Hey, friend! What if almost everything you've been taught about Jesus' birth is wrong? Discover the shocking truth about the nativity story that changes everything we thought we knew about that holy night in Bethlehem. This research-rich Christian podcast episode reveals how cultural misunderstandings have hidden the real story of Christmas for centuries. Topics include: Why inns were virtually non-existent in first-century Israel and what "katalima" really means The truth about Middle Eastern hospitality practices and why Joseph would never have been turned away How mangers were built into the floors of peasant homes, not located in separate stables Evidence that Jesus was born in a family home surrounded by community, not in isolation What the shepherds really understood when they heard "you'll find him in a manger" Why animals lived inside first-century homes at night and what this reveals about Jesus' birth How the Proto-Evangelium of James influenced our traditional but inaccurate nativity story The cultural evidence proving Mary and Joseph had adequate time and shelter before the birth This episode is perfect for anyone who wants to understand the Christmas story through accurate historical and cultural context. The account transforms the nativity from a tale of rejection and loneliness into a beautiful story of welcome, community, and God entering the ordinary spaces of human life. Keywords naturally included: nativity story, Christmas truth, biblical history, Jesus birth, cultural context, Middle Eastern hospitality, historical accuracy, Christmas research, biblical scholarship, advent study Be blessed today, my friend. Mentions: CTAs: CTAs If you've been blessed by this podcast, help us bless others with your financial giving. It might be the best money you've ever spent. In addition to the podcast, join the community Secure your copy of Legacy, book one of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles  Secure your copy of Lunacy, book two of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Ask me to speak or facilitate at your event Follow me on Instagram: anna.moore.bradfield Follow me on Facebook: anna.moore.bradfield.author Reach out to me via Email: info@annamoorebradfield.com  

Hey, friend! What drives a man who has everything—wealth, armies, Roman citizenship, architectural genius—to order the murder of innocent babies? In this chilling Advent episode, Anna Bradfield unpacks the life of Herod the Great, the paranoid tyrant who built temples and fortresses yet couldn't sleep knowing a child had been born "King of the Jews." From touring Herod's mountaintop palace at Masada to examining the Proto-Evangelium's account of Zacharias's murder, this episode reveals how one man's desperate grip on power became the backdrop for God's greatest demonstration of sovereignty. Discover why Herod's legitimacy was always fragile, how his mental decline fueled the slaughter of Bethlehem's children, and what his story teaches modern believers about fear, control, and surrendering to God's kingdom. If you've ever clung too tightly to something you were afraid to lose, Herod's cautionary tale speaks directly to you—because some thrones are simply built too small to stand against the purposes of God. Key Takeaways 1. Fear Fuels Destructive Choices When We Cling to Our Own Control Herod's paranoia—rooted in his non-Jewish heritage, lack of Davidic lineage, and Rome-granted throne—illustrates how insecurity drives people to desperate measures. When the Magi asked about the newborn king, Herod didn't hear prophecy fulfilled; he heard a threat to his fragile legitimacy. This led him to deceive with religious language, manipulate Scripture for political gain, and ultimately order the massacre of innocent children. The episode reveals a devastating progression: unchecked fear leads to grasping, grasping leads to controlling, and controlling leads to the destruction of ourselves and others. Listeners learn that protecting "kingdoms" that were never ours to begin with always ends in loss. 2. Earthly Power Is Fragile, But God's Kingdom Is Unshakable The contrast couldn't be more striking: Herod's palace at Herodium towered over Bethlehem while the true King lay in a feeding trough. Herod commanded armies, built architectural marvels, and wielded Roman authority, yet a newborn whose parents couldn't afford the normal temple sacrifice toppled his legacy. Today, Herod's name is synonymous with paranoia and cruelty, his buildings are ruins, and his divided kingdom disappeared—while Jesus' "quiet, humble, upside-down" kingdom became the largest movement in human history. The episode powerfully demonstrates that worldly grandeur is exposed as myth when the mightiest man on earth trembles before a child. 3. Even in the Presence of Evil, God's Purposes Cannot Be Stopped Herod's violence represents one of the darkest shadows in the nativity story—jarring, grieving, heartbreaking. Yet his cruelty couldn't derail God's plan. While Herod plotted, God was already warning the Magi, sending angels to Joseph, preparing Egypt as refuge, and fulfilling centuries-old prophecies. Herod was powerful but not sovereign. His schemes didn't stop salvation—they played directly into the divine plan. The episode emphasizes that evil's presence is not evidence of God's absence; rather, it's the backdrop against which redemption shines brighter. No "Herod of our day" can stop what God purposes. 4. Success Without Spiritual Health Leads to Catastrophic Loss Despite his intelligence, ability, wealth, and unprecedented building projects, Herod's life was ultimately wasted. His deep affection for one wife was destroyed by his own paranoia, leading him to murder her, their sons, and her entire family. His mental instability, arteriosclerosis, and inability to trust anyone meant his final years were marked by pain, revolts, and loss of Roman favor. He altered his will three times and killed his firstborn son. The episode warns that external achievement means nothing without internal peace and surrender to God. 5. Manipulation of Scripture for Personal Gain Reveals Spiritual Bankruptcy Herod consulted priests about where the Messiah would be born, rece

