In this post-Thanksgiving episode, I invite listeners into a personal and Scripture-rich reflection on what it truly means to cultivate a heart of gratitude — not only when life feels abundant, but especially when it feels uncertain, stretching, or emotionally heavy.

Through a biblical study of thanksgiving and a deeply personal parenting story, we explore how God grows our hearts in hidden, humble, everyday ways.

What This Episode Covers

1. Giving Thanks In All Circumstances

We discuss the difference between giving thanks for everything versus giving thanks in everything — and why Scripture calls us to live from God’s reality rather than our circumstances.

Bible Verse:

• 1 Thessalonians 5:18 — “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

2. Gratitude in the Valley — Jeremiah 29 and Parenting

Alexandra shares a meaningful moment with her 11-year-old daughter who has been navigating friendship challenges at school and church.
 Through tears, prayers, and divine wisdom, God reminded her:

“She is Mine before she is yours. And I love her more than you ever will.”

This leads into a powerful application of Jeremiah 29: how God calls us to grow where we are planted, even in seasons that feel uncomfortable or unclear.

Bible Verse:

• Jeremiah 29:5 — “Build homes and settle down. Plant gardens and eat what they produce.”

3. The Silent Work of God

We explore how God often works quietly in our lives — through steady, subtle transformation rather than loud breakthroughs — and why gratitude helps us recognize His presence.

Bible Verse:

• Philippians 2:13 — “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.”

4. A Biblical Framework for Growing in Gratitude

Alexandra introduces a simple 3-step process rooted in Scripture:

Remember

Look back on God’s past faithfulness.

• Psalm 103:2 — “Bless the Lord… and forget not all His benefits.”

Recognize

See His hand in the present moment.

• James 1:17 — “Every good and perfect gift is from above.”

Respond

Practice intentional thanksgiving.

• Colossians 3:15 — “…and be thankful.”

5. A Five-Minute Thanksgiving Practice

Listeners are guided into a simple exercise:

• What has God done that I need to remember?
• Where do I see His hand today?
• What promise am I holding onto for tomorrow?

A beautiful way to end Thanksgiving week with renewed gratitude.

 Scriptures Mentioned in This Episode

• 1 Thessalonians 5:18
• Jeremiah 29:5
• Philippians 2:13
• Psalm 103:2
• James 1:17
• Colossians 3:15

If This Episode Encouraged You…

Share it with a friend or parent who may be walking through a challenging season.
 Leave a rating or review so others can find Curious for Christ and grow in their walk with Jesus.

Thank you for being here.
 Happy Thanksgiving weekend — may God continue to cultivate gratitude and peace in your heart.

Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey.

Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call today. See you next time!

In today’s episode, we explore the world of the early church and the historical events surrounding the fall of Jerusalem in 70 AD. My guest, Dr. Ward Sanford, is a hydrogeologist, researcher, and biblical historian whose passion for truth led him to write The Cry for Jerusalem series — deeply researched Christian historical novels rooted in eyewitness accounts and the writings of Josephus.

Together, we talk about:

• How history supports and illuminates Scripture
• Why understanding the culture of first-century Judea matters for our faith
• The strength and courage of women in the early church
• How faith and intellect work together, rather than in opposition
• And how our questions can actually draw us closer to God

This conversation is thoughtful, grounding, and deeply encouraging — especially if you’ve ever wrestled with doubt or wanted to understand your faith more deeply.

Resources Mentioned:

- The Cry for Jerusalem Series

Available in Paperback, Kindle, and Audible

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/wardsanford

- To learn more about Dr. Sanford's work, read his blog, explore historical research, and stay updated on future projects, visit:

 https://cryforjerusalem.com/

If This Episode Encouraged You:

Leaving a quick rating or review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify helps more listeners find these conversations. Thank you so much for taking a moment to do that — it truly means a lot.

Schedule Update

New episodes now release every two weeks.

I’ll see you back here soon — stay curious, stay rooted, and stay close to Christ.

Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey.

Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call today. See you next time!

Have you ever had a season where nothing seemed to work — your plans, your prayers, your patience? When it feels like you’re doing everything right…and still waiting?

In today’s episode, we’re diving into Psalm 149:6, a short but powerful verse that teaches us what to do when life feels confusing or overwhelming:

“Let the high praises of God be in their mouths, and a two-edged sword in their hands.”

This verse shows us the two things that never fail:

Worship and God’s Word.

When everything else is shaking, these are the anchors that keep us standing.

