In this episode, I walk through Jeremiah 32:17—"Ah Lord God! Behold, you have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you." I share vulnerable pieces of my own story—miscarriage, legal battles, and my husband's cancer diagnosis—and ask the hard question: Has God failed us when we face suffering? I explore God's definition of good versus our own, Jesus' example of surrender in the Garden of Gethsemane, and how we can find purpose in pain by surrendering our will to God's.

Episode Summary

I'm digging into Jeremiah 32:17, a verse that declares God's power over all creation and reminds us that nothing is too hard for Him. Through personal testimony, I wrestle with the tension between God's promises and our experiences of suffering. I examine how God defines good differently than we do, how Jesus modeled surrender in Gethsemane, and how we can trust God's plan even when it hurts.

Key Points with Timestamps

• 0:00 – Introduction and Jeremiah 32:17 reading

• 1:15 – Personal testimony: miscarriage, legal battles, husband's cancer

• 3:45 – The question: Has God failed us?

• 5:20 – God's definition of good vs. our definition

• 7:30 – Jesus' example in Gethsemane: "Not my will, but yours be done"

• 9:45 – Finding purpose through surrender

• 11:20 – Practical encouragement: journaling and community

• 12:30 – Bonus verse: Ephesians 3:14-21

Mentioned Links

• Visit https://rachelgrit.com for blog posts, resources, and more encouragement

Supporting Verses

• Jeremiah 32:17 – "Nothing is too hard for you"

• Luke 22:42 – Jesus in Gethsemane: "Not my will, but yours be done"

• Ephesians 3:14-21 – God's power at work within us

• Romans 8:28 – All things work together for good

What's Next?

• Journal about areas where you need to surrender your will to God's

• Pray through your pain, asking God to help you trust His definition of good

• Get involved in community—don't walk through suffering alone

• Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today

Topics Covered

• Trusting God in suffering

• Surrendering our will to God's will

• Jesus' example in the Garden of Gethsemane

• God's definition of good vs. our expectations

• Finding purpose in pain

• The power of community in hard times

• ADHD and motherhood perspective on faith

Social Media Links:

TikTok: ⁠http://tiktok.com/@rachel.grit⁠

Website: ⁠http://rachelgrit.com⁠

Instagram: ⁠http://instagram.com/rachelgrit⁠

Youtube: ⁠http://youtube.com/@rachelgrit⁠

Noise Journal: ⁠http://rachelgrit.com/noisejournal⁠

Episode Summary:
In this episode, I slow down with Psalm 23:4: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” For those of us who grew up hearing this verse everywhere - at church, in songs, even on wall art - I invite you to push past autopilot and approach it with fresh eyes. Together, we look at how our “valley” can look different from anyone else's, why comparison is so damaging, and how fear often sneaks into our lives disguised as something else (like a sense of justice or distraction). I share what God has shown me in prayer about facing hard things honestly, and introduce a super-practical, pretty phone wallpaper you can use as a reminder to surrender your fears to God each day, no matter what shape they take.

Key Points with Timestamps:

1. Verse Introduction and Familiarity (00:00):
   Rachel reads Psalm 23:4, recognizing its comfort and ubiquity, and encourages a deeper look beyond nostalgia.

2. Real Talk on the “Valley” Experience (01:20):
   Conversation about how everyone’s valley of the shadow of death is unique, and why comparing our pain undermines our relationship with God.

3. Naming the Hard Things and Noticing God (03:00):
   Listeners are invited to name their own difficult season and reflect on where God showed up—in the past and present.

4. How Fear Puts on Disguises (05:00):
   Rachel reveals how fear often appears as things like a strong sense of justice, anxiety, or even busyness.

5. Listening Prayer and God’s Correction (06:30):
   Reflection on God’s invitation to discern the root of fears and remember who is truly in control during difficult times.

6. Tools for Verbal Surrender (08:00):
   Introduction to custom autumn prayer wallpapers as visual prompts to turn fears into prayers, plus encouragement on using practical tools like crafted prayers.

