Got a Prodigal? Eight Conversation Starters You Can Use

Got a Prodigal? Eight Conversation Starters You Can Use

by | Jan 19, 2026 | Anxiety, Praying for prodigals, Praying for salvation, Prodigals, Worry

Hi Friends,
 
Welcome to week three of praying for our unsaved loved ones and prodigals. For those who have written to me over the past few weeks, I am so honored that you have shared your stories and prayer requests. God hears every single one of your prayers. Keep praying!
 
In this series, we are walking through the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15. Last week’s devotion touched on the sadness, embarrassment, confusion, and even anger we feel over our prodigals’ decisions to walk away from their faith. Yet they can run as far as they want, but they can never outrun the love and power of God. Hallelujah!
 
Today, let us talk about how we connect with our prodigals while they are far from God. Many of us have had faith-related conversations that ended in arguments or even damaged relationships. Maybe you've stayed silent because you don't know what to say about their prodigal journey or how to say it.
 
Today’s Happy Monday focuses on one powerful verse and eight conversation starters to help you shine the light of Jesus without getting in the way of what God’s Spirit is doing in your prodigal’s life.
 
This wisdom comes from Jesus’ half-brother, James, a key leader in the early church. Here is what James wrote that applies directly to how we approach our prodigals:
 
“Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.” James 1:19 NLT
 
1. Quick to Listen
God gave us two ears and one mouth, not the other way around. I am not criticizing anyone for expressing concern or sharing God’s truth. At the same time, I would gently suggest that in our urgency to push our prodigals back toward faith, many of us have not listened deeply enough to understand why they stepped away in the first place.
 
Being quick to listen means we care more about what they are saying than what we plan to say next. When we talk too fast or too much, we miss what is underneath their words. Often, prodigals drop clues about lies they have believed, hurts that were never healed, or confusion they do not know how to resolve.
Be aware, prodigals test the waters before opening up. They want to know if we will listen or argue. Listening communicates safety. It does not mean you agree with everything they say. You can listen in the same way God listens to you.
 
Afterward, you can tell them you will pray about what they shared. Many times, it is best not to respond immediately. Pray first. Talk with trusted friends, a pastor, or a counselor before responding. 
 
Reflection Moment: When it comes to your prodigal, are you quick to listen or quick to speak?
 
Two things often block good listening: fear and pride. Fear says, “We have to fix this now or something terrible will happen.” Pride says, “I am right, and they are wrong, so I need to convince them.” Neither fear nor pride leaves room to trust God’s work in their life.
 
Being quick to listen looks like taking a deep breath and asking God to help you be a calm, non anxious presence when you communicate with your prodigal. God is in control. You do not have to carry the pressure of fixing their walk with Jesus.
 
Here's Your Breath Prayer: (Inhale) God is in control, (Exhale) God, help me listen with Your heart and Your ears.
 
2. Slow to Speak
I struggle with this one. When I see my prodigals struggling, my heart wants to jump in and tell them exactly what to do. I am convinced I can help if they would just listen, right? But most prodigals already know what we would say. Especially for those raised in Christian homes, the issue is rarely lack of information. What they need is a personal, transformative encounter with God.
 
Being slow to speak means we pause and check in with God before opening our mouths. Sometimes God invites us to speak truth and love. More often, He prompts us to do less and say less, so His Spirit can do more. Our silence can create space for God to speak in ways we never could.
 
3. Slow to Get Angry
Do you get angry with your prodigal? Anger is the cover over deeper emotions like fear, grief, and sadness. Which one fits you best? Anger is often an expression of our powerlessness. We cannot fix or rescue them, and those emotions spill over.
 
How do we release the anger? The same surrender prayer we have used each week works here too: God, I can’t. But You can. I will let You. Amen.
 
Let’s Get Practical
Here are some conversation starters you can use if or when you sense God opening a door. Sometimes prodigals hesitate to bring up faith because they feel embarrassed or are not ready to repent deeply, but they may be willing to take one small step toward God.
 
This is why we stay prayed up. We never know when an opportunity will come, so we ask God to prepare us with wisdom, courage, self control, and grace.
If we do this right, we will partner with God in His work in our prodigal's life.  Choosing to live out James 1:19 is an act of faith. We show up, and we trust God’s Spirit to work in us and through us.
 
I pray today's devotion offered the hope you needed today, especially if past conversations have not gone well. It may take time for your prodigal to trust you again. Keep reaching out. Keep extending love.
 
I'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU: Which part of James 1:19 do you most need to apply in your relationship with your prodigal? Share whichever phrase resonated with you: “quick to listen," “slow to speak,” or “slow to get angry.”

Read the Entire Series: Praying For Our Loved Ones

How to Pray After They Walk Away From God

How to Pray After They Walk Away From God

by | Jan 12, 2026 | Anxiety, Praying for prodigals, Praying for salvation, Prodigals, Worry

Hi Everyone,
 
First, a big welcome to our new Happy Monday friends from the Aspire Women’s Events. Ladies, I am so glad you are here!
 
