Send us a textPrayer is one of the most powerful and intimate ways we connect with God, but it’s also something many of us struggle with. Are you longing for a deeper prayer life? Do you sometimes feel like you're not doing it "right" or that your prayers aren't being heard? You’re not alone! In this episode, illuminator Stacey Thacker and host Angie Elkins, are breaking down the beauty and simplicity of prayer—what it is, how to approach it, and why it matters so much in our daily walk with Christ. Whether you’re a seasoned prayer warrior or just beginning to develop this holy habit, through personal stories Angie and Stacey offer insights and encouragement to help you cultivate a life-giving prayer life.God is inviting you into a heavenly conversation, no matter where you are on your journey. So grab a cup of coffee and get ready to be encouraged, challenged, and reminded of the incredible power of prayer in your life!Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend!SHOW LINKS:Connect with Angie ElkinsConnect with Stacey ThackerWhen You Pray Study

Send us a textHey friends! As we are working towards sanctification and producing holy habits in our life, we can't start that conversation without talking about spiritual formation, and what better person to have that conversation with than Spiritual Formation Director, Dr. Elaina Barron!Elaina is a certified spiritual director who offers soul care and discipleship to women around the world. For thirty years she has been caring for the church and women of all ages in the areas of next steps, transitions, marriafe, parenting, listening tot he Spirit and deepening their walk with God. She holds a Masters of Divinity and a Doctorate of Ministry. She is passionate about the word of God and helping others slow down and truly experience the abundant life that Jesus promised in John 10:10. This life, she believes, comes through interntionally seeking a more contemplative rhythm of communing with God. Through her work as a spiritual director and her podcast What You Love, women all over the world are learning what it means to live a "with God" life.In this conversation Elaina breaks down what spiritual formation is, and emphasizes the lifelong journey that it requires. I know you're going to love this conversation, and as you listen, we would love for you to ponder on these three questions: 1. What about this converastion makes me feel uncomfortable? 2. Where do I look least like Christ? 3. Are these choices moving me towards Christ or away from Christ? Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend! SHOW LINKS: -Connect with Dr. Elaina Barron -Connect with Angie Elkins

Send us a textWe are SO excited to be back for season two of Let It Shine. A podcast where we dive deep into self-help vs. sanctification! This season we are focusing on spiritual disciplines, or what we like to call, "Holy Habits." Illuminators for this season are Dr. Elaina Barron, Stacey Thacker, and Nikki Ogden. Along with these three recurring voices, you'll hear some amazing conversations this season with Shane Pruitt, Melody Fabien, Louie Giglio, and more! Get ready to transform your mind, body, and soul as we move closer to Jesus together! What are Holy Habits? 1. Prayer 2. Reading Scripture 3. Fasting 4. Solitude 5. Worship 6. Fellowship/Community 7. Stewardship 8. Sabbath/Rest 19. Gratitude 10. Celebration Recommended Resources: Kelly Minter’s Bible Study called Encountering God A Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster You Are More Than You’ve Been Told by Hosanna Wong Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer Atomic Habits by James Clear  Practical steps 1.Which of the spiritual Disciplines or HH do I really need to grow in? Ask God to show you. SHOW LINKS: Connect with Angie Elkins Connect with Dr. Elaina

Send us a textHey friends! We hope you enjoyed this summer of cross-over episodes from some of our favirote shows on the Lifeway Podcast Network. Today we are featuring our last one with Priscilla Shirer from the [MARKED] Podcast. In this episode, Priscilla Shirer shares the behind the scenes of the making of The Forge movie with the Kendrick Brothers. We discuss with her how Christian films have a unique opportunity to share the gospel by reaching people who may not engage with traditional forms of ministry. Priscilla highlights the collaborative and prayerful nature of the Kendrick Brothers' film sets and shares how prayer has marked her life and the legacy it leaves for future generations. Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend. Stay tuned to find out who next season's illuminators are!SHOW LINKS: Luke in the Land I Surrender All BookThe Forge MovieThe Forge Bible Study and Other Discipleship ResourcesGoing Beyond LiveGoing Beyond SimulcastLifeway FilmsWar Room MovieRECOMMENDEDRead an excerpt from I Surrender All on the Lifeway Women blog.

