Faith Over Fear

When faith and mental health collide, many believers feel caught between shame and silence. In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol McCracken talks with Chris Morris, author of Resilient and Redeemed: Lessons about Suicidality and Depression from the Psych Ward. Chris shares his raw and redemptive story of battling depression, walking through a crisis of faith, and discovering that God’s grace meets us even in the darkest places. Together, they explore how to dismantle harmful theology, find freedom through honesty, and experience hope that outlasts despair. Resource Discussed: Resilient and Redeemed: Lessons about Suicidality and Depression from the Psych Ward Discussion/Reflective Questions: Chris talked about trying to “power through by sheer will” before realizing something had to change. When have you reached the end of your own strength and discovered the freedom of surrender? Many people tie their identity to productivity or performance. How has God been reshaping your understanding of worth apart from what you do? Chris described a “crisis of faith,” not a loss of faith. What’s the difference for you—and how have moments of doubt actually deepened your faith journey? What are some “theological traps” you’ve encountered—beliefs that sounded spiritual but actually created fear, guilt, or shame rather than freedom? Chris’s friends later asked, “Why didn’t you tell me?” Who in your life could you safely open up to about your struggles, and what would it take to start that conversation? Paul’s story of the “thorn in the flesh” reminded Chris that God’s grace is enough, even when healing looks different than we hoped. How does that truth speak to your current season of pain or waiting? What is one practical step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this podcast episode? Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

People often say, "Don't talk about religion and politics in polite company," and for good reason. These types of discussions tend to hit our deepest values. Yet, Jesus also told us to share the gospel to the ends of the earth. We want to live lives of impact, to obey Christ's command to bring His light to the darkest corners of the earth, and to see our family, friends and loved ones transformed by grace. But many of us have ample reasons to experience fear and anxiety when engaging in spiritual conversations. (Or any tense discussion with those who view the world, and issues, differently) As a result, we might find ourselves either shrinking back in self-protection or getting sucked into arguments that quickly devolve and turn ugly. Both responses challenge our ability to fulfill the greatest call Jesus gave us–to share the gospel with those who don’t yet know Christ. In this episode, host Jennifer Slattery speaks with apologist, pastor and church planter Dave Montoya on all the reasons these conversations feel so difficult and have the potential to turn so hostile, how to analyze our unique triggers, and create more fulfilling and fruitful discussions with those who hold a vastly different view of our world than we do. (While Jennifer and Dave's discussion center on the gospel, they believe you'll find the tips shared helpful in most challenging and uncomfortable conversations.) Discussion/Reflective Question: What resonated with you most in this episode? When it comes to discussing big truths with those with whom you disagree, do you most frequently tend to get sucked into a tense argument or try to avoid the discussion, and why do you think this might be? Consider a "truth discussion" when you became reactive or withdrawn. What factors might have impacted your reaction? How difficult do you find it to see commonalities between yourself and those with whom you disagree on issues about which you feel deeply passionate, and why do you think this is? According to Dave Montoya, we should approach anger with caution. Why did he suggest this, and how do you feel regarding his perspective? What is one action step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this episode? Connect with Dave Montoya on his church's website Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol talks with pastor and author Terry Crist about his new book, Now You Can Stop Running. Together, they unpack what it means to stop fleeing from pain, purpose, or even God—and instead face what’s been chasing us with courage and grace. Terry shares his own story of reaching a breaking point when he could no longer outrun what God wanted to heal, revealing that running often masks deeper fears of rejection, failure, or being truly known. Through candid conversation, Terry and Carol explore the connection between honesty, healing, and spiritual rootedness. They discuss how facing our inner struggles can restore connection with ourselves, others, and God—and how spiritual practices like solitude, Scripture reflection, and prayer can ground us when we feel the urge to escape. If you’ve ever found yourself avoiding hard conversations, hiding behind busyness, or believing you don’t deserve to rest, this episode will help you recognize the subtle ways you might be running—and offer practical tools to stop, stay, and be fully present to God’s transforming grace. Resource Referenced: Now You Can Stop Running: Finding the Rest Your Soul Desperately Needs What are some ways you might be running from pain, purpose, or vulnerability in your own life—perhaps without realizing it? When have you felt God gently calling you to stop running and face something hard? What happened when you did? What fear tends to drive your fleeing behaviors—fear of failure, rejection, being known, or something else? How might slowing down and telling yourself the truth—about your emotions, motives, or needs—open the door to healing? Which spiritual practices (solitude, journaling, Scripture, community) help you stay grounded when you want to escape? Do you believe you’re worthy of rest and belonging? What would change if you lived like that truth was real? What is one action step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this episode? Find Terry Crist: On his website On Instagram Follow his work on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Jonathon M. Seidl joins Carol McCracken to share his powerful story of