With all the kids heading back to school, there’s always the anxiety that goes with unknowns and new beginnings. And that’s just for us as parents! Joking. 

Sissy Goff and David Thomas from Daystar Counseling are with me today, and they are bringing the heat. They are literally the wisest, kindest, and dearest people you’ll ever meet. I could go on and on, but instead I’m giving you a few of the topics we cover today:

• What your kids wish you knew

• How anxiety presents in girls vs. boys 

• Thoughts on teenage dating

• Kids friendships and the value that can come from loneliness

Sit back and take a deep breath as Sissy and David answer our back-to-school questions while simultaneously bringing us peace and perspective. And do yourself a favor, if you don’t listen to Raising Boys and Girls (their podcast), do that ASAP. Fun fact, they were unbelievably kind to allow me to be a guest on their podcast last spring—and that may have been my life highlight! 😊 

All things Cynthia Yanof

Daystar Counseling

Raising Boys and Girls 

It’s August, and Heather and I are still on our summer quest to surprise each other with cool guests on Sidetracked. Today is no exception as Heather comes in hot, surprising me with the one and the only Jess Connolly. 

Let’s be honest, it’s the end of summer and I’m guessing there’s some portion of you that’s tired physically, spiritually, or emotionally trying to do it all? Jess Connolly addresses just that as we talk about her new book and all the research behind the how, where, and why of rest. Jess’s life is full with her being an author, Bible teacher, podcaster, and coach, so she knows the challenges of finding pockets of rest in a full schedule. 

I love how we discuss that there is no one-size-fits-all formula for resting, and we are all made differently by our Creator with unique ways to recharge.  Jess reminds us that Jesus has true rest for us even in busy seasons, leading us to be more awake, alive, and present in our families, ministries, and careers.  We end the podcast by getting sidetracked and talk about everything from theology books to ice machines—join us for tons of truth and fun.

• Website:  Jess Connolly

• Facebook: Jess Connolly

• Instagram:  Jess Connolly | Author + Bible Teacher (@jessaconnolly)

• Quiz — Jess Connolly

• Tired of Being Tired: By Jess Connolly

• Breaking Free from Body Shame: By Jess Connolly

• You Are the Girl for the Job: By Jess Connolly

• Dance, Stand, Run: By Jess Connolly

• From Pentecost to Patmos: by Craig Blomberg

• Nobody's Mother: By Sandra Glahn

• Paul Behaving Badly: by E. Randolph Richards

• Nugget Countertop Ice Maker with Soft Chewable Pellet Ice

• Sun Visor Hats for Women Wide Brim Straw Roll-Up

I mentioned it last month, but as a little reminder, Heather MacFadyen of the Don’t Mom Alone podcast and I have a super fun show we do together called Sidetracked. As a part of this little venture, this summer we’ve decided to surprise each other with a guest and then release the episode on both of our shows. It’s been super fun so far, and we’d love to know how you’re liking it and if you want more of these shows! 

On today’s Sidetracked episode, Heather surprises me with author, speaker, teacher, podcaster, and enneagram expert . . . Beth McCord. We love Beth because she approaches the enneagram from a biblical perspective and helps us learn how to better navigate our personalities and figure out what makes us tick. 

I think you’ll especially love the real-life example at the beginning of our conversation about Heather firing off a frustrated email to Beth, and how their enneagram knowledge facilitated healthy conflict resolution. We also discuss how the enneagram intersects with our parenting, and the reasons not to “guess” your kids’ number and instead have your older kids take the test themselves. (Which I’m so going to have my older kids do sometime this summer!) 

Can’t wait for you to hear today’s show! Leave a review and share it with a friend pretty please.

• Website:  Your Enneagram Coach | Free Enneagram Test, Courses, and Coaching

• Facebook: Your Enneagram Coach

• Instagram: Beth McCord | (@yourenneagramcoach)

Summer . . . I love you, but you’re chaotic and expensive. 

Kids . . . I love you, but you’re chaotic and expensive. 

Vacation . . . I love you, but you’re chaotic and expensive. 

Feel free to join in on my mindless chants of summer. 

I’m super excited about today’s show and talking about ways to save a little money. To be clear, I’m not talking about it from the 401K and investment perspective for the long-haul, but literally what can I do TODAY to get the budget back on the rails. 

Crystal Paine is with us, and she has some GREAT advice today. She’s built an entire brand called The Money Saving Mom and has the best tricks and tips for making ends meet. Her suggestions are so great that I wanted to give you a few of her points as a sneak-peak:

1. Your income is not your biggest issue; it’s your mindset

2. Your grocery budget is the best place to start saving money

There’s a lot more coming your way for saving money and changing our perspective, and it’s so so practical and necessary. 

Take a minute to listen today, and please please share the show with a friend. Heck, get crazy and even take a minute and leave a review. I’ll be forever grateful.

Today we’re talking about body image, learning to love our body, and calling out the false narratives we’ve bought into from culture and other places relating to our physical body. 

Talking about body image kinda feels like no-man's land, and I’m thinking I might as well hit politics and money while I’m at it. Joking. But having a discussion around how to love our body is something that is important, and I believe it is not discussed enough in Christian circles. So we’re doing it here today! 

Liz Rodriguez and Rebecca Carrell from the Honestly, Though podcast are with us today. Liz is currently on her own personal health journey after receiving some tough diagnoses a few years ago. She speaks honestly about the physiological aspects of losing weight and working through the well-intentioned but hard comments she receives from others. 

Rebecca is healed from an eating disorder that she struggled with for many years. She has a great word on loving and accepting our God-given bodies while also raising daughters who can hopefully do the same. 

I understand this can be a touchy topic, and I assure you that we will do our very best to encourage you wherever you are in your health journey. Take a minute to listen and also share with your friends.

Also, if you enjoy MESSmerized will you please consider rating and reviewing the show? This helps others find us and hopefully encourage people to chase after Jesus even when everything around us. 

Sign-up for the Life is Messy, God is Good summer book club!  

All things Cynthia Yanof

For more of their discussion on body image listen to Honestly, Though here.

The Body Project by Joan Jacobs Brumberg

Catch up with Rebecca and Liz below:

Rebecca Carrell

IG: @RebeccaCarrell 

Twitter: @RebeccaACarrell 

FB: Rebecca Ashbrook Carrell

Liz Rodriguez

IG: @lizannrodriguez 

FB:  Liz Rodriguez

I’m going to keep this short because, well, listen to the intro and you’ll understand. But somewhere between trying out a new spray tan and finding our trampoline in our front yard after a storm—it’s gotten kinda weird over here. 

But thankfully, on the show is one of our faves, Dr. Ken Wilgus. We’re talking about how we survive summer with teens, and below is a preview of a few points that are coming your way: 

1. Set absolute limits on screens in advance 

2. Establish household expectations

3. Require some level of outside activity

And this is just the tip of the iceberg on the wisdom coming your way on today’s show. 

Thanks for being a part of the MESSmerized community, and PLEASE take a minute and leave a review so more folks can find us.

All things Cynthia

Feeding the Mouth that Bites you by Ken Wilgus

Ken Wilgus' Podcast

Here’s a fun little podcast update for you. 

