In this episode of Purified and Proven, host Clarisa Mann unpacks Matthew 16:24–26 and what it means to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Jesus. Discover practical examples of surrendering your way—whether in career, relationships, priorities, forgiveness, finances, or control—and learn how choosing God’s way leads to true life.

Jesus said, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me” (Matthew 16:24). But what does that really look like in everyday life?

In today’s conversation, Clarisa explores six powerful areas where believers are called to give up their own way and embrace God’s way:

✨ Career & Ambition – Choosing purpose over status

💞 Relationships – Walking away from what pulls you from God

⏰ Daily Priorities – Making time for prayer & Scripture

💔 Forgiveness – Releasing bitterness and embracing grace

💵 Finances – Living generously with trust in God

🤲 Control & Trust – Letting go of self-reliance and surrendering to His will

Through real-life examples, reflection, and encouragement, this episode reminds us that surrender is not loss—it’s the gateway to abundant life in Christ.

🔑 Scripture: Matthew 16:24–26

Take a moment to reflect:

• Where in your life is God asking you to surrender your own way?
• Is it in your career, relationships, daily habits, forgiveness, finances, or control?
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#denyyourself #Christinpodcast #surrendertoGod #christianencouragement #followingjesus

In this episode of Purified and Proven, host Clarisa Mann unpacks the powerful story of Naomi and Ruth—a journey of grief, loyalty, redemption, and God’s providence.

We begin with the Moabite connection, tracing Ruth’s lineage back to Lot’s family, and explore Naomi’s season of loss after her husband and sons die. Despite her grief, Naomi’s faith and character shine through, influencing Ruth’s decision to follow her no matter the cost.

Through their story, we see the beauty of biblical womanhood, godly influence, and wisdom in action. Naomi models resilience, honesty before God, and selfless mentorship. Ruth, once an outsider, becomes part of the ancestry of King David and ultimately Jesus Christ.

This episode highlights key lessons for believers today: trusting God in suffering, valuing mentorship, embracing faith through trials, and recognizing how God’s kindness is always at work. Naomi and Ruth remind us that even in bitterness and loss, God’s plan leads to redemption and restoration.

Key Scriptures:

Genesis 19:36–37 · Ruth 1:6, 11–14, 16–18, 19–21 · Ruth 2:17–20 · Ruth 3:1–5, 17 · Ruth 4:13–17 · Titus 2:4–5 · Proverbs 4:7 · 1 Peter 3:1–5 · Romans 8:28 · 2 Corinthians 9:8

Download Your FREE Guided Journal

https://purified-and-proven.kit.com/c46d0ec80f

#FaithPodcast #ChristianEncouragement #NaomiAndRuth #RedemptionStory #PurifiedAndProven

In this episode of Purified and Proven, we confront the struggle of comparison and envy through a biblical lens. From social media to daily life, it's easy to fall into the trap of measuring your worth against someone else’s success. But God calls us to a higher standard—one rooted in gratitude, contentment, and trust in His unique plan.

We dive into Psalm 73 and explore how envy nearly led the psalmist astray—until he entered God’s presence and saw the bigger picture. Together, we’ll unpack practical, faith-based ways to stop comparing and start celebrating what God is doing in your life.

If you’ve ever asked, “Why not me, Lord?”—this episode is for you.

• The root of envy and how it distorts our vision (Psalm 73:2-3)
• Why God’s plan for you is unique and incomparable (Jeremiah 29:11, Ephesians 2:10)
• How to cultivate gratitude in a comparison-driven culture (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
• Developing true contentment in Christ (Philippians 4:11-13, 1 Timothy 6:6)
• Seeing others' success through a Kingdom lens (Romans 12:15)
• Eternal perspective: When the envy fades in God’s presence (Psalm 73:17)
• A prayerful invitation to let God examine and renew your heart (Psalm 139:23-24)