Today, we are tackling the topic I receive the most emails about: how to pray for loved ones who have turned away from God. You are not alone if you are praying for someone to come back to their faith. I'm praying for many loved ones, too!
 
This devotion is the second in our series on praying for our loved ones. If you missed last week, you can read it here. We are continuing our journey through the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15. Jesus taught this story to demonstrate God’s heart for the lost and how much they matter to Him. 
 
What is so hard when we see our loved ones turn away from God?
- We are upset that they are making unwise or destructive decisions, possibly causing pain to others.
- Our imagination fills with fears for their future, and we may worry that God will hit them with a big whammy.
- We grieve that we no longer connect over the most important part of our lives.
- We are frustrated because all of this is out of our control.
 
What resonates with you? If you feel deep grief, anger, or frustration, that's okay. But, I'd like for you to stick with me and read on. First, take a deep breath. Hold it. Exhale. Today's devotion gives you space to process how hard this has been for you - and to invite God to speak His truth and comfort into your hurting heart.
 
Let us step back into the story of the prodigal son. We pick up his story in Luke 15:13: “A few days later this younger son packed all his belongings and moved to a distant land, and there he wasted all his money in wild living.” 
-Luke 15:13 NLT
 
Did you know the Greek word asótós, used for wild or reckless, means “prodigal”? When people walk away from God, they head down the highway in the opposite direction called, Interstate ME. It's a road filled with pride.  As they move along this path, our loved ones may trade prayer for partying or the Bible for other religions. Yet, while they seem happy or relieved, we are often crushed as we watch this happen.
 
For parents, sometimes, our prodigal kids engage in what I call “loud” or visible sin that they post online for everyone to see. We want to die inside. Even if it's a quiet rebellion, their prodigal behavior pierces our hearts because we feel we raised them better. Many of us are embarrassed. We feel like their rebellion reflects badly on us. Where did we go wrong? What will people at church think?
 
Some of us have watched siblings, parents, or friends walk away from following Jesus. You tried to talk to them. You warned them. But they turned their back on God, and you are left feeling helpless. It is a terrible feeling.
 
It's so important to be honest about what you are thinking and feeling. If you need more space to grieve, I have this resource for you. 
 
Now, let us consider four reminders about our unsaved loved ones from God’s point of view.
 
1. God pursues our wayward loved ones. He never loses track of them.
It does not matter how far our loved ones run from God. They can never outrun Him. Think about your loved one right now, then read these verses from Scripture:
 
“For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.” -Luke 19:10 NLT
“I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself.” Jeremiah 31:3 NLT
“I can never escape from your Spirit. I can never get away from your presence!” Psalm 139:7 NLT
 
The good news is that your loved one can run as far as they want, and they will never outrun God. Just because God allows them to go their own way does not mean He has abandoned them or stopped waiting for them to return. Speak these verses to your heart when fear tries to convince you otherwise.
 
There is an old poem called The Hound of Heaven, published in 1890 by Catholic poet Francis Thompson. He struggled with addiction and poverty, yet he wrote this poem about God’s tireless pursuit of his soul even as he ran from Him.
God is the Hound of Heaven pursuing your loved one. Do not forget this.
 
2. Let go of shame or embarrassment. It is time to QTIP!
Maybe you needed today’s devotion just to hear this: you do not need to be ashamed or embarrassed if your loved ones have turned away from God.
If you have been around Happy Monday or completed one of my Bible studies, you know my favorite phrase: QTIP. Quit Taking It Personally.
 
Just as you cannot carry the responsibility for an unsaved loved one’s salvation, you do not need to carry embarrassment or shame for a backslidden believer’s decision to walk away. Taking responsibility for their choices means you are carrying a lie, and that lie can drag you into hopelessness and shipwreck your faith. Do not let that happen!
 
When my former spouse struggled with alcoholism, he stopped attending church and his men’s group. I worked on staff at my church, and I was deeply embarrassed during those early years of our family crisis. People constantly asked where he was. I did not want to lie, but I was too embarrassed to tell the truth. Eventually, I told the women in my Bible study group. It was such a relief. Their support empowered me to begin getting the help I needed in Al-Anon and counseling. As time went on, I gained the strength to look people in the eye and calmly say, “He has chosen not to attend church. I am praying for him, and I hope you will pray as well. Thank you.”
 
I do want to speak to those experiencing emotional or financial consequences because of someone else’s choices. This is when you need support and wise counsel, whether from a Bible study group, trusted friends, or a counselor. There is a difference between not taking something personally and not being safe.
 
Quit Taking It Personally means you do not have to shoulder embarrassment or blame for someone else’s choices. But if you are not safe or the emotional environment in your home is toxic, do not stay silent.
 
