The Proverbs 31 Ministries Podcast

In this special behind-the-scenes episode, you’re invited to pull up a chair at the Proverbs 31 Ministries staff meeting as Lysa TerKeurst shares a powerful teaching on what to do when we feel tempted to take control of a situation or step in where it seems God isn't doing what we think He should do. 

If you’ve ever wrestled with trusting the Lord when the outcome is uncertain, this message will encourage you with the truth that He is good, faithful, and active in whatever you're facing right now. 

You’ll learn about:

• The difference between control (everything depends on me) and stewardship (I’ll be responsible, but I trust God with the outcome).
• How surrender leads to peace and positions you to recognize God's faithfulness in your everyday life.
• A real-life testimony of how one small act of obedience can change everything (you might want to grab a few tissues for this one!).
• Click here to download a transcript of this episode

Resources From This Episode:

• Would you take just a few minutes to fill out our listener survey? Your feedback will help guide us on the topics we cover, the guests we invite, and the ways we can continue to serve you through biblical teaching and encouragement.
• Learn more about Proverbs 31 Ministries: proverbs31.org.
• Gain more encouragement from Lysa TerKeurst on the Therapy & Theology podcast.
• Support Proverbs 31 Ministries, and help women around the world hear biblical Truth: Give here.
• Go deeper with study content created by women, for women. Delight in Scripture with the CSB Women’s Study Bible. For both deep study and daily reading, this Bible is uniquely crafted to equip women to dig into God's Word and disciple other women in their life to do the same. Purchase a CSB Women's Study Bible here.

Have you ever looked around and wondered, Is this really it? Or is God calling me to something more? In this episode, Meredith Brock, Kaley Olson, and Nicki Koziarz share how a trip to El Salvador with Compassion International unexpectedly shifted their perspective on calling and obedience and what it really means to live a life of purpose. You’ll hear the powerful story of one woman whose quiet but courageous “yes” to God created a ripple effect — transforming her family, her community, and even the hearts of our team. If you’re feeling unsure about your next step, worn out from waiting, or afraid your impact doesn’t matter, this conversation will remind you: You don’t have to know the outcome to walk in obedience. Sometimes the most world-changing thing you can do is simply show up and say yes.

You’ll learn:

• How to identify “holy discomfort” and what it reveals about the core of your calling. 
• How to move forward with confidence even when the first step seems unclear. 
• Why God may lead you into uncomfortable places to share His light.
• What power one small “yes” has to make an eternal impact. 
• Click here to download a transcript of this episode

Partner With Us: 

• The First 5 app is turning 10 — and we couldn’t have done it without you. For the past decade, this app has helped women all over the world meet with God first … before the chaos of the day begins. Now, we want to invite you to help carry that impact into the next decade. When you give to further all God is doing, we’ll thank you with two copies of our newest devotional study, 30 Bible Verses Every Christian Should Know — one to keep and one to share with a woman you know who’s in need of hope. Give a 10-year anniversary gift!

Resources From This Episode:

• We’re honored to come alongside Compassion International, a ministry committed to releasing children from poverty in Jesus’ name. Through child sponsorship, you don’t just provide food, education, and medical care — you offer hope. You become part of a child’s story. And when you say “yes,” God uses that obedience to change two lives: theirs and yours. Sponsor a child today!
• Looking for more resources to grow in your faith? Find free Bible studies, devotions, podcasts, and more — all created to help you know God’s Word and live it out. Explore Proverbs 31 Ministries.

If you’ve ever felt the pressure to figure it all out, force it to happen, or keep your head up even when your heart’s worn out — this message is for you.

In this keynote from She Speaks, Meredith Brock shares her honest story of learning to surrender the striving and live from a place of trust instead of trying. With laughter, vulnerability, and deep biblical wisdom, Meredith reminds us: We don’t have to prove ourselves to be used by God. We just have to stay surrendered.

You’ll learn:

• Why God can’t lift what you won’t lay down.
• How to recognize when you’re striving instead of surrendering.
• What Scripture teaches about letting God fulfill His promises — not forcing them.
• How to make a freeing perspective shift that takes the pressure off your performance.

Partner With Us: 

• The First 5 app is turning 10 — and we couldn’t have done it without you. For the past decade, this app has helped women all over the world meet with God first … before the chaos of the day begins. Now, we want to invite you to help carry that impact into the next decade. When you give to further all God is doing, we’ll thank you with two copies of our newest devotional study, 30 Bible Verses Every Christian Should Know — one to keep and one to share with a woman you know who’s in need of hope. Give a 10-year anniversary gift!