As most of you (hopefully) know, Heather MacFadyen of the Don’t Mom Alone podcast and I have a little sideshow we do once a month called Sidetracked. Basically, it’s an unfiltered conversation between the two of us discussing life’s goings on, parenting, faith, etc. It comes out the first Friday of the month on Don’t Mom Alone, and It’s been a big hit. 

So, spinning off from that concept this week, we’re doing a second episode of Sidetracked in the summer months that includes a surprise guest aired on both of our shows. And today is the day we kick it off with our friend Toni Collier. Please hear me:  You do not want to miss a second of this conversation. 

If you don’t know Toni, she’s  the author of Broken Crayons Still Color as well as a podcaster, speaker, and mom of two sweet kiddos. Toni chats with us about everything from getting tattoos with Ann Voskamp to seeing God show up through “God winks.” 😜

Next week we will be back to our “How do I _____” series that will continue through the summer. But once a month I hope you enjoy these little editions of Sidetracked with various surprise guests!

All things Cynthia

Life is Messy, God is Good

My Amazon Must Haves

• Website:  HOME | Toni Collier

• Facebook: Toni J Collier 

• Instagram:  Toni Collier (@tonijcollier)

• PODCAST | Toni Collier

• Brave Enough to Be Broken: by Toni Collier

• Broken Crayons Still Color: by Toni Collier

• Ironman movie

We’re answering “how to” questions these days on MESSmerized, and today we’re tackling the awesome yet complex topic of friendships. I think of all the things I’m asked to talk about from my book, most often I’m asked about the topic of friendships and how to cultivate the really deep, meaningful ones. 

Thankfully the queen of friendships (I made that up on the spot by the way) is with us today. Amy Weatherly is covering the good, bad, and ugly of doing life with others, and why it’s so important we prioritize friendships. 

Amy gives us five great take-aways on friendship today, but I’m going to give you just a few below and let you listen to the rest on the show:

1. Deep friendships require time

2. Deep friendships mean creating rituals and traditions

3. (DO NOT MISS the rest of her amazing points)

I also want to mention that summer is a GREAT time to show some intentionality by gathering friends and strengthening relationships. I’ve done several book clubs in the past and always been grateful I put myself out there.  

If you’re interested in a book club this summer with friends, I’ve got an amazing idea for you. My publisher, Esther Press, has named Life is Messy, God is Good as their summer book club book, and you can join today and receive book club questions, videos for each chapter, and lots of other fun things. 

This is a great way to do a book club with either an online community, or with friends in your neighborhood that you hope to bond with this summer. So jump in today and listen to Amy’s friendship fine points today and then consider who might want to join you for a summer book club on Life is Messy, God is Good. 

So grateful for you guys!

Sign-up for the Life is Messy, God is Good summer book club!  

All things Cynthia Yanof

Here for it by Amy Weatherly and Jess Johnston

It’s week two of our new series asking “how do I _____” questions. Each week we’re bringing in amazing guests with practical advice for all areas of life. If you missed last week with Courtney DeFeo, we talked about cheering on other women, and you definitely need to go back and listen if you missed it. So so good. 🎉

This week we are tackling marriage, and I’m so excited for you to meet Dave and Ann Wilson. They are pastors, speakers, and hosts of the nationally syndicated radio show Family Life Today. But more than that, they are hilariously honest and real as they talk about marriage and how they’ve gotten it wrong over the years, and the lessons they’ve  learned along the way. 

Today Dave and Ann are giving us five tips for improving our marriage, and you don’t want to miss them. I’ll give you two of them to peak your interest (but definitely go listen to the show for all five points and lots of fun discussion around them): 

1. Don’t run away from conflict

2. Deal with your family of origin baggage

Yep, that’s just the beginning, and I promise you will leave encouraged and full of practical ways to work on your marriage this week. 

So grateful for you guys and I would be incredibly grateful if you would leave a review for the show so that others can find us!

Have a great week!

All things Cynthia Yanof

Life is Messy, God is Good

Dave and Ann Wilson

Art of Marriage by Family Life

It’s May and if you’re anything like me, you’re already tired just thinking about all of the end-of-year conferences, award ceremonies, track meets, class picnics, and everything else headed our way. But don’t worry, we will survive it all together! 

That being said, I’m SUPER EXCITED that May is finally here because TODAY is the day we start a new series on MESSmerized. (And trust me, you’re  going to LOVE it! ❤️❤️❤️)

The next few months we’re examining “how do I _______?” questions on the show. In other words, each week will be conversations with amazing guests who will give their top 5 tips for “how do I” topics like these:

• How do I save money? 

• How do I deepen my friendships? 

• How do I strengthen my marriage? 

• How do I accept my child’s hard diagnosis?

• How do I find joy? 

• How do I survive summer with teens? 

And that’s just the tip of the iceberg of what’s coming your way. So tune in each week for shorter, summer-friendly podcasts complete with 5 timely, practical, and biblical tips for living out the messy places of life.  

Oh, and speaking of practical and biblical, I can’t think of anyone better than my dear friend Courtney DeFeo to kick-off this series today. Courtney is host of the Pardon the Mess podcast and joins us to talk about cheering on other women in our lives. This is especially near and dear because Courtney has done this so incredibly well in my own life. 

Tune in this week as we kick-off our new series with Courtney DeFeo. Oh, and leave a review and rate MESSmerized pretty please wherever you listen to podcasts!

All things Cynthia Yanof

Order Life is Messy, God is Good

All things Courtney Defeo

Christian Parenting

Pardon the Mess Podcast

Have I told you this week how much my family loved Duck Dynasty? It was/is such a genius way to get people laughing while still instilling biblical truth and good old fashioned family values. The prayers around the table at the end of each show still get me. 

Today I have the privilege of chatting with Willie Robertson about all things Duck Dynasty, and it’s far past due since I’ve interviewed basically everyone in his family except for him. 

Willie’s stories are amazing, including how he tried to fire Cy, how Duck Dynasty got started, and how he got Phil signed on to the idea of reality TV.  

But Willie is really passionate about sharing his faith, and that’s a big part of our conversation today. He talks about how his parents instilled this in his life, and how he’s trying to do that for his children as well. Willie’s new book Gospeler (which I mispronounced all throughout the show 😅) challenges us to let go of our excuses and get bold about sharing our faith to a culture who desperately needs it. 

When I think about fun interviews I’ve had the privilege of being a part of—this one definitely lands somewhere near the top! I can’t wait for you to listen.

Cynthia Yanof 

P.S. For those interested, I’m currently booking speaking engagements for the fall of 2024 and spring of 2025. I would love to be a part of your next event, so click here and fill out the form if you’re interested.

Gospeler: Turning Darkness into Light One Conversation at a Time 

All things Cynthia Yanof

Life is Messy, God is Good

Seeing as though I have a first-grader and all, empty nesting seems a lifetime away. But for so many of us it’s one of those things that sneaks up in an instant leaving us and wondering what’s next and how to parent these new adults in our lives.

Jim Burns is an absolute delight and comes today with lots of practical information on how to prepare for the empty-nesting years. We discuss how women tend to cope with kids leaving home versus men, and he shares plenty of super relatable insights from his own experience. 