7. Call to Embrace Comfort and Surrender (09:30):
   The episode ends with a challenge to let God’s comfort become real through surrender, plus an invitation to download the prayer wallpapers and join ongoing conversation in the community.

Mentioned Links:

• Rachel Grit Website
  Hub for all podcast episodes, faith resources, and downloads.

• Crafted Prayers by Graham Cooke
  (Affiliate link) Recommended resource for learning how to pray intentionally.

• Download Autumn Prayer Wallpapers
  Free, pretty phone wallpapers featuring crafted prayers for surrender and peace.

Supporting Verses:

1. Psalm 23:4, ESV
   “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
   Reminds us that every person’s “valley” is valid and comfort is found in God’s presence.

What’s Next?

1. Take a few minutes in your journal to name your current valley or hard season - don’t compare, just notice how it feels and where God might be present.
2. Look for ways fear might be showing up in your life (an overactive sense of justice, busyness, perfectionism), and gently ask God what the real root might be.
3. Download an autumn prayer wallpaper from RachelGrit.com/13 and use it as a daily reminder to hand your anxieties to God - no special words needed.
4. Next time you’re tempted to minimize what you’re facing, remind yourself that God’s comfort is for you too - right here, right now.
5. Share your valley or what fear is “dressed up as” in the comments or with a friend to invite prayer and truth into your story.

Topics Covered:

• Psalm 23:4 reflection
• Fear and spiritual growth
• Prayer tools for anxiety and surrender
• Biblical justice
• Mental health and faith
• Christian encouragement for hard seasons
• Verbal surrender

Social Media Links:
Instagram: @rachelgrit
TikTok: @rachel.grit
Pinterest: @rachgrit
YouTube: @rachelgrit

Episode Summary:
In this episode, I’m digging into John 14:1 and the challenge in “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.” We’ve all heard Christian platitudes like “Just trust God!” or “Give it to Him!” - but how do we move past those quick fixes and actually anchor our hearts in faith when anxiety hits? I walk through practical ways to get honest about your view of God’s character, process past hurts from faith or church, and take gentle steps toward real, resilient trust in Jesus. You’ll find encouragement for wrestling with doubt, letting go of guilt and shame, and tools for moving toward a deeper, more authentic faith.

Key Points with Timestamps:

1. Setting the Stage and Verse Read (00:00)
   Rachel opens with John 14:1, highlighting the tension between Christian platitudes and real-life struggle with anxiety and trust.

2. Diagnosing the Real Issue (01:15)
   Let's explore the gap between what is “known” intellectually (“I should trust”) and what is truly believed in the heart about God’s character.

3. The Impact of Hurt and Disappointment (02:30)
   Rachel shares personal experiences with church hurt and divorce, encouraging listeners to examine their own trust and where wounds might live.

4. Difference Between “Should” and “Could” (04:15)
   Faith is reframed away from “shoulds” and shame, emphasizing what faith could look like when partnering with God.

5. Moving Beyond Guilt and Shame (05:30)
   A challenge to approach God with gentleness toward themselves, distinguishing between God’s loving confrontation from the enemy’s guilt tactics.

6. Steps for Rebuilding Trust (07:00)
   Journaling prompts to identify beliefs about God and practical exercises to invite God to reveal His true character.

7. Book Recommendation and Final Thoughts (08:40)
   A recommendation for one of my favorite, most impactful books: “Gentle and Lowly” by Dane Ortlund (affiliate link) as a resource for understanding Jesus’ heart, and invites listeners to pursue a personal relationship with Him.

Mentioned Links:

• Rachel Grit Website
  Home for Bible study resources, podcasts, and articles on personal faith growth.

• “Gentle and Lowly” by Dane Ortlund (affiliate link)
  Recommended book for deeper understanding of Christ’s love and character.

Supporting Verses:

1. John 14:1, ESV
   “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.”
   A beautiful if not seemingly complex invitation for moving from anxiety to authentic trust in Jesus.

What’s Next?