In This Episode We Explore:

• Why overthinking and analyzing can lead us into confusion
• How praise becomes a weapon during seasons of delay or disappointment
• How to use Scripture as truth and defense when fear, doubt, or lies speak loudly
• The hidden purpose behind the wilderness seasons and refinement
• How God uses pressure not to punish us, but to prepare and strengthen us
• What spiritual maturity actually looks like and how to walk in it daily

You’ll walk away with practical encouragement and declarations rooted in Scripture, including:

• “No weapon formed against me shall prosper.” (Isaiah 54:17)
• “He will never leave me nor forsake me.” (Hebrews 13:5)
• “The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing.” (Psalm 23:1)

Key Takeaway

When nothing seems to be working, don’t spiral into overthinking.

Instead:

Lift your worship.

Grip the Word.

Let praise and truth do the fighting.

Scripture References

• Psalm 149:6
• Isaiah 54:17
• Hebrews 13:5
• Psalm 23:1
• Hosea 2:14
• Job 1

Closing Prayer

We end the episode in prayer — asking God to give us clarity, peace, and endurance through seasons of refinement, and to remind us that wilderness is not abandonment, but preparation.

Connect

If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend — or leave a review to help others find the podcast. 

Stay curious. Stay close. Stay anchored.

Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey.

Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call today. See you next time!

Have you ever felt like slowing down means you’re falling behind?

In this heartfelt episode, Alexandra opens up about what it means to honor God’s invitation to pause — not as a sign of failure, but as a step toward healing, rest, and renewed intimacy with Him.

After walking through her own season of emotional honesty and therapy, Alexandra reflects on how God often meets us not in our striving, but in our stillness. Through gentle storytelling, scripture, and prayer, she reminds us that slowing down is not disobedience — it’s alignment.

 In this episode:

• Why God sometimes calls us to pause instead of push
• How healing often begins when we stop hiding what we feel
• Scriptures that ground us in rest and renewal (Psalm 46:10, Matthew 11:28, Ecclesiastes 3:1)
• Learning to listen to God’s rhythm, not the world’s expectations

 Whether you’re weary, burned out, or just longing to breathe again, this episode is a reminder that God is not disappointed in your pause — He’s present in it. Stay connected:

- Receive Alexandra’s biweekly newsletter with early access to new episodes and personal reflections at curiousforchrist.kit.com/insider.

 - Join the community:

Be part of the Curious for Christ Facebook group at bit.ly/curiousforchristcommunity — a space to grow, share, and find encouragement together.

Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey.

Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call today. See you next time!

Have you ever wondered why some prayers seem to move mountains while others feel like they never leave the room? In this episode of Curious for Christ, Alexandra sits down with Steve Austin — USA Today bestselling author, pastor at Lakewood Church, and president of Living Hope Chaplaincy — to explore how we can pray with power, confidence, and clarity.

Steve shares his remarkable journey from being an attorney in Houston to witnessing miracles across the world, and what inspired him to write his upcoming book, Power Prayers: Praying God’s Word for Breakthrough (available October 21). Together, they dive into what makes prayer effective, how to pray God’s Word back to Him, and why persistence and faith are the key to seeing real transformation.

If you’ve ever felt like your prayers weren’t being heard, this episode will renew your hope and remind you that God still hears, heals, and moves.

🔑 In This Episode You’ll Learn

• Why praying God’s Word is the most powerful way to pray
• The difference between “effective” and “ineffective” prayer
• How to pray the promise, not the problem
• The three keys to breakthrough prayer: Word, Faith, and Persistence
• How God uses waiting to build our spiritual strength
• Why healing is not only physical — but emotional and spiritual, too

🌿 Key Quotes

“Pray the promise, not the problem.” — Steve Austin“God is not bound by our words; He is bound by His Word.”“Persistence doesn’t convince God—it changes us.”

🙏 About Steve Austin

Steve Austin is a USA Today bestselling author and longtime pastor at Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas. A former attorney, he has studied and taught God’s Word for over 30 years with a passion for ministering to the sick through Living Hope Chaplaincy, where he and his team serve thousands of patients and families at the Texas Medical Center.

Learn more at LivingHopeChaplaincy.com

and connect on social media @pastorsteveaustin.

📖 Resources Mentioned

• Book: Power Prayers: Praying God’s Word for Breakthrough — available October 21 wherever books are sold.
• Scripture References:
  • James 5:16 – “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”
  • 1 John 5:14-15 – “If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.”
  • Psalm 42:11 – “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Put your hope in God.”
  • Luke 18:1 – “At all times we ought to pray and not give up.”