We also talk about how to parent our adult children and when to give advice and when to shut-up and smile until called upon. I think one of the mic drop moments in this interview for me came was the reminder that “our words have the power to bless and to curse.” (Remind me to buy a gag for my mouth.) 

Please take a few minutes to listen to this fun conversation with Jim Burns, and then share it with your friends who are approaching this same empty-nesting road.

All things Cynthia

Life is Messy, God is Good

Jim’s ministry: HomeWord

Finding Joy in the Empty Nest

Doing Life with Your Adult Children

I dropped JB off for his first day of second grade yesterday. He’s still at the age where he’s super excited to go back to school. I’m currently at the age where I’m happy to drop him off. Will I miss him? Absolutely. Does he need the structure? 100%. Do I pray like crazy for him to be seen, loved, and have good friends this school year? Daily. 

Going back to school always brings lots of emotions, but especially for our neurodivergent kiddos. As parents, we pray they can learn effectively, that they are seen for the incredible kids they are, and that they have friends who are kind to them (quirks and all). 

Today author, podcaster, and adoptive mom Somer Colbert is joining me to talk about how to best support our neurodivergent kids. I want to assure you that even if your kids don’t have neurodivergent struggles, there are kids all around us who need support and love as they (and their parents) try to best navigate their uniqueness. Somer challenges us with practical tips for establishing healthy expectations, building up our parenting toolbox, and finding ways to become a student of your child. 

Would you take a minute with me today to pray for all of our kiddos who struggle socially, academically, or emotionally? Pray with me that they will be valued, loved, and have a great school year academically. Can I also encourage you to talk to your kids about how to love kids who might be different from them? It might be that one of the kindest things your family can do this school year is to notice and love the kids you encounter who are working through unique struggles. 

Please listen to today’s show and even share it with some friends. There’s so much great information on supporting your kids, neurodivergent or not.

All things Cynthia

Somer Colbert 

Somer’s podcast

TBRI Method and Karyn Purvis

I hope you enjoyed the solar eclipse yesterday and the reminders of God’s majesty and power over all things on heaven and earth. Not to mention, if the stats are accurate I’m guessing you listened to Bonnie Tyler at some point during the day because. . . .  why not?

Her 1983 hit song, Total Eclipse of the Heart, reached number 1 on the iTunes Top Songs chart in the US during the solar eclipse yesterday. Bless our hearts for being so predictable and slightly cheesy when it comes to eclipse protocol. But whatcha gonna do, every now and then we fall apart. (I apologize in advance for my lyrical references throughout this email, it’s stuck in my head now.) 

Monica Swanson is with us today, and she’s a wise friend with lots of wisdom on raising kids, building strong family relationships in our families, and the pitfalls to avoid in each stage of parenting. But what I like the most about Monica is she’s one of us who knows all too well those moments of thinking I don’t know what to do, I’m always in the dark. 

She also has several kids out of the house and great advice for when we worry that the best of all the years have gone by. She suggests several things we can do now to help further our relationship with our kids later. And don’t miss her thoughts on working through body image issues and the importance of rescripting our thoughts to line up with God’s truth. It’s her way of saying turn around bright eyes, and wake up to who you really are. (Okay, that one was a stretch). 

Thanks for listening today, and when you’re finished I need you more than ever to leave a review for MESSmerized and also this episode with a friend.

All things Cynthia

Order: Life is Messy, God is Good

Monica’s book Raising Amazing

The Monica Swanson Podcast

I come to you today with a slight problem. Okay, it’s a little bit bigger than slight. 

I’m a huge Candace Cameron Bure fan stemming back from Full House and bleeding all the way forward into the Hallmark Christmas movie era and now Great American Family Channel. Not to mention I’m obsessed with QVC and all of that makes me a HUGE Candace Cameron Bure groupie. 

Why is this a problem? Thanks for asking. 

Well she’s on today’s show and let’s say I was a lot. Like a lot too much, and she was ridiculously precious and even played along. And there was this moment at the end where out of nowhere I began channeling my inner Jimmy Fallon and did a “bit” with her. Yes, I did a “bit,” and it’s somewhere between slightly funny and massively cringy . . . and I apologize. 

Nonetheless, Candace is amazing, and today we’re talking about everything from her obsession with sumo citrus oranges to standing up for our faith in today’s culture. Her words about losing dear friend Bob Saget are precious, and the way she met her husband is hilarious. 

So listen in today and prepare yourself to go see her movie Unsung Hero later this month in theaters. We MUST support Christian films, and this one is about the Smallbone family (For King & Country) and will be excellent. 

And as you find yourself thinking “bless Cynthia’s heart” through this episode—just remember that most of the time, I keep it together! Ha. 

Can’t wait for you to listen!

P.S. Can we talk again about how much I love watching QVC? And that Candace is the queen of QVC, and somehow I need to go there with her some day? Who can make this happen? 🤪

Unsung Hero Movie

Great American Family Channel 

The Candace Cameron Bure podcast

I hope you’re taking some time this week to slow down and spend a few minutes pondering Holy Week and all that it means to your faith. My prayer is that we don’t come out on the other side of Easter the same way we went into it. I pray that the very reminder of Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice on the cross sparks a new hope in our lives, causing us to want more God in our lives than we currently have. 

Every year on Good Friday, my husband pulls out the ol’ “It’s Friday . . . but Sunday’s Coming” message at some point when we’re all in the car together. He gets mocked for this predictable move every year, but gosh it's a message we need to hear on repeat. Take a minute to listen this week and even follow Mike’s lead and throw it on the car radio for the fam. 

On today’s show we have Lisa Whittle talking with us about revival, and how to experience it both on a corporate and personal level. Lisa is passionate about the importance of desiring and wanting more God in our lives—which leads to a personal revival that can literally change everything about how we live. 

I especially appreciate her list of things that keep us from revival, or wanting more God. Things like our need for comfort, control, and even popularity. This is a perfect word for us going into Easter, and I pray it challenges you in the coming days.

According to the CDC, mental illnesses are the most common health conditions in the United States, with more than one in five adults suffering in some capacity. I say this not to be a downer, but to provide perspective as we consider the importance of treating ourselves well and seeking out the help we need.

Laura Smith is with us today talking about her new book, Holy Care for the Whole Self. After years of counseling, she’s come to realize that the very techniques medical professionals suggest for improving our mental health are also the biblical principles we read about throughout Scripture. Things like gratitude, community, rest, and exercise. 

If you’re anything like me, it often feels like taking care of yourself is a luxury we don’t have time for in this season. I’m praying today’s show helps remind us that self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity, if we want to be our best selves to our friends and family. 

Take a few minutes today to listen to my conversation with Laura, and also get a little info on the book I’m reading right now and the “secret place” I set up while my family was out of town this weekend.

P.S. Many of you have reached out about having me speak at your upcoming events, and I’m so honored. Yes, I do lots of speaking and would love to talk about foster care, parenting, marriage, the messiness of life, or anything else! Reach out here and let’s get things rolling.

Holy Care for the Whole Self by Laura Smith

Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer

All things Cynthia

Support MESSmerized!

