie, which released to theaters in April 2017. Understanding will never bring you Peace. That’s why I have instructed you to trust in Me, not in your understanding. Human beings have a voracious appetite for trying to figure things out, in order to gain a sense of mastery over their lives. But the world presents you with an endless series of problems. As soon as you master one set, another pops up to challenge you. The relief you had anticipated is short-lived. Soon your mind is gearing up again: searching for understanding (mastery), instead of seeking Me (your Master). The wisest of all men, Solomon, could never think his way through to Peace. His vast understanding resulted in feelings of futility, rather than in fulfillment. Finally, he lost his way and succumbed to the will of his wives by worshiping idols. My Peace is not an elusive goal, hidden at the center of some complicated maze. Actually, you are always enveloped in Peace, which is inherent in My Presence. As you look to Me, you gain awareness of this precious Peace. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Lee Ann Mancini is the author of the “Adventures of the Sea Kids” book series and a teacher of theology. Lee Ann’s mission is to teach young children about the love of Jesus and how to show love for others as well. "I am with you and for you. You face nothing alone—nothing! When you feel anxious, know that you are focusing on the visible world and leaving Me out of the picture. The remedy is simple: Fix your eyes not on what is seen but on what is unseen. Verbalize your trust in Me, the Living One who sees you always. I will get you safely through this day and all your days. But you can find Me only in the present. Each day is a precious gift from My Father. How ridiculous to grasp for future gifts when today’s is set before you! Receive today’s gift gratefully, unwrapping it tenderly and delving into its depths. As you savor this gift, you find Me." Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Long time friends Marty Roe (lead singer of Grammy® Award winning country music group Diamond Rio), and J.T. Olson (founder and executive director of Both Hands Foundation and author of the book The Orphan, The Widow and Me) share how God led them to guide a ministry that is bringing help and hope to both orphans and widows. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Alan Graham is the founder, CEO and President of Mobile Loaves & Fishes. Sixteen years ago, a desire to help the homeless led Alan and 4 friends to purchase a catering truck. With this, he began to go straight to those in need and provide them with food and clothing. Since that time, the organization has grown to 20 trucks in multiple cities and serves over 1200 people daily. Alan shares a little about his background and the life-changing moment that led him to want to make a difference in the lives of others. Man looks at the outward appearance, but I look at the heart. The ability to see is a great gift. I grant glimpses of My Glory via visual beauty in nature. Great paintings, sculptures, and cinematography can also help awaken your soul. Rejoice in these glorious gifts, but do not become enslaved to appearances. I am primarily interested in the condition of your heart, and I work to create beauty in it. It is vital to set aside time for nourishing your heart. Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the well- spring of life. A wellspring is a source of abundant supply. Since you belong to Me, My own Life flows through you! However, to keep this Life flowing abundantly, you must protect your heart from evil influences and nourish it with Bible study and prayer. Aligning your priorities with My teaching can be very freeing. When you don’t like the way things look in your world, close your eyes and gaze at who I am. Remember that I am Immanuel—God with you. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Josh Turner, is one of Country Music’s most successful artists. The multi-Platinum-selling singer has just released his sixth studio album, Deep South. Josh shares his heart about the music, about the challenges of being a Christian today, and what inspires him to be a better man. "Relax in My healing Presence. As you spend time with Me, your thoughts tend to jump ahead to today’s plans and problems. Bring your mind back to Me for refreshment and renewal. Let the Light of My Presence soak into you, as you focus your thoughts on Me. Thus I equip you to face whatever the day brings. This sacrifice of time pleases Me and strengthens you. Do not skimp on our time together. Resist the clamor of tasks waiting to be done. You have chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from you." - Jesus Calling Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Sheila Walsh is a Bible teacher and best-selling author with over 5 million books sold. Her international ministry has reached millions of women by combining honesty, vulnerability, and humor with the transforming power of God's Word. Sheila candidly shares some of the joys and heartache of her early family life and how she struggled to prove herself worthy of God’s love. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Joey + Rory are a GRAMMY nominated country music duo whose music weaves beautiful stories that are important to them. Life drastically changed for the couple when Joey was diagnosed with cancer, but they continued to share their painful and beautiful journey with the world. Rory Feek gives us a glimpse into his new book about his life with Joey and the greatest love story he would ever know. “My rays of Light will reach you through the darkness.” - Jesus Calling Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Lacey Buchanan, a wife and mother of two children. Lacey’s first child, Christian, has a rare syndrome that presented itself before his birth. Lacey shares the journey of his life, from finding out the diagnosis, to dealing with limited treatment options and ultimately learning to see God through the entire process. She has written a book about her son’s journey called “Through the Eyes of Hope.” Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Reba McEntire is a country music legend with over 56 million albums sold worldwide. Reba’s faith has carried her through the ups and downs of life as a country superstar. Reba says that the Lord is “the Fortress that you lean upon when things go wrong.” She often turns to the pages of Jesus Calling and Jesus Always during her quiet times, and finds strength and inspiration there during every season of life. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Janie is a graduate of The Next Door, a faith-based rehabilitation and re-entry program in Nashville, Tennessee. Janie spent most of her life looking for real love, and due to a background of abuse, she felt as if she mattered to no one. After years of toxic behavior and relationships, Janie found the one Love that was there all along. If you or someone you know needs help with a substance abuse problem, please call 1-855-TND-HOPE or go to https://wwwTheNextDoor.org. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

We follow up with Paul Shol after completing his bike trip across America, where he gave away thousands of copies of Jesus Calling to people all along the way. Raising over $50,000 for at-risk children in his community, Paul shares how God worked with him and through others for the entire 4000-mile trek. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Kari Kampakis’ mission is to reach young girls and their parents with a message about true worth. In today’s social media saturated culture, many girls start early, seeking approval through how many “likes” they receive on their social media pages. Kari endeavors to show girls that God gives the only approval that really matters, and He loves them just as they are. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Jason and David, The Benham Brothers, are successful business entrepeneurs with the heart of missionaries. They discuss their new book “Living Among Lions” and the notion of giving your best for God, no matter what kind of work you do. Do not search for security in the world you inhabit. You tend to make mental checklists of things you need to do in order to gain control of your life. If only you could check everything off your list, you could relax and be at peace. But the more you work to accomplish that goal, the more things crop up on your list. The harder you try, the more frustrated you become. There is a better way to find security in this life. Instead of scrutinizing your checklist, focus your attention on My Presence with you. This continual contact with Me will keep you in My Peace. Moreover, I will help you sort out what is important and what is not, what needs to be done now and what does not. Fix your eyes not on what is seen (your circumstances), but on what is unseen (My Presence). Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Christy Nockels, a Dove Award-winning singer/songwriter, shares how God led her to spend a year studying the beauty of Advent and how she has found “The Thrill of Hope” in every season of her life. I am Christ in you, the hope of Glory. The One who walks beside you, holding you by your hand, is the same One who lives within you. This is a deep, unfathomable mystery. You and I are intertwined in an intimacy involving every fiber of your being. The Light of My Presence shines within you, as well as upon you. I am in you, and you are in Me; therefore, nothing in heaven or on earth can separate you from Me! As you sit quietly in My Presence, your awareness of My Life within you is heightened. This produces the Joy of the Lord, which is your strength. I, the God of hope, fill you with all Joy and Peace as you trust in Me, so that you may bubble over with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Amy Parker has written more than thirty books for children, teens and adults, including the best-selling “A Night Night Prayer.” Amy reflects on what first inspired her love for writing and how she came to realize her mission bring Christ’s love to kids through the gift of the written word. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Diane Cunningham is the president and founder of the National Association of Christian Women Entrepreneurs and the author of the book series “Rock Bottom Is a Beautiful Place.” Diane shares her journey through depression, job loss, alcoholism, infertility, and divorce, and how she found courage and restoration from God to keep going, and to help others who face similar challenges. I am a God who heals. I heal broken bodies, broken minds, broken hearts, broken lives, and broken relationships. My very Presence has immense healing powers. You cannot live close to Me without experiencing some degree of healing. However, it is also true that you have not because you ask not. You receive the healing that flows naturally from My Presence, whether you seek it or not. But there is more—much more—available to those who ask. The first step in receiving healing is to live ever so close to Me. The benefits of this practice are too numerous to list. As you grow more and more intimate with Me, I reveal My will to you more directly. When the time is right, I prompt you to ask for healing of some brokenness in you or in another person. The healing may be instantaneous, or it may be a process. That is up to Me. Your part is to trust Me fully and to thank Me for the restoration that has begun. I rarely heal all the brokenness in a person’s life. Even My servant Paul was told, “My grace is sufficient for you,” when he sought healing for the thorn in his flesh. Nonetheless, much healing is available to those whose lives are intimately interwoven with Mine. Ask, and you will receive. Hear more great stories about the impact Jesus Calling is having all over the world. Be sure to subscribe to the Jesus Calling Podcast on iTunes. We value your reviews and comments so we can reach even more people with the message of Jesus Calling. And if you have your own story to share, we’d love to hear from you. Visit JesusCalling.com to share your story today. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Zachary Bell is a husband, father, and veteran. He served as an infantry rifleman in the United States Marine Corps, and did two combat tours in Afghanistan. Zachary discusses his time in service to his country, how it affected his family, and how the Journey Home Project helped him successfully navigate his post-military life. "Come to Me for rest and refreshment. The journey has been too much for you, and you are bone-weary. Do not be ashamed of your exhaustion. Instead, see it as an opportunity for Me to take charge of your life. Remember that I can fit everything into a pattern for good, including the things you wish were different. Start with where you are at this point in time and space, accepting that it is where I intend you to be. You will get through today one step, one moment at a time. Your main responsibility is to remain attentive to Me, letting Me guide you through the many choices along your pathway. This sounds like an easy assignment, but it is not. Your desire to live in My Presence goes against the grain of “the world, the flesh, and the devil.” Much of your weariness results from your constant battle against these opponents. However, you are on the path of My choosing, so do not give up! Hope in Me, for you will again praise Me for the help of My Presence." Hear more great stories about the impact Jesus Calling is having all over the world. Be sure to subscribe to the Jesus Calling Podcast on iTunes. We value your reviews and comments so we can reach even more people with the message of Jesus Calling. And if you have your own story to share, we’d love to hear from you. Visit JesusCalling.com to share your story today. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Amy Grant shares how she finds God in times of stillness and tells us about the joy of making music with her new project “Tennessee Christmas.” Meet Me in morning stillness, while the earth is fresh with the dew of My Presence. Worship Me in the beauty of holiness. Sing love songs to My holy Name. As you give yourself to Me, My Spirit swells within you till you are flooded with divine Presence. The world’s way of pursuing riches is grasping and hoarding. You attain My riches by letting go and giving. The more you give yourself to Me and My ways, the more I fill you with inexpressible, heavenly Joy. Hear more great stories about the impact Jesus Calling is having all over the world. Be sure to subscribe to the Jesus Calling Podcast on iTunes. We value your reviews and comments so we can reach even more people with the message of Jesus Calling. And if you have your own story to share, we’d love to hear from you. Visit JesusCalling.com to share your story today. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Pastor, teacher, and writer, Dr. David Jeremiah shares his thoughts on how God is still accomplishing His purposes in our world, even during tumultuous times. He also discusses his new book, People Are Asking, Is This The End? To find out more about Dr. Jeremiah’s new book: “People Are Asking, Is This The End?” please click here. I am your Refuge and Strength, an ever-present Help in trouble. Therefore, you don’t need to be afraid of anything—not even cataclysmic circumstances. The media are increasingly devoted to fear-inducing subject matter: terrorism, serial killers, environmental catastrophes. If you focus on such dangers and forget that I am your Refuge in all circumstances, you will become increasingly fearful. Every day I manifest My grace in countless places and situations, but the media take no notice. I shower not only blessings but also outright miracles on your planet. As you grow closer to Me, I open your eyes to see more and more of My Presence all around you. Things that most people hardly notice, like shifting shades of sunlight, fill you with heart-bursting Joy. You have eyes that see and ears that hear, so proclaim My abiding Presence in the world. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Tammy Arnold spent her tender years in an abusive household, abandoned by her mother, and then by her father as well. Rejection left her searching for love, and eventually to numbing the pain with drugs and alcohol. At her most desperate, Tammy drew from the tiny spark of faith her grandmother had instilled in her long ago, and began her journey back to the one thing that had never abandoned her: God’s love. "Together, We can handle anything." - Jesus Calling Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Kristianne Stewart is a self-proclaimed “missionary to the cancer world.” She is the founder of Compassion That Compels, an organization that brings tangible items of encouragement to women currently battling cancer through the gift of “Compassion Bags” and spiritual support through the words of Jesus Calling. "Draw near to Me with a thankful heart, aware that your cup is overflowing with blessings. Gratitude enables you to perceive Me more clearly and to rejoice in our Love-relationship. Nothing can separate you from My loving Presence! That is the basis of your security. Whenever you start to feel anxious, remind yourself that your security rests in Me alone, and I am totally trustworthy. You will never be in control of your life circumstances, but you can relax and trust in My control. Instead of striving for a predictable, safe lifestyle, seek to know Me in greater depth and breadth. I long to make your life a glorious adventure, but you must stop clinging to old ways. I am always doing something new within My beloved ones. Be on the lookout for all that I have prepared for you." Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Millions have been impacted by the words of Jesus Calling, Now, 10 years later, Sarah Young returns with her first new 365-day devotional entitled Jesus Always; based on her exploration of the promises of joy in Scripture. Take a peek behind the scenes to hear how Jesus Always came to life. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Women who have struggled with addiction and incarceration are finding hope for a new life through the work of The Next Door. The first in a 4-part series of moving stories from this group of courageous women, they also share how Jesus Calling has been a key part of their restoration and healing. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Chuck Wallington is the co-founder of the Covenant Group and owner of Christian Supply in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Chuck tells the story of what led him to work in the world of Christian products and shares his thoughts on the new book from Sarah Young, Jesus Always. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Emily Ley seemingly has it all—she’s a wife, a mother, a successful business owner and now an author. Emily shares how she gave up always striving for perfection and found grace instead. Emily Ley is the author of Grace Not Perfection (October 4th, HarperCollins Christian Publishing) and creator of the Simplified Planner®, a tool that helps busy women everywhere simplify their lives, organize their days, and prioritize what’s truly important to them in life. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

With hopes to give back to local children, Fargo teacher, Paul Shol is cycling across the country, raising money for education, and sharing Jesus Calling along the way. The Jesus Calling excerpt for this podcast comes from the Audiobook for June 13th: "I am creating something new in you, a bubbling spirit of joy that spills over in others’ lives. Do not mistake this joy for your own, or try to take credit for it in any way. Instead, watch in delight as my spirit flows through you to bless others. Let yourself become a reservoir of the Spirit’s fruit. "Your part is to live close to me, open to all that I am doing in you. Don’t try to control the streaming of my spirit through you. Just keep focusing on me as we walk through this day together. Just enjoy my presence, which permeates you with Love, Joy and Peace." Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Charlie Daniels shares his journey of faith, his long-standing commitment to the military, and his passion for Jesus Calling. The excerpt from this episode comes from the April 19th entry: " Stay conscious of My loving Presence...and I will direct your steps." Visit JesusCalling.com to read, watch, and listen to more inspiring Jesus Calling stories. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Dr. Emerson Eggerichs is an internationally known public speaker on the topic of male-female relationships. Dr. Eggerichs and his wife Sarah present Love and Respect conferences around the world. Sarah, an avid intercessory prayer warrior, loves to share Jesus Calling with others as part of her ministry as well. The excerpt from this episode comes from the July 24th entry: "My plan for your life is unfolding before you." Visit http://JesusCalling.com to read, watch, and listen to more inspiring Jesus Calling stories. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Deborah Jentsch and her husband practiced the habit of saying "I trust you, Jesus," daily. This faith would be put to the ultimate test as they faced their son's devastating accident. See other inspirational Jesus Calling stories at www.JesusCalling.com/blog/category/podcast/ Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Author and Speaker Sherri Gragg reflects on her daughter's upcoming graduation, and the unique challenges and joys a mother faces as she and her daughter embrace a new season of life. Sherri Gragg is the author of Arms Open Wide - A Call to Linger in the Savior's Presence. She shares her heart as a mother who is preparing herself and her daughter for graduation; and her thoughts on what it means to "let go." Find out more about Jesus Calling for Graduates here http://www.jesuscalling.com/books/jesus-calling-for-graduates/ -- The excerpt from this episode comes from the Dec 21st entry: "My plan for your life is unfolding before you." Visit http://JesusCalling.com to read, watch, and listen to more inspiring Jesus Calling stories. Happy Mother's Day! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Mike Huether, the Mayor of Sioux Falls, South Dakota shares the walk of faith that led him to public service and the touching story of how he honored his only daughter with a very special wedding gift. For more Jesus Calling inspired stories, visit & subscribe at http://JesusCalling.com/Blog Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Community of Grapevine United Methodist Church was in turmoil. After the sudden loss of their pastor, Associate Pastor Cindy Ryan set about to put the pieces back together for their flock. It was then that she was faced with another, very personal crisis; an unexpected cancer diagnosis. For more stories of the impact of Jesus Calling visit the Jesus Calling Blog Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Lina Finau exemplified the heart of a servant, even as she struggled with health challenges. Her life has inspired her daughter, Utther Finau, to take a similar road in pursuit of service and bringing joy to others. For more stories of the impact of Jesus Calling visit http://JesusCalling.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Brent and Monica Wicke discuss their mother's cancer journey; remembering her strength and determination, and talk about what they are doing today to honor her legacy. To read more about how Jesus Calling is impacting communities visit JesusCalling.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Rozenburg's discuss their daily struggle as parents to a child suffering through substance abuse. For more on the Rozenburg's and other Jesus Calling stories visit JesusCalling.com Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In today's Experience Jesus Calling Podcast, we'll tell the amazing story of one church and the collective impact that has been made by sharing Jesus Calling within its community. In the coming weeks, we'll be sharing the incredible personal stories of members of this church, and many other Jesus Calling readers around the world...readers who have had their lives transformed. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.