In this episode, host Alexandra explores the physical and spiritual reasons behind our body’s “fight, flight, or freeze” response. She talks about how physical tension—the tight shoulders, clenched jaw, or knot in your stomach—is a signal that our nervous system perceives a threat. However, as believers, we can use this moment of awareness as an invitation to lean into our faith. Alexandra offers three practical, faith-based steps to stay grounded and present with God, even in difficult conversations or moments of stress. This episode is a guide to moving from a place of fear to a place of trust, using our bodies as a tool for worship and connection with Christ.

The 3 Steps:

1. Awareness: The first step to staying grounded is simply noticing your physical reaction without judgment. This is a form of “taking every thought captive” and bringing it to God, as described in 2 Corinthians 10:5: "We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."
2. Breath: Use your breath—a gift from God—to center yourself. Practice deep, intentional breathing as an act of stillness, connecting your body to the present moment and God's presence, as Psalm 46:10 reminds us to “Be still, and know that I am God.”
3. God’s Truth: When your mind spirals with fear, consciously replace those thoughts with God's truth. Recall verses like 1 John 4:18, which says "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear," and remind yourself that you are safe and loved in Him.

Call to Action:

This week, notice your body's tension without judgment but with curiosity. Use your breath as a tool for stillness, and lean on God's truth to anchor you in His love instead of your fear.

And remember, God's love is always near...

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In this deeply compassionate episode, I sit down with Dr. Jerry Woodbridge—a Christian author, grief advocate, and educator—to explore the complex journey of grieving with faith, honesty, and hope.

What You’ll Discover

• Grief isn’t linear. Dr. Woodbridge likens it to “having a thousand hornets around your head” or bouncing on a trampoline while climbing stairs—progress, setbacks, repeat.
• Identity after loss. The unexpected transition into widowhood isn’t a choice anyone makes. Dr. Woodbridge reflects on how that identity shift challenged both her role and faith.
• Children and grief. Kids aren’t little adults. Dr. Woodbridge explains how avoiding their grief can lead to long-term emotional struggles, and how stories can offer healing validation.
• Writing to heal and help. Through her faith-based children’s book Joy Overcame Sorrow, she gives young readers—and the adults who love them—language and solace in the midst of loss.
• Metaphor of sorrow and joy. She shares a beautiful visual: “Both sorrow and joy can coexist like liquids in a coffee cup, with love bridging the gap. We grieve because we love—and that same love makes room for joy, even alongside the sadness.”

Why Listen

This episode is a sanctuary for anyone walking with grief—or alongside someone who is. Whether you’re a parent, friend, pastor, or caregiver, Dr. Woodbridge’s insight is balm for the wounded heart.

Learn More About Dr. Jerry Woodbridge

Visit her website to explore her books, helpful resources, and connect with her directly: drjerrylwoodbridge.com

Related Content

Be sure to check out episodes 29 through 36, an eight-part summer series where I share my journey through grief, how I met Christ, and how He transformed my life—from the very beginning to a reflection on what living by faith looks like now: Episode 29, Episode 30, Episode 31, Episode 32, Episode 35, Episode 36

Scripture References

These Scriptures were thoughtfully embedded throughout Joy Overcame Sorrow and grouped by theme—perfect for personal meditation or guiding children through grief:

God Sees Every Tear | Psalm 56:8; Psalm 119:28
Trusting in His Care | Luke 12:24; Jeremiah 17:7
Hope for the Future | Jeremiah 29:11; Psalm 9:18
Comfort in Mourning | Matthew 5:4; Hebrews 13:8
Joy Restored | Psalm 126:2; Jeremiah 31:12–13; Isaiah 35:10
Peace Within | Proverbs 14:30; Luke 2:46

Reflection Question:

How might God be inviting you to hold both sorrow and joy together in this season of your life?

Call to Action:

Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes, and share this episode with someone who may need encouragement today.

Remember: “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning” (Psalm 30:5).

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Patience is more than waiting—it is a discipline of the heart. It allows us to govern our emotions, trust God’s timing, and respond with wisdom instead of rushing in fear or doubt. Practicing patience strengthens our relationships, nurtures our spiritual growth, and helps us live faithfully and peacefully in every area of life. True strength is not in conquering others or achieving instant results but in mastering our own spirit (Proverbs 16:32).

In this episode, we explore:

• What patience really is: both enduring trials steadfastly and being long-suffering with others, while hope-filled trusting God.
• Why impatience leads to anxiety and doubt: rushing past faith increases fear and stress.
• How Scripture defines patience through Greek and Hebrew words.
• Practical ways to grow in patience at home, at work, and in our spiritual life.