Send us a textAs ministry leaders we know the order of priorities are God, family, church, but we also know that’s not how it always works. Too often our priorities are distorted due to us living outside of our means with our energy, time, and gifts. Overworking ourselves inevitably leads to affecting the overall mental, emotional, and spiritual health of our family. On today's episode of Let It Shine, we're bringing you a conversation from The Glass House between Ben and Lynley Mandrell and Dr. Heidi Warner.Dr. Heidi Warner graduated with her undergraduate degree in psychology and writing from Indiana Wesleyan University, Indiana in 2002 and her doctorate in clinical psychology in 2009 from Bowling Green State University, Ohio. She is passionate about seeing hurting people find healing, hope and freedom from the struggles that hold them back from living life fully. Her commitment to supporting people on their journey through hardships comes from a personal Christian faith and her own journeys through difficult times.   Dr. Heidi Warner challenges us to redefine success, grow in the knowledge of our boundaries, and to ask our family the hard questions. This episode is packed with wisdom and practical resources we hope you can use as you strive to honor God with your priorities.  Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend!SHOW LINKS:Connect with Angie

Send us a textHave you ever been listening to someone spew out their feelings and you immediately want to "fix" it? Have you felt the need to tell them everything is going to be okay and to look at the positives? Now imagine what it would feel like to simply sit with them in their feelings. To simply let them experience the depth of their emotions. On today's show we have an episode from The Glass House where Ben and Lynley are joined with Jennie Allen. The three of them discuss how to untangle the tension of sitting with others in their emotions, and also the tension in experiencing your own emotions.Jennie Allen, Bible teacher, author, and the visionary behind IF:Gathering, leads a new chapter as the Founder & Visionary of Gather25, a 25-hour global prayer gathering. Driven by a deep love for God and an unyielding belief in the potential of this generation, Jennie's mission is to disciple a generation of Jesus followers to live what they believe. Jennie is a passionate leader following God's call on her life to catalyze a generation to live what they believe. Jennie is the New York Times' best-selling author of Untangle Your Emotions, Find Your People and Get Out of Your Head. Jennie has a masters in Biblical Studies from Dallas Theological Seminary and lives in Dallas, Texas, with her husband, Zac, and their four children.Today, Jennie discusses her new book, 'Untangle Your Emotions,' and shares her personal journey of learning to embrace her emotions and the impact it has had on her relationships. Jennie emphasizes the value of being present with others in their pain and the healing power of connection. She also explores the concept of numbness as both a gift and a hindrance, and encourages listeners to give themselves grace in navigating their emotions.Listen now to the five steps Jennie gives to identifying and dealing with emotions! Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend!SHOW LINKS:-Connect with Angie-Connect with Jennie Allen-Untangle Your Emotions-Connect with the Glass House on Instagram HERE

Send us a textWhen your faith is shaken and you begin to question where God has you, what do you do? If you're thinking about throwing in the towel or struggling to keep going, you're not alone. We hope you're encouraged through this honest conversation with friend and author, Alexandra Hoover. This episode was recorded in November 2023 LIVE at Lifeway Women's Forum. To find out more about this amazing event, visit Lifeway.com/ForumResource SHOW LINKS:Connect with AngieListen to more from His Glory, Her GoodWithout Wavering Bible Study

Send us a textForgiveness is something we never graduate from. It’s an ongoing process of healing that God is working in our lives. This week, we are sharing a sermon Ben Mandrell preached at Forest Hills in the Nashville area about his journey with forgiveness.  We pray you’ll be challenged by this word & share it with someone who comes to mind as you listen.  SHOW LINKS:Connect with AngieTotal Forgiveness by RT KendallEpisode from the Glass House with RT Kendall is HERE. Genesis 45- the story of JosephConnect with the Glass House on Instagram HERE