Resources From This Episode:

• Sign up to be the first to know when registration for She Speaks 2026 opens.
• Support free biblical resources like this podcast by joining The Well, our monthly partner program.
• Want more content like this? Find devotions, Bible studies, podcasts, and more — all at Proverbs31.org.
• Click here to download a transcript of this episode

Ever wonder if what you’re doing — especially as a mom — is really making a difference? Whether you’re leading in a boardroom or just trying to keep up with the laundry, this conversation is for you. Authors Jordan Raynor and Kaleigh Cox join us to talk about the surprising influence of faithful moms in the lives of five world-changers they feature in their new book, Five Mere Christians. This episode will remind you that your work matters, even if no one’s clapping. You don’t need a big platform or a ministry title to make an eternal impact — you just need to be faithful with what God’s put in your hands today.

You’ll learn:

• How the quiet faith of a mom can shape a legacy.
• What it really looks like to glorify God in your everyday life.
• A simple habit that helps you stay present at home.
• Encouragement for when you're doing the work but not seeing the fruit.

Resources From This Episode:

• Order your copy of Five Mere Christians by Jordan Raynor and Kaleigh Cox.
• Struggling to connect with your kids? You’re invited to an exclusive $10 webinar with the Chosen Care team to learn how attachment styles shape connection — and how to build better communication with your children, no matter their age. 📅 September 4 | 🕖 7 p.m. ET | ⏱️ 90 mins | 🎥 Replay available.
• Support free biblical content like this by donating at Proverbs31.org.
• Click here to download a transcript of this episode

Want More on This Topic? 

• Listen to “The Secret to Really Loving Your Neighbor” With Jada Edwards.
• Watch “What Is My Assignment From God While I Am Here on Earth?” With Dr. Joel Muddamalle.

Whether you're someone who believes you have let God down or you've carried wounds from your earthly father that make it hard to trust your heavenly One, this conversation will meet you right where you are. 

In this episode with special guest and author Lynn Cowell, you'll learn:

• A fresh perspective on the story of the Prodigal Son, with a central focus on an unexpected person in that story.
• Why God's love toward you doesn't change based on your past or your performance.
• How to wrestle your way to obedience, even through doubts, questions, and failures.

Resources From This Episode:

• Get a copy of Lynn Cowell's devotional, Strong and Secure: 100 Devotions for Young Women.
• Follow Lynn on Instagram here.
• Sign up for a $10 webinar on September 4 with the Chosen Care team to learn about attachment styles and foster better communication with your children — no matter their age. 
• Support free biblical content like this by donating at Proverbs31.org.
• Click here to download a transcript of this episode.

Want More on This Topic?

• Listen to "What Happens When I Forget Christ Lives in Me?" With Lynn Cowell.
• Watch "The Daily Cure for a Heavy Heart."

If loving those around you (or even online) has felt difficult lately, could it be because you've been trying to do it all in your own strength? Instead of attempting to muster up enough patience and kindness on our own, God has a better path for us.

In this episode with Jada Edwards, you'll discover:

• A refreshed, scriptural look at just how much God loves you and how to receive it.
• The key to loving others without strings like appreciation or reciprocation attached.
• How to cultivate a life marked by the fruit of the Spirit.

Resources From This Episode:

• Get a copy of Jada's book A New Way to Love Your Neighbor: Be Curious, Free, and Brave―How to Transform Your Relationship with God and Others.
• Follow Jada on Instagram here.
• Check out the Therapy & Theology podcast — where Lysa TerKeurst, Dr. Joel Muddamalle, and counselor Jim Cress help you work through what you walk through. Whether you prefer to listen to podcast episodes on the go or watch on YouTube, make sure you're subscribed so you never miss a future episode!
• Support free biblical content like this by donating at Proverbs31.org.
• Click here to download a transcript of this episode.

Want More on This Topic?

• Listen to "Trading Our Father's Shortcomings for God's Love" With Kia Stephens."
• Watch "What’s Really Motivating Your Love?"

When it comes to understanding the Holy Spirit, many of us feel unsure. We might grasp the idea of God the Father and Jesus the Son … but the Holy Spirit? That feels harder to define. In this episode, author and Bible teacher Margaret Feinberg joins us to unpack who the Holy Spirit is, where we see Him throughout Scripture, and how we can begin to experience His power and presence in our everyday lives. Whether you’ve walked with Jesus for decades or are just beginning to explore your faith, this conversation will awaken a new awareness of the God who is closer than your next breath.

You’ll learn how to:

• Stay alert to the Holy Spirit’s hovering — especially in life’s uncertain places.
• Ask the Holy Spirit one question each day to strengthen your awareness of His presence.
• Talk about the Holy Spirit with other believers — because personal testimonies stir and strengthen our faith.

Resources From This Episode:

• Download the free First 5 app, and join us as we study the book of Jonah together.
• Grab Margaret Feinberg’s latest book, The God You Need to Know, to learn more about the Holy Spirit’s power and presence.
• Support free biblical content like this by donating at Proverbs31.org.
• Loved this episode? Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to help others find it too.
• Click here to download a transcript of this episode.