3. If they are not losing sleep over how they are living, you should not be either
 
Jesus asks in Matthew 6:27, “Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?”
 
Yes, their choices are a serious spiritual matter. But if they are not losing sleep over their decisions, why are you lying awake at night? You cannot change or rescue them. The good news is that God is watching over them, so you can close your eyes and go to sleep.
 
Worry changes nothing. Worship does. Praising God shifts your focus from what you cannot do to who God is and what He can do. I even have a Spotify playlist called Pray Like This (listen here)  if you need help worshipping more and worrying less.
 
4. Prayer changes things!
God hears every prayer, but make sure you pray in faith, not fear. Praying in faith means spending more time focused on God instead of spending all your prayer time rehearsing your fears. He already knows. God invites you to surrender your fears and your attempts to control the situation so you can trust Him.
 
If you need words to pray, here is the simple surrender prayer from my Stronger Than Stress book: God, I can’t. But You can. I will let You. Amen.
 
As we wrap up today’s devotion, let us apply that surrender prayer to our loved ones who are not walking with God. Pray this with me:
 
God, I cannot change the path that __________ is on right now. My heart grieves that they are so far from You.
 
Yet there is nothing too hard for You. I know You are a miracle-working God who pursues those who wander. Your Word is a sword that cuts through lies, so I pray that Your Word, already planted in their heart and mind, would come alive. Let it work within them and draw them back to You.
 
Finally, I release the embarrassment I have been carrying. I surrender my attempts to push or pressure them, and I choose to trust You to work. Amen.
 
I'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU: I hope today’s devotion encouraged and comforted your heart. Which of the four reminders stood out to you? Is there something you wish I had addressed that you are still struggling with?

Read the Entire Series: Praying For Our Loved Ones

Praying for Our Unsaved Loved Ones

Praying for Our Unsaved Loved Ones

by | Jan 5, 2026 | Anxiety, Praying for prodigals, Praying for salvation, Prodigals, Worry

Happy New Year, friends!
 
It is time to kick off our new Happy Monday series on praying for our loved ones. After I announced this series last week, many of you emailed me with family prayer requests. I stood at my kitchen sink with tears in my eyes as I read your messages. As we pray together over the next few weeks, I'm trusting God to work miraculously in our families. He can do it!
 
Today’s topic focuses on praying for our unsaved loved ones. We will address loved ones who have walked away from their faith next week.
 
You are not alone if you begged God to make sure your loved one had “fire insurance.” (If you grew up in the 80s like me, this was slang some Christians used for salvation.) Of course, we want our loved ones to experience the power and presence of God. We also worry they won't spend eternity with us.
 
Let's be honest about the frustration. Have you prayed for them and still gotten mad at them because they refuse to say yes to Jesus? You can see the emptiness in their lives as they chase money or possessions. You keep reaching out with invitations to church or Bible verses and they brush them aside. Watching them run from God can leave us sad, discouraged, or anxious.
 
You're not in this alone! I am so glad you are on this journey with me today. Come with me into the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15. We will spend the next couple of weeks here. Jesus teaches this story to highlight how much lost people matter to God.
 
The story begins like this: “A man had two sons. The younger son told his father, ‘I want my share of your estate now before you die.’ So his father agreed to divide his wealth between his sons.” -Luke 15:11 NLT
Imagine watching this scene. A son announces, “Give me my money so I can get out of here and live how I want.” Jesus’ audience would have been offended by the younger son’s request. What an ungrateful son. We can feel the ache in the father’s heart. He sacrificed for his son and knew his son would waste that sacrifice on foolishness and greed.
 
What does the father do? He lets the son have his way and gives him the inheritance. Jesus continues: “A few days later this younger son packed all his belongings…” -Luke 15:13 NLT
 
Even though this is a story from Jesus’ teaching, we can picture a loving father watching his son pack and willingly put distance between himself and the family who loves him. As I picture the father’s face, two words come to mind: heartache and rejection. Still, we need to pay close attention to how the father responds.
 
Based on what we see in the scripture, notice what the father does not do:
• He does not pressure his son to stay.
• He does not panic when the son walks out the door.
• He does not chase after the son.
 
How do you live and pray like the father when your loved ones run far from God? Here are a three thoughts for you to hold onto today:
 
First, the weight of your unsaved loved ones’ salvation is not on your shoulders.
 
Let that sink in for a moment. Drop your shoulders and exhale if you need to. Dear friend, I know you worry about their eternity, but your worry does not equal responsibility.
 
The father allowed the son to choose his own way. God is allowing your unsaved loved one to choose their own way, too. You can't control someone's choice to run from God. 
 
What are some clues you're carrying the weight of their salvation? Nagging (not asking) them to go to church or constant check-ins about their spiritual life are clues you're doing too much. Also, if they're telling you to “back off,” or they shut down in conversations, this is clue for you to shift your words for them into prayer.   
 