Send us a textToday we highlight another show from our Lifeway Podcast Network. [MARKED] Dr. Danny Akin, president of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, joins the ladies on [MARKED] Podcast to talk about what inspired him to write his latest book about 10 women who have made an impact on the Kingdom. He also shares his thoughts on why there seems to be more women, especially single women, answering the call to serve as missionaries in difficult places. Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! SHOW LINKS: Connect with Angie Listen to more of [MARKED]Connect with Dr. Danny Akin10 Women Who Changed the WorldWorld Missions Clock

Send us a textIt may feel minor, but becoming a good question asker can transform the way you lead in any space! When you are intentional with what questions you ask and how you ask them, you are creating a safe space for authenticity and vulnerability to cultivate. Enjoy this episode highlighting one of our Lifeway Podcast Network shows, His Glory, Her Good.SHOW LINKS:Connect with AngieListen to more His Glory, Her GoodFollower Bible Study for Students

Send us a textWhen a pastor or ministry leader falls, it impacts the entire family and community. Walking through a tragedy like this is difficult for everyone. Today’s show is from The Glass House, when Illuminator, Lisa Whittle, shared how she has walked this road firsthand as a daughter of a pastor who had a very public fall from their church ministry position. Lisa Whittle shares with us how her father’s actions and the reaction from the church community deeply impacted her faith and relationship with the local church. Lisa is the best-selling author of 9 books and several Bible studies, including Jesus Over Everything and The Hard Good. She is a sought-out Bible teacher for her wit and bold, bottom-line approach. She is the founder of online communities: Ministry Strong for ministry leaders and Called Creatives for writers and speakers, and host of the popular Jesus Over Everything podcast. She’s a wife, mom, lover of laughter, good food, and The Bible. As we broke down a few points from Lisa’s article, How to Lose a Pastor in 10 Years, our prayer is that through this conversation we grow in compassion and grace. Our prayer is that we think twice next time we forward an article or respond to a text. May we be people that surround and support those in need of grace because of the overwhelming amount of grace our Father has given to us.SHOW LINKS:Connect with Angie How to Lose a Pastor in 10 Years 52 Modern Manners for Today’s Teens  Connect with the Glass House on Instagram HERE

Send us a textOn today's show, we have some fun and exclusive content from Jen Wilkin! A few weeks ago Jen did a private teaching for Lifeway employees and I knew I just had to bring it to you! Major shout out to Jen for letting me release the recording of her teaching! Jen Wilkin is an author and Bible teacher from Dallas, Texas. She has organized and led studies for women in home, church, and parachurch contexts. An advocate for Bible literacy, her passion is to see others become articulate and committed followers of Christ, with a clear understanding of why they believe what they believe, grounded in the Word of God.You will most definitely be challenged by this message as Jen brings a new revelation of Matthew 5:14-16. Thank you for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! SHOW LINKS:-Connect with Angie-Connect with Jen Wilkin-Matthew 5:14-16

Send us a textThe Gospel of John is unlike the other gospels in so many ways. When studying it, it's easy to notice the different experiences John included, and also note all the things he didn't include in comparison to the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Why is this the case? What approach did John take in writing this fourth and last of the Gospels? On today's show you'll hear Melissa Spoelstra and the [MARKED] podcast team discuss the writing of John and the importance of diving deep into the study of the gospel.  [MARKED] is a podcast for women who are marked by a hunger for God's Word, a longing to impact culture, and a desire to discover and live out God's calling in their lives. Melissa discusses the unique aspect and provides behind-the-scenes look at the writing and filming process of her Bible Study, The Gospel of John. Reflecting on how the Gospel of John has personally marked her, she encourages us all to experience the peace and hope that Jesus offers. Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend!SHOW LINKS: -Connect with Melissa -Connect with Angie-[MARKED] Podcast-The Gospel of John Bible Study -Isaiah Bible Study