recovery, identity, and hope from his book Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic. Jonathon opens up about the lies he believed, the role shame played in keeping him stuck, and how redefining alcoholism as a “misordered relationship” helped him name the problem honestly. He talks candidly about faith struggles and the importance of recognizing that while our mistakes describe us, they do not define us. Listeners will be encouraged by Jonathon’s reminder that freedom in Christ doesn’t mean perfection—it means learning to run to the One who redeems us, even in our weakest moments. Resource referenced: Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic: A Candid Conversation on Drinking, Addiction, and How to Break Free Discussion/Reflective Questions: Jonathon says, “our mistakes describe us, but they don’t define us.” How do you see that truth reflected in your own life story? He describes alcoholism as “a misordered relationship with alcohol.” What other misordered relationships—whether with food, work, approval, or something else—might we need to name honestly? Jonathon admitted that the only drink he could say no to was the first one. What does that statement reveal about the nature of temptation, and how can it apply to other struggles we face? How has shame kept you stuck at times, and what practical steps help you break free from its grip? Identity is a central theme in recovery. How have you learned—or how are you learning—to root your identity in Christ rather than in mistakes, achievements, or struggles? What is one action step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this episode? Connect with Jon Seidl On his website On Instagram On Facebook Subscribe to His podcast, Confessions of a Christian Alcoholic Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Can grief and joy co-exist? Can families rediscover their joy after experiencing unthinkable tragedy? When our pain feels so intense we struggle to breath, we might fear we don't have the strength to carry on, the Lord comes beside us and speaks truth and love into our wounded souls. Amber Smith, wife to country music singer Granger Smith, experienced this in a profound way when she and her husband lost their precious toddler son in a tragic drowning accident. Their son's death could've shattered their marriage and their family. But because of God and His grace prior, during, and since that time, their relationship not only survived, but came out stronger. In this episode she shares how Christ carried them through and enabled them to heal and experience renewed joy. Resource referenced: Girl on the Bathroom Floor: Held Together When Everything is Falling Apart Discussion/Reflective Questions: What resonated with you most in this episode? Looking back over seasons of your life prior to periods of hardship, in what ways might God have been strengthening and depositing truth into your soul to help you get through your dark season? When has God used a difficult season to draw you closer to friends, family, or a spouse? When has God used a difficult season to reveal His character, tenderness, and heart for you? What truth do you (or can you) hold onto during difficult seasons? What is one action step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this episode? Connect with Amber Smith: On Instagram Follow her work on Amazon Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol McCracken welcomes Debbie D’Souza to discuss The Dragon’s Prophecy, a timely new film exploring how ancient biblical battles echo in today’s conflicts in the Middle East. Debbie shares what initially struck her about the film’s message, how she has learned to navigate the tension between fear and faith when it comes to prophecy, and what encouragement she offers to those feeling anxious about world events. Together, Carol and Debbie explore what it means to resist evil without becoming evil, the importance of naming sin without demonizing people, and how American Christians can respond to this moment in history in ways that are rooted in prayer, faithfulness, and hope rather than politics. Disclaimer: In this episode, our guest briefly discusses the Gaza/Israeli conflict, particularly from an Israeli perspective. We at Faith Over Fear recognize both sides have experienced cruelty and harm at the hands of the other, as is often the case with long-standing conflicts. We do not condone or endorse violence, nor is this episode an endorsement for such. Rather, it is a guest sharing her perspective related to the conflict and biblical threads she sees woven through it. If today's episode upsets you, please don't hesitate to reach out to Jennifer through her website JenniferSlatteryLivesOutLoud.com From the Dragon Prophesy website: Creators "bring history, current events and bible prophecy together in a stunning and original film to illustrate the true meaning of October 7, anti-Semitism, terrorism, and the hidden forces that battle endlessly for the ultimate prize, which is the human soul – your soul. The film ends with an inspiring call to action to Jews and Christians to return to their roots and stand up for good and resist evil." In theaters on October 8th and streamed through Salem on October 9th. Watch the movie trailer HERE. Find out more HERE. Discussion/Reflective Questions: When you hear about prophecy in Scripture, do you respond more with curiosity, fear, or faith—and why? How do you personally discern the difference between healthy vigilance and anxiety when following world events? In your daily life, what does it mean to resist evil without letting bitterness or anger take root in your own heart? How can you practice compassion for people caught in conflict while still standing firm against sin and injustice? What role do you believe prayer plays in how believers engage with unfolding global events? How might you faithfully respond to these times in ways that go beyond political opinions? Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Join the Faith Over Fear podcast private group HERE. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