Hey, friend! What if everything you thought you knew about Mary, the mother of Jesus, was only half the story? In this fascinating Advent episode, Anna Bradfield uncovers details from the Proto-Evangelium of James—a 2nd-century document that reveals Mary's childhood in the temple, her miraculous selection by divine sign, and little-known accounts from Jesus' birth that never made it into Scripture. From Anna's barren prayer under a laurel tree to Joseph's reluctant betrothal, from the frozen moment when time stood still at Jesus' birth to the midwife whose hand was burned for doubting—this episode reads like a biblical thriller. But beyond the captivating narrative lies a powerful question: What extraordinary plan might God be inviting you into if you would simply say yes? Discover how Mary's deep knowledge of Scripture prepared her to recognize God's voice, why surrender is the most powerful response a believer can give, and how an ordinary teenage girl from Nazareth became the vessel for the world's redemption. Key Takeaways 1. God Delights in Including Ordinary People in His Extraordinary Plans Mary had no platform, no pedigree, no special qualifications—just a willing heart. The Proto-Evangelium account reveals that even her conception was miraculous (her mother Anna was barren), showing that God orchestrates events generations in advance. This takeaway encourages listeners that God can use them regardless of their background, education, or influence. If God chose an obscure teenage girl to carry His Son, He can certainly use anyone who says yes to His calling. 2. Surrender Isn't Passive—It's the Most Powerful Yes a Believer Can Give When Mary said "Let it be according to your word," she wasn't resigning herself to fate; she was actively choosing trust over fear despite enormous personal risk (social disgrace, potential death penalty). The episode reframes surrender from weakness to strength, from giving up to giving over. Listeners learn that the greatest breakthroughs in their own lives may hinge on their willingness to surrender control and trust God's plan, even when it doesn't make sense. 3. A Life Shaped by Scripture Prepares You to Recognize God's Voice Mary's Magnificat (her song of praise) was filled with Old Testament references, proving she had absorbed God's Word deeply. She didn't just memorize Scripture—it transformed her understanding of God's character, making her ready to receive His calling when it came. This takeaway challenges listeners to examine their own Bible engagement: Are they casually reading, or letting God's Word reshape their thinking? The episode emphasizes that knowing Scripture helps believers discern genuine divine prompting from counterfeits. 4. God's Timing Often Includes Years of Hidden Preparation If the Proto-Evangelium account is accurate, Mary spent years in the temple from age 3 to 12-16, being prepared spiritually for her ultimate calling without knowing what that calling would be. Similarly, Joseph was chosen through divine sign (the dove from his rod) when he didn't even want to be considered. The episode reveals that what feels like delay or obscurity in our lives may actually be God's intentional preparation season for a future we can't yet see. 5. God's Plans Often Look Scandalous Before They Look Glorious Both Mary and Joseph faced public scrutiny, tribunal examination, and were forced to drink "bitter water" to prove their innocence. What God was doing looked like sin and shame before it was revealed as salvation. This takeaway offers hope to listeners walking through seasons where God's work in their life is misunderstood, criticized, or looks messy from the outside. The episode encourages believers to trust that vindication and clarity will come in God's timing. Key Themes The Proto-Evangelium of James • Mary's Childhood and Preparation • Divine Selection and Calling • Surrender and Obedience • Scripture Memory and Transformation • Barrenness to Miraculous