🔴 Psalm 73

🔴 Jeremiah 29:11

🔴 Ephesians 2:10

🔴 1 Thessalonians 5:18

🔴 Philippians 4:11-13

🔴 1 Timothy 6:6

🔴 Romans 12:15

🔴 Psalm 139:23-24

• Create a gratitude journal to counteract envy
• Limit exposure to comparison triggers (like social media)
• Practice verbal affirmation of others’ successes
• Meditate on God's promises about your calling
• Invite the Holy Spirit to search your heart daily

#Christian podcast, #overcoming envy, #dealing with comparison, #biblical contentment, #God’s plan for me, #Christian mental health,# Psalm 73 devotional, #spiritual growth podcast, #faith and identity in Christ, #Christian encouragement podcast

In this episode of Purified and Proven, I tackle the topic of depression and its impact on our spiritual lives. Sharing my personal experiences, I emphasize that emotional struggles do not mean a lack of faith. We explore how to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression—emotionally, spiritually, and physically—and affirm that depression is not a sin, as seen in the lives of biblical figures like Elijah and David.

I also encourage seeking professional help through therapy as a constructive, faith-aligned choice. We discuss how therapy and spirituality can work together as God-given tools for healing. Alongside that, I share three key spiritual practices to help you stay grounded in the midst of emotional battles:

• Scripture meditation
• Honest, raw prayer
• Leaning on safe, supportive community

You’ll also hear practical mental health tips and a hopeful reminder from Isaiah 41:10—a promise that God is with us, even in our darkest valleys. If you've ever felt like your faith was failing because your emotions were overwhelming, this episode is for you.

• My personal experience with depression and faith
• Identifying signs of depression as a believer
• Biblical reassurance: Elijah, David, and others
• Why depression is not a spiritual failure
• Therapy as a God-honoring tool
• Three spiritual practices for emotional healing
• Encouragement from Isaiah 41:10

Scriptures Mentioned

Psalm 143:4 – "My spirit is weak within me; my heart is overcome with dismay."

Psalm 42:11 – "Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God…"

John 16:33 – "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Psalm 30:11 – "You turned my mourning into dancing; You removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy

#overcoming depression,#faith-based healing,#biblical encouragement,#Jesus and therapy, #christian therapy support

In this episode of Purified and Proven, we continue the theme of “Trading Stress for Peace” by addressing some of the most overlooked emotional and spiritual battles Christians face—guilt, burnout, and the fear of disappointing God.

I open with a vulnerable reflection on how easy it is to link our worth to our works, especially in our walk with God. As we navigate family struggles, spiritual guilt, and people-pleasing, I invite you to lay down the pressure and embrace God’s grace.

Whether you’ve felt distant from God, emotionally drained from church obligations, or overwhelmed by the fear of failing in your faith—this conversation will help you realign your heart with truth and peace.

We also explore:

• How to navigate family conflict while keeping your spiritual life intact
• Why grace matters more than performance in your relationship with God (Romans 8:1)
• What to do when church burnout and overcommitment drain your joy
• How to stop people-pleasing and start protecting your peace
• Embracing Christ’s righteousness and sanctification in seasons of struggle

Through Scripture, journaling prompts, and real-life encouragement, this episode reminds us that God's love isn't earned—it's freely given.

If you’ve ever asked, “Why do I feel far from God even when I’m doing everything right?” or “Is it okay to say no in ministry?” — this episode is for you.

➡️ Lean in, reflect, and discover how to move from guilt to grace, from burnout to peace.