💛 Stay Connected

If this episode encouraged you, share it with a friend who needs a reminder that God still hears, heals, and moves.

Subscribe to Curious for Christ for new episodes every Friday, and leave a review to help more people discover this space of faith, curiosity, and transformation.

Until next time, may you walk in peace, pray with boldness, and trust that God is always listening — especially when you pray with all your heart.

Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey.

Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call today. See you next time!

In this episode, I talk about something that hits close to home — the anxiety that comes from holding onto things we were never meant to hold. Maybe it’s beauty, maybe it’s success, maybe it’s your background or even where you come from. I know this has been true for me.

I share a personal story about discovering my ancestry — Belgian, Bulgarian, and even Roma, Gypsy roots — and how God used that moment to show me something deeper about identity.

It made me ask: Am I still clinging to something other than God? Even subtly?

When we hold onto anything more tightly than Him — our image, our past, or even good things like goals and dreams — our hearts become divided. We lose peace. And sometimes, that quiet inner pressure we call anxiety is really our spirit trying to remind us: “You’re holding something that isn’t meant to define you.”

In this episode, I explore both the faith and the science behind why that happens.

When you cling to old patterns or fears, your brain and nervous system stay in fight-or-flight — always scanning for loss or danger. But when you release and surrender, your body shifts into rest and restore — your heart slows, your breath deepens, and peace returns.

God isn’t slow to move — He’s patient with us as we learn to trust Him.

Like 2 Peter 3:9 says:

“The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you…”

When we let go, we make room. It’s like trying to fill a cup that’s already full — God’s pouring blessings and direction, but we have to empty what’s been in the way.

Through it all, He’s whispering:

“You don’t need to be more {fill in the blank}. You’re not late. You are exactly where I want you.”

 

Scriptures from this Episode:

• Philippians 3:7–8 — “Whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.”
• 1 Samuel 16:7 — “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
• Isaiah 43:1 — “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.”
• Psalm 139:13–14 — “You knit me together in my mother’s womb… I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
• 2 Peter 3:9 — “The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise… He is patient with you.”
• Matthew 12:25 — “Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined.”
• 2 Timothy 2:13 — “If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot disown Himself.”

 

Final Encouragement:

Friend, what are you holding onto that’s been keeping you anxious?

This week, take five quiet minutes each morning to ask: ‘Lord, what am I still holding onto that You’re inviting me to release?’ Write it down — and then pray for peace in that place.

You are already chosen. Already loved. Already enough.

Take a deep breath. Let go. And let Him define you. Bye for now

Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey.

Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call today. See you next time!

Have you ever felt like you’re doing everything you can and still nothing is working out? That’s where I’ve been. Since February I’ve been showing up and working hard, but it’s now October and I still don’t have a new sale. It feels heavy, especially with a family, growing kids, responsibilities, and dreams that sometimes seem out of reach.

In this episode of Curious for Christ, I’m opening up about what it looks like to trust God in the middle of that kind of season. I share three scriptures that are grounding me, what I’ve been learning about how our brains create thoughts that aren’t always true, and why God is never intimidated by our honesty.

Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode:

• Why our thoughts often repeat the past, not the truth (Isaiah 55:8–9)
• How David shows us that God can handle our raw honesty (Psalm 6:3 + Psalm 34:18)
• Why seasons of loss and struggle may actually be God’s way of bringing new life (John 12:24)

I also share a personal story about what happened when I opened up to a friend about feeling hopeless — and how her acceptance reminded me that community really is medicine for the soul.

If you’ve ever wondered if you’re “allowed” to feel hopeless as a Christian, or if you’re questioning where God is in your own struggle, I think this episode will speak to you.

Join my Facebook group community here: bit.ly/curiousforChristcommunity Don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss the next episode.

Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey.

Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call today. See you next time!

In this special replay, I’m bringing back one of the most listened-to episodes of Curious for Christ: my conversation with author and evangelist Gordon Ferguson on struggling to trust God and discovering deeper insights from the Bible.

I didn’t want to create something new just for the sake of it. Instead, I felt led to return to this powerful message—because trusting God and living fully in our identity as His daughters is something I’m still learning to embody in deeper ways today.

In the new introduction, I share how I’m moving beyond old stories and limiting identities. I’m stepping more boldly into trust, learning to live freely and fully as the woman God has called me to be.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• An honest conversation with Gordon Ferguson about gender, trust, and how God truly sees us.
• Reflections on what it means to wrestle with trust and identity in Christ.
• Encouragement to let go of old labels and step more boldly into who God says you are.
• A fresh invitation to reflect on the truth you need to embrace in order to live out your calling.