What if the very thing you thought made you a good Christian was actually keeping you from experiencing God's love? In this powerful episode, author and podcast host Leneé Pezzano reveals how decades of rule-following, striving, and fear of failure masked a painful truth: she knew God as the Lion but had never experienced Him as the Lamb. From childhood bullying that sparked shame-based thinking to religious experiences that reinforced performance over relationship to a breakthrough that came through writing a book she never planned on, the story Leneé shares will resonate with anyone who has ever felt exhausted trying to earn God's approval. Discover why perfectionism is actually rooted in counterfeit beliefs, and how surrendering control can finally bring the peace, joy, and intimacy with God you've desperately sought. Key Takeaways 1. Perfectionism Is Often Rooted in Childhood Trauma and Shame Leneé traces her perfectionism back to age eight, when bullying, a chaotic home environment, and lack of emotional safety created a need to control her world. Understanding the origins of perfectionist thinking—whether from family dynamics, peer rejection, or generational patterns—is the first step toward healing. This episode validates listeners who've wondered why they struggle with self-criticism and reveals that God wants to address the root causes, not just the symptoms. 2. Following Rules Isn't the Same as Knowing God's Heart One of the episode's most profound revelations is an admission from Leneé that she could obey with the best of them but had never truly felt safe approaching God as His daughter. Religious upbringing and church culture can inadvertently reinforce performance-based faith. The key distinction is that obedience driven by fear of punishment versus obedience flowing from love and intimacy produces radically different spiritual fruit. 3. God Often Reveals Strongholds Through Obedience, Not Before Leneé shares how God called her to write a book before revealing what it would be about, forcing her to trust Him without knowing the destination. This pattern (obey first, understand later) challenges perfectionists who want all the answers before taking action. The episode encourages listeners that stepping out in faith, even when afraid, opens doors to healing and revelation they could never access through analysis alone. 4. Grace Is Power, Not Just Forgiveness The episode redefines grace beyond "unlimited forgiveness" to its fuller biblical meaning: God's ability working where we have no ability. Grace equips and enables believers to do what they couldn't do on their own—starting with salvation but extending to every area of need. This understanding transforms how perfectionists approach their struggles: instead of striving harder, they learn to receive divine help. 5. Healing Is a Process—Celebrate the Small Wins A mentor of Leneé told her, "Be kind to yourself. This is a process." These words brought breakthrough permission to stop expecting instant perfection in her recovery from perfectionism. The episode emphasizes that God delights in small beginnings and that progress, not perfection, is the goal. Listeners learn practical tools (journaling, worship, Scripture, community, inner healing) for entering God's presence and renewing their minds over time. Key Themes Perfectionism and Faith • Performance-Based Christianity • God's Grace vs. Legalism • Shame and Self-Worth • Childhood Trauma and Spiritual Formation • Fear of Failure • Knowing God as Father • The Book of Galatians • Religious Spirits and Counterfeits • Obedience from Love vs. Fear • Renewing the Mind • Inner Healing and Neuroscience • Approaching God's Throne • Identity as God's Child • Writing as Ministry • Surrendering Control • Celebrating Small Victories Who Will Benefit From This Episode ✓ Christians who feel exhausted from trying to earn God's approval through constant rule-following and performance ✓ Anyone who struggles with fear

What happens when seven believers who've faced devastating loss, life-threatening health crises, and overwhelming depression come together to celebrate one year of sharing their stories? In this powerful anniversary episode of God's Power Stories, discover how tragedy became testimony, how grief transformed into glory, and how ordinary people experienced extraordinary encounters with God's sustaining power. From a mother who lost her teenage daughter to a man who survived an impossible heart attack, these raw conversations reveal the secret to not just surviving life's darkest valleys—but emerging with unshakeable faith, renewed purpose, and the courage to help others find hope. Key Takeaways 1. Your Story Has Power—Even When You're Afraid to Share It Multiple guests reveal their initial fear of going public with their testimonies, from concerns about family reactions to worries about judgment. Yet each discovered that vulnerability opens doors for God to work miracles in others' lives. The episode demonstrates that your hardest experiences—whether unplanned pregnancy, losing a child, widowhood, or depression—become your greatest ministry tools when surrendered to God. 2. Courage Isn't the Absence of Fear—It's Obedience Despite It Shauna Parker shares how God called her to be "very courageous" (Joshua 1:7) after her near-death experience, even when she wanted to speak about safer topics. The recurring theme across all seven guests is that stepping outside your comfort zone—whether starting a Bible study, writing a book, or sharing your testimony—unleashes God's transformative power in ways you never imagined. 3. God Works Miracles in the Waiting—Even When You Can't See Them Pam Cantola's eight-year family battle seemed hopeless until August brought unexpected breakthrough. Her testimony about God "moving mountains into the sea" reminds listeners that divine intervention often happens behind the scenes, requiring persistent faith when circumstances suggest giving up. This takeaway offers profound encouragement for anyone in prolonged seasons of struggle. 4. Grief Can Become Your Greatest Teacher When You Walk Through It With God Lisa's journey from devastating widowhood to renewed purpose illustrates how God transforms "sad memories into gladness" (Jeremiah 31:13). Her evolution from feeling silenced as a pastor's kid/wife to boldly sharing her story demonstrates that grief—whether from death, job loss, health issues, or broken relationships—becomes the classroom where God refines and prepares you for your calling. 5. Community and Shared Testimony Create Exponential Kingdom Impact The roundtable format reveals how one person's courage inspires another's breakthrough. From Amber watching her husband develop faith during family hardship to Rachel winning Nonfiction Book of the Year for Pray Naturally, the episode proves that telling your story publicly creates ripple effects you may never fully witness—but God uses to draw countless others to Himself. Key Themes Redemptive Suffering • The Power of Testimony • Courage Over Comfort • Faith Through Loss • Divine Timing • Breaking Silence • Spiritual Warfare Against Sharing Your Story • God's Faithfulness in Crisis • Transformation Through Tragedy • Walking Through Grief with Hope • Miraculous Healing • Purpose from Pain • Building Faith Community • Second Chances • Stepping Out of Comfort Zones • Revival Through Personal Stories Who Will Benefit From This Episode ✓ Anyone walking through grief or loss (death of loved ones, job loss, health decline, broken relationships) ✓ Parents facing crisis with their children (prodigal situations, addiction, unplanned pregnancy, rebellion) ✓ People struggling with depression, anxiety, or feeling "stuck" who need hope that breakthrough is possible ✓ Christians who feel called to share their testimony but are paralyzed by fear of judgment or getting it wrong ✓ Individuals who've experienced trauma or near-death experiences and wond

Hey, friend! It’s Anna with God’s Power Stories. Welcome to Heart Check, a supplemental reflection series where we pause, dig deeper, and apply the truths from our latest GPS episode to your own life. In this Heart Check, we're exploring how to pivot from the pain of looking backward to the hope of moving forward, from Episode 060. Join my co-host Lisa and me as we have an honest conversation about overcoming fear, rebuilding identity after loss, and trusting God's hand when the future feels uncertain. We'll discuss: Understanding why fear keeps us trapped looking at the past instead of reaching for the future Learning how to balance trusting God's promises with taking practical forward steps Discovering how to live with no regrets by reframing what loss has afforded us Let's jump in!