Want More on This Topic? 

• Listen to Abby McDonald take a deep dive into doubting the Holy Spirit’s direction in your life in the episode titled “How To Trust God When You Don’t Have All the Answers.”
• Watch the Therapy & Theology episode titled “The Enemy of Self-Awareness Is Self-Deception” on our YouTube channel.

We want to hear how this podcast has impacted you! Share your story with us here.

Parenting is one of the most challenging and rewarding roles we can take on. What if we told you that you don’t have to do it alone? In this episode, Bridget van Zyl, author of Wired to Parent, shares her wisdom on how partnering with God in your parenting journey can bring peace and perspective. Whether you're in the toddler trenches or navigating the teenage years, Bridget’s insights will equip you with the tools to raise Kingdom adults with purpose.

You’ll learn:

• How to cultivate peace in your parenting through God’s guidance.
• The importance of recognizing your child's unique spiritual DNA.
• Practical ways to partner with God in every stage of your child’s development.
• How to embrace the journey of parenting, knowing you're not doing it alone.

Resources From This Episode:

• Support Proverbs 31 Ministries by donating here. Your gift helps us continue to offer free biblical resources to women when they need it most. 
• Click here to download a transcript of this episode.

Want More on This Topic? 

• Listen to “How To Stop an Argument Before It Starts” with Donna Jones on The Proverbs 31 Ministries Podcast. 
• Download “14 Guided Prayers You Need as a Mama” for free! 

We want to hear how this podcast has impacted you! Share your story with us here.

Have you ever carried a secret so heavy that it began to shape your life? In today’s episode, Anne Beiler — founder of Auntie Anne’s Pretzels — shares her powerful testimony of walking through unimaginable grief and trauma and how one moment of courageous vulnerability transformed her story. Through her honest words and biblical insight, you’ll learn how confession isn’t just about admitting guilt — it’s about breaking the silence, stepping into the light, and embracing connection with God and others.

You’ll learn:

• How to shift your perspective from “God is harsh” to “God is good.”
• Why secrecy and silence can be a spiritual stronghold — and how confession breaks it.
• The biblical foundation for confession (James 5:16) and what freedom looks like when you finally step into the light.

Resources From This Episode:

• Join us in the free First 5 app to study the book of Jonah and discover how every detour, every delay — it’s all part of God’s plan to lead us exactly where we need to go.
• Grab your copy of Anne’s book: The Secret Lies Within: An Inside Out Look at Overcoming Trauma and Finding Purpose in the Pain.
• Support Proverbs 31 Ministries by donating here. Your gift helps us continue to offer free biblical resources to women when they need it most. 
• Help others find this episode by leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
• Click here to download a transcript of this episode.

Want More on This Topic? 

• If you’re walking through trauma and wondering how God can use it, listen to Wendy Blight’s episode on “God’s Faithfulness in Life’s Hardest Moments.”
• Want a deeper theological dive into vulnerability and confession? Check out “Does God Actually Call Us To Be Vulnerable?” with Dr. Joel Muddamalle on the Proverbs 31 Ministries YouTube channel. 

We want to hear how this podcast has impacted you! Share your story with us here.

Suffering isn’t something we choose, but it’s something we all face. In today’s episode, Wendy Blight courageously shares her journey through unimaginable hardship and reveals the truth that God meets us in our suffering — not only to sustain us but to strengthen our faith. Wendy shows us that enduring trials with God’s help doesn’t just change our circumstances; it transforms us. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of how to embrace endurance as a path to greater intimacy with God and experience His faithfulness like never before.

You’ll learn:

• How trusting God in suffering shapes your character.
• Why endurance is a spiritual gift that deepens your faith.
• How to find glimpses of joy in God’s presence during pain.
• Practical steps for applying God’s Word in tough times.
• How to view suffering as an opportunity for growth.

Resources From This Episode:

• Ready for a summer of deepening your faith? Join the Circle 31 Book Club as we read The Hidden Prince by Tessa Afshar starting June 1. This powerful novel weaves together themes of faith, perseverance, and God's sovereignty — perfect for anyone walking through a season of endurance. Order your book, and let’s dive in together!
• Want to go deeper in your understanding of God’s Word? Download our free guide, How To Study the Bible, and discover simple, effective methods to help you grow in your faith — even when life feels overwhelming.
• When you give to Proverbs 31 Ministries, you make it possible for us to help you and women like you know the Truth of God's Word and live the Truth every day because we know it changes everything.
• Click here to download a transcript of this episode.

Want More on This Topic? 

• In this episode, Wendy referenced a previous podcast teaching she gave on the topic of anxiety. Click here to listen to “Secret Weapons To Fight Anxiousness.”
• Watch this clip from our Therapy & Theology podcast on “How To Help Others With What You’ve Been Through.”

We want to hear how this podcast has impacted you! Share your story with us here.