1. Break out your journal and take inventory of your beliefs about who God really is (not just the Sunday School answer! Dig deep) and ask for clarity.
2. Give yourself grace as you identify areas where trust is hard; ask God to show you His heart instead of shaming yourself for struggling.
3. Write out and process hurts or disappointments that have shaped your view of God. Sit with your thoughts gently and ask Him to heal and reveal His true character.
4. If you’re able, read or listen to “Gentle and Lowly” by Dane Ortlund (affiliate link) for encouragement about Christ’s compassion. Truly - this book changed how I view and relate to Jesus.

Topics Covered:

• John 14:1 Bible study
• Trust and anxiety in faith
• Church hurt and rebuilding faith
• God’s character and compassion
• Healing spiritual disappointment
• Genuine Christianity versus platitudes

Social Media Links:
Instagram: @rachelgrit
TikTok: @rachel.grit
Pinterest: @rachgrit
YouTube: @rachelgrit

Episode Summary:
In this episode, I dive into Micah 6:8 - a verse I’ve known since childhood, but with fresh perspective. Instead of letting nostalgia or familiar songs keep me on the surface, I dig into the original Hebrew words and reflect honestly about what it means to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God in today’s world. From sharing stories about shifting political views, to teaching my kids about true justice, to wrestling with how God’s version of justice shapes my actions and beliefs, this conversation is both practical and challenging. If you’ve ever felt tugged between culture wars and Christ’s call, or wondered how to teach justice in your family, this episode gives you biblical clarity and real-life encouragement.

Key Points with Timestamps:

1. Familiarity and Fresh Perspective (00:00)
   Micah 6:8 is introduced as a childhood favorite, but Rachel points out the risk of missing the depth when verses become overly familiar.

2. Peeling Back Nostalgia for Real Meaning (00:37)
   Rachel reflects on not letting childhood songs or traditions obscure what Scripture actually says, encouraging listeners to dig deeper.

3. Examining the Language of Justice (01:20)
   The Hebrew verbs for “do” (asah) and “justice” (mishpat) are explored, with focus on justice as intentional action, not passive hope.

4. Wrestling With Political and Personal Change (02:10)
   Rachel shares her journey from conservative talking points to a more nuanced, Christ-centered view, including her discomfort with divisive messaging on justice.

5. Family Conversations About God’s Justice (04:00)
   A real story about teaching her kids to discern between cultural messages and biblical truth, and how God prompted a conversation about diversity, fairness, and loving truth.

6. The Heart of God’s Justice (06:15)
   Rachel discusses how God challenged her to use Scripture, not personal opinion, as the test for justice, emphasizing the importance of understanding God’s character over details.

7. Humility and Openness to Change (08:00)
   Encouragement to stay flexible in beliefs, always open for God to shape the heart, but not swayed by every human opinion.

8. Call to Live It Out (10:27)
   Closing encouragement to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly, making space for God’s definition to reshape actions and family culture.

Mentioned Links:

• Blue Letter Bible
  Rachel’s favorite resource for looking up original word meanings and deeper Bible study.

• The Bible Project
  Recommended for in-depth, creative insights into large biblical themes like justice.

• Rachel Grit Website
  Home base for all podcast episodes, faith articles, and resources.

Supporting Verses:

1. Micah 6:8, ESV
   "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?"
   This verse shapes the entire discussion about action, kindness, and humility in the life of a believer.

What’s Next?

1. Take time to write out your own definition of justice and then measure it up against what you know of God’s character in Scripture.
2. Reflect on any beliefs or opinions that you might need to hold more loosely, with an open heart for God to bring clarity or realignment.
3. If you’re a parent, set aside space for a real conversation with your kids about what biblical justice, kindness, and humility look like in practical life.
4. The next time you react to a social or political issue, pause and pray for God to show you His perspective before forming a conclusion.
5. Make regular space to honestly test your beliefs by Scripture - and don’t be afraid to let God reshape what needs changing.