Biblical Definition of Patience:

• Greek (New Testament):
  • Makrothymía – long-tempered, patient with people (Galatians 5:22–23; 1 Corinthians 13:4)
  • Hypomonḗ – steadfast endurance through trials (James 1:3–4; Romans 5:3–4)
• Hebrew (Old Testament):
  • ’Erek Appayim – slow to anger, patient like God (Exodus 34:6; Psalm 103:8)
  • Qaváh – to wait, hope, and look to God’s action (Isaiah 40:31)
  • Yāchal – to wait, expect, trust, and hope in God (Psalm 130:5)

Why Patience Matters:

• Patience = Wisdom: Proverbs 14:29 – “Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.”
• Patience = Faithful Action: James 5:7–8 – like the farmer, we do our part and trust God for the rest.
• Patience = Love & Fruit of the Spirit: 1 Corinthians 13:4, Galatians 5:22–23 – patience is integral to love and godly character.
• Patience = Peace, Strength & Hope: Psalm 37:7, Isaiah 40:31, Romans 8:25 – waiting on the Lord renews strength and aligns us with His will.

Patience is active, not passive. It strengthens the prefrontal cortex (decision-making, planning, impulse control) and calms the amygdala (our emotional alarm system). Practicing patience gives us the power to endure, love, and act faithfully, even when life feels rushed or uncertain.

Practical Applications:

• Family & Parenting: respond calmly, teach respect and self-control.
• Work & Ministry: avoid burnout, focus on long-term goals, and rely on God.
• Spiritual Life: waiting on God strengthens faith, trust, and hope.
• Daily Habits: pause before reacting, pray, practice gratitude—small acts grow patience.

Closing Scripture:

Proverbs 16:32 – “Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.”

True power is a calm, regulated spirit—one that sustains family, nurtures relationships, and allows God’s plans to unfold in His perfect timing.

Final Encouragement:

Surrender your fears and doubts to God. Let patience guide you, trust His timing and watch Him fulfill His plans for your life, which are always greater than we can imagine.

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In this episode of Curious for Christ, we uncover the hidden danger of doubting God and holding on to control. These fears and doubts can secretly choke the Word of God in our lives, keeping us from His blessings and purpose.

What You’ll Learn:

• How doubt and fear limit God’s work (Abraham, Moses, Joshua, David)
• The Parable of the Sower: why heart “soil” matters (Mark 4; Luke 8)
• Common thorns that choke God’s Word:
  1. Worries & Anxiety – Pray and release control (Philippians 4:6–7)
  2. Comparison & Discontentment – Cultivate gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
  3. Busyness & Divided Focus – Practice stillness (Psalm 46:10)
  4. Fear of Not Measuring Up – Lean on God’s grace (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Practical Steps:

• Turn worries into prayer
• Write three things you’re grateful for each day
• Spend 5 minutes daily in stillness with God
• Speak Scripture over fear and doubt

Closing Thought:

Doubt and fear are tools of the enemy, but trusting God fully sets you free. Tend your heart, cultivate your soil, and watch His promises flourish.

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Have you ever thought: I just need peace now—not tomorrow, not when life finally settles, but right here in the middle of the swirl?

That’s exactly what today’s short but mighty episode of Curious for Christ is about. I’m sharing a personal story of when I felt awkward, invisible, and tempted to hide—but instead of running, I stayed. And God met me in that uncomfortable space with His peace.

That moment inspired me to create The 5-Prayer Toolkit for Peace in Chaos—simple prayers you can use on the spot to steady your heart and become aware of God’s presence right away.

5 Prayers for Peace in the Middle of Chaos:

1. Pray for a heart anchored in God, not outcomes.

“Lord, help me want You more than I want a certain life. Anchor my heart in You so my peace isn’t tied to what I have or don’t have.”

“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” —Isaiah 26:3

2. Pray to welcome the unknown as a place to grow.

“Father, teach me to see the unknown not as a threat, but as a place where You and I walk closely together. Train my eyes to look for Your hand in the unfamiliar.”

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” —Proverbs 3:5–6

3. Pray for courage to stay in the uncomfortable until you see His work.

“Holy Spirit, give me the courage to stay in rooms that stretch me. Help me see opportunities to connect, bless, and grow instead of looking for the fastest escape.”

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” —Joshua 1:9

4. Pray to guard against spiritual complacency when blessings come.

“God, when You do give me the desires of my heart, don’t let my heart wander from You. Teach me to steward blessings in a way that keeps me close to You.”

“Be careful that you do not forget the Lord your God… Otherwise, when you eat and are satisfied, when you build fine houses and settle down… then your heart will become proud and you will forget the Lord your God.” —Deuteronomy 8:11–14

5. Pray to be faithful in small, unseen steps.

“Lord, help me be faithful today—in the ordinary, the awkward, and the overlooked—because I know that’s where You build my character and prepare me for more.”

“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” —Luke 16:10

Closing Encouragement

Friend, peace doesn’t just arrive when everything falls into place. The truth is, there will always be new levels of growth, and faith will always be required to walk this journey. Instead of running, let’s choose to stay, trust, and invite God in.

Remember: God’s presence isn’t waiting at the finish line—He’s here with you now.

“The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.” —Psalm 29:11

If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe and check the newsletter so you don’t miss these prayers in written form.

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Feeling unqualified for what God is calling you to do? In this episode of Curious for Christ, Alexandra dives into Joshua 1:1–9 and shares how God called Joshua to lead Israel into the Promised Land—and how the same three anchors God gave Joshua can help you step courageously into your own calling.