Remember, you came to faith on your knees, not on someone else's back. Give them the chance for the same type of  authentic come-to-Jesus experience.
 
Second, God is not holding your loved ones' salvation hostage until you pray the perfect prayer a prayer certain number of times.
 
Again, the weight of your unsaved loved ones' salvation is not on you.
 
Should you pray for their salvation? Yes. James 5:16 reminds us that the earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. 
 
This does not guarantee God will answer on your timeline or in the way you expect, but your prayers do have a supernatural effect. Do not stop praying! At the same time, put your faith in God's love for them and His timing. Don't put your faith in how much you're praying. That's making prayer about you, not God.
 
(If praying has felt frustrating or you are unsure what to say, January is a wonderful time to begin my Matthew: Pray Like This Bible study. It is designed to help you pray with confidence and clarity. You can find it here.)
 
Finally, God loves them and desires their salvation more than you do.
 
Here is a powerful reminder from Scripture:
“The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.” -2 Peter 3:9 NLT
 
This verse does not guarantee that everyone will accept Jesus. Sadly, some won't. But, you can rest assured that God loves your unsaved loved one and will give them every opportunity to be saved. Trust Him! 
 
TWO RESOURCES FOR YOU!
Friend, thank you for joining me today.
 
1. I have included an extended prayer below if you need words today. Feel free to share this devotion with friends who are praying for unsaved loved ones.
2. I've included a link to a “Come to Jesus” Prayer card that you can print to help you be intentional about praying for others.
 

BONUS: PRAYER FOR YOU & YOUR UNSAVED LOVED ONES

FREE RESOURCE: Come to Jesus Prayer Card

Praying for others' salvation is an important part of living out our faith! Here's a card to help you be more intentional about praying for people to come to know Jesus. This “Come to Jesus” prayer card was adapted from a resource from my church. I have a card like this taped to my bathroom mirror so I'll see the names of people to pray for other. Click the link below to save this card (there are prayer prompts included!).

DOWNLOAD HERE

Read the Entire Series: Praying For Our Loved Ones

What if Healing Begins with Rest? | Interview with Tracie Braylock

What if Healing Begins with Rest? | Interview with Tracie Braylock

by | Jan 5, 2026 | Bold Brave & Beautiful Podcast

What if stress isn’t just a problem to manage — but a signal to rest?

In this episode, Barb talks with nurse and author Tracie Braylock about Radical Relaxation — a healing, faith-filled approach to dealing with stress that goes beyond self-care checklists.

You’ll learn how engaging your God-designed relaxation response can lead to real peace, deeper trust, and lasting transformation — mind, body, and spirit.

Listen now and discover why rest might be the most radical act of faith you can take today.

RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE

Connect with Tracie on Instagram

Connect with Tracie on Facebook

Radical Relaxation: Releasing the Stress You Were Never Meant to Carry

Visit Tracie's Website

ABOUT OUR SPECIAL GUEST

Tracie Braylock (MSN, BSN, RN) is a holistic nurse educator, writer, and wellness consultant. As a former operating room nurse, she advocates for mind, body, spirit well-being, holistic wellness experiences, and liberating relaxation. Her work has been featured in the American Holistic Nurses Association New Beginnings magazine, Proverbs 31 Ministries, and Hallmark Mahogany. Tracie teaches workshops, leads retreats, and lectures on issues related to nursing, writing, self-care, and healing lifestyles. She lives in Ohio with her family.

Experience Life-Transforming Power of Prayer

Pray Like This Bible Study by Barb Roose

 

As a Christian, you know you’re supposed to pray. But do you ever find yourself wrestling with any of these questions related to prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Am I still praying if I read pre-written prayers?

If you’ve pondered these questions or others about prayer, my Pray Like Bible Study is for you.

Even if you're a prayer warrior, Pray Like This sharpens your prayer focus and is a great resource for you to teach others about prayer.There's a reason why Jesus was passionate about prayer and I want to show you how!

Click Here
Rediscovering Joy in Your Walk with God | Interview with Asheritah Ciuciu

Rediscovering Joy in Your Walk with God | Interview with Asheritah Ciuciu

by | Dec 15, 2025 | Bold Brave & Beautiful Podcast

Are you doing all the “right” Christian things but still struggling to feel joy? You’re not alone.

In this heartfelt conversation with special guest, Asheritah Ciuciu, we talk about what it means to move from duty to delight—from trying to earn God’s love to truly enjoying it.

Together we’ll explore the simple rhythms that restore joy and the freeing truth that we were created for delight—not performance. If your faith feels weary or stuck, this episode will remind you that joy isn’t just for eternity; it’s for right now.

 

RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE

Connect with Asheritah on Instagram!

Connect with Asheritah on Facebook!