Topics Covered:

• Micah 6:8 explained
• Biblical definition of justice
• Faith and political beliefs
• Teaching justice to kids
• Doing justice
• Humility and Christian growth

Social Media Links:
Instagram: @rachelgrit
TikTok: @rachel.grit
Pinterest: @rachgrit
YouTube: @rachelgrit

The True Grit Podcast Episode 14 | Wisdom that Walks Softly: Reflections on James 3:13 | Bite-Sized Biblecast

Episode Summary:
In this episode, I reflect on James 3:13 and what it reveals about true wisdom and how we live it out. Digging into the original Greek, I look at what it means to have a manner of life—conduct—that actually backs up belief, and how the Bible calls us to carry out good works with intentionality and meekness. I’m honest about my own struggles with gentleness and the temptation to chase “good projects” that aren’t God’s assignment for me right now. I share encouragement about staying faithful to what God has truly called each of us to do, letting wisdom be seen in gentle living—no matter what’s happening in the world around us.

Key Points with Timestamps:

1. Introduction and Verse of the Day (00:00):
   Rachel introduces James 3:13 and sets the stage for a practical, honest look at living out wisdom daily.

2. What Does “Conduct” Really Mean? (00:45):
   Original Greek words are unpacked, with “anastrophe” meaning manner of life—how a life is actually lived out day by day.

3. The Intentionality Behind “Works” (01:50):
   Wisdom is demonstrated not by random good deeds, but by intentional, thoughtful action and choices—"ergon" is explored in this context.

4. The Challenge of Meekness (03:20):
   Rachel explains “praotice”: mildness of disposition and gentleness of spirit. Gentleness isn’t natural for many, but it is central to demonstrating godly wisdom.

5. How Wisdom Is Really Shown (04:10):
   The episode moves toward practical application, challenging listeners to consider if their manner of life and choices reveal wisdom—especially in moments of disagreement or frustration.

6. God’s Personal Word and Conviction (05:00):
   Rachel shares how God reminded her to focus on meekness instead of chasing distractions, even those that seem “good.”

7. Measuring Up and Invitation Forward (06:00):
   Encouragement to reflect honestly, admit the struggle, and join Rachel in pursuing wisdom through meekness—inviting listeners to stay the course together.

Mentioned Links:

• Blue Letter Bible
  Resource for Bible study, including word studies and original language research.

• Rachel Grit Website
  Home for podcast episodes, blog posts, and resources.

Supporting Verses:

1. James 3:13, ESV
   "Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom."
   This is the foundation for the episode's teaching, reinforcing wisdom established by gentle, intentional living.

What’s Next?

1. Take a few minutes today to honestly measure your “manner of life.” Consider your conduct, daily habits, and choices in the light of James 3:13.
2. Ask God to show you any areas where you’re operating out of pride or distraction instead of meekness and wisdom.
3. Before jumping into new projects, pray for clarity about what God is actually calling you to do right now—and let go of what’s not for this season.
4. Practice gentleness with yourself and others today. Let one intentional act reflect the wisdom and gentle spirit God wants to show through you.
5. Want more encouragement and practical resources? Check out RachelGrit.com and make sure you’re following the podcast.
6. Get on the wait list for the Advent study I'm running this year, specifically created for women with ADHD. You can join for $17 if you sign up before November 15. After that, the cost goes up to $47!

Topics Covered:

• James 3:13 study
• Wisdom and Christian living
• Spiritual formation and conduct
• Biblical meekness
• Discerning God’s assignments
• Practical Christianity

Related Posts and Episodes:

• Recent Blog Posts & True Grit Podcast Episodes

Social Media Links:
Instagram: @rachelgrit
TikTok: @rachel.grit
Pinterest: @rachgrit
YouTube: @rachelgrit

The True Grit Podcast Episode 13 | Bite-Sized Biblecast | Romans 12:12 Part 3

Headline:
How to Be Constant in Prayer: Real Talk for Busy (or Burnt Out) Believers | Romans 12:12 Bite-Size Biblecast (Part 3)

Episode Summary:
In this episode, I wrap up my series on Romans 12:12 with a real-life look at what it means to “be constant in prayer.” If you’ve ever felt like prayer was just another churchy platitude or struggled with what prayer is supposed to look like, you’re in good company. I break down the cultural baggage around “constant prayer,” share my own imperfect journey (yes, even with ADHD), and offer ideas for how to make prayer a running conversation with God—even in tough or distracting seasons. You’ll get practical encouragement for letting go of legalistic expectations, recognizing God’s voice, and building a personal relationship with Him through authentic moments (not perfect checklists). Plus, I share a downloadable phone wallpaper to keep you rooted when life gets loud.