I’ve had the unbelievable fortune of interviewing Bob Goff several times over the last few years, and he never disappoints. Yes, he’s an author, podcaster, philanthropist, attorney, and much more. But I think my favorite thing is how he gives the most ordinary situations a “Bob Goff spin,” showing us how to live out the gospel in ways that are simple yet profound. 

Today we’re discussing how he got talked into writing books and the details behind that little career pivot. He also shares some insight on discerning when God is leading us into new callings. If you take nothing else from this interview, I hope you’re challenged to consider what your “next brave step” may be in following Jesus in today’s culture. 

I realize it’s Spring Break for many and there’s lots of traveling. This is a PERFECT podcast for the whole family. So listen in—you won’t regret it.

Order Life is Messy, God is Good

Support MESSmerized 

All things Bob Goff

I’m so excited to have my friend Kristen Hatton with us today. Not only is she a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate, but she’s also a brand new empty nester with a great perspective on fostering relationships with our kids now in preparation for when they live away from our homes. 

We talk a lot about communication in today’s show, with Kristen highlighting several reasons why our kids may not feel safe or comfortable talking to us. Even with the best of intentions, there are things we inadvertently do each day that close the lines of communication with our kids. She may or may not have stepped on my toes in this area as I realize I’m guilty of several of them. Ha! 

I especially love her list of seven ways to “parent ahead” (also the name of her book), which includes things like active listening, setting boundaries, normalizing awkward topics, and avoiding the temptation to nag. Listen in to get the complete list and her explanation as to why these things matter. 

Kristen is one wise mom, and I can’t wait for you to hear our conversation today!

Parenting Ahead by Kristen Hatton

All things Cynthia

My name is Cynthia Yanof and I’m addicted to my phone (and my watch, and Netflix, and Diet Dr. Pepper, and Mahjong . . . . too much?)

Good thing Joey Odom is with us today! We’re coming in hot with a grace-filled word for those of us all of us who need to be reminded that we can’t allow technology to trump our relationships. We’re talking about navigating our phones in a world where they are so helpful and critical, yet can also be harmful and a crutch. 

Joey’s thoughts on untethering ourselves from our phones is sobering and practical. He gives very do-able suggestions that we can start implementing today. He also reminds us that we’re all learning to navigate phones together for the first time, so don’t beat yourself up. 

I know it may be a hard topic to get excited about because the majority of us have guilt around our lack of technology boundaries . . .. however, this is a 30-minute conversation you won’t regret!

Have you read Life is Messy God is Good yet? If so, post yourself with your book and/or a favorite quote and tag us on social media. We would be love to repost stories of MESSmerized listeners loving this book!

All things Cynthia

Joni Eareckson Tada had a diving accident as a teenager, leaving her a quadriplegic. Since that time God has used her life in incredible ways to impact millions of people all over the globe for Jesus.

Joni has an incredible word for us today on finding peace in our lives by abiding with Jesus. I don’t know about you, but I know how to spend time with Jesus, praise Jesus, and even talk about Jesus. But sometimes “abiding” with him feels complex and needs a little more explanation. Joni’s doing that for us today.

Also, can I suggest that if you or someone who has been walking through a hard time, waiting for God to answer and it seems he’s silent—today’s show is a great one to share? Joni knows all too well how to trust Jesus in seemingly impossible circumstances. 

I truly can’t wait for you to hear more from Joni today!

Joni and Friends

The Practice of the Presence of Jesus by Joni

All things Cynthia

Order Life is Messy, God is Good

It’s one of those rare times where it’s just me and a mic today with no guest to be found. Be assured, I’m bringing lots of random thoughts laced with humor (and hopefully) wisdom along the way. But with the addition of lots of new listeners the last few months, I’m realizing it’s time to share some of what’s on my heart as well as how Life is Messy, God is Good came to be. 

We’re going to talk very practically today about building our homes on a firm foundation (Matthew 7:24-27). I’m being brutally honest about how that’s looked for our family including practical considerations on living with purpose, perspective, and finding the right people. And spoiler alert, at the end of the day it’s the storms of life that reveal our foundations, making it critical that we build lives that dig deep into the rock of Jesus. 

I can’t thank you enough for supporting me the last many weeks as we’ve been pushing out my first book-baby. I think my two c-sections might have been less stressful than pushing my words and stories into the world for everyone to see. Doing this with you guys, however, has been a great pleasure. Thank you for the support, and please continue praying for this book to fall in the hands of all those who need a good laugh and a hearty dose of biblical truth. 

Enjoy today’s show and please consider sharing it with a friend.

All things Cynthia

Yesterday was an incredible day and I’m so grateful for your support of Life is Messy God is Good. As we continue the push towards getting this word out, I would be so grateful if you would leave a review on Amazon (or wherever you purchased the book) as well as continue sharing on social media and recommending it to friends. Please accept my deepest and heartfelt THANK YOU!

Today’s show is a continuation of our discussions with friends and family  who made a cameo in my book. Darin Kinder is not only in the book, but his story of surviving the 9/11 attacks as a Secret Service Agent has impacted my life in the messiest and best of ways. 

Darin is with us today to talk about living courageously and raising kids willing and able to do the hard things. And let me assure you, Darin’s words are powerful and unforgettable. In fact, I’m not sure a story outside the Bible has impacted me more than Darin’s account of 9/11 and seeing God show up in the messiest and most tragic of situations. 

Take a listen today and even share with a friend! So grateful for you.

All things Cynthia

Order Life is Messy, God is Good

Darin Kinder's The Valiant Ministries

Darin Kinder's Story in Episode 2 of MESSmerized

Oh my goodness, I can’t wait for you to hear today's show with Billy Rodgers! And despite the weird wording of the title of this show, we're talking about sharing our faith with friends and family (and not just sharing our faith with Billy Rodgers. ha!) 

Billy and his wife, Brandie, are some of our very dearest friends in the world. They are amazing people with a heart for evangelism. When Billy recently shared the statistic with me below, I knew we had to have a conversation on MESSmerized about it:

It’s estimated that 95% of believers go through their life without sharing their faith even one time. 

Heartbreaking yet not hard to believe, because so many of us (myself included) feel so inadequate and ill-prepared to share our faith with a culture desperately seeking hope. 

Because I REALLY want you to tune in to today’s show, I’m giving you a sneak peek of some of the top five tips today so you can see how do-able this is: 

1. Speak of God’s goodness

2. Pray not just for people, but WITH people

3. Simply be willing and ready to share why you believe what you do

Let’s not be a part of the 95% who never share their faith. As we start a new school year, it’s a perfect time to start thinking and praying about who we’re being led to have faith conversations with in the coming months.

All things Cynthia

Billy Rodgers

You Have Purpose videos 

Case for Christ by Lee Strobel

Find an Alpha group in your area

I’m writing to you from the airport in Dallas on my way to Nashville for book interviews. You guys, Life is Messy, God is Good is two weeks out from making its debut. YIKES! If you don’t follow me on social, be sure to do that now so you can see my fun updates. 

As you know, on MESSmerized we’re doing a little series called “behind the mess.” We’re bringing some folks on the show that are featured in the book, and today it’s two of my favorite people! My two older kids, Kate and Brett, are the featured guests, and I can’t wait for you to hear from them. 