Hey, friend! Your identity has been wrapped up in one role for so long—wife, husband, parent, executive, caregiver—that you can't imagine who you are without it. But suddenly, that defining role is gone. You're still here, still kicking, but paralyzed by fear. How do you move forward when you're terrified of repeating past mistakes? How do you pivot from looking backward at pain to looking forward with hope? In this deeply personal episode, I share my journey of rebuilding my identity as a single mother after my breakup with Mr. Conditional. I reveal the three critical questions that I felt compelled to answer in order to move forward, along with the biblical truths that made the pivot possible. I explore why we get stuck in our past, how the enemy uses our pain to steal our future, and the practical steps God used to help me build confidence and create a new life. In This Episode: Why looking backward steals your future and keeps you in bondage The uncomfortable truth: everybody lies (including to themselves) Seven types of lies we tell ourselves that keep us stuck John 8:32 in action: how knowing the truth sets you free from repeating mistakes "Acting as if"—why behaving confidently can create actual confidence The brain science of celebrating small wins (and why it matters) Creating new traditions and memories to replace painful triggers How to handle songs, places, and experiences tied to your old identity Living with no regrets: what lessons to take from your pain Shifting focus from "what was taken" to "what was afforded" The spiritual warfare perspective: why the enemy wants you focused on the past Reframing your future with God's vision instead of your fear Key Themes: Rebuilding identity after loss, overcoming fear of the future, moving forward after breakup, single mom encouragement, healing from relationship trauma, confronting truth about yourself, building confidence, creating new traditions, spiritual warfare and the past, God's vision vs fear, celebrating small wins, letting go of the past, no regrets living, transformation after loss Whether you're recovering from divorce, job loss, empty nest, the end of caregiving, or any other identity-shifting transition, this episode offers practical wisdom and spiritual truth for making the pivot from pain to purpose. Fear may be holding on tight, but God's hand is stronger—and He has a vision for your future that's worth reaching for. Content Note: This episode discusses breakup recovery, confronting painful truths, and rebuilding after loss with practical application. God's blessings on you as you work to rebuild your identity in Christ today, my friend.  Always, Anna CTAs If you've been blessed by this podcast, help us bless others with your financial giving. It might be the best money you've ever spent. In addition to the podcast, join the community Secure your copy of Legacy, book one of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles  Secure your copy of Lunacy, book two of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Ask me to speak or facilitate at your event Follow me on Instagram: anna.moore.bradfield Follow me on Facebook: anna.moore.bradfield.author

You know you should pray, but your prayers feel weak and tentative, like you're begging for scraps instead of approaching a Father who loves you. You ask timidly, hoping maybe God will answer, wondering if you have any real authority at all. But what if you've been created to rule and reign, to partner with heaven to bring God's will to earth? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Jenilee Samuel—pastor, podcast coach, and mom of four boys—who shares three incredible stories of learning to recognize God's voice and step into spiritual authority. From mysterious doors swinging open throughout her house to Hurricane Harvey destroying everything she owned, to a stunning open-heaven vision on her back porch, Jenilee reveals how God taught her that believers aren't meant to live as beggars but as sons and daughters with real authority in the earth. Her Hurricane Harvey story alone will revolutionize how you view trials. Her children later said the hurricane was their favorite part of the year because of all the miracles they witnessed. Key Takeaways: Physical Signs Confirm Spiritual Realities: When Jenilee's doors kept opening supernaturally, God was confirming He was about to open doors she couldn't open herself. Thanksgiving Activates Miracles: Shifting from desperate pleas to prayers of thanksgiving positioned Jenilee to receive miraculous provision (including a call from Good Morning America). Angels Wait for Our Words: In an open-heaven vision, Jenilee learned that angels are held back until believers speak and pray; our words release heaven's activity. Your Mouth Is Your Most Anointed Weapon: God spoke the world into existence with words, then made us in His image. Our words create, establish, and shift spiritual realities. Focus Determines Experience: By intentionally looking for what God was doing during Hurricane Harvey, Jenilee's children experienced the same traumatic event as miraculous instead of devastating. Authority Requires Partnership: God has given believers dominion in the earth, but He won't move unilaterally. He partners with his sons and daughters who pray and speak his will. Key Themes: Hearing God's voice, spiritual authority in prayer, walking in dominion, open doors from God, prophetic signs and wonders, Hurricane Harvey testimony, angelic activity, open heaven vision, harvesting angels, power of words, thanksgiving in trials, protecting children from trauma, stepping into identity as sons of God, prayer that shifts heaven, looking for what God is doing, supernatural provision Who Will Benefit from This Episode: Whether you struggle with weak or tentative prayers, wonder if God really speaks to ordinary people, feel powerless in difficult circumstances, want to protect your children's hearts during trials, need breakthrough in impossible situations, or have never understood your authority as a believer, this episode will transform how you pray and live. Jenilee's stories are especially powerful for parents walking through crisis, anyone facing overwhelming circumstances, and believers ready to move beyond "does God love me?" to "what is my role in bringing His kingdom to earth?" Content Note: This episode discusses natural disasters (Hurricane Harvey), total loss of possessions, evacuation, open-heaven visions, angelic encounters, and stepping into spiritual authority. Jenilee's testimonies demonstrate the active partnership between heaven and believers who pray with boldness and faith. This episode will challenge you to see yourself not as a beggar before God but as his child with real authority. You'll know exactly how to step into that identity through prayer, thanksgiving, and obedience. Mentions:   CTAs If you've been blessed by this podcast, help us bless others with your financial giving. It might be the best money you've ever spent. In addition to the podcast, join the community Secure your copy of Legacy, book one of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles  Secure yo