 Reflection Prompt: As you listen, ask yourself: What truth do I need to hold onto in order to do what I’m called to do and be all that God wants me to be? 

 I’d love to hear your response—share your thoughts in the comments or join the community at bt.ly/curiousforChristcommunity.

Stay tuned—I also have a few exciting guests lined up for future episodes, and I can’t wait to share more soon. But for now, let’s revisit this impactful conversation.

Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey.

Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call today. See you next time!

In this episode, host Alexandra explores the physical and spiritual reasons behind our body’s “fight, flight, or freeze” response. She talks about how physical tension—the tight shoulders, clenched jaw, or knot in your stomach—is a signal that our nervous system perceives a threat. However, as believers, we can use this moment of awareness as an invitation to lean into our faith. Alexandra offers three practical, faith-based steps to stay grounded and present with God, even in difficult conversations or moments of stress. This episode is a guide to moving from a place of fear to a place of trust, using our bodies as a tool for worship and connection with Christ.

The 3 Steps:

1. Awareness: The first step to staying grounded is simply noticing your physical reaction without judgment. This is a form of “taking every thought captive” and bringing it to God, as described in 2 Corinthians 10:5: "We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."
2. Breath: Use your breath—a gift from God—to center yourself. Practice deep, intentional breathing as an act of stillness, connecting your body to the present moment and God's presence, as Psalm 46:10 reminds us to “Be still, and know that I am God.”
3. God’s Truth: When your mind spirals with fear, consciously replace those thoughts with God's truth. Recall verses like 1 John 4:18, which says "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear," and remind yourself that you are safe and loved in Him.

Call to Action:

This week, notice your body's tension without judgment but with curiosity. Use your breath as a tool for stillness, and lean on God's truth to anchor you in His love instead of your fear.

And remember, God's love is always near...

Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey.

Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call today. See you next time!

In this deeply compassionate episode, I sit down with Dr. Jerry Woodbridge—a Christian author, grief advocate, and educator—to explore the complex journey of grieving with faith, honesty, and hope.

What You’ll Discover

• Grief isn’t linear. Dr. Woodbridge likens it to “having a thousand hornets around your head” or bouncing on a trampoline while climbing stairs—progress, setbacks, repeat.
• Identity after loss. The unexpected transition into widowhood isn’t a choice anyone makes. Dr. Woodbridge reflects on how that identity shift challenged both her role and faith.
• Children and grief. Kids aren’t little adults. Dr. Woodbridge explains how avoiding their grief can lead to long-term emotional struggles, and how stories can offer healing validation.
• Writing to heal and help. Through her faith-based children’s book Joy Overcame Sorrow, she gives young readers—and the adults who love them—language and solace in the midst of loss.
• Metaphor of sorrow and joy. She shares a beautiful visual: “Both sorrow and joy can coexist like liquids in a coffee cup, with love bridging the gap. We grieve because we love—and that same love makes room for joy, even alongside the sadness.”

Why Listen

This episode is a sanctuary for anyone walking with grief—or alongside someone who is. Whether you’re a parent, friend, pastor, or caregiver, Dr. Woodbridge’s insight is balm for the wounded heart.

Learn More About Dr. Jerry Woodbridge

Visit her website to explore her books, helpful resources, and connect with her directly: drjerrylwoodbridge.com

Related Content

Be sure to check out episodes 29 through 36, an eight-part summer series where I share my journey through grief, how I met Christ, and how He transformed my life—from the very beginning to a reflection on what living by faith looks like now: Episode 29, Episode 30, Episode 31, Episode 32, Episode 35, Episode 36

Scripture References

These Scriptures were thoughtfully embedded throughout Joy Overcame Sorrow and grouped by theme—perfect for personal meditation or guiding children through grief:

God Sees Every Tear | Psalm 56:8; Psalm 119:28
Trusting in His Care | Luke 12:24; Jeremiah 17:7
Hope for the Future | Jeremiah 29:11; Psalm 9:18
Comfort in Mourning | Matthew 5:4; Hebrews 13:8
Joy Restored | Psalm 126:2; Jeremiah 31:12–13; Isaiah 35:10
Peace Within | Proverbs 14:30; Luke 2:46 

Reflection Question:

How might God be inviting you to hold both sorrow and joy together in this season of your life?

 Call to Action:

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes, and share this episode with someone who may need encouragement today.

Remember: “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5).

Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey.

Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call today. See you next time!