Kate is sharing a little bit about the transition from high school to college and how she’s seen God show up as things have gone off-script at times. Brett and I have a conversation about learning to drive, cherry bomb exhaust systems, and the pressures of figuring out who you are in high school and what you want for the future. 

Can’t wait for you to hear from them. Oh, and if you haven’t already, today is a GREAT day to order my book. Okay, off to board and cram everything I own in a tiny space under my seat! 

Pre-Order Life is Messy, God is Good

All things Cynthia

It’s hard to believe that we’re approaching THREE weeks until my book releases on February 6th (small panic attack as I’m typing this). In honor of the big day coming up, we’re going to do a fun series on MESSmerized the next few weeks where I interview people who are written about in the book. It’s a behind the scenes look at the ways life gets messy for so many of us, and how to find God in the midst of it. 

This week my dear friend Sharon Haynes is joining us. If you have not heard our story about fat camp and the french fry, you MUST LISTEN today. Aside from Sharon’s hilarious story, she has a poignant word on the hard places of losing our parents, raising kids who make rogue decisions, and keeping it real with our closest friendships. I can’t tell you how much I love today’s show and Sharon’s willingness to lay it all out there. 

On a side note, I’m going to be sending out an email later this week with some ways you can help me promote Life is Messy, God is Good in the coming weeks. I would be so grateful if you would take a minute to read that email and consider sharing news of my book with your friends, family, and small groups. And of course, if you haven’t already ordered a copy can I ask you to do that today? 

So grateful for you and can’t wait for you to listen to our series on going “behind the mess.”

Pre-Order Life is Messy, God is Good

If you’re anything like me, your heart remains heavy for Israel in these days. It's hard to wrap our heads around the war, God’s bigger plan for their nation, and the hardships so many are facing in the Middle East. 

Knowing this, I am so excited to have JoAnn Doyle from Uncharted Ministries joining us today. She’s got an amazing perspective on Israel through the lens of someone who has been ministering to Jews and Muslims in the Middle East for many decades. 

While the news coming from Israel has been hard, there’s also an encouraging story behind the story that more Muslims have come to faith in Christ in the last 10 years than in the last 14 centuries. And more Jews have come to embrace Jesus as Messiah in the last 20 years than in the last 2000 years. 

All this comes as a much-needed reminder that God continues to pursue his people—and he’s doing it right now in Israel. Take a few minutes to be encouraged as you listen to JoAnn share incredible stories of how God’s working in Israel and Gaza, and ways we can make a difference individually during this critical time. 

P.S. Guys, we are ONE MONTH away from the release of my first book Life is Messy, God is Good. Pre-orders are a ginormous deal and it would be such a blessing if you would consider grabbing a copy (or two or three) today! So grateful for you and can’t wait for you to read it. ❤️

Pre-Order Life is Messy, God is Good

Uncharted Ministries

Happy New Year! 🥳🎉🥳🎉🥳🎉

(Said with my most hoarse voice confirming I do in fact have my annual January cold. 🤒)

I don’t know about you, but my social media is jam-packed with everyone’s 2024 resolutions and things they are adding, things they are dropping, and ways they are going to make the most of the new year. And I applaud the ambition!

That being said, I’m wondering what God would have us resolve for this new year? What is he calling us to do and how do we create enough margin to hear his still small voice in the middle of the everyday chaos? 

Today Pastor Libin Abraham is joining us to talk about keeping the awe and wonder in Christmas long after Christmas is over. And as a part of doing that, how do we take moments to pause and consider where God is leading us this year? 

There’s so much packed into today’s show that you seriously cannot miss, but don’t miss these challenging words from Pastor Libin: God moves at the pace of your next yes.

So what’s your “next yes” for 2024? Listen in today and let’s figure it out together. 

P.S. If you love MESSmerized would you consider sharing it with a friend today? Help us continue building our awesome community in 2024 by inviting people to come alongside us. 

All things Cynthia

If you’re in a post-Christmas coma, you’re not alone! Eating cookies for breakfast and watching Hallmark movies instead of entertaining your kids is fine everyone . . . we are doing our best! 

That being said, can I invite you to join me and two of my favorite people for a few minutes to talk about love? Yes, it’s the last week of our Advent series and love is our topic.  

It’s easy to see God’s unrelenting love for his people through Jesus’ life, from the manger to the cross. But how does this kind of love change us practically in our everyday lives? 

Heather and Stephanie are lots of fun, and I promise you will be encouraged as we’re facing a new year and all of the unknowns. And speaking of a new year, I want to thank every single one of you for being a part of the MESSmerized family, and the calling God has placed on my life. 

It’s been a privilege to walk through parenting, faith issues, spiritual rhythms and so much more the last eight months. I can’t wait to see what God is up to in 2024!

All things Cynthia

Pre-Order Life is Messy, God is Good

Sidetracked with Heather and Cynthia

When am I going to learn? 

Seriously, I’m 20 years into this parenting gig and still insisting on family car rides to look at Christmas lights this time of year. It’s the definition of insanity how I do it over and over again expecting a different result.

In my defense, I’m envisioning a picturesque scene of hot chocolate, pj’s, and a spectacle of lights bringing warmth and joy to my family. In reality, it’s 30 minutes in purgatory in a confined space with unwilling participants yelling “don’t touch me” or “is anyone else having fun?” or “these lights blow.”

If we are completely honest, the family light-looking excursions are just one of the millions of ways we try to create “moments” this time of year, inevitably reminding us that no good deed goes unpunished. 

But even with all the great plans gone wrong, there’s plenty of reasons for joy.  You’ve probably heard it before, but joy isn’t just situational or circumstantial (thank goodness), but deeply rooted in the story of a Savior who left the highest position in heaven to come to earth as a baby . . . for you and for me. 

My good friend Rodney Schell joins us today sharing his thoughts on reframing joy with a spiritual perspective. We talk about a dear friend who, despite walking a life marked by adversity, radiates with joy because his life is anchored in the hope of eternity. 

My prayer this week is for each of us to take a few minutes to remember that joy is available in the midst of the hard. Let’s thank Jesus for the many blessings he’s given us, especially the gift of those who complain incessantly on car rides meant to form bonds and create Christmas memories. 😂😂😂

All things Cynthia

Pre-Order Life is Messy, God is Good

We’re closing in on 12 days until Christmas, and I’m guessing the whole idea of “peace” feels illusive at this point? Or maybe that’s just me. 😂😂😂

Today my dear friend Kay Wyma is joining us on our Advent journey to discuss peace. How does Christmas bring us reminders of peace, especially in a world filled with discord and stress? (Hint: Peace isn’t the absence of conflict, but replacing it with something deeper and more significant.)

I especially appreciate Kay’s challenge to identify the root causes of our unrest, worries, or conflicts and intentionally incorporate gratitude into our daily lives. Gratitude becomes a powerful tool, a "control alt delete," as Kay puts it, that helps us shift our perspective towards peace.

So, friends, as we journey through this Advent season together, let’s find ways to experience the promise of peace even today (as we’re shopping, baking, planning the ornament exchange, and figuring out what to wear to the company party). 

Discussion Questions:

1. Think of a time when you’ve felt most at peace in your life. What was or wasn’t going on that seemed to contribute to this peace? 