Delighting in Jesus: Rhythms to Restore Joy When You Feel Burdened, Broken, or Burned-Out

Visit Asheritah's Website

 

ABOUT OUR SPECIAL GUEST

Asheritah Ciuciu is a bestselling author, national speaker, and host of the Prayers of Rest podcast. Asheritah is the author of many books, including Full, Prayers of Rest, and Unwrapping the Names of. A Romanian missionary kid, she's passionate about helping people around the world enjoy through creative spiritual habits. Asheritah is married to her high school sweetheart, and together they raise their three spunky kiddos in NE Ohio. Discover your creative devotional type at www.OneThingAlone.com.

Experience Life-Transforming Power of Prayer

Pray Like This Bible Study by Barb Roose

 

As a Christian, you know you’re supposed to pray. But do you ever find yourself wrestling with any of these questions related to prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Am I still praying if I read pre-written prayers?

If you’ve pondered these questions or others about prayer, my Pray Like Bible Study is for you.

Even if you're a prayer warrior, Pray Like This sharpens your prayer focus and is a great resource for you to teach others about prayer.There's a reason why Jesus was passionate about prayer and I want to show you how!

Click Here
On Our Way Home: Finding Hope in the Face of Death | Interview with Colleen Chao

On Our Way Home: Finding Hope in the Face of Death | Interview with Colleen Chao

by | Dec 1, 2025 | Bold Brave & Beautiful Podcast

What do you really believe about heaven?

When faced with her own terminal diagnosis, author Colleen Chao discovered that heaven wasn’t a faraway idea. It was a living hope that changed how she faced each day.

In this moving episode, Colleen shares the peace, beauty, and courage that come from fixing our eyes on eternity—even when life on earth is marked by suffering. Her words will stir your heart, strengthen your faith, and remind you: this isn’t the end of the story.

 

RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE

On Our Way Home: Reflections on Heaven in the Face of Death

Visit Colleen's Website

 

ABOUT OUR SPECIAL GUEST

Colleen Chao is an editor, writer, and former English teacher. During her unexpected chapter of singleness, she traveled and explored new places, mentored young women, sang and acted, and spent unhealthy amounts of time at coffee shops. In 2010, at age 34, she married strong and handsome Eddie Chao, and eleven months later she gave birth to a beautiful baby boy named Jeremy. 

In 2017, after a long journey through chronic pain and illness (both her own and her son’s) Colleen was diagnosed with breast cancer. After intensive chemotherapy and a double mastectomy, Colleen enjoyed two years of clear test results—but in Spring 2021 she learned that the cancer was back, and it was terminal this time. Out of this indescribable sorrow has come stunning beauty, and Colleen’s desire is to spend the remainder of her days sharing this beauty with others who suffer.

When she’s not visiting a doctor or wrangling words, Colleen enjoys the beautiful outdoors, side-splitting laughter, and half-read books piled bedside. She makes her home just outside Boise, Idaho with Eddie and Jeremy, and their dog, Willow.

Experience Life-Transforming Power of Prayer

Pray Like This Bible Study by Barb Roose

 

As a Christian, you know you’re supposed to pray. But do you ever find yourself wrestling with any of these questions related to prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Am I still praying if I read pre-written prayers?

If you’ve pondered these questions or others about prayer, my Pray Like Bible Study is for you.

Even if you're a prayer warrior, Pray Like This sharpens your prayer focus and is a great resource for you to teach others about prayer.There's a reason why Jesus was passionate about prayer and I want to show you how!

Click Here
Give Me One More Reason to Stick With Church | Interview with Dr. Carmen Joy Imes

Give Me One More Reason to Stick With Church | Interview with Dr. Carmen Joy Imes

by | Nov 17, 2025 | Bold Brave & Beautiful Podcast

Do you ever feel left out, overlooked, or like you don’t quite belong? In a world where loneliness is at an all-time high, what if the belonging you’ve been searching for has already been given to you? In today’s conversation, Dr. Carmen Joy Imes invites us to rediscover God’s vision for community and connection. In her new book, Becoming God’s Family, Carmen helps us see how the Bible reshapes our understanding of belonging—not as something we achieve, but as a gift we receive in Christ. If you need one reason to give God’s family one more try, join us for this important conversation.

 

RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE

Connect with Dr. Carmen on Instagram

Connect with Dr. Carmen on Facebook

Becoming God's Family: Why the Church Still Matters

Visit Dr. Carmen's Website

 

ABOUT OUR SPECIAL GUEST

Dr. Carmen Joy Imes is an associate professor of Old Testament at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University, in Southern California. She is the author of Bearing God's Name: Why Sinai Still Matters, Being God's Image: Why Creation Still Matters, and Becoming God's Family: Why the Church Still Matters. Carmen has a YouTube channel where she releases weekly Torah Tuesday videos and you can find her writing on various websites, including Christianity Today, The Well, and The Politics of Scripture blog. Carmen is passionate about equipping the church to engage the Old Testament well and to see its relevance for the Christian life.