Key Points with Timestamps:

1. Opening and Recap (00:00):
   Rachel introduces part three of the Romans 12:12 series and recalls the whole verse, setting context for “be constant in prayer.”

2. Christian Platitudes and Real Prayer (01:00):
   Explores how advice like “bring it to God in prayer” can feel empty or even frustrating, especially in hard times.

3. Prayer Isn’t Perfection (02:10):
   Rachel challenges the picture-perfect, formal idea of prayer and shares her own informal, ongoing dialogue with God.

4. Letting Go of Cultural Standards (03:20):
   Encourages listeners to release “shoulds” and expectations compared to others’ faith journeys, focusing on what God wants relationship to look like.

5. Journaling as a Tool for Prayer (05:10):
   Highlights the value of journaling with God and provides examples of using writing and listening prayer to deepen connection.

6. Recognizing God’s Voice (07:00):
   Rachel unpacks what it means to listen for and trust God’s voice, even when it’s unfamiliar, referencing biblical teaching on spiritual battles.

7. Using Prayer Triggers in Daily Life (09:30):
   Suggests practical “triggers” for turning anxious thoughts into prayer moments throughout the day.

8. Free Wallpaper Download and Encouragement (11:30):
   Announces a set of downloadable phone wallpapers with a prayer to help listeners stay focused and rooted in God, and invites community response.

Mentioned Links:

• Rachel’s Website
  Hub for podcast episodes, resources, and blog posts, including the downloadable prayer phone wallpapers referenced in this episode.

Supporting Verses:

1. Romans 12:12, ESV
   “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”
   This anchors the episode and underlines the heart of resilience and hope in ongoing conversation with God.

2. Ephesians 6:12, ESV
   “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.”
   Supports the encouragement to trust God’s voice and unseen spiritual guidance.

What’s Next?

1. Notice throughout your day what pulls your thoughts away from God, and use those moments as gentle prompts to turn back to Him.
2. Try journaling about what a “real” relationship with God looks like for you, especially if you struggle with comparison or perfectionism.
3. Download a prayer phone wallpaper from and set it as a visual reminder to stay rooted and open to God’s voice.
4. Experiment with informal, honest prayer—talk to God as things come up, using your real words, even if they’re messy.

Topics Covered:

• Prayer habits for real life
• Deconstructing “perfect” Christian routines
• Building authentic relationship with God
• ADHD and prayer
• Recognizing God’s voice
• Prayer triggers and practical tools

Social Media Links:
Instagram: @rachelgrit
TikTok: @rachel.grit
Pinterest: @rachgrit
YouTube: @rachelgrit

The True Grit Podcast Episode 12 | Bite-Sized Biblecast | Romans 12:12 Part 2

Episode Summary:
In this episode, I dig into what Romans 12:12 means by “be patient in tribulation” and what it actually looks like in real life. My husband and I have walked through years of tough seasons: brain cancer, layoffs, medical bills, blended family struggles, and more. Pain is always relative, but God cares about what's on your plate. I talk through the difference between intellectually knowing God cares and actually resting in that reality. You'll hear practical encouragement on using your waiting seasons with purpose, seeking God’s will, and learning how to surrender even when it’s uncomfortable. If you’re tired of just surviving, this is for you. Let’s get real about patience, purpose, and trusting Him to use our lives for something good.

Key Points with Timestamps:

1. Introduction and full reading of Romans 12:12 (00:00):
   The episode opens with the verse, introduces this as part two, and recaps the previous episode on rejoicing in hope.