2. In what area today are you waiting for God to remove a conflict instead of seeking His peace in the midst of it? 

3. What’s one way you can incorporate gratitude into your life today to reframe your perspective towards peace? 

4. Who comes to mind when you think about someone living in peace despite their circumstances? How can you practically support them today?

All things Cynthia

Pre-Order Life is Messy, God is Good

The Peace Project by Kay Wyma

It’s December and the time of year when we start receiving the perfect Christmas cards in the mail at the exact time as our “friends” start posting their perfectly wrapped presents underneath their fabulously decorated Christmas trees. Sickening, am I right? Ha. 🎄📷🤢

I’m fighting my own battle against the urge to make everything look perfect by sending out quite possibly the worst Christmas card picture any family has dared to mass produce. You’re welcome, and listen to today’s show if you’re interested in getting your own copy of it. 

Now for the real stuff. . . . We’re spending the next few weeks focusing on Advent. Each week we will explore one of the advent themes: hope, peace, joy, and love. Today, Steve Frissell is joining us to consider how Jesus’ birth in a manger brings hope to our world still today. 

Tune in all month as we work to keep our focus on our Savior (and away from the bad Christmas cards like the one I’m sending out). And below are discussion questions if you want to hit this topic during your quiet time or even with your family at dinner.

Discussion questions:

• Where does our culture look to find hope?
• In what areas do you struggle to remain hopeful?
• In what ways did Jesus’ birth bring hope 2000 years ago?
• How is our perspective reframed if we trust in Jesus today as our ultimate hope? 

Verses on hope to consider:

• Romans 12:12
• Romans 15:4
• Psalm 147:11
• Hebrews 11:1

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! And busiest . . . 

There’s truly nothing like Christmas and the anticipation of fun activities, family gatherings, and celebrating the birth of our Savior. But there’s also the practicalities of shopping, cleaning, hosting, and wrapping that bring chaos to our lives if we aren’t super intentional. (Not to mention that JB is already burning up the speakers of my SUV with Kidz Bop Christmas. Bless it.) 

I’m so thankful to have Lee Cordon of Do Say Give with us today! She’s bringing us practical considerations on the best ways to get things accomplished for Christmas, while also keeping the main thing the main thing. 

Today’s show covers everything from specific gifts for teachers and the postman, to family traditions and decorating our trees. We’re hitting the whole gamut of Christmas and having a lots of fun along the way. 

Listen to MESSmerized today for all things Christmas, and also be sure to check out Lee’s website for the very best gift-giving and Christmas planning ideas!

All things Cynthia

Pre-Order Life is Messy, God is Good

Happy Thanksgiving week!

Are you putting up your tree this week and getting a jump on Christmas decorations? 

Or are you a Thanksgiving loyalist who refuses to address the Christmas chaos until after the bird is consumed? I’m a little bit of both if I’m honest. I’m dead-set on fully embracing Thanksgiving, while also wanting to soak in every single second of Christmas by kicking-off the festivities early. 

Wherever you land, I’m praying this week holds plenty of sweet family time for each of you, with lots of laughs and memorable moments. I’m also praying we find time to remember the One to whom we owe all of our thanks—knowing that Jesus is truly the giver of every good gift (James 1:17). 

Today on MESSmerized, we are wrapping up a month of studying worship. To help us do this, I’m thrilled to have the worship leader from my own church, Caleb Willis, on the podcast. Caleb gives us lots of considerations for real and deep worship, and I love that it comes from the perspective of one who leads corporate worship every week. 

But especially the next few days, remember to worship Jesus by giving thanks for all that he has done in your life .  . . . the big, small, hard, unexpected, significant, challenging, and especially the gift of eternal life to all who believe. 

We are taking December off from our spiritual rhythm podcasts, but we have a GREAT advent series coming out all month on Wednesdays. I would love for you to take time in the midst of the crazy to meet me there the next several weeks. 

Happy Thanksgiving . . . . I’m so grateful for each of you!

All things Cynthia

I’ll never forget the time in high school when Kate and I had a disagreement, and she threw down these inflammatory words: “welllll I am 18 years old.” I believe my response was something like, “yes dear one, you’re an 18-year-old that drives our car, uses our cell phone, lives in our house, wears our clothes, and exists on our money.” (Perhaps I should have paused a bit before responding.) 

Nonetheless, if you have older kids, you’ve probably had similar moments of trying to adjust to kids reaching adulthood-ish while they are still financially dependent and oftentimes making questionable decisions. Thank goodness Lisa Clark is here today!

Lisa is an author, mother, grandmother, and incredible lady who is giving some much-needed advice on parenting our adult-ish children. Some of the topics we cover include: 

• Best advice on sending a kid to college

• How to respect our child’s independence while also giving them important advice 

• Practical ways to connect with older kids

• Recognizing they are adults even when they don’t act like it

Even if you don’t have older kids yet, the day is coming, so tune in for some great wisdom from precious Lisa Clark!

All things Cynthia Yanof 

Lisa Clark

Raising Sinners by Lisa Clark 

It’s National Adoption Month, and I would be remiss if I didn’t talk at least a little bit about adoption—since it has changed our lives in all of the best ways! 

But today we’re also talking more generally about the God-sized callings that are placed on our lives. It’s those things that God asks us to do as a step of faith and a call to obedience. For some of us it’s adoption, but for others it’s a mission trip, or a financial investment into Kingdom purposes, or even stepping into someone else’s story who desperately needs your friendship. 

Steve Frissell is with us today, and he’s turning the tables a bit to ask me questions about our adoption journey. We are praying you will really be encouraged to chase after the things God is asking you to do right now—using our words as a springboard to encourage you in the things that feel too hard, impractical, or even impossible in this season of life. 

So glad you’re with us today!

All things Cynthia

Pre-Order Life is Messy, God is Good

Can you believe it’s the week before Thanksgiving? 🦃🍁

Here’s a little Thanksgiving tale that my family loves to bring up this time of year. 

A few years ago I got unreasonably ambitious and made the Pioneer Woman’s pumpkin chocolate pie recipe. Now listen, no shade on Ree as I’m sure her pie is fantastic (done correctly). But somehow I missed a step . . .  and showed up to Thanksgiving with the slushiest pie one has ever seen. Not being ones to let things go, my older brothers had a field day saying it looked like a pie version of diarrhea, or what they now call pie-arrhea. Every single Thanksgiving when I arrive they do a pie check. 

And Let’s suffice it to say I will heretofore check (and double check) the consistency of my pies before heading to Thanksgiving lunch. 🥧🥧🥧🥧

This week we’re talking about worship once again, and how to practically make it something actionable we do everyday, not just for a few minutes before the sermon each week at church. Biblically speaking, worship includes both in the physical posture of bowing down before the Lord, but also the symbolic bowing down our lives before him. 

What are some things in our lives that we can lay down in order to worship the Lord with our lives? Maybe our finances, controlling our kids, our struggles with achievement, or even perfectionism? 

Listen in today and let’s talk about practical ways to worship the Lord, both in our physical posture and also with the way we live our days. 