Experience Life-Transforming Power of Prayer

Pray Like This Bible Study by Barb Roose

 

As a Christian, you know you’re supposed to pray. But do you ever find yourself wrestling with any of these questions related to prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Am I still praying if I read pre-written prayers?

If you’ve pondered these questions or others about prayer, my Pray Like Bible Study is for you.

Even if you're a prayer warrior, Pray Like This sharpens your prayer focus and is a great resource for you to teach others about prayer.There's a reason why Jesus was passionate about prayer and I want to show you how!

Click Here
Finding Hope When Faith Feels Broken | Interview with Catherine McNeil and Jason Hague 

Finding Hope When Faith Feels Broken | Interview with Catherine McNeil and Jason Hague 

by | Nov 3, 2025 | Bold Brave & Beautiful Podcast

Does your faith feel fragile, distant, or broken? You’re not alone. In this episode, Jason Hague and Catherine McNiel share how a mid-faith crisis can actually be the doorway to a deeper, more resilient walk with God.

Doubt isn’t the end of your faith—it may be the beginning of something new. In this powerful conversation, my guests share their personal stories of grief, unmet expectations, and doubt—and how God met them in the middle of the mess. Together, we’ll explore why seasons of crisis can be fertile ground for deeper growth, how to let go of false certainties, and how to embrace a faith that is more resilient, honest, and rooted in God’s goodness.

 

RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE

Connect with Jason on Instagram and Facebook

Connect with Catherine on Instagram and Facebook

Mid-Faith Crisis Book

Visit Catherine's Website

Visit Jason's Website

ABOUT OUR SPECIAL GUEST

Catherine McNiel is a chaplain, author, editor, and speaker searching for the creative, redemptive work of God in our ordinary lives. She lives in the Chicagoland area with her husband, three children, and one enormous garden. Catherine holds an MA in human service counseling and is finishing a Master of Divinity at North Park Theological Seminary. Her previous books include Fearing Bravely, All Shall Be Well, and Long Days of Small Things, which was an ECPA finalist for New Author.

Jason Hague is the associate pastor of Christ’s Center Church near Eugene, Oregon, and the author of Aching Joy: Following God Through the Land of Unanswered Prayer. Jason has written extensively on the subject of the Christian faith and autism, special needs families, and his own spiritual journey toward hope for his own nonspeaking autistic son. His writing has appeared in Christianity Today, Focus on the Family, and Fathom. He and his wife have five children.

Experience Life-Transforming Power of Prayer

Pray Like This Bible Study by Barb Roose

 

As a Christian, you know you’re supposed to pray. But do you ever find yourself wrestling with any of these questions related to prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Am I still praying if I read pre-written prayers?

If you’ve pondered these questions or others about prayer, my Pray Like Bible Study is for you.

Even if you're a prayer warrior, Pray Like This sharpens your prayer focus and is a great resource for you to teach others about prayer.There's a reason why Jesus was passionate about prayer and I want to show you how!

Click Here
Lies Satan Tells You (and 3 Truths That Set You Free)

Lies Satan Tells You (and 3 Truths That Set You Free)

by | Oct 20, 2025 | Uncategorized

Hi friends,
 
Thank you for joining me for this week's Happy Monday! A warm welcome to our new friends from Saturday's Urbancrest Women's Conference.
 
Today's Happy Monday is about recognizing three lies from Satan—and three truths from God—to help you silence those lies and stay connected to Him.
 
It's no secret that Satan likes to mess with us. Known as the Deceiver, he uses temptation, distraction, shame, and our unhealed pain as wedges to pull us away from trusting God. If he can get you to step back even a little, he'll slip a lie into that gap. If you don't notice, that lie will weave itself into your life, leaving you afraid of God, anxious about the future, hopeless, or trapped in sin.

Becky (left) and Patty (holding her service dog) drove four hours from Pennsylvania to Lebanon, Ohio for my Urbancrest Women's Conference on Saturday. They joined our Happy Monday community after I spoke at an Aspire Event in Plum, PA. Becky leads Bible study and her group did the Surrendered Study last year. Patty is walking again after a year of being bedridden. She's praising God that she's up and mobile again. It was so nice to see them! 

Satan loves to play his lies like a Spotify playlist—on repeat. Here are a few of his greatest hits:
 
You are all alone.
You've made too many mistakes for God to use you.
You can't come back to God until you get yourself together.
God likes you a little less when you forget to pray or read your Bible
You deserve the bad things that happen to you.
If you make a mistake, God's gonna get you.
You're too young or too old for God to use you.
 
What lies do you hear? If you're not sure, here's your assignment: pay close attention to your thoughts today. What condemning, fear-inducing thoughts or dire predictions keep repeating in your mind? Write them down, then open your Bible to see if they align with God's Word.
 
While I'm not a fan of giving Satan too much attention, we must stay aware that he's always looking for an opening to dangle a lie in front of us. Friend, these lies are straight from the pit of hell! The best way to cut off Satan's lies is with the power of God's Word.
 
