We all have those certain relationships that create more tension and anxiety than joy. Sometimes, this occurs with individuals we can't avoid; other times we're prayerfully trying to figure out how to heal relational tension and experience deeper and more fulfilling connections with those who mean a great deal to us but with whom, for various reasons, we experience ongoing conflict. In this episode, host Jennifer Slattery and guest and Bible teacher Carol McLeod discuss truths recorded in Colossians that, when applied, can help us experience more peace, and less conflict and anxiety, in our most difficult or confusing relationships. (Scroll down for discussion/reflective questions.)

Resource referenced: Overflowing: Living Abundantly in a Broken Culture

Find Carol McLeod:

On her website

On Facbook

On Instagram

YouTube

Follow Her On Amazon

Find Jennifer Slattery:

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Facebook

Amazon

Subscribe to her free newsletter

Join the private Faith Over Fear Facebook Group

Discussion/Reflective Questions:

1. What resonated with you most in this episode?
2. In what relationships do you most need Christ's perfect wisdom?
3. What are some ways you can grow in Christ-led wisdom?
4. What are some promises recorded in Scripture that can increase your hope in regard to your most challenging relationships?
5. How might it be helpful to prayerfully consider the full extent of our emotions when others hurt us as part of our forgiveness process?
6. What is one action step God might be asking you to take having listened to this episode?

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Depression is a complex issue that often has numerous causes or contributing factors. In this episode, Dr. Len Lantz, a psychiatrist known for working with clients suffering from treatment resistant depression, shares why it's important to receive an accurate diagnosis and practical ways one can dial down their depression while pursuing freedom. (Scroll down for reflective/discussion questions.)

Resources mentioned:

UnJoy: Hope and Help for 7 Million Christians With Depression by Dr. Len Lantz (Please note: read ch 12 with caution and insight and support from a mental health professional)

Mind Over Mood: Change How You Feel by Changing the Way You Think by by Dennis Greenberger and Christine A. Padesky

Find Dr. Len Lantz on his website

Find his articles on ThePsychiatryResource.com

Follow him on Facebook and LinkedIn

Reflective/Discussion Questions:

1. What most stood out to you in this episode?
2. How would you describe your current level or experience of joy?
3. Consider your thoughts. In what ways do they tend to pull toward negativity?
4. How might thought balancing help you develop and/or maintain a more positive outlook?
5. How might it be helpful to remember that self-care tools require perseverance?
6. Who can you reach out to for support in your current season?
7. What is one action step God might be encouraging you to take having listened to this episode?

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

While sometimes depression hits without any known or perceivable cause, other times it stems from, or is exacerbated by overwhelming circumstances and situations involving those we love. But while we can't always control the things that impact our emotions, there are helpful things we can choose. In this episode, hosts Jennifer Slattery and Carol McCracken talk with therapist Stefanie Rowe about some of depressions roots and why it's important to seek help sooner rather than later. Bible passage discussed: 1 Kings 19 (Scroll down for discussion/reflective questions.)

Sermons referenced in this episode (presented by Stefanie):

How to Navigate Depression

Helped, Hugged, Heard

Link to the mug mentioned in this episode: https://thehappygivers.com/collections/its-ok-collection

Find Stefanie Rowe:

On her website

On Facebook

On Instagram

Find Carol McCracken:

On her website

On Facebook

On Instagram

Find Jennifer Slattery:

On her website

Instagram

Facebook

Amazon

Subscribe to her free newsletter

Join the private Faith Over Fear Facebook Group

Discussion/Reflective Questions:

1. What resonated with you most in this episode?
2. In what ways might your current circumstances feel overwhelming?
3. How might your level of emotional involvement in other people's problems impact your current mental state?
4. How does it feel to know that godly people like Mother Teresa and the Old Testament prophet Elijah experienced depression?
5. How does it feel to know that God moves close to you in your pain (even if you can't "feel" His presence)?
6. As depression thrives in isolation, and also tends to pull us to isolate ourselves further: what is one way you can connect with others this week?
7. Who is one person in whom you can find support when you feel depressed?
8. What is one action step God might be asking you to take having listened to this episode?

Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.