What if waiting isn’t just a result of living in a broken world?

In this episode, we look at Genesis 2 and the surprising realization that waiting existed before sin ever entered the world. Why didn’t God create Eve at the same time as Adam? Why the delay if nothing was broken?

Together we explore:

• the purpose of waiting
• what happens when we try to force what God hasn’t given yet
• God’s perfect timing
• and how waiting may be shaping us more than we realize

If you’re in a season of uncertainty, longing, or feeling forgotten, this episode is a reminder that God is not rushed, not absent, and not late.

✨ Food for thought:
Where in your life are you assuming something is wrong… when God may actually have you waiting on purpose?

In today’s episode, Carrie shares a powerful story of brokenness, hitting rock bottom, and how God met her there—leading her into a deeper, life-changing dependence on Him.If you’ve ever felt like hope was out of reach, this conversation will remind you that you’re not alone—and that God is still at work in the middle of it.To hear more—including her husband Neal’s story and how they found freedom in Christ—check out their book Raised by Shadows: https://a.co/d/0exFJriCVerse referenced: Psalm 37:24 — “Though he falls, he will not be overwhelmed, because the Lord supports him with His hand.”If this episode spoke to you, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs encouragement. #neveralone, #christianpodcast, #rockbottom, #Godisgood, #newauthor

Does complaining count when you're alone?

Episode Description:
In this episode of Clay Branches, I’m joined by Jess as we talk about preparing our hearts for the upcoming women’s conference. Jess shares what the Lord has been teaching her as she steps into her role as one of our keynote speakers—especially around how deeply God sees us, knows us, and loves us as women.

Conference Information & Registration:
📍 Harvest Spring Ladies' Conference📅 March 20-21, 2026🔗 https://subspla.sh/jk98jgd

Connect with Jess:
🛍️ Jess’s Shop: You can find Jess's shop on both Instagram and Facebook @sparrowsnestingplace and by clicking the link below.

⁠http://www.sparrows⁠⁠nestingplace.com⁠

🌿 Gems Ministry: https://atharvest.church/women-s-ministry
📱 Follow Jess: https://www.facebook.com/sparrowsnestingplace

https://www.instagram.com/sparrowsnestingplace

Stay Connected:
If this episode encouraged you, please consider sharing it with a friend or leaving a review—it helps others find the podcast and be encouraged as well.

Thank you for listening and walking this journey with us.

In this episode, I am joined by Heidi again, as we dive into scripture and think on the phrase "God won't give you more than you can handle."

For more information on the Christmas Market and Women's conference you can check out my church website atharvest.church

Also, correction the women's conference is March 20-21.

Here are the quotes and verses I mentioned...

Matthew 11:28 (I was way off and said Matthew 28:13...My Awana Leader was right, I would need the references one day)“Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Psalm 23:2-3a He lets me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside quiet waters.
He renews my life;

Isaiah 55:8-11 (I said 8-10...so close!)

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
and your ways are not my ways.”
This is the Lord’s declaration.
 “For as heaven is higher than earth,
so my ways are higher than your ways,
and my thoughts than your thoughts.
For just as rain and snow fall from heaven
and do not return there
without saturating the earth
and making it germinate and sprout,
and providing seed to sow
and food to eat,
so my word that comes from my mouth
will not return to me empty,
but it will accomplish what I please
and will prosper in what I send it to do.”

"I have so much to do that I shall spend the first three hours in prayer" -Martin LutherLeave me a comment and let me know where your favorite place to rest is!

If you have any questions you'd like addressed on the podcast, please send them my way!

Food For Thought:

What are some action steps you need to take? (Be specific)

How can you be more intentional in your prayer and bible reading this week?

What visual would help you remember to leave it in God's hands?

What attribute of His can you cling to in this season?

Food for thought

1. Are there good hopes and desires in your life that have become an idol?

2. Are there any areas in your life where you are trying to write your own story?

3. What areas do you see God’s fingerprints in your own story?

Food for thought 

1. Have you found yourself wrestling with if you should or shouldn’t share the Gospel with someone?

2. Has there been a situation where you did share the Gospel, and someone rejected it? How does this story change your perspective on rejection?

   3. What are some was you can grow in being intentional with sharing your faith?