Send us a textHey friends! It's the sweet summer and we are bringing you new amazing episodes from the Lifeway Podcast Network! These episodes have specifically been chosen for YOU and we know you're going to love today's show with Kristi McLelland and the ladies from His Glory Her Good. Last September, a team from Lifeway went to Israel with Krisi to record video teachings for her new bible study Luke in the Land. While the trip was an incredible experience, behind the scenes Kristi wrestled with the Lord, especially when the events in Israel on October 7th took place. On today's show, Kristi shares what God taught her through all of that and challenges us to put our "yes" on the table and walk in obedience when God calls. We hope this episode encourages you to walk in surrender to a good and trustworthy God. His Glory, Her Good was designed specifically for women serving in student ministry. Through this podcast, you’ll find two new friends who want to partner with you in student ministry, equip you in your calling, and encourage you to press on. His Glory Her Good is committed to bringing authentic and meaningful conversations to remind you that God is at work through your calling, for your good, for the good of the girls you serve, and for His glory. Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend! SHOW LINKS: -Connect with Angie -Connect with Kristi McLelland-Luke in the Land-His Glory Her Good

Send us a textHave you ever asked your spouse a simple question, like, "whats for dinner?" and all of a sudden they're making a snarky comment back to you? Have you ever found yourself responding out of irritation and frustration when your spouse or kids simply ask you a question? On today's show we're highlighting an episode from The Glass House Podcast where Nicole Zasowski describes to us what happens when we are operating in our pain cycle, how we can regulate our emotions, and why the simplest of questions can push us over the edge.Any ministry leader and their families live in a "glass house" - an environment where they are left vulnerable to the stress of ministry, the criticism of others, and feel the spotlight on their personal weaknesses. Lifeway's "The Glass House" is a space where ministry leaders will shed light on the challenges they often don't feel permission to talk about. Nicole Zasowski is a marriage and family therapist outside of New York City. She is an author of Lost to Found and What If It's Wonderful, along with being a full time mom and wife. She also has a Bible Study resource coming soon through Lifeway!We hope you enjoyed this episode. Head over to The Glass House to hear more ministry leaders sharing the challenges we all face! Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend!SHOW LINKS:From Lost to FoundWhat If It's WonderfulThe 5 Temptations of a CEOConnect with the Glass House on Instagram HEREPlease email us your questions and feedback to president@lifeway.com

Send us a textHappy summer friends!One of my favorite things on the planet is introducing my favorite people to my favorite people.  That's exactly what I've decided to spend my summer doing!  We start this week with another podcast from Lifeway called MARKED.  Hosted by my friends, Elizabeth Hyndman and Kelly King, we chat with Anne Harrison & shares how she offered a summer Bible study through her church's women's ministry that turned into a community-wide summer study. This past summer, over 250 women in her community walked through When You Pray together in their homes. What a picture of unity in a community! Listen in for the full story and for helpful tips on how you can do this, too. SHOW LINKS"How to Plan a Bible Study for Your Community" blog postWhen You Pray Bible StudyLifeway Women Leadership TrainingForumYou Lead WebinarsLifeway Women Academy Practical Ministry CourseJesus and Women Bible StudyThe Gospel on the Ground Bible StudyMARKED is a podcast from Lifeway Women: https://women.lifeway.com/blog/podcasts/.Hosted by Kelly King and Elizabeth Hyndman.RECOMMENDED: Listen in to one of our panels from Lifeway Women's Leadership Forum! Kelly King, Becky Loyd, and Anne Harrison discuss the results of the in-depth study Lifeway Research conducted on the state of ministry to women.Join us on MARKED for our summer Bible study, Encountering God, starting June 10. You can get your Bible study at lifeway.com/encounteringgod.Take our survey to enter for a chance to win a Lifeway Women backpack filled with great resources for diving into God's Word. To learn more about Feast with Kristi McLelland, visit lifeway.com/feast.