Hey, friend! Welcome to Heart Check, a supplemental reflection series where we pause, dig deeper, and apply the truths from our latest God's Power Stories episode to your own life. In this Heart Check, we're exploring what it means to be a new creation in Christ and why hidden shame keeps us from experiencing that freedom, from Episode 057. I'm Lisa Bosse. Join Anna and me as we have an honest conversation about recognizing the shame we've buried, forgiving ourselves, and accepting the complete freedom Christ died to give us. We'll discuss: Understanding why we think we can hide our shame even from God Learning why forgiving ourselves is often harder than accepting God's forgiveness Discovering practical steps to move from hidden shame to genuine freedom Let's jump in!

Hey, friend! Discover God's powerful path to freedom from hidden shame in this transformative Christian podcast episode. Learn how unaddressed shame can dim your light for Christ and keep you from experiencing complete healing, even after forgiveness. This deeply personal episode reveals: Why shame often remains hidden even after we've forgiven others and received God's forgiveness How Satan uses our hidden shame to oppress and silence our testimony The difference between forgiving others and forgiving ourselves An 11-step process for complete healing: recognize, relive, repent, return, release, receive, redeem, restore, renew, revive, and radical transformation How to identify when shame is creating a "film" on your spiritual light The courage needed to show God what you've been hiding Why complete transparency with God leads to radical freedom A powerful prayer for releasing shame and receiving God's restoration This episode is perfect for anyone struggling with past mistakes, hidden guilt, or feeling like their light for Christ isn't shining as brightly as it should. This episode transforms from teaching into a real-time prayer experience, offering hope and healing for those ready to shed the shame of their past. May you find the courage to shake off the shame that God has already forgiven you for today, my friend. Always, Anna CTAs If you've been blessed by this podcast, help us bless others with your financial giving. It might be the best money you've ever spent. In addition to the podcast, join the community Secure your copy of Legacy, book one of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles  Secure your copy of Lunacy, book two of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Ask me to speak or facilitate at your event Follow me on Instagram: anna.moore.bradfield Follow me on Facebook: anna.moore.bradfield.author

You've buried a longing so deep that you won't even pray about it. Maybe it's finding a lost family member, healing a broken relationship, or discovering your true identity. You've convinced yourself that it's too hard, even for God. You smile, say you're fine, and pretend the ache doesn't exist. Can God see that secret desire you won't even speak out loud? In this powerful continuation of Derrick Frank's story, witness one of the most miraculous testimonies you've ever heard. After God supernaturally freed Derrick from jail on Good Friday, Derrick built a life serving God. But he carried a hidden wound. Growing up without knowing his father's identity left a hole Derrick thought was impossible to fill. He never prayed about finding his dad because he believed it was beyond even God's reach. But God had other plans. Through a prophetic word, a DNA test, a BBC podcast, and perfect divine timing, God orchestrated a father-son reunion that defied all odds. Then went even further. Key Takeaways: God Knows Your Hidden Longings: Derrick buried his desire to find his father so deep that he never told anyone. But you can't hide anything from God. Nothing Is Too Hard for God: Derrick never prayed to find his dad because he thought it was impossible, yet God gave him the desire of his heart without being asked. Prophetic Words Reveal God's Plans: A prophet spoke about restoring Derrick's relationship with his father, opening the door to supernatural breakthrough. Divine Timing Is Strategic: Derrick found his dad at age 48 when his father was 84—just in time to make things right before he passed. Act Like It's True (A-LIT): Faith requires acting on God's word even when circumstances seem impossible. God's Limits Are Our Limits: The only limitations on what God can do are the limits we place on our own faith and belief. Key Themes: Finding biological father, DNA discovery miracle, prophetic word fulfillment, God knows secret desires, father-son reunion, divine timing, supernatural guidance, Ancestry.com miracle, healing father wounds, identity in Christ, walking by faith not sight, nothing too hard for God, answered unproken prayers, so-called bastard reborn king, removing limits from God, forgiveness and reconciliation Who Will Benefit from This Episode: Whether you're searching for lost family members, carrying wounds from absent parents, struggling to believe God for something that seems impossible, dealing with identity issues from your past, or have stopped praying about something because you think it's too hard for God, this episode will revolutionize your understanding of God's love and limitless power. Derrick's story is especially powerful for adoptees, those with unknown parentage, and anyone who has placed limits on what they believe God can do. Content Note: This episode discusses growing up without a father, hidden family secrets, racial tensions in the 1950s, DNA discoveries, adoption, and end-of-life reconciliation. Derrick's testimony demonstrates that nothing is too hard for God and no secret longing is hidden from Him. This is part two of Derek's incredible story—if you haven't heard part one about his supernatural release from jail, go back and listen to that first for the full impact of God's miraculous work in his life! Mentions Mentions: Derrick's Book, So-Called Bastard, Reborn King Connect with Derrick on his website, Facebook, or TikTok. CTAs If you've been blessed by this podcast, help us bless others with your financial giving. It might be the best money you've ever spent. In addition to the podcast, join the community Secure your copy of Legacy, book one of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles  Secure your copy of Lunacy, book two of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Ask me to speak or facilitate at your event Follow me on Instagram: anna.moore.bradfield Follow me on Facebook: anna.moore.bradfield.author