You may have heard people say, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger." We've probably all witnessed times when this hasn't been the case. If we belong to and have entrusted our lives to Jesus, however, we can know with certainty that He will indeed use our most difficult and painful seasons to deepen our faith and intimacy with Him. In this episode, Jennifer Slattery introduces you to a powerful episode from another Life Audio podcast host, Sarah Young from Jesus Calling and two individuals who endured soul-crushing seasons that could've destroyed their faith. Praise God, by His grace, that's not His story. This episode is for everyone desperately clinging to hope during hardship and all those who love to hear and celebrate life stories that reveal the tender, faithful care and love of Christ. Listen to more of Jesus Calling here and join us next week to hear Carol McCracken's faith-building conversation with Terry Crist author of Now You canStop Running. Make sure to let us know in the review section of your podcast app what you thought of our last two feed drops––would you be open to hearing more the next time Carol and I take a brief break, or would you prefer we still with our regular programming. Go in grace and the love and power of Christ, my friend! Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Many of us, at times, feel unknown, unloved, and unseen. Perhaps you were raised by emotionally disengaged parents, experienced a significant painful rejection in your adult years, or are battling self-condemnation related to past regrets and mistakes. Regardless of why we, at times, struggle to see ourselves beloved and worthy of love, we all need to know and experience the incomprehensible, unconditional, and never-ending love of God. In this episode, we're sharing a powerful biblical reflection from another LifeAudio host, Bonnie Gray, host of the Breathe: Stress Less podcast. Enjoy, and may this episode be one you can return to again and again, whenever you need the reminder that you are indeed seen, known and deeply loved. Discussion/Reflective Questions: What resonated with you most in this episode? When do you msot struggle to feel seen, known and loved? How did it hit you when Bonnie suggested acknowledging that we're fearfully made (Psalm 139) is actually an act of worship? How might reflecting regularly and deeply on God's heart for you help you heal from some of your past rejection or pain due to emotional reject? What is one truth you can hold tight to from this episode, and how will you do so? What is one action step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this episode? Connect with Bonnie Gray: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Subscribe to her podcast Find Jennifer Slattery: On her website Instagram Facebook Amazon Subscribe to her free newsletter Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol sits down with pastor and author Kyle Idleman to talk about the battle in our minds. Kyle reminds us that our thoughts often lie to us—and if we don’t learn to take them captive, they can spiral into fear, shame, or hopelessness. Together, we discuss how to trace our fears back to root lies, discern truth from deception, and recognize the difference between conviction and condemnation. Kyle shares practical tools to challenge toxic thoughts, the role of Scripture as our weapon, and what it looks like to win small daily victories that lead to lasting transformation. Whether you’re new to the idea of spiritual warfare in the mind or you’ve wrestled with strongholds for years, this conversation will encourage you that change is possible. With God’s Word, you’re not just managing your thoughts—you’re renewing them. Resource referenced: Every Thought Captive: Calm the Mental Chaos That Keeps You Stuck, Drains Your Hope, and Holds You Back by Kyle Idleman Discussion/Reflective Questions: What lie have you believed about yourself or your circumstances that God is inviting you to confront? When anxious thoughts spiral, what first step could you take to trace them back to a root lie? How can you recognize when a thought that “sounds wise” is actually pulling you away from God’s truth? What practice could help you decide which thoughts deserve “a seat at the table” in your mind—and which don’t? Which Scripture has most powerfully reshaped your thinking, and how can you internalize it more deeply? Where do you need to move from simply managing thoughts to actually renewing your mind with God’s truth? What is one action step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this episode? Find Kyle Idleman: On his website On Facebook On Instagram Follow his work on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

In this episode of Faith Over Fear, Carol sits down with pastor and author Robert J. Morgan to discuss his newest release, God Hasn’t Forgotten You. Together, we explore how God uses our past to shape us, how to find courage when His providence feels slow, and why delays and disappointments may be God’s way of preparing us for what’s next. Morgan shares biblical examples, such as those of Zechariah and Elizabeth, as well as practical ways to break free from fear’s grip, and offers encouragement for those who feel sidelined or irrelevant. Listeners will walk away with renewed confidence that God governs every detail of their story—and that He hasn’t forgotten them. Resource referenced: God Hasn't Forgotten You: 24 Remarkable Ways God Is Working in You and Through You by Robert J. Morgan Discussion/Reflective Questions: When you think about your past, are there areas where you’ve allowed regret or shame to imprison you rather than letting Christ use those experiences to develop you? What does it look like for you to trust God’s providence at “the day-to-day speed” when His timing feels painfully slow? How can being honest about your spiritual struggles (with yourself, God, or trusted friends) help weaken fear’s grip in your life? Zechariah and Elizabeth waited for years without answers—how might their story encourage you in a season of delay or disappointment? Where do you most struggle with fear of irrelevance—age, missed opportunities, or comparison—and how might God be preparing you for usefulness even now? What is one small, practical step you could take this week to live as though God truly hasn’t forgotten you? Connect with Robert J. Morgan: On his website On Instagram On Facebook Follow his work on Amazon Find Carol McCracken: On her website On Facebook On Instagram Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.