Send us a textHey friends! This is our last episode of Season One of Let it Shine and we have a treat for you! Angie Elkins and Nikki Ogden look back on the first season and reflect on the growth and challenges they experienced throughout the season. You'll hear why Let it Shine started, why the pursuit of sanctification over self-help matters, and which shows were some of their favorites over the season! While Angie may be taking a break for a few weeks, Let It Shine is still bringing you some amazing shows! Over the next few weeks you'll be hearing specifically curated episodes from Lifeway Podcast Network that we know you will love! It's also a great time to go back and listen to any episode you missed from this past season! Thanks for listening and sharing with a friend!  SHOW LINKS:-Connect with Angie Elkins -The Glass House with Nicole Zasowski

Send us a textWhy does it seem so hard to get it all together? Running kids around to get to their schedule activities, spending time with friends or your spouse, investing in your health, and the list can go on! It can be overwhelming figuring out how to keep it all together while we run around feeling overwhelmed and defeated. But maybe we're asking the wrong question. Instead of asking why can't I get it together, maybe we should ask, are we setting realistic expectations? To wrap up this season we have Jamie Ivey on the show to talk about her new book, Why Can't I Get It Together? Angie and Jamie discuss how we can avoid giving in to what the world, or even yourself, says things are "supposed" to be. and shares practical ways you can define your reality, ponder your circumstances, stop self-shame, create realistic expectations, and move forward in joy and peace! We want freedom for you and we're certain this conversation will start you on the path to kicking unrealistic expectations to the curb! Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend!SHOW LINKS: -Connect with Jamie Ivey -Why Can't I Get It Together?-Connect with Angie Elkins

Send us a textIt's likely you've encouraged someone or have been encouraged to seek counseling in your lifetime. But have you heard of seeking direction from a Spiritual Director?! On today's show of Let It Shine we are digging into the meaning of spiritual direction, how it's different from counseling, and who it's for! Dr. Elaina Barron holds a Masters of Divinity and a Doctorate of Ministry and works as a spiritual director for Interfaith Counseling Center in Lexington, Kentucky where she offers soul care and discipleship to women from across the nation. For thirty years she has been caring for the church and women of all ages in the areas of next steps, transitions, marriage, parenting, listening to the Spirit and deepening their walk with God. Elaina is passionate about the word of God and helping others fall in love with Him and truly experience the abundant life that Jesus promised in John 10:10.  In this conversation, Angie and Elaina discuss spiritual direction and its impact on personal growth and connection with God. You may hear silences in this episode unlike others. We encourage you to participate in the exercise Dr. Elaina walks Angie through, identifying your own areas of growth. We trust you'll be encouraged by this episode and our prayer for you is that you will desire God on a deeper level. If you're interested in making an appointment with Dr. Elaina Barron for spiritual direction, you can contact her here. Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend!SHOW LINKS: -Connect with Dr. Elaina Barron-Connect with Angie Elkins -The Glass House Episode

Send us a textThroughout scripture we see the importance of not just reading God’s word, but truly memorizing it. Not only does memorizing scripture help us have hope and faith in hard times, it also creates a lens in which we see the world around us. On today’s episode of Let It Shine, Angie Elkins is joined by Natalie Abbott as they discuss the life transformation and worldview shift that comes from memorizing scripture. Natalie Abbott is the cofounder and Chief Content Officer for Dwell Differently, a company she founded with her little sister. Natalie is married to her husband Jason with whom she shares five kids. Natalie loves summer, earl gray tea, poetry, fiction, and of course the Bible! Natalie also writes and hosts their podcast, Dwell Differently.Natalie and Angie talk about how Dwell Differently was created and the impact it’s having on others who are learning to memorize scripture for the first time. We hope this conversation encourages you to dive into hiding God’s Word in your heart! Check out the links below to get a code to have your first month free of Dwell Differently!SHOW LINKS: -Connect with Angie-Dwell Differently Book -Dwell Differently Podcast-Dwell Differently Subscription - Use Code “Lifeway” to get your first month free!