Spark Directory

Can you increase your joy? Why does joy matter?

In this uplifting episode, host Tina Yeager sits down with author, speaker, and comedian Carrie Murphy to explore the transformative power of joy—even in life's hardest moments. Recorded live at the National Religious Broadcasters Convention, this conversation dives into why joy matters, how laughter can be holy, and ways we can seek God's abundant joy no matter our circumstances. Carrie Murphy shares personal stories, including bringing humor to unexpected places like funerals, and offers practical encouragement for embracing both our light and dark seasons. Whether you're going through a tough time or simply looking to invite more happiness into your life, this episode will inspire you to cultivate joy, laughter, and authenticity in your walk of faith.

Can You Really Increase Your Joy?

You bet! Carrie Murphy shared how joy and laughter are not just for lighthearted moments, but are actually vital elements of our spiritual and emotional health. Growing up in a fundamentalist church where obedience trumped joy, Carrie Murphy struggled to see where her exuberant personality fit in. But over time, she discovered that joy—and yes, laughter—are gifts from God with the power to heal, uplift, and even guide us through the valleys of life.

Joy in the Hard Times

One of the most memorable moments came when Carrie Murphy recalled being asked to bring comedy to a funeral—a remarkable reminder that bittersweet moments are not only possible, but powerful. As she so beautifully put it, "The sweet is what gets us through the bitter." Even in the toughest situations, making space for both grief and laughter can be healing.

Practical Wisdom for Your Journey

• You Can Hold Space For Both:

  Carrie Murphy encourages us to honor our grief while still allowing light—and laughter—to break through. You don't have to manufacture joy on your own; you have access to it through Christ, who offers a supernatural peace and joy no matter your circumstance.

• Let Humor Be Your Medicine:

As Tina Yeager shared, even therapists recommend humor for healing. Laughter can lighten heavy loads, dispel shame, and help us move forward with resilience.

• Embrace Your Unique Purpose: Are you comparing yourself to others, doubting if your quirks fit God's plan?

  Carrie Murphy's story is for you. She discovered that her quirks and humor reflect a specific piece of God—and so do yours. Lean into the gifts He's given you, and watch what He can do!

Stay Connected & Discover More Joy

Want more laughter and encouragement in your life? Connect with Carrie Murphy at thecarriemurphy.com and follow her on Instagram @thecarriemurphy. Don't miss her nine-episode comedy series on K-LOVE On Demand for a dose of wholesome fun!

Final Thought: As Carrie Murphy reminds us, God is big enough for your whole self—quirks, dreams, and all. Let's cultivate joy together and step into a fuller, freer life.

We're thrilled to accompany you on this journey of faith, growth, and transformation. As always, we appreciate your support! Please subscribe and share this episode. We can't wait for you to join us for future episodes of Flourish-Meant.

To book Tina as a speaker, connect with her life coaching services, and more, visit her website: https://tinayeager.com/

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This week on Conversations with Christians Engaged, we’re going behind the scenes of America Reads the Bible — the historic public reading of Scripture coming to the nation April 18–25, 2026 live from Washington, D.C.

Bunni Pounds is joined by Jayme Thompson, Director of America Reads the Bible, for a candid, faith-filled look at how this massive national project is actually being built. From the early vision God gave Bunni in the Museum of the Bible, to miraculous partnerships with ministries across America, to the gritty, complex logistical work of scheduling 84 hours of continuous Scripture reading — this episode pulls back the curtain on what might become the largest Bible reading event in U.S. history.

• The story of how their partnership began
• The spiritual “sparks” that confirmed this project
• The challenge of dividing the entire Bible into 84 sections
• Why top worship leaders like Kim Walker-Smith, Danny Gokey, Meredith Andrews, UPPERROOM, and more said “yes”
• How God has brought unity, favor, and divine connections at just the right moments

This is a raw, inspiring, behind-the-scenes conversation full of faith, friendship, and the miraculous grace of God.

Join us as we continue to awaken and empower believers to pray, vote, and engage — and get ready for America Reads the Bible 2026.

Learn more and participate: AmericaReadsTheBible.com

Subscribe to Conversations with Christians Engaged for weekly encouragement, biblical worldview insights, and stories of Christians impacting America.

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#AmericaReadsTheBible #ReadTheBible #America250 #ChristiansEngaged #FaithInAction #JaymeThompson

Today, we're diving deep into the transformative support available for veterans with host Tina Yeager and special guest Glenn Baker, a U.S. Army veteran, country music artist, and founder of the nonprofit Finish This Fight. Glenn Baker brings an incredible personal testimony—sharing his journey through unjust imprisonment, loss, and spiritual renewal, and how these experiences led him to champion injured veterans.

Discover how Finish This Fight helps paralyzed veterans reclaim independence and dignity through revolutionary exoskeleton technology, giving them a chance to walk again and restore hope. You'll also hear inspiring stories from veterans whose lives have been changed, and learn how you can get involved through Glenn Baker's music, documentary, and foundation. This episode is packed with powerful reminders of resilience, faith, and the difference we can make when we rise up to support our heroes.

Tune in for motivation and actionable ways to give our very best to those who have sacrificed so much—because as you'll hear, freedom isn't free, and every effort counts in helping our veterans flourish.

Highlights from the Conversation:

• Glenn's Amazing Testimony: From Desert Storm to losing nearly everything after a wrongful arrest,

  Glenn Baker

  shares how music and faith renewed his sense of purpose.

• Finish This Fight Foundation: Discover how this organization puts exoskeletons on paralyzed veterans, giving them the chance to walk again—and the dignity and confidence that comes with it.

• Unforgettable Veteran Stories: Don't miss the story of Joshua Holm, an Iraqi war veteran who, after three years of paralysis, took thousands of steps thanks to the support and technology provided by Finish This Fight.

• A Call to Action:

  Glenn Baker

  reminds us that real change only comes through action. Whether it's volunteering, donating, or simply sharing the message, every effort counts in restoring hope and rebuilding lives.

How You Can Get Involved:

• Visit FinishThisFight.us to learn more about the foundation, contribute, and watch the powerful documentary "Finish This Fight: Diary of a Pissed Off American Soldier."

• All proceeds from the documentary go directly toward helping veterans receive life-changing exoskeletons.

• Keep an eye out for the upcoming book and the exciting Finish This Fight nationwide music tour aimed at helping local veterans in every city.

Final Thoughts: Both Tina Yeager and Glenn Baker share a heartfelt reminder that supporting those who have sacrificed so much is more than charity—it's a chance to carry Christ's message of giving our very best to those in need. The courage, hope, and determination found in these stories will inspire you to get involved in a way that resonates with your spirit.

Let's step up together and make a lasting difference for our veterans!

We're thrilled to accompany you on this journey of faith, growth, and transformation. As always, we appreciate your support! Please subscribe and share this episode. We can't wait for you to join us for future episodes of Flourish-Meant.

To book Tina as a speaker, connect with her life coaching services, and more, visit her website: https://tinayeager.com/

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To flourish in all seasons of life with the