2. Recap of recent hard seasons (01:30):
   Rachel summarizes her family's ongoing tribulations: health, work, finances, home repairs, and parenting challenges as a blended family.

3. Pain is relative and valid (03:10):
   No matter how your struggles compare to others, your pain matters to God. Validation of emotional struggle and reminder of God’s care.

4. The difference between knowing and resting (04:30):
   Rachel reflects on moving from head knowledge to truly resting in the Father’s care for every detail.

5. Patience is not passive (06:00):
   Rachel suggests asking God for purpose in the waiting, not just relief—actively seeking God’s direction in challenging times.

6. Use your time well (07:30):
   An encouragement to look for ways to make this season count for your growth and for the Kingdom, drawing on her own lessons from faith and surrender.

7. Surrender and open palms (09:00):
   Rachel shares personal testimony on asking God to remove what isn’t meant to stay, and how painful surrender brings real freedom.

8. Wrap up and action step preview (11:00):
   The episode ends with a practical journaling challenge and a teaser for the phone wallpaper resource in part three.

Mentioned Links:

• Rachel Grit Website
  Home for podcast episodes, blog posts, and related resources.

Supporting Verses:

1. Romans 12:12, ESV
   "Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer."
   Anchors the entire episode's teaching, highlighting how patience and active hope work together in trials.

2. Matthew 6:26, ESV
   "Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?"
   Reminds listeners of the Father’s intimate care in every circumstance.

What’s Next?

1. When you’re overwhelmed, stop to settle your heart—even if it’s just a few minutes. Ask God how He wants you to use your time in this season.
2. Write down something you’re struggling with and ask God to clarify your next step.
3. Catch yourself when you minimize your pain, and remember God cares about your heart, right where it is.
4. Try holding something you’re worried about “with open palms”—pray and tell God you’re willing to let go if needed, and trust Him to lead you.
5. Check out RachelGrit.com for more tools, downloads, and encouragement, and stay tuned for part three.

Topics Covered:

• Patience in tribulation
• Spiritual growth in hard times
• Finding purpose in waiting
• Surrender and open-handed faith
• Practical journaling for clarity
• Faith over comparison

Related Posts and Episodes:

• Recent Episodes and Faith Resources

Social Media Links:
Instagram: @rachelgrit
TikTok: @rachel.grit
Pinterest: @rachgrit
YouTube: @rachelgrit

The True Grit Podcast | Episode 11 | How to Rejoice in Hope | Romans 12:12 Bite-Sized Biblecast

In this episode, I dig into Romans 12:12: “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” If you’re in a season that feels like the never-ending refining fire, this verse can feel like an impossible ask. Honestly, it can even feel like toxic positivity. So together, let's break down how to actually live it out. I share why rejoicing in hope and trusting God isn’t surface-level mental gymnastics but a faith-driven action. I talk openly about my own season of really freaking hard: single motherhood, legal battles, and the real way grief and hope can coexist. Along the way, I offer practical action steps to help you focus on gratitude, recognize God’s faithfulness, and let the hard things in life draw us closer to Him. If you need biblical encouragement that meets you right where you are (in less than 10 minutes!), this bite-size episode is exactly what your heart needs.

Ket Points with Timestamps:

1. Diving into Romans 12:12 (00:00):
2. Romans 12:12 is explored as a call to rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, and be constant in prayer—especially when walking through refining fire seasons.
3. Honest talk about hope (01:00):
4. Praise isn’t about faking positivity; rejoicing in hope means remembering God’s real faithfulness and choosing truth over toxic positivity.
5. Pain and gratitude can coexist (03:00):
6. Hard things don’t disqualify the presence of gratitude; it’s possible to mourn real losses while still finding hope.
7. Looking back to move forward (05:00):
8. Reflecting on my story—like single motherhood and unexpected loss—reminds me how brokenness can become the turning point to deeper faith.
9. Cultivating biblical hope in practical ways (06:30):
10. Journaling God’s faithfulness, drawing on church community, and hearing testimonies from others help ground my hope.
11. Preview of what’s coming next (07:30):
12. A special prayer and phone wallpaper will be shared in upcoming parts two and three, with encouragement to tune in and keep building hope.
13. Romans 12:12, ESV
14. “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”
15. This is the foundational verse of the episode and provides direction for enduring hard seasons.
16. John 16:33, ESV
17. “In this world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”
18. Hope comes from Jesus’s victory, not from easy circumstances.
19. Luke 12:6, ESV
20. “Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God.”
21. Even struggles that seem small in comparison matter to God.