All things Cynthia

Pre-Order Life is Messy, God is Good

The day has finally come where I get to share something unbelievably exciting that’s going on in my life. And true to form, I come to you somewhere between wildly excited to share the news while also completely nerved-out because it’s vulnerable and so deeply special to me. But here we go! 

Drum roll please . . . . You guys, I wrote a book! 

It’s called Life is Messy, God is Good and it’s the biggest labor of love I’ve had the privilege of being a part of in my life. I say labor of love, because I’ve seen God’s incredible kindness in allowing me to write a book that a publisher actually wants to disseminate to the world at large!

But it’s also been a labor of love over here as I have spent over a year praying over this book, writing, deleting, writing more, deleting more, and asking God to speak truth through my words in ways I will likely never fully understand or appreciate. And now that the time has finally come where I can talk about the book, I wanted YOU to be the first people to hear about it. 

So on today’s show I’m talking a little bit about the book, but also about my heart behind the book and how my life has been impacted by people who have allowed God to use the messiest places of their lives for His bigger purpose. Something he’s longing to do in all of our lives. 

So can I ask YOU for a favor (or two or three)?

1. If you love MESSmerized or love me or even tolerate me but continue to show up each week . . . will you please pre-order Life is Messy, God is Good? It comes out February 6th and pre-orders are a HUGE deal in order for retailers to carry it. 

2. Will you spread the word? It’s as easy as sharing this email and/or my social media posts (make sure you’re following me please) with your friends and family. 

3. Lastly, will you pray? Join me in praying very simply that God will do “immeasurably more”  than we can ask or imagine in paving a way for this message. (Esphesians 3:20)

I’m so grateful for each of you and can’t wait for today’s show. 

All things Cynthia

Pre-Order Life is Messy, God is Good

Yep, it's November and we are turning our focus to worship.

If you’re anything like me, you probably think of worship as that 20 minute span of music on Sundays before the sermon. And that is part of the story for sure, but definitely not the whole story.  

Louie Giglio defines worship this way: It’s our response, both personal and corporate, to God for who He is and what He’s done—expressed in and by the things we say and the way we live.

Take a minute to read and reread that definition and consider how worship isn’t limited to a type of person who is more emotional, or a certain time of the week on Sundays, or even to a specific activity in a limited aspect in our lives. 

We were created to worship and, when done correctly, it naturally overflows into every area of our lives. 

Psalm 150:6 says it this way: “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.”

Let’s dive in together this month and figure out how to make that happen!

In today’s show we’re talking about the three fundamental questions our kids are asking: 

• Who am I?
• Where do I fit?
• What difference can I make? 

It doesn’t take long to realize these aren’t just questions for kids, but questions we all deal with at different points in life. Knowing this, It’s critically important we wrestle well with these core concepts of identity, belonging, and purpose—and Brad Griffin from the Fuller Youth Institute is joining us to talk about all of it. 

When it comes to identity, Brad helps us understand how our kids are already answering the question of “who am I” — so how can we help them reframe that biblically? 

He also reminds us that belonging starts in our home, and challenges us to consider ways to foster true belonging by allowing our kids to be themselves. 

And then when it comes to purpose, we get practical advice on helping our kids find their own purpose in the context of God’s greater purposes for all humanity. 

All three of these questions stem from a book Brad co-authored called 3 Big Questions that Change Every Teenager. I ran across this book several years ago, and it has impacted so many areas of my parenting. I’m guessing as you listen today, a few things will click as to why your kids are saying a few things you don’t understand. 

I’m so thrilled to have Brad Griffin with us!  

All things Cynthia

3 Big Questions that Change Every Teenager

3 Big Questions that Shape Your Future 

Faith Beyond Youth Group

"I strongly suspect that if we saw all the difference even the tiniest of our prayers to God make, and all the people those little prayers were destined to affect, and the consequences of those effects down through the centuries, we would be so paralyzed with awe at the power of prayer that we would be unable to get off our knees for the rest of our lives. Peter Kreeft."

- Peter Kreeft

This is one of my favorite quotes on prayer, one you are probably familiar with. Wouldn’t it be amazing if we could pinpoint the results of every prayer we’ve ever offered up to the Lord? If we could see how circumstances changed, health was restored, finances were spared—wouldn't that change the priority we give prayer each day? 

Yet whether or not we can see the results, we know God hears and answers our prayers. (1 John 5:14-15) And so this week we’re wrapping up our month of prayer by considering a few biblical examples where God faithfully answered the prayers of his people. They are definitely worth studying and are powerful. 

But I’m also sharing a few personal examples of times when God has shown up and answered prayer in my own life. Because we can talk academically about prayer all day and try to logically work our way into being more consistent. Yet in my experience, what’s most impactful is the stories we share of God’s faithful response to our deepest needs. 

So join me today as we wrap up our month of prayer with some encouraging reminders that God is still moving. And get ready as we prepare for a new spiritual rhythm next week, worship. This will be perfect as we head into Thanksgiving. 

So grateful for you!

All things Cynthia

Guys . . . we have Lee Strobel on MESSmerized today! 

Lee Strobel is a former atheist turned Christian apologist who tackles the most common questions and objections people struggle with when it comes to faith. Spoiler alert, these obstacles involve the theology around earthly suffering as well as feeling as if God is silent. 

Lee references statistics indicating that belief in God is now down to 81 percent, compared to 98 percent in the 1960s. It’s with this in mind that he wrote his latest book, Is God Real?  

Today’s show is an incredible conversation with a renowned apologist, and I can’t believe we get to have this conversation. You’re going to love his “apologetics pyramid,” a framework for engaging nonbelievers. And whatever you do, don’t miss the way he summarizes the evidence of the resurrection of Jesus in 60 seconds. It’s really incredible.

Can’t wait for you to hear this conversation with Lee Strobel!

All things Cynthia 

All things Lee Strobel

Is God Real? by Lee Strobel

Happy Monday everyone! I hope you’ve had a fun and relaxing weekend. 

Let’s kick-off this week with a keeping it real moment in our house right now (that’s also making me a wee bit crazy). JB, our 6-year-old, has suddenly decided his wake up time is somewhere around 5:45 a.m. That’s a real bad deal in and of itself; however, it’s exacerbated by the fact our teenage son gets his second wind around 11:00 p.m. every night when he’s finally willing to download his day with us. And you better believe I’m not missing that. 

So this little situation, alongside all the “normal life” things, means I have to be super creative and determined to keep my prayer life intact. Can you relate? 

Today’s show is all about the practical aspects of our prayer lives. We’re talking about being purposeful and prioritizing our time with the Lord—along with a few other “P’s” that I pray will resonate with you. 

Thanks for being a part of our spiritual rhythms series each week. I’m hoping these small pivots will make a big impact on your walk with the Lord.

All things Cynthia

If you’re anything like me, you’re probably thinking “ain’t nobody got time to worry about my own well-being.” After all, we’re trying to keep everyone else above water on any given day, right? But that mindset is exactly what gets us into trouble and is something I’m super excited for us to dive into today. 

Mia Mbrow is an LPC as well as my dear friend. She’s joining us today to talk about this notion of well-being. She has a good word on the importance of assessing where we are individually, before attempting to love others effectively. She breaks down well-being into six facets: intellectual, occupational, emotional, social, physical, and spiritual. 