Scripture References:

• Romans 8:1 (No condemnation in Christ)
• Lamentations 3:22-23 (New mercies every morning)
• Colossians 3:23 (Serve from the heart)
• Mark 6:31 (Jesus calls us to rest)

Topics Covered:

• Christian guilt and emotional burnout
• Family and relationship stress
• Serving from overflow, not obligation
• People-pleasing and boundary setting
• Resting in grace and spiritual renewal

#spiritual burnout, #church pressure, #grace vs works, #Christian guilt, #mental health, #emotional healing,#overcoming fear, #resting in Christ, #Christian encouragement, #sanctification, #people-pleasing, #boundaries in ministry

In this episode of Purified and Proven, we explore the real-life stress and anxiety Christians face on their spiritual journey—and how God’s Word offers clarity, comfort, and direction. Whether you’re battling financial pressure, anxiety about the future, health struggles, or family tension, this conversation will remind you that you are not alone—and that God has a plan.

I open up about my personal experience with Christian anxiety, drawing insight from the story of Martha and Mary in Luke 10. Like Martha, many of us become overwhelmed by responsibilities, but Mary shows us the power of choosing intimacy with Christ over productivity. Through this biblical story, I highlight the importance of prioritizing prayer, setting boundaries, and making space for God in a busy life.

We also look at:

• How to overcome anxiety as a Christian by trusting God's sovereignty
• Biblical solutions for financial stress based on Matthew 6:33
• The importance of bringing health concerns before God in faith (Isaiah 38:16)
• How to handle family conflict and spiritual disconnection with grace and patience

Scriptures like Philippians 4:6-7 remind us to replace worry with prayer, grounding ourselves in God’s peace that surpasses understanding.

If you’ve ever asked, “How can a Christian deal with stress biblically?” or “What does the Bible say about anxiety and fear?” — this episode is for you. Join me for a heartfelt conversation full of practical wisdom, encouragement, and spiritual insight.

➡️ Stay tuned for Part Two as we continue learning how to walk through life’s pressures with peace, prayer, and purpose.

Scripture References:

• Luke 10:38-42 (Martha & Mary)
• Philippians 4:6–7 (Pray instead of worry)
• Matthew 6:33 (Seek first the Kingdom)
• Isaiah 38:16 (God sustains our health)

Topics Covered:

• Christian anxiety and stress
• Financial pressure and trusting God
• Health challenges and faith
• Setting boundaries and spiritual self-care
• Prayer as a source of peace

🕊️ Don’t miss Part 2, where we’ll continue unpacking more biblical truths to help you handle life’s pressures with grace and faith.

🎧 Listen now and share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement today.

In this episode of Purified and Proven, Clarisa Mann explores the powerful connection between Proverbs 14:12 and the Book of Judges, exposing the danger of doing what “seems right” in our own eyes.

Drawing from Israel’s cycle of faithfulness and disobedience, Clarisa unpacks how complacency, cultural compromise, and generational silence can lead us away from God’s truth. Through vivid biblical insight and relevant modern parallels, this episode challenges us to reflect on how personal opinion often replaces biblical standards in today’s world.

You’ll discover:

• Why obedience to God’s command matters more than what feels right
• How the Israelites’ failure to remember God’s deliverance shaped the next generation
• The danger of spiritual compromise through environment and culture
• What today’s moral confusion reveals about our need for truth
• Practical steps to stay grounded in Scripture amidst societal pressure

Let this episode inspire you to live boldly, reflect Christ clearly, and stand firm in a world desperate for God’s unchanging truth.

Key Scriptures:

Proverbs 4:12- There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death.'

1Corinthians 15:33- Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.”

Romans 12:9-21 How to Behave Like a Christian

Matthew 18:15-20 If Your Brother Sins Against You

1Corinthians 13:1-13 How to Love

Practical Advice:

Align what you think and feel with God's word, then decide.

#Faith, #Biblical Truth, #Christian Living, #Obedience, #Generational Faith, #Moral Clarity, #Christian Podcast, #Spiritual Growth, #Discipleship, #Culture and Christianity, #God's Standard, #Identity in Christ

In this eye-opening episode, Clarisa Mann breaks down the powerful story of Samson from the book of Judges, highlighting how sin, pride, and disobedience can strip us of our strength and purpose.