Hey, friend! It’s Anna Moore Bradfield, welcoming you to Heart Check, a supplemental reflection series of God’s Power Stories where we pause, dig deeper, and apply the truths from our latest God's Power Stories episode to your own life. In this Heart Check, we're exploring the transformative power of biblical forgiveness from Episode 054. Join my co-host, Lisa Bosse, and me as we have an honest conversation about letting go of pain, releasing resentment, and finding freedom through forgiveness. We'll discuss: Why feeling the hurt is actually the first step toward genuine forgiveness How self-righteousness keeps us trapped in bitterness and blocks our healing Practical steps for choosing release when justice feels more appealing Understanding that forgiveness sets YOU free, regardless of the other person's response These Heart Check episodes are designed to be your safe space for reflection, growth, and authentic conversation about faith, relationships, and God's work in our lives. It’s perfect for your morning coffee, afternoon walk, or evening wind-down. If you missed the full story in Episode 054, go back and listen first, then join us here for this deeper dive into what it all means for your heart and your life. Let’s jump in! Key insights: forgiveness, reflection, faith growth, Christian living, biblical insights, spiritual formation, personal development, emotional healing, authentic conversation CTAs If you've been blessed by this podcast, help us bless others with your financial giving. It might be the best money you've ever spent. In addition to the podcast, join the community Secure your copy of Legacy, book one of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles  Secure your copy of Lunacy, book two of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Ask me to speak or facilitate at your event Follow me on Instagram: anna.moore.bradfield Follow me on Facebook: anna.moore.bradfield.author

Hi, there! Discover the life-changing power of biblical forgiveness in this transformative episode of God's Power Stories. Learn why traditional approaches to forgiveness often fail and explore the three essential stages of true forgiveness that actually work. Topics include: Understanding why you must feel the hurt before you can truly forgive Recognizing and releasing feelings of superiority over those who wronged you Choosing to no longer hold wrongs against offending persons for YOUR freedom Using prayer journaling as a tool for processing pain and resentment Why forgiveness is your gift to yourself, not a favor to your offender This episode is perfect for anyone struggling with bitterness, betrayal, toxic relationships, or the pain of conditional love. This episode reveals how biblical forgiveness becomes your pathway to emotional freedom and spiritual healing. May you experience the freedom that only forgiveness can bring in your life today, my friend.  Always, Anna CTAs If you've been blessed by this podcast, help us bless others with your financial giving. It might be the best money you've ever spent. In addition to the podcast, join the community Secure your copy of Legacy, book one of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles  Secure your copy of Lunacy, book two of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Ask me to speak or facilitate at your event Follow me on Instagram: anna.moore.bradfield Follow me on Facebook: anna.moore.bradfield.author  