When one of these areas gets wonky, all of the other areas of our lives tend to suffer. I especially love her three well-being questions and the practical challenge not to add more, but find ways to do less in order to be more to our families. Many of us have a tendency (especially women) to feel like we have to be all things to all people—which leads to exhaustion and a performance-driven mindset. Let’s talk about this today as we’re approaching the stress of the upcoming holiday season. 

Can’t wait for you to meet Mia Mbroh!

All things Cynthia

All things Mia Mbroh

Prayer should be the most important conversation you have everyday. —TobyMac 

Can we be honest? It’s not often that we think of prayer as the most essential or important conversation we will have in a given day. It’s also not often that I kick-off a Monday morning quoting TobyMac, but he does make a great point. 😂 

We started last week covering some of the obstacles we face in praying. Things like not making time, wondering if it really makes a difference, and even feeling like God is distant. This week we’re following it up with Jesus' instructions on prayer. He gives practical advice like not praying with fancy words or trying to impress others, but also provides us a model for prayer that goes like this:

Our Father in heaven, 

Hallowed be your name, 

Your kingdom come, 

Your will be done, 

On earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us today our daily bread. 

And forgive us our debts, 

As we also have forgiven our debtors. 

And lead us not into temptation, 

But deliver us from the evil one. 

— Matthew 6:9-13

Take a few minutes with me to dig a little deeper into the spiritual rhythm of prayer, and let’s work to give it the priority it deserves in our day. 

All things Cynthia

My family is on vacation this week, and in honor of family trips gone wrong, here’s a little summer travel excerpt from Life is Messy, God is Good:

I appreciate how Home Alone completely lowered the bar on family travel expectations after the parents left Kevin at home TWICE. Not to mention that biblically speaking, Jesus’ parents lost Him for more than three days while returning home from Jerusalem.

I’m encouraged that if Joseph and Mary had a parenting fail and lost the Messiah, I can calm the heck down about the Colorado trip where we lost all of our groceries (and most of our hanging clothes) out the back of our car in the middle of the Breckenridge roundabout. And then several days later, my husband went all Evel Knievel off a bike jump, which landed him in the ER with broken ribs and a punctured lung (all of which I weirdly got on video in slow motion). 

Good memories, that trip, but may it never be called a vacation. 

As much as I love a good family trip, it’s DEFINITELY not a vacation when the kids are involved. (Oh, and if you want to see the cringy bike accident video, follow me on Instagram and shoot me a DM.)

But I digress. 

On today’s show we’re talking with Molly Stillman about why laughter matters. Molly’s a podcaster, author, wife, mother, and just a hilarious individual. She has a great reminder on the physical and spiritual benefits of laughter. If you’re anything like me, this is a much-needed message as summer continues to go on (and on and on and on). 

All things Cynthia

Check out Molly’s new book, If I Don’t Laugh, I’ll Cry: How Death, Debt, and Comedy Led to a Life of Faith, Farming, and Forgetting What I Came into This Room For.

IT'S FINALLY FALL! 

The air is crisp (at least for Dallas), the pumpkin lattes are flowing, and the mums are blooming. 

In honor of the change in seasons, this week we’re taking a quick break from our “Trusting God” series to have a few laughs with my dear friend, Heather MacFadyen from Don’t Mom Alone. 

We’re laughing/lamenting about everything from Homecoming Mums, teen language we don’t understand, and even some of the hard things going on in our lives these days. 

I especially appreciate Heather’s thoughts on the comparison trap and how to identify the struggle and make strides to move forward. And we also hit on sibling rivalry and helping our kids handle conflict well. 

Last thing . . . if you don’t already know, Heather and I have a monthly podcast called “Sidetracked” that releases on Don’t Mom Alone podcast the first Friday of every month. Today is a a little peek into that show. If you love it, please subscribe to Don’t Mom Alone where Heather and I will be teaming up the first Friday of every month!

Happy Fall!

All things Cynthia

Don't Mom Alone Podcast

“To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing.”

- Martin Luther 

I’ve spent most of my life agreeing philosophically with the words above; but I’ve also spent much of my life very practically wondering how to pray correctly. Or most effectively. Or the way that everyone else does so that God will really hear me. 

Can you relate? 

The next few weeks, we’re focusing on the spiritual rhythm of prayer. Yes, we’re going to talk about the “why” questions behind prayer as well as the “how.” But more than anything, I’m asking the Lord to remind us that the same God who heard the bold prayers of Elijah, David, Solomon and Daniel—is the same God who is inviting each of us into real and authentic conversations with him today. 

So let’s kick-off this week talking about all things prayer, and consider ways to habit ourselves into a life filled with bold and audacious prayers.

All things Cynthia

Remember the time I read a book that rocked my world (in a good way), and I randomly emailed the author to come on the podcast and then cried when I finally met him? Me neither. 

But if that were to happen (which it totally did), the author would be Wade Joye, the book would be This Dream is Not for You, and today’s show is the conversation you must hear. 

We all have dreams, and oftentimes they are not career related. Dreams for our marriage, our family, our kids’ lives and, yes, sometimes for our career. But when those dreams don’t line up with our reality, it’s tricky learning to trust God while loosening our grip. 

There’s so much I could tell you about today’s show because I love it that much—but let me give you a few highlights of what we discuss:

• The difference in calling vs. purpose vs. assignment

• Understanding how dreams that define you it will ultimately destroy you

• Holding loosely to expectations knowing Jesus is the ultimate goal

• Guarding gratitude in our lives and being someone else’s source of applause

I wrote this quote down on a sticky note in my office, and it sort of sums up today’s show: “God’s love is expressed just as much in what he limits as in what he allows.” 

Take a minute to consider those words and then join me in a great conversation about the dreams God has for our lives and the ones we need to let go. 

I can’t wait for you to hear from Wade today!

This Dream is Not for You by Wade Joye 

Dreamers and Disciples Podcast 

All things Wade Joye 

All things Cynthia

Hopefully you’ve enjoyed a few weeks of episodes where we’ve dug deep into reading our Bible. I think the takeaways are many, but mostly the key is the intentionality in doing it each day by having a time, place, and plan for reading. 

This week we are talking about different tools that can help us study our Bible. By no means are these a must-have, but the resources available can be helpful in gaining deeper understanding. Mary DeMurth is joining me today to talk about the various resources available for Bible study, and she’s a great person to join us because she’s written close to 50 books in the faith genre. 

Mary and I both share our favorite resources today, which include commentaries, online concordances, Bible reading plans, and Bible studies. Mary has a brand new book out that gives a 90-day plan for reading through the entire Bible (in about one hour a day). As a part of this 90-day reading plan, she encourages us to incorporate “brisk” reading into our Bible study. 

Take a few minutes to listen today, and even consider doing some research on which tool(s) might help you get more out of your daily Bible reading. 

Bible Study Resources Mentioned in Show: 

Mary Demuth

90 Day Bible Reading Project 

The Bible Project

The Bible Recap

Wiersby Commentaries

N.T. Wright Books

Coffee Cup Bible Study Series

Precept Austin 

Logos

All things Cynthia

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