What's Next?

1. Take a few minutes to reflect on times when God was faithful in your own life. Write them down as Ebenezer stones
2. Talk with a friend or church community about your struggles; you’re not meant to do faith alone.
3. When you’re tempted to compare your pain, remember God cares deeply about what you’re facing - there’s room for both grief and gratitude.
4. Practice real praise: thank God for one specific blessing or answered prayer, even in a tough week.
5. Set a reminder to tune in for part two, where you’ll get a guided prayer and a free phone wallpaper to encourage your heart!

Topics:

1. Romans 12:12 explained
2. Biblical hope during trials
3. Real-life testimony of faith
4. Gratitude and grief coexisting
5. Spiritual disciplines for hard seasons
6. How to avoid toxic positivity

Resources:

1. Free Guided Journal for Chaotic Seasons

Social Media Links:

Instagram: @rachelgrit

TikTok: @rachel.grit

Pinterest: @rachgrit

YouTube: @rachelgrit

Trusting God With Uncertainty: Finding Peace in Matthew 6 | Bite-Sized Biblecast

Episode Summary:
In this episode, I share a vulnerable snapshot of what it means to seek God first when life feels anything but certain. I open up about a tough season - navigating my husband’s end of a decade-long career, ongoing battles with cancer, financial unknowns, co-parenting struggles, and house drama. I dig deep into Matthew 6, reading not just verse 33 but the whole encouraging passage about worry, God’s provision, and the invitation to surrender my version of “good” and instead take on His. I reflect on a listening prayer moment in the backyard, unexpected blessings like apples from our tree, and choosing gratitude even when life doesn’t make sense. My heart for you: you’re not alone in the hard, and there’s good to discover, even here.

Key Points with Timestamps:

1. Only Have a Minute for Scripture? (00:00): Short encouragement on taking in scripture, even on busy days, and introduction of guest appearance from Ranger the dog.
2. A Tough, Uncertain Season (00:15): Real-life update on job loss, cancer, insurance, and ongoing struggles - honestly acknowledging the uncertainty.
3. Matthew 6 in Context (01:20): Reading and unpacking Matthew 6:25–34, including the famous verse about seeking first the kingdom.
4. Facing Anxiety with God’s Promises (03:10): Explores Jesus’ advice about worry and why simply “not being anxious” doesn’t always work in practical life.
5. Surrendering My Own Definition of Good (04:00): Discussion on how God’s definition of good sometimes feels different from our own, and how surrender brings peace.
6. Listening Prayer in the Backyard (04:40): Detailed, poetic description of what God spoke to me in the quiet, realizing God’s life and provision in the midst of chaos.
7. Seeing Blessings in Little Things (05:07): Discovering unexpected gifts (like apples from the backyard), and recognizing provision in uncertain times.
8. Eyes on Jesus, Not the Waves (05:40): Story of Peter walking on water, parallel to keeping focused on Jesus in the middle of uncertainty.
9. Honest Gratitude in Hard Seasons (06:17): The tension of grief and gratitude coexisting, concluding with an invitation for continued encouragement.

Mentioned Links:

• Bible Project
  https://bibleproject.com
  Deep-dives into biblical themes and context - great for further study.

Supporting Verses:

1. Matthew 6:33, ESV
   “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
   Supports the theme of refocusing on God above life’s anxieties, with a promise that He will provide.

2. Matthew 6:25–34, ESV
   (Partial) “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. … But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
   Directly grounds the episode’s teaching and encouragement.

What’s Next?