Let's look at three common lies and silence them with God's truth. His Word is our sword that cuts through the shadows of fear and falsehood. When we stand on Scripture, we don't just recognize what's true; we begin to live in the freedom and abundance Jesus promised us (Hebrews 4:12–13; John 10:10 NLT). At the end of today's devotion, I've included a powerful spiritual warfare prayer to help you speak God's truth over your life.
 
Lie #1: God doesn't love you because you messed up.
Truth #1: Nothing can make God stop loving you.
And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God's love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God's love. —Romans 8:38 NLT
 
Lie #2: God doesn't care about you or your problems.
Truth #2: God is present with you in every struggle.
When you go through deep waters, I will be with you.
When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown.
When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up;
the flames will not consume you.
—Isaiah 43:2 NLT
 
Lie #3: God could never forgive what you've done.
Truth #3: There's nothing too big or bad for God to forgive when we humbly ask.
But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness.
—1 John 1:9 NLT
 
I don't know what's happening in your life or what you've been through, but I suspect many of you needed one or more of these verses today.
 
Recently, I had a terrible day because I believed a lie Satan slipped in after a difficult counseling session. I returned to Christian counseling to work through an issue. I'd been praying, fasting, and surrendering, but I was stuck. After a few session I experienced a spiritual breakthrough, but the answer to my prayer was hard to hear.
 
I realized my error mistake and after I took accountability, I started beating myself up. I was so focused on my failure that I didn't notice Satan slipping a lie into my hurting heart: “You've been wrong about everything.” Oh, that one cut deep.
 
For the rest of the day, I blamed myself for everything that had gone wrong in my life and my kids' lives. When friends checked on me, I sent back a dramatic, dark text. One dear friend replied, “Barb, you are believing some ugly narratives.”
She was right. Yet, in my hurt and pain, I couldn't see the lie. It wasn't until another friend, Marna text back a prayer that acknowledged the spiritual warfare and declared God's truth over me.
 
That text prayer pierced through that dark lie. God's truth cleared my mind almost instantly. After a full day of despair, regret, and anger, I could finally see the deception. I was shaken by how easily that lie slipped in under my pain—but praise God for girlfriends who saw the lie when I couldn't.
 
This is why we need a trusted community around us. When it comes to spiritual warfare, we can't forget the truth of Ecclesiastes 4:9–12, which reminds us that we need others to help us when we're struggling. We should never try to fight the enemy's schemes alone.
 
I'm closing today's devotion with my friend's prayer, because I think someone reading this devotion needs this prayer today:
I'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU: Hit reply and write “Not today, Satan” if one or you needed to read today's devotion or receive that prayer. What lies do you need to silence with God's Word. Keep reading those verses all day today!
 
Share today's devotion with a friend who needs it!

After I wrote this devotion, I remember Marna gave this mug to me as a Christmas gift a year or two ago. 

PRAISE IS A WEAPON AGAINST LIES! CHECK OUT MY “PRAY LIKE THIS” SPOTIFY PLAYLIST!

Click Here

TWO NEW BOLD, BRAVE, & BEAUTIFUL PODCAST EPISODES!

This week, I'm celebrating two friends with TWO amazing new books! These are conversations on the podcast that you don't want to miss. Becky and Alexandra are phenomenal authors and communicators. On my podcast, they share their powerful  stories, fresh Biblical insights, and practical ways to deal with anxiety and let go of offense. Enjoy both episodes - I sure did!

Listen Here
Listen Here
When Holding On Hurts: Choosing Healing Over Offense | Interview with Alexandra Hoover

When Holding On Hurts: Choosing Healing Over Offense | Interview with Alexandra Hoover

by | Oct 20, 2025 | Uncategorized

What if the weight you’ve been carrying isn’t just pain—but offense? In this honest and hope-filled conversation, author and speaker Alexandra Hoover joins Barb to talk about her new book, You Can Let Go, and the freedom that comes when we trust Jesus with our wounds.

Together, they explore how to navigate hurt, why offense can keep us stuck, and how letting go doesn’t mean forgetting—it means healing. 

Whether you’re holding onto quiet resentment or walking through deep pain, this episode will encourage you to lay it down, let the light in, and move forward in the wholeness God has for you.

 

RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE

Connect with Alexandra on Instagram

Connect with Alexandra on Facebook

You Can Let Go: Make Peace with Your Past, Break Free from Offense, and Move Forward with God

Visit Alexandra's Website

 

ABOUT OUR SPECIAL GUEST

Alexandra Hoover is a compassionate writer, a sought-after speaker, and the author of Eyes Up and Without Wavering. With a heart for inspiring others, she combines biblical wisdom, practical insights, and a deep passion for helping people navigate life's challenges with faith and hope. A proud Latina, Alexandra serves her local church and is pursuing a master of arts in women and theology at Northern Seminary. As a wife and mother of three, she treasures balancing family life with ministry, finding joy in serving, and inspiring others.