You’ll learn:

• How God’s presence, promises, and Word anchor you when the path feels uncertain.
• Practical steps to live courageously this week, even when you feel unprepared.
• Why courage is a choice, and how to enter your “promised land” one step at a time.

Alexandra also shares her personal story of navigating new seasons in life, business, and faith—and how trusting God’s presence keeps her moving forward, even when she doesn’t have all the answers.

Takeaways from this episode:

1. Name Your Territory – Identify one area of life where God is calling you to step forward.
2. Marinate in Truth – Pick a verse from Joshua 1:1–9 and speak it over yourself daily.
3. Take One Courageous Step – Act in faith today, without waiting for perfect conditions.

Scripture Focus: Joshua 1:1–9, Joshua 3–4, Joshua 9, Joshua 23:14, Psalm 131

Prayer:

“Lord, thank You for going with us into every unknown. Today, we choose to believe Your promises, anchor ourselves in Your Word, and trust Your presence over our fear. Give us courage to take the next step, and eyes to see that You’ve already gone ahead of us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Connect & Share:

If this episode encouraged you, subscribe to Curious for Christ and share it with someone who needs courage for their next step. Remember: you are never alone in your calling—God’s got your back!

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If life feels overwhelming, if you’re exhausted and wondering why peace seems out of reach—this episode is for you.

In today’s heartfelt and hope-filled conversation, I share three powerful, biblical truths about peace that will meet you right where you are. Whether you’re parenting through hard seasons, facing emotional or spiritual fatigue, or simply longing for rest in the middle of chaos, you’ll find encouragement and clarity here.

Through Scripture, personal story, and reflection, this episode invites you to stop chasing peace like a destination—and start receiving it as a person: Jesus.

In this episode, we explore:

1. Peace is a Person, Not a Place You Reach

John 14:27

Why lasting peace can’t be manufactured—and how Jesus offers it as a gift, not a reward.

2. You Don’t Have to Be Perfect to Be at Peace—with God or Within

Romans 5:1

What it means to have peace with God through Christ, and how that changes everything from the inside out.

3. Peace Grows in the Middle of Real Life—Not by Escaping It

Isaiah 26:3

Why peace doesn’t come from fixing everything around you, but from fixing your eyes on God.

You’ll hear:

• A vulnerable story from me about parenting, failure, and grace
• Encouragement for the weary woman who feels like peace is only for people who “have it together”
• A guided prayer to help you surrender perfection and receive God’s peace

Key Scriptures:

• John 14:27
• Romans 5:1
• Isaiah 26:3
• Philippians 4:7
• Romans 8:28

Words of Encouragement:

Don’t forget:

• Write down a verse from today’s episode—like John 14:27 or Isaiah 26:3—and place it where you’ll see it this week.
• Share this episode with a friend, sister, or someone walking through their own chaos.
• Leave a review if this blessed you—it helps more women discover God’s peace through Curious for Christ.

Until next time:

Stay close to Christ and stay open to the peace He offers—even in the middle of your busy life!

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Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call today. See you next time!

What if anxiety isn’t a flaw—but a signal calling you back to God? In this powerful episode of Curious for Christ, I sit down with Christian leadership and mental health coach Eric Gilbert to explore how faith, neuroscience, and past wounds intersect—and how healing in Christ is not only possible, but promised.

We talk about:

• How fear and trauma keep us spiritually stuck
• The lies we believe about ourselves and God
• Why busyness and burnout are symptoms, not solutions
• And the steps to experiencing peace and purpose again

If you’ve ever felt frozen by fear, overwhelmed by anxiety, or ashamed of your struggles—this conversation is for you. Jesus came to set the captives free, and He wants wholeness for every part of you—mind, body, and soul.

Key Takeaways & Scriptures:

1. The 3 B’s that keep you spiritually stuck:

• Busyness – Avoiding pain by staying distracted

• Burying – Numbing or shutting down emotionally

• Broken relationships – Living disconnected from God or others

2. Fear is not a flaw—it’s a signal.

Anxiety may be your body asking for safety. Bring it to Jesus.

3. You don’t have to imitate anyone else.

Your calling is unique and handcrafted by God.

4. Healing is spiritual and embodied.

God uses breath work, counseling, prayer, and His Word.

5. God meets you right where you are.

Perfection isn’t the goal—presence is.

Want to go deeper with Eric?

• RisingCalm.com: A Christ-centered mental health practice helping individuals heal from trauma, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion through biblical and neuroscience-informed care.
• CourageousCallings.com: A coaching and leadership resource to help believers step boldly into their God-given purpose.
• Take the free Courage Quiz and find out what’s holding you back from living fully aligned with your calling.

Closing Scripture:

Ready to walk in freedom?

Subscribe to Curious for Christ and never miss an episode filled with honest conversations, biblical truth, and hope that heals.

Share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement!

Thanks for listening! Your support means the world. Join our Curious for Christ Facebook Group and become an Insider for weekly inspiration and encouragement on your faith journey.

Want to go deeper? Let's connect—set up a FREE Discovery Call today. See you next time!