Hey, friend! You've been going to church your whole life, but something's missing. You know the routines, sing the songs, and may even serve on committees. But deep down, you wonder if God is really real or if He actually cares about you personally. You're living someone else's faith, not your own. And when life crashes down around you, that borrowed religion won't be enough to save you. In this powerful episode, I sit down with Derrick Frank, an Atlanta-based entrepreneur and pastor, who shares his incredible testimony of how God met him at the absolute lowest point of his life. Derrick grew up attending church but was living someone else's religion. After serving in the military, he fell into drug dealing. He eventually found himself wrongly accused of first-degree murder and trapped in the bottom level of a jail reserved for the most serious offenders. With a witness claiming Derrick shot him, the evidence stacked against him, and his own lawyer convinced he'd be convicted, Derrick faced life in prison. But God had other plans. Key Takeaways: Religion vs. Relationship: Attending church doesn't equal having a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Derrick discovered this life-changing difference in a jail cell. God Speaks in Darkness: The supernatural voice that told Derrick to lift his mattress revealed a Bible underneath, transforming everything. Faith Requires Action: God told Derrick to pack his belongings the night before his trial when all evidence said he'd be convicted.  Divine Timing Is Strategic: Derrick's release happened on Good Friday morning, off the normal jail schedule, after nine and a half months of continued court dates. Supernatural Peace Transcends Circumstances: Reading the Bible for the first time, Derrick experienced overwhelming peace even surrounded by noise, violence, and despair. Walking by Faith, Not by Sight: True faith means believing and acting on God's promises even when all evidence points to the opposite outcome. Key Themes: Religion vs relationship with God, personal testimony of faith, supernatural deliverance, prayer in crisis, hearing God's voice, Bible transforms lives, wrongful murder accusation, jail ministry, Good Friday miracle, faith without works, walking by faith not sight, overcoming false accusations, God's perfect timing, spiritual transformation, finding Jesus in prison Who Will Benefit from This Episode: Whether you've been going through the motions of religion without experiencing God personally, you're facing impossible circumstances that require supernatural intervention, you're dealing with false accusations or legal troubles, or you're wondering if God really speaks to people today, this episode offers proof that God is real, He sees you, and He can deliver you from any pit. Derrick's story is especially powerful for those who feel they've gone too far or made too many mistakes for God to care about them. Content Note: This episode discusses drug dealing, violence, murder accusations, jail conditions, suicidal thoughts, and childhood abuse within the context of redemption and transformation. Derrick's testimony demonstrates God's power to save and deliver in even the darkest circumstances. May you discover the difference between religion and relationship in your own life today, my friend.  Always, Anna Mentions: Derrick's Book, So-Called Bastard, Reborn King James 2:19-21 (NIV)  CTAs Connect with Derrick on his website, Facebook, or TikTok. If you've received value out of God's Power Stories, please give back today by supporting financially.  In addition to the podcast, join the community at AnnaMooreBradfield.com Secure your copy of Legacy, book one of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Secure your copy of Lunacy, book two of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Ask me to speak or facilitate at your event Follow me on Instagram: anna.moore.bradfield Follow me on Facebook: anna.moore.bradfield.author

Hey, friend! Welcome to Heart Check, a supplemental reflection series where we pause, dig deeper, and apply the truths from our latest God's Power Stories episode to your own life. In this Heart Check, we're exploring God's voice over the lies about our worth from Episode 051. I’m Lisa Bosse. Join Anna and me as we have an honest conversation about identity, God's declarations over our lives, and learning to silence the voices that tell us we don't matter. We'll discuss: Recognizing the difference between God's voice and the lies we believe about ourselves Understanding what it means to be precious and honored in God's sight Practical ways to let God's truth speak louder than our past failures Let’s jump in!

Hi, there, friend: What happens when you escape a toxic relationship but still feel broken, lost, and worthless? In this powerful continuation of my story from Episode 048, I share how God slowly restored my sense of worth and identity after leaving Mr. Conditional behind. Moving to Michigan with just $130, two children, and a heart full of pain, I discovered that healing doesn't happen overnight, but that God's timing is always perfect. Through practical struggles like finding a job, making friends, and even dealing with a refrigerator return, I learned to see myself as God sees me: someone worth sending His son to die for. You'll discover: How God uses everyday circumstances to heal past trauma Why starting over can feel harder than staying in dysfunction The importance of loving God with heart, soul, mind, and strength during recovery How God's provision shows up in unexpected ways Why divine timing matters more than our timeline for healing Practical steps for rebuilding your life after toxic relationships How to recognize God's "kisses" and "winks" in daily life Key Scripture: Mark 12:30-31 - Loving God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and the connection to finding your true worth in Christ. This episode is perfect for single mothers starting over, anyone recovering from toxic relationships, or those questioning their value and worth. This story proves that no matter how broken you feel, God sees your true value and has a plan for your abundant life. May you identify your true value in Christ today, my friend. Always, Anna  

Hey, Friend! Discover the remarkable journey of Reverend Beth Caulfield, an ordained elder who said, "Yes, Lord" to every unexpected calling. This inspiring episode reveals how God transformed a corporate executive into a pastor, prison minister, and faith-based filmmaker. Topics include: Learning to recognize and respond to God's calling in unexpected circumstances Transitioning from Fortune 50 companies to seminary at age 40 Building bridges across denominational and theological differences through Bible study Starting prison ministries and seeing God work in the most unlikely places Writing and directing the pro-life film "Conceivable" based on her personal testimony Navigating church splits and helping form the Global Methodist Church Understanding the prophetic and apostolic gifts in ministry Finding peace in uncertainty while stepping out in radical faith This episode is perfect for anyone struggling to discern God's voice, feeling called to unconventional ministry, or wondering how creative gifts fit into Christian service. Beth's story demonstrates that when we say, "Yes, Lord," God makes our paths straight—even when those paths lead through seminary classrooms, prison cells, and film studios. May you give your radical "yes" to God in your own life today, my friend. Always, Anna Mentions: Register for The Well Conference today! Take an additional $50 off the price by using this code: GPS50 International Christian Film Festival The Conceivable trailer and other info Follow and like Conceivable on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok Pre-release showings are available to pregnancy centers, pro-life groups and churches. For more information, contact Beth at rev.bethcaulfield1@gmail.com.  Jana Lee Hamblin Isaiah 40:8-10 (NIV) CTAs If you've received value out of God's Power Stories, please give back today by supporting financially.  Register for The Well Conference! Take an additional $50 off the price by using this code: GPS50 In addition to the podcast, join the community at AnnaMooreBradfield.com Secure your copy of Legacy, book one of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Secure your copy of Lunacy, book two of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Follow me on Instagram: anna.moore.bradfield Follow me on Facebook: anna.moore.bradfield.author  