1. Notice and name the numbing behaviors you’re drawn to when life feels overwhelming.
2. Instead of avoiding anxiety, invite God to gently show you His definition of good, even when it doesn’t match your own.
3. Re-read Matthew 6:25–34 this week and ask God what He wants you to see or surrender.
4. Look for blessings in small things: write them down, even if they seem ordinary.
5. If you need encouragement or a listening ear, reach out for a conversation or community.

Topics Covered:

• Navigating uncertainty
• Faith in tough seasons
• Surrender and listening prayer
• Anxiety and biblical promises
• Gratitude when life is hard
• God’s provision in unexpected ways

Related Posts and Episodes:

• Recent faith-based posts and podcast episodes:
  RachelGrit.com

Social Media Links:
Instagram: @rachelgrit
TikTok: @rachel.grit
Pinterest: @rachgrit
YouTube: @rachelgrit

Stuck in the Refining Fire? Me Too. | Trusting God When Storms Rage On

Transcript here.

Episode Summary:
In this episode, I am raw and real about being in a relentless season of refining fire. I share my experience - what it looks like to walk in faith when there's no break between crisis after crisis: brain cancer, job loss, legal battles, and the daily struggle to not numb out from it all. I dig into Jeremiah 17:7, talk about listening prayer, and how God keeps bringing me back to trust, even when I don’t see the purpose or outcome. If you’ve felt abandoned, exhausted, and unsure how to keep going - pull up a seat, friend. I’m right there with you, and I hope a little commiseration and a big dose of encouragement makes a difference in your day.

Key Points with Timestamps:

1. Introduction (00:00:46):
   I jump in unscripted, sharing that I’m in a hard season and inviting anyone feeling the same to join me.
2. Scripture Meditation & Listening Prayer (~00:03:00):
   How I use Jeremiah 17:7 as an anchor verse, plus what listening prayer has shown me about trust and feeling the drought.
3. Life’s Chaotic Trials (~00:08:00):
   My journey through my husband’s cancer, job loss, single parenting, and tough legal battles.
4. Purpose in the Pain (~00:14:00):
   Honest talk on how pain and instability force me to find my roots in God ... and where I’m seeking stability now.
5. Stop Numbing the Drought (~00:20:00):
   Real confessions about how I’m tempted to numb with social media and snacks, and encouragement to ask God for the strength to feel it all.
6. Practical Encouragement & Community (~00:27:00):
   A call to reach out, cultivate rhythms (not routines!), and build authentic fellowship as we process the hard seasons together.
7. Closing & Subscription Reminder (~00:30:00):
   Hopeful encouragement: this earth isn’t our home, and your story matters. Please subscribe, share, and keep moving “further up and further in.”

Mentioned Links:

• Blue Letter Bible
  https://www.blueletterbible.org
  A free, in-depth Bible study app I love for commentary and word studies.
• The Bible Project
  https://bibleproject.com
  Podcast and videos that help me dig into scripture and context.
• Crafted Prayers by Graham Cooke
  
  
  Book I recommend on creating intentional prayers for your life.

Supporting Verses:

1. Jeremiah 17:7, ESV
   “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord.”

What’s Next?

1. Notice and name the numbing behaviors you tend to go to when life feels too hard - whether it’s social media, food, “busy” distractions, or something else.
2. Invite God to help you feel the “drought” (the hard stuff) instead of running from it.
3. Swap one numbing routine - just one - for something nourishing: a prayer, a podcast like The Bible Project, or reaching out to a friend.
4. Ask for community or connection if you need it; shoot me a message or join a group for support.
5. Remind yourself you’re not alone in this refining fire, and it’s okay to not have it all figured out.

Topics Covered:

• Enduring hardships with faith
• Trust and surrender in chaos
• Emotional honesty vs. numbing
• Listening prayer and spiritual practices
• Christian encouragement for tough seasons
• Finding stability in instability

Related Posts and Episodes:

• Recent Blog Posts & Podcast Episodes 

Social Media Links:
Instagram: @rachelgrit
TikTok: @rachel.grit
Pinterest: @rachgrit
YouTube: @rachelgrit