Experience Life-Transforming Power of Prayer

Pray Like This Bible Study by Barb Roose

 

As a Christian, you know you’re supposed to pray. But do you ever find yourself wrestling with any of these questions related to prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Am I still praying if I read pre-written prayers?

If you’ve pondered these questions or others about prayer, my Pray Like Bible Study is for you.

Even if you're a prayer warrior, Pray Like This sharpens your prayer focus and is a great resource for you to teach others about prayer.There's a reason why Jesus was passionate about prayer and I want to show you how!

Click Here
Finding Peace in the Middle of Anxiety | Interview with Becky Keife

Finding Peace in the Middle of Anxiety | Interview with Becky Keife

by | Oct 20, 2025 | Uncategorized

What if anxiety wasn't a sign of spiritual failure but an invitation to meet Jesus in the middle of your fear? In this episode of Bold, Brave, and Beautiful, bestselling author and Bible teacher Becky Keife shares her powerful story of moving from shame and striving to freedom and peace. Drawing from her new book A Verse a Day for the Anxious Soul, Becky reminds us that anxiety doesn't disqualify us from God's love—it's the very place where His grace meets us. With honest stories, practical peace practices, and biblical truth, Becky offers hope for anyone longing to calm their anxious heart and experience God's presence in a fresh way.

 

RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE

Connect with Becky on Instagram

Connect with Becky on Facebook

A Verse A Day For The Anxious Soul

Visit Becky's Website

 

ABOUT OUR SPECIAL GUEST

Becky Keife is the author of A Verse A Day For The Anxious Soul and a Bible teacher, speaker, and author passionate about helping people hear's voice, embrace their true identity, and step into their purpose. A dedicated mental health advocate, Becky equips individuals and churches to understand anxiety biblically and experience Jesus wholly. She loves long naps, puffy clouds, and shady trails. Becky lives in Southern California with her husband and three always-hungry teenage sons.

Experience Life-Transforming Power of Prayer

Pray Like This Bible Study by Barb Roose

 

As a Christian, you know you’re supposed to pray. But do you ever find yourself wrestling with any of these questions related to prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Am I still praying if I read pre-written prayers?

If you’ve pondered these questions or others about prayer, my Pray Like Bible Study is for you.

Even if you're a prayer warrior, Pray Like This sharpens your prayer focus and is a great resource for you to teach others about prayer.There's a reason why Jesus was passionate about prayer and I want to show you how!

Click Here
Open Hands, Open Heart: Letting God Use You to Welcome the Hurting | Interview with Laura Baghdassarian Murray

Open Hands, Open Heart: Letting God Use You to Welcome the Hurting | Interview with Laura Baghdassarian Murray

by | Oct 13, 2025 | Uncategorized

Our world is in desperate need of bridge builders, meaning people who will reach their hand out to those who feel unseen or hurting. These days, we’ve narrowed our view of hospitality to HGTV and Instagram, but our hearts are more lonely than ever. During the Covid-19 pandemic, author Laura Baghdassarian Murray hosted a solitude and silence retreat via Zoom. As a result of that experience, Laura began to champion spaces where people could practice welcome and hospitality, even online. Join in for a thoughtful conversation about how you can open yourself up to letting God use you as a bridge builder to bless others.

 

RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE

Connect with Laura on Instagram

Connect with Laura on Facebook

Becoming a Person of Welcome: The Spiritual Practice of Hospitality

Healed Hearts are Hospitable Hearts Worksheet

Visit Laura's Website

Learn More about Laura's Online Retreats Here!

 

ABOUT OUR SPECIAL GUEST

Laura Baghdassarian Murray (DMin, Fuller Seminary) is the director of spiritual engagement and innovation at Fuller Seminary's Center for Spiritual Formation. She is the author of Pray as You Are, serves on the Ministry Collaborative Advisory Board, and previously served at Highland Park Presbyterian Church as the pastor of spiritual formation. Laura is also the founder of the Digital Silent Retreat Ministry, which is rooted in the practice of hospitality to provide brave and courageous spaces for people to connect with and others (www.digitalsilentretreats.com). She lives in the Dallas area with her husband and two children

Experience Life-Transforming Power of Prayer

Pray Like This Bible Study by Barb Roose

 

As a Christian, you know you’re supposed to pray. But do you ever find yourself wrestling with any of these questions related to prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Do I have to pray the right way for God to answer my prayer?

Am I still praying if I read pre-written prayers?

If you’ve pondered these questions or others about prayer, my Pray Like Bible Study is for you.

Even if you're a prayer warrior, Pray Like This sharpens your prayer focus and is a great resource for you to teach others about prayer.There's a reason why Jesus was passionate about prayer and I want to show you how!

Click Here

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