Hey, friend! Welcome to Heart Check, a supplemental reflection series where we pause, dig deeper, and apply the truths from our latest God's Power Stories episode to your own life. I’m the host of God’s Power Stories, Anna Moore Bradfield. In this Heart Check, we're exploring God's unconditional love from Episode 048. Join me along with co-host Lisa Bosse as we have an honest conversation about conditional versus unconditional love, toxic relationships, and the healing power of knowing you're already enough. We'll discuss: Recognizing when we're trying to earn love that's already ours How God's unconditional love changes everything Breaking free from conditional love patterns in relationships Let’s get to it! Mentions: Romans 8:38-39 (NIV) The story of Mary and Martha Psalm 46:10 (NIV) CTAs Comment or review on your podcast platform your commitment to remembering God's love for you In addition to the podcast, join the community at AnnaMooreBradfield.com Secure your copy of Legacy, book one of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Secure your copy of Lunacy, book two of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Follow me on Instagram: anna.moore.bradfield Follow me on Facebook: anna.moore.bradfield.author  

Hey, friend. Have you ever asked someone, "When will I be enough for you?" In this vulnerable episode of God's Power Stories, I share one of the most painful periods of my life, being in a relationship with someone struggling with sexual addiction and pornography. Through raw honesty, I reveal how I wrestled with feelings of rejection, unworthiness, and confusion while trying to navigate a toxic relationship as a Christian. You'll discover the transformative power of unconditional love when I finally found the courage to confide in my sister, and how her Christ-like response became a turning point in my healing journey. Key topics include: Recognizing conditional vs unconditional love Breaking free from toxic relationships Finding trusted people to share your struggles with Dealing with sexual addiction in relationships Christian perspectives on love and forgiveness Setting healthy boundaries The healing power of vulnerability and truth-telling If you've ever felt unloved, rejected, or not enough, this episode offers hope and practical steps toward finding the unconditional love God has for you. Join me for this honest conversation about love, healing, and the courage to seek help. This is part one of a series exploring these themes - stay tuned for more episodes on this journey of healing and discovery. May you connect with the ultimate Source of unconditional love in your own walk today, my friend. Always, Anna CTAs In addition to the podcast, join the community at AnnaMooreBradfield.com Secure your copy of Legacy, book one of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Secure your copy of Lunacy, book two of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Follow me on Instagram: anna.moore.bradfield Follow me on Facebook: anna.moore.bradfield.author

Hey, friend! I'm so excited to bring this powerful conversation with my friend from childhood, Lisa Bosse. Her faith journey took her through the heartbreaking loss of not one but two husbands. In this deeply moving episode of God's Power Stories, Lisa shares how God's presence sustained her through these events of sudden grief and unexpected loss.   Lisa opens up about losing her first husband Brent to Stage IV Melanoma after just 84 days. She found love again with John, only to suddenly lose him to a heart attack on Mother's Day 2023. Through tears and triumph, she reveals how God's promise, "I am with you and will never leave you," became her anchor through the storm.   You'll be encouraged by: God's perfect timing, even in tragedy. Finding hope and purpose after devastating loss. The difference between being lonely and being alone. Practical insights on grieving with faith. How to "unpack" memories and move forward, without wasting God's gifts. The power of resting in God's presence rather than striving in our own efforts Whether you're walking through grief, supporting someone who is, or simply looking for a reminder of God's unfailing love, Lisa's story will inspire you to trust God's plan even when life doesn't go as you had expected or hoped.   Lisa is in the beginning stages of writing a grief devotional. She'll also be featured soon in an anthology titled See Him in Every Season. She continues to find joy in the Smoky Mountains with family, along with the assurance that God never wastes anything, not even our deepest pain. May you hear God calling your name today, my friend. Always, Anna Mentions: ILNC - Indian Lake Nazarene Camp Sciatica Stage IV Melanoma Leukemia Give Me Faith The Stand Blood Mountain My Utmost for His Highest CTAs In addition to the podcast, join the community at AnnaMooreBradfield.com Secure your copy of Legacy, book one of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Secure your copy of Lunacy, book two of my biblical fiction series The Lambswool Chronicles Follow me on Instagram: anna.moore.bradfield Follow me on Facebook: anna.moore.bradfield.author