God set Samson apart, but he became spiritually blind long before he was physically blind. His story is a warning—and a promise—a warning that sin will cost more than we expect, but a promise that God’s grace is still available to those who repent.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How sin gradually separates us from God
• Why pride can destroy God-given potential
• The role of obedience in protecting your spiritual strength
• The redeeming power of repentance through Jesus

This episode will speak to your soul if you’ve ever struggled with falling short, spiritual pride, or drifting from God’s will. There’s hope—even after failure. There’s restoration—even after sin.

Key Scriptures:

Judges 16:20

Judges 16:28-30

Romans 5:20-21

#Overcoming sin through faith

#How pride leads to spiritual blindness

#God’s grace after failure

#What to do when you’ve sinned against God

#Christian repentance and spiritual restoration

Have you ever wondered, “Why does God feel silent right when I need Him most?”

The truth may not be about God's absence—but our spiritual distance.

In this episode, we take a deep and honest look at the moments when it feels like God is silent. Could it be that we’ve drifted? Using biblical insight, real-life reflection, and practical steps, we explore how spiritual discipline, not silence, may be the missing link in our faith walk.

You'll discover:

• What happens when you stop praying, worshiping, and reading the Word
• How spiritual distractions, busyness, and routine can quietly distance you from God
• Why God desires a relationship over religious routine
• Ways to rebuild your spiritual muscles: prayer time, biblical meditation, fasting, and Scripture
• How to recognize and respond when your relationship with God starts to feel like a burden

Through Scripture (Proverbs 3:5–6, Hebrews 11:6, 1 Timothy 4:8, Ecclesiastes 3:1–8, and more), you’ll be reminded that God is always near—but the clarity of His voice depends on our closeness.

If you’re feeling emotionally drained, spiritually dry, or simply overwhelmed by life, this episode will guide you back to a place of peace, purpose, and renewed connection with the Lord.

• When God is silent
• Feeling far from God
• Reconnecting with God
• Hearing God’s voice clearly
• Building spiritual discipline
• Morning devotion habits
• Christian encouragement during dry seasons
• Spiritual reset through prayer, fasting, and the Word

Proverbs 3:5–6 | Hebrews 11:6 | Ecclesiastes 3:1–8 | 1 Timothy 4:8 | 2 Timothy 2:15 | Proverbs 12:1 | I Corinthians 7:35 | Hebrews 12:11

Biblical Resources

Biblical Resources:

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLAcJxjo5ZhWi824Nacy-cuXPNaYdyTQR5&si=6vmtIhRZDaCMh9WJ

https://www.gotquestions.org/spiritual-disciplines.html

#FaithPodcast, #GodIsNotSilent, #SpiritualDiscipline, #HearingGod, #PrayerLife

What does it mean to truly live by faith?

In this episode, we unpack how to move before you see results and why faith that pleases God requires more than just belief—it requires obedience. If you're facing a big decision, feeling stuck, or waiting for a sign, this is your confirmation to act on what God has already spoken.

You'll hear biblical examples like Abraham and the Roman centurion, and we’ll break down how:

• Faith in action brings results
• You can walk by faith and not by sight
• Trusting God with your decisions builds spiritual confidence
• Obedience opens doors that fear tries to block

This episode is for anyone wanting to grow spiritually and learn to activate their faith daily, especially when things don't make sense.

📖 Key Scriptures:

• Romans 10:17
• Hebrews 11:1, 11:6
• Matthew 8:5–13
• Genesis 22:1–5
• Exodus 33:13-17

Biblical Resources on Faith:

https://www.gotquestions.org/faith-substance-things-hoped-for.html

https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/2779-building-your-faith

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#How to live by faith every day

#What it means to walk in faith

#Examples of faith in the Bible

#Faith and obedience in Christian life

#How to trust God through uncertainty

#Active steps to grow your faith

#Faith that moves mountains

#Faith when God is silent

#How to please God with your faith

#Living by faith not by sight