Spark Directory

In this special episode of Conversations with Christians Engaged, Bunni Pounds sits down with Dave Kubal, President and CEO of Intercessors for America and advisory board member for Christians Engaged, to discuss his powerful new book Impacting Generations: How Ordinary People Can Influence the Future of Nations.

Dave unpacks what he calls “the lost covenant of Abraham”—a biblical call for God’s people to influence seats of authority and impact governments through faith and prayer. Together, he and Bunni explore how intercession transforms nations, the spiritual story behind the fall of the Berlin Wall, and how believers today can re-dig the wells of generational blessing as America approaches its 250th anniversary.

Order Dave’s book at ifapray.org or your favorite bookseller.

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

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SUMMARY:

- Guest, Author and speaker Debora Coty shares how to find joy amid pain, drawing from deep personal losses and decades of ministering to women.

- Writing journey: Her Too Blessed to Be Stressed brand unexpectedly grew to 40+ books/products with 2M+ copies sold worldwide; new devotional Bless Your Heart focuses on daily encouragement.

- “Papa God”: She uses the intimate, biblical sense of Abba (Papa/Daddy) to help women experience God’s unconditional love beyond imperfect earthly-father images.

- Faith in crisis: Six miscarriages triggered a two-year spiritual shutdown; daily praying through the Psalms—starting with “angry” psalms—slowly reopened her heart to God’s presence.

- Recent trials: Multiple family deaths, job loss, knee replacements, a spouse’s cancer, and a 5-year legal battle to protect her grandchildren—culminating in unexpected, miraculous breakthrough.

- Joy vs. happiness: Happiness depends on circumstances; joy is a chosen, steady confidence in God’s unchanging character that can coexist with grief.

- Tools for resilience: Gratitude (Philippians 4:6–7), worship/music, nature, Scripture, intentional fun and laughter, and noticing daily “grace notes” (small signs of God’s care).

- “BOGO blessings”: Inspired by 1 Peter 3:9—when you bless others, you “be one, get one,” receiving blessing as you give it.

- Anchoring Scriptures: Philippians 4:6–7 (peace covenant), Psalm 46:1 (ever-present help), Psalm 147:3 (heals the brokenhearted).

- Invitation: Join her BFF (Blessed Friends Forever) community for mutual prayer, encouragement, and practical faith; final charge—keep seeking God’s presence with perseverance.

PODCAST INTRO:

We talk about the difference between happiness and true, resilient joy; how scripture—especially the Psalms and Philippians 4:6–7—anchors us when our faith feels shaken; and the “grace notes” God sprinkles through our days when we learn to look for them. Debora opens up about profound losses—miscarriages, family heartbreak, health challenges, and a long, exhausting court battle—and how waiting on God can still lead to breathtaking redemption.

You’ll hear practical tools to refresh a weary spirit: gratitude that changes the atmosphere, worship that invites God’s presence, nature that whispers His care, and yes—laughter—as a catalyst for joy. Debora also shares about her new devotional, Bless Your Heart, and invites you into her BFF—Blessed Friends Forever—community for prayer, connection, and ongoing encouragement.

Let’s listen in as Debora shares her message of joy, hope and encouragement. As soon as she starts talking you know immediately that’s she’s an encourager at heart maybe it’s because she exudes the joy of the Lord…and because of that joy, I think you’ll be surprising to hear all that she's been through and yet she still keeps leaning on Jesus for His joy and strength.

Live Loved and Thrive @alifeofthrive.com

ADDITIONAL BLOGS AND/OR PODCASTS ON THIS TOPIC:

How can you flourish after life forces you to pivot?

In today’s episode, “Flourish When Life Pivots with Peg Arnold,” host Tina Yeager is joined by national speaker, international author, and self-proclaimed “drama queen for Jesus,” Peg Arnold. Together, they dive deep into how to handle major life changes—whether it’s moving cross-country, transitioning out of a long-held job, or letting go of deeply-rooted roles and routines.

Peg shares her own story of uprooting after 32 years in the same home, facing the anxieties and grief that come with change, and discovering that leaning into faith can reveal new purpose in unfamiliar places. The conversation covers how to process fear and loss, the importance of recognizing grief in all its forms, and practical steps to find healing. Plus, Peg offers insights on setting new goals and moving forward with courage, even when change feels overwhelming.

Whether you’re facing uncertainty, loss, or the challenge of redefining your identity, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone—and that new beginnings can be filled with hope, faith, and unexpected blessings. Stay tuned for honest stories, compassionate advice, and inspiration you won’t want to miss!

Key Takeaways:

• Lean Into Faith: Peg reminds us that God does not want us to be ruled by fear. Scriptures like Joshua 1:9 and Isaiah 41:10 became anchors for her soul, reminding her of God’s presence and guidance, even in the unknown.
• Acknowledge Your Grief: Change often includes loss—not just of people, but roles, routines, and even identity. Peg discusses the importance of letting yourself grieve and offers ways to honor what you’re leaving behind.
• Find Joy in Small Moments: Even amidst sorrow, there are jewels of joy. Peg encourages us to seek these “little joys”—whether it’s a walk in nature, a comforting scripture, or a surprise encounter with an eagle that reminded her of God’s promises.
• Manage Stress Mindfully: Address every part of yourself—spiritual, physical, mental, and relational. Pause to breathe, reset your environment, and be vigilant about decluttering negative thoughts.
• Move Forward With Purpose: After healing, seek God for the next steps. Peg shares how unexpected new goals and ministry opportunities unfolded as she trusted Him with her future.

Resources & Ways to Connect with Peg:

Peg offers “Devotions for the Distracted Heart,” free monthly devotions, and a free prayer book via her website—www.pegarnold.org. You can also find her on Facebook and Instagram, where she hosts weekly “Devotions on the Deck” live videos.

Her books are available on Amazon, and you can reach out directly for signed copies or to ask about her workshops for teachers, speakers, and preachers.

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You’re Not Alone

Whether you’re navigating a move, a job loss, changes in relationships, or any kind of pivot, this episode offers tools and encouragement to face your next chapter with courage. Remember: God goes before you, invites you to rest, and is always working to repurpose your story for good.

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