In this honest and vulnerable episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha tackle a universal struggle: being "blind to the blessing." They kick off Part 1 of this new series by identifying the "blinders" that keep us from seeing what God is doing right in front of us. This isn't just about feeling stuck; it's a deep dive into the practical ways we miss opportunities because we're too busy, distracted, or focused on what others have. Brian and Kersha use their own lives as a "case study," sharing personal stories about distractions, the difference between "busyness" and "being busy," and the trap of comparison in the age of social media. From the challenge of "God getting the leftovers" to the myth of the "overnight success," this episode is a blueprint for self-reflection. It’s a must-listen for anyone feeling like they're spinning their wheels, struggling with comparison, or just feeling "off" in their walk with God. This is a powerful reminder to take off the blinders and refocus on the path God has for you. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: The "Leftovers" Trap: Learn why getting out of your routine (like devotionals or the gym) leads to God getting the "leftovers" instead of the "first fruits." Busyness vs. Being Busy: Understand the critical difference between "spinning your wheels" (busyness) and productive, forward-moving work (being busy). The "Physically Present" Problem: How to identify if you are "physically around but mentally nowhere close," especially when working from home or managing family life. The Comparison Blinder: Unpack the dangers of comparison fueled by social media (LinkedIn resumes, new cars, successful kids) and how to retrain your brain. Effort vs. Reward Myth: Debunk the idea that a set amount of effort always equals a set amount of reward, and why we must avoid this "instant gratification" mindset. The "10,000 Hours" Reality: Why the "overnight success" is a myth and how it blinds us to the long-term work God requires. Age, Wisdom, and Maturity: Discover why you can "grow old and never mature" and how wisdom isn't automatically tied to age. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Kersha: "You can grow old and never mature. You can be wise and young, and you can be old, wise and mature all at the same time." Brian (quoting a-saying): "People are too busy knocking opportunity that they don't hear opportunity knock." Brian: "You're physically around. But mentally nowhere close to where I'm at." Kersha: (Defining busyness) "Busyness is doing things that keep you spinning your wheels. It's not growth, it's not visionary, it's not moving the bus forward." Kersha: (On comparison) "This is definitely an area in which I had to retrain my brain on how to be happy for other people and still content with me." Brian (quoting a saying): "You know that saying people are expecting results for the work they haven't done." Brian: "If we walk through life with that mindset [who do you know that they need to know], things would look differently." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself When you feel "off," what is the first routine (like your quiet time) that gets cut? How can you protect it? Think about your schedule this week. Where are you just "busy" (spinning your wheels) and where are you "being busy" (productive)? In what areas of your life are you "physically present but mentally nowhere close"—with family, at work, or with God? When you scroll social media, which accounts or people trigger the "comparison" blinder for you? How can you "retrain your brain" in those moments? Are you expecting an "overnight success" in your career, faith, or family? Are you willing to put in the "10,000 hours" God is asking for? In what area of your life are you expecting 100 units of reward for 10 hours of effort? How can you shift your focus to "delayed gratification" and God's timing? 📖 Biblical Principles Focus: This episode is a practical application of key biblical principles, including: Principle of Priority (Matthew 6:33): The discussion of giving God "leftovers" instead of "first fruits" points to the mandate to "seek first the kingdom of God." Principle of Stewardship (Matthew 25:14-30): The "effort vs. reward" and "10,000 hours" conversation relates to the Parable of the Talents and being faithful with what God has given you. Principle of Contentment (Philippians 4:11-13): The deep dive into "comparison" is a practical application of learning to be content in all circumstances, knowing our strength comes from Christ. Principle of Wisdom (Proverbs 4:7): The conversation on "age vs. wisdom" highlights the biblical call to "get wisdom" above all else, which is a heart posture, not just a number. 🙌 Join the Movement If you have ever felt stuck in a rut, battled the green-eyed monster of comparison, or felt like you're just "spinning your wheels," this episode is for you. Brian and Kersha’s breakdown is a practical and honest challenge to identify the blinders in your own life. This is a call to stop, reflect, and ask God what blessings you might be missing. Your journey of faith is about clearing your vision to see the specific path God has for you. 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and find links to the resources mentioned in today's show. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this timely and biblical episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha tackle a topic dominating Christian social media: the "controversy" between Forrest Frank and Jelly Roll. They break down the conversation surrounding Forrest's personal conviction not to accept awards for his music. This isn't just about picking sides; it's a deep dive into what the Bible says about our motives, personal convictions, and serving God in the public eye. Brian and Kersha use this cultural moment as a "motive check," inspired by John Maxwell and Matthew 6. They explore the tension between being "in the world but not of it," why one person's conviction isn't a rule for everyone, and how God uses different people with different stories—like Forrest and Jelly—to reach His kingdom. From the challenge of "treasures on earth" to the biblical call to give in secret, this episode is a blueprint for navigating public disagreements with grace. It’s a must-listen for anyone struggling to understand their own convictions or how to apply biblical wisdom to modern-day debates. This is a powerful reminder to stay rooted in Christ and let Him be the guide. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: The Biblical "Motive Check": Learn why leaders must do the right thing for the right reason, inspired by John Maxwell and Matthew 6. Conviction vs. Condemnation: Understand the crucial difference between a personal conviction (like Forrest Frank's) and a universal biblical command. Trophies vs. Treasures: Unpack the Matthew 6 call to lay up treasures in heaven, not on earth (and what good a "piece of metal" does). The "Left Hand, Right Hand" Rule: Explore the biblical mandate (Matthew 6:3-4) to give in secret and why Forrest's answer on money was biblically sound. Provision for the Work: Discuss how accepting money for God-given talents (like music) aligns with God's provision (Philippians 4:19) and the call for men to work. One Goal, Many Paths: Discover why God uses different people with different methods (like Forrest and Jelly Roll) to achieve the same goal: bringing people to Christ. Stay on the Narrow Path: Get encouragement to stay true to your convictions (Matthew 7:13) without judging others' paths. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Kersha: "We're going to keep it very biblical... I don't think either one of them are wrong." Brian (quoting his pastor): "We're all saints who are sinners." John Maxwell (quoted by hosts): "Leaders must do the right thing for the right reason." Forrest Frank (from clip): "I feel a conviction... I will not receive a trophy for something that is from Jesus and for Jesus." Forrest Frank (from clip): "Your left hand isn't supposed to know from your right hand... y'all are never gonna know that because that's my relationship with Jesus." Kersha: "If you stay rooted in Christ, if it's not good, he's not done." Kersha: "Stay true to your convictions. Don't wander from the narrow path." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself When you make decisions, what is your true motive? Are you doing things for "image sake" or for God's approval? Think of a personal conviction God has given you. How do you stay true to it without imposing it as a rule on others? When you see Christians disagree publicly (like in this debate), is your first instinct to judge one side or to seek biblical understanding? Where in your life are you chasing "treasures on earth" (a promotion, recognition, a "trophy") instead of "treasures in heaven"? Are you letting your left hand know what your right hand is doing? How can you practice the discipline of giving in secret? In what area of your life do you need to stop comparing your "narrow path" to someone else's and simply "stay true to your convictions"? Scripture Focus: This episode is a practical application of key biblical principles, including: Motive & Giving (Matthew 6:1-4): The core of the "motive check" and the call not to practice righteousness (or giving) "in front of others, to be seen by them." Treasures in Heaven (Matthew 6:19-21): The principle behind Forrest's conviction—not laying up "treasures on earth where moth and rust destroy." God's Provision (Philippians 4:19): The explanation for why accepting money for work is biblical: "And my God will supply all your needs according to his riches..." The Narrow Path (Matthew 7:13): The final encouragement to "Stay true to your convictions" by following the specific path God has for you . 🙌 Join the Movement If you have ever felt caught in a public debate, struggled with a personal conviction, or felt confused by "Christian controversy," this episode is for you. Brian and Kersha’s breakdown is a practical and inspiring call to anchor every cultural moment in the Bible. This is a challenge to check your own motives, stop judging others' paths, and seek God first in all things. Your journey of faith is about your conviction and obedience, not comparing your walk to someone else's. 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and find links to the resources mentioned in today's show. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this open and inspiring episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha sit down with the entire Bryant family—a homeschooling, creative powerhouse. They pull back the curtain on their journey of writing and publishing their family book, Trusting Timothy. This isn't just an author interview; it's a real-life case study in collaboration, patience, and trusting God's timing over a human deadline. The Bryants get candid, sharing stories of family disagreements (solved with rock-paper-scissors!), the struggle of "too many chefs in the kitchen," and the long, rewarding process of bringing a God-given idea to life. The conversation dives deep into the tension between our desire for an "easy button" and the slow, formative work God does in the process. From the frustration of a long outline (Kersha can relate!) to the profound joy of holding a finished book, this episode is a blueprint for anyone who feels called to a creative project but is overwhelmed by the "how." It’s a must-listen for families learning to work together and anyone needing encouragement to "just go for it." This is a powerful reminder that the process is often just as important as the product, and God's timeline is always perfect. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: The 3 P's of Process: Unpack the vital roles of Patience, Prayer, and Process in any God-given project, from writing a book to building a family. Collaborate Without Imploding: Get the Bryants' candid advice on navigating creative disagreements as a family (and when to use rock-paper-scissors!). The "Just Go For It" Mindset: Learn why you miss 100% of the shots you don't take and get practical encouragement to start your new idea, business, or creative work. Enjoying the Journey: Discover the counterintuitive truth that the hard work and long journey make the final reward that much sweeter than an "easy button." Beyond the Comparison Trap: Understand why you can't compare your path to someone else's and how to focus on the unique calling God has given you. The "Little Moments" of Faith: Explore the importance of seeing God in everyday life, not just in the "big" miracle moments that we often expect. The Power of God's Word: Grasp the core message of Trusting Timothy—that the solution to every problem (in school, work, or life) can be found in the Bible. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Kersha: "What can I grow through instead of go through?" Bryant Family: "Just go for it... the worst that could happen is you find out it's not for you." Bryant Family: "You need to just do what God has given you and called you to do." Brian: (On book writing) "Why are you not done yet? ... She should have already had like four books by now." Bryant Family: "...the only way to resolve it is to talk it out and work through it... we're not supposed to lean on our own understanding. We're supposed to trust God." Kersha: "Just because I didn't have a big moment doesn't mean God isn't giving me moments." Bryant Family: "When you put in the work, I think it is more rewarding than someone just giving you a handout." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself Who or what is truly in the driver’s seat of your life right now: fear, control, or obedience? Think of a time you tried to force an outcome. Looking back, can you identify any blessings or lessons you may have missed in the process? Are you more afraid of failure or success? How might that fear be keeping you from pursuing a dream or answering a call from God? Where in your life do you feel like the "wheels are turning, but the vehicle's not moving"? What is one small step of obedience you can take this week? Are you so busy that you can't hear opportunity knocking? How can you intentionally "slow down" to better hear from God? Does your daily life reflect a faith that is moving forward courageously, or one that is parked in a state of fear or stagnation? Scripture Focus: This episode is a practical application of key biblical principles, including: Trusting the Process (Proverbs 3:5-6): The discussion about not "leaning on your own understanding" in creative disagreements is a direct echo of this call to trust God's guidance over our own. God's Word as the Solution (Psalm 119:105): The core message of the Bryants' book—that God's Word is the ultimate guide—is a practical application of the Word being a "lamp unto our feet." Patience in the Work (Galatians 6:9): The family's emphasis on the long, hard-working process reflects the biblical promise not to "grow weary in doing good," knowing we will reap a harvest if we don't give up. Our Unique Calling (1 Corinthians 12:4-6): The advice to avoid comparison and "do what God has given you" points to the truth that there are different kinds of gifts and service, but the same Lord. 🙌 Join the Movement If you have ever felt called to a creative project, struggled to collaborate with others, or felt impatient with God’s timing, this episode is for you. The Bryant family's story is a practical and inspiring call to embrace the journey. This is a challenge to stop comparing, to "just go for it," and to trust that God is working in the process. Your journey of bringing a God-given idea to life is worth the work. Connect with Our Guests The Bryants are a homeschooling, Christian family who strongly believe in the power of GOD'S WORD. They are excited to share this message through Trusting Timothy: A Story About Cheating. Website: trustingtimothy.com Instagram: @trustingtimothy_official Email: bryantfamily@trustingtimothy.com 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and find links to the resources mentioned in today's show. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this candid and deeply reflective episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha take a hard look at the three forces that steer our lives: fear, control, and obedience. This isn't just a high-level discussion; it's a practical examination of who—or what—is in your driver's seat. Brian and Kersha get vulnerable, sharing personal stories of career uncertainty, pivotal life decisions, and the constant temptation to grab the wheel from God. They unpack the real-world consequences of letting fear create detours and allowing our need for control to make us miss the blessings right in front of us. The conversation dives deep into the tension between our human instinct to manage every outcome and God's call to simply trust and obey. From the frustration of spinning your wheels to the profound peace that comes from surrendering the keys, this episode is a roadmap for anyone who feels stuck, stagnant, or driven by anxiety. It’s a must-listen for anyone who finds themselves paralyzed by the "what ifs" or exhausted from trying to force things to happen. This is a powerful reminder that true progress doesn't come from a tighter grip, but from faithfully putting one foot in front of the other, knowing God is leading the way. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: The 3 Drivers: Explore the critical differences between a life steered by fear (leading to detours and dead ends), control (leading to frustration and missed blessings), and obedience (leading to purpose and peace). The Illusion of Control: Learn why "white-knuckling" your life is a recipe for disappointment and how letting go opens the door for God’s unexpected provision and protection. The High Cost of Fear: Unpack how the fear of failure—and even the fear of success—can keep you stagnant and prevent you from moving into the life God has planned for you. Slowing Down to Speed Up: Discover the counterintuitive truth that in our busiest seasons, slowing down for reflection and prayer is the key to making real forward progress. The Power of Obedience: Understand how your simple, daily "yes" to God unlocks wisdom, courage, and a deep sense of peace, even when the road ahead is uncertain. Your Life as a Catalyst: Grasp the profound impact of the call that "at the end of your obedience is somebody else's deliverance." Putting Your Faith in Gear: Get practical encouragement to move from being "stuck in neutral" to actively driving toward your God-given purpose, one step at a time. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Kersha: "If you're trying to control something, then you're missing an opportunity for growth." Brian: "People are too busy knocking opportunity that they can't hear opportunity knocking." Kersha: "When obedience and God both are steering your life, you're being led by purpose... the emotion that we have inside of us is peace." Brian (quoting Kersha): "At the end of your obedience is somebody else's deliverance." Brian: "...in order to speed up, sometimes you have to slow down." Kersha: "The more that you let God have in your life, the more at peace you feel." Kersha: "Give your life over to Christ. Follow him and allow him to lead your life." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself Who or what is truly in the driver’s seat of your life right now: fear, control, or obedience? Think of a time you tried to force an outcome. Looking back, can you identify any blessings or lessons you may have missed in the process? Are you more afraid of failure or success? How might that fear be keeping you from pursuing a dream or answering a call from God? Where in your life do you feel like the "wheels are turning, but the vehicle's not moving"? What is one small step of obedience you can take this week? Are you so busy that you can't hear opportunity knocking? How can you intentionally "slow down" to better hear from God? Does your daily life reflect a faith that is moving forward courageously, or one that is parked in a state of fear or stagnation? Scripture Focus: This episode is a practical application of key biblical principles, including: Trust Over Control (Proverbs 3:5-6): The episode unpacks the call to trust in the Lord with all your heart and not lean on your own understanding, which is the ultimate antidote to a control-driven life. Freedom from Fear (2 Timothy 1:7): This discussion is a powerful reminder that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind to move forward. Peace in Surrender (Philippians 4:6-7): The peace Kersha describes as a result of obedience is a direct reflection of the promise that when we pray about everything, the peace of God will guard our hearts. God's Sovereign Plan (Jeremiah 29:11): The entire conversation points to the truth that God’s plans for us are good, even when our own plans—driven by fear or control—fall apart. 🙌 Join the Movement If you have ever felt stuck, frustrated by a lack of progress, or exhausted from trying to manage every detail of your life, this episode is for you. Brian and Kersha's conversation is a powerful call to honestly assess who is in your driver's seat. This is a challenge to take the keys back from fear and control and hand them over to God. Your journey of shifting from a life of frustration to a life of faith-driven obedience might just be the most important trip you ever take. 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and find links to the resources mentioned in today's show. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this inspiring and relatable episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha sit down with special guest Raya Chisesi, co-host of the Writer's Doubt Club podcast, for a candid conversation about trading a life of meticulous planning for one of radical trust in God. This isn't just a theoretical discussion; it's a real-life testimony of what happens when a self-proclaimed "Type A" personality decides to let go of the reins and follow God into the unknown. Raya gets vulnerable about her journey from being a control freak who didn't even enjoy vacations to packing up her life as a newlywed and moving cross-country with no plan other than a call from God. The discussion dives deep into the tension between our desire for control and God's much bigger plans for our lives. From the frustration that comes with clinging to our own expectations to the unexpected blessings that flow from simple obedience, this episode is a guide for anyone who feels stuck, scared, or overwhelmed by a decision. It’s a must-listen for anyone who has ever asked, "God, are you sure?" or "How can I trust you when I can't see the next step?" This is a powerful reminder that letting go isn't giving up—it's stepping into the purpose and adventure God has waiting for you. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: Control vs. Surrender: Explore the difference between a life run by to-do lists and a life led by God's bigger, often unseen, plans. The Ripple Effect of Obedience: Understand how your "yes" to God, even when it's scary or doesn't make sense for you, can be the key that unlocks blessings for others in your life. Expectation vs. Reality: Learn why trying to control every outcome leads to disappointment and how true surrender opens the door for unexpected joy and provision. Finding God in the Ordinary: Discover why you don't need a "dramatic" testimony and how God works powerfully through small, everyday moments of faithfulness and "God winks." Navigating the Unknown: Be inspired by a real-life story of moving across the country with no job or community, and seeing God provide an instant family and sense of belonging. Your Life as a Testimony: Unpack the power of the call to "live my life so the people that know me but don't know God will want to know God because they know me." Faith Beyond the "Big Bang": Shift your perspective from waiting for one massive miracle to recognizing the constant stream of reassurances God provides when you take a step of faith. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Raya: "...God took a hold of my heart and he was like, let go of the reigns a little bit... and let me work." Kersha: "Control leads to oftentimes a frustration. You just feel like you're spinning your wheels, and then when you let God do it, you live a life of purpose." Raya: "I always say the gap between expectation and reality is where you find yourself disappointed." Raya: "When God opens the door and you take that step of faith, he'll keep giving you those reassurances." Brian (quoting Kersha): "At the end of your obedience is somebody else's deliverance." Kersha (recounting a message from God): "Stop expecting the big dramatic miracles... I can't box him. He's unboxed." Raya (quoting a friend): "I wanna live my life so the people that know me but don't know God will want to know God because they know me." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself Are you a "Type A" planner holding onto the reins of your life too tightly? What is one area where you can intentionally let go and trust God this week? Where in your life is the fear of the unknown stopping you from being obedient to a call from God? Are your expectations of how God should show up causing you to miss the small, ordinary miracles and "God winks" He's placing in your path? Think about a major life transition you've faced. Looking back, can you see how God provided reassurances along the way that you may have missed at the time? Does your daily life reflect a faith that would make someone who doesn't know God curious to learn more about Him? What is one practical step of faith, big or small, you can take this week to move forward in an area where you feel stuck or afraid? Scripture Focus: This episode is a practical application of key biblical principles, including: Trusting God's Plan (Jeremiah 29:11): This verse is highlighted as the core of Raya's journey and the promise we can all cling to when God's plans seem bigger than our own. Leaning on God's Understanding (Proverbs 3:5-6): The episode unpacks the call to trust in the Lord with all your heart and not lean on your own understanding. God's Faithful Provision (Philippians 4:19): Raya's story of moving to Arizona is a powerful example of how God will meet all our needs according to His riches. Being a Light to Others (Matthew 5:16): The conversation alludes to letting our light shine before others, so that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven. Meet Our Guest: Raya Chisesi Raya Chisesi treasures her faith, family, and life with her 160lb Cane Corso by her side. She spends her days working in the education world and her nights writing and podcasting. Raya is the co-host of the Writers' Doubt Club podcast and an author who loves encouraging others to chase their goals. Be sure to check out the Writer's Doubt Club website and listen to their podcast here. 🙌 Join the Movement If you have ever felt paralyzed by a big decision, frustrated that things aren't going "according to plan," or wondered if God can use your quiet, everyday faith, this episode is for you. Raya's story is a powerful call to move beyond a faith that's safe and predictable and into the wild, unbelievable adventure God has for those who are willing to trust Him. This is a challenge to stop planning every detail and start stepping out in faith, knowing that when God opens a door, He provides everything you need on the other side. Your journey of letting go might just be the beginning of the greatest testimony of your life. 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and find links to the resources mentioned in today's show, including the Writer's Doubt Club podcast. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this heavy and heart-felt episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha process the recent, tragic passing of public figure Charlie Kirk and the profound questions it has raised for believers everywhere. This isn't just a reaction to a news event; it's a raw and honest conversation about what it means to live a faith that is visible in a world that often demands silence. Brian and Kersha get vulnerable about the fears that keep Christians from speaking out, the pressure to maintain a "put-together" image, and the critical difference between being rooted in Christ and truly living for Christ. The discussion dives deep into the tension between a private, personal relationship with God and a public witness that acts as a "light to the world." From the danger of a "performance-based religion" to the simple, powerful act of speaking the name of Jesus when you don't know how to pray, this episode is a guide for navigating the complexities of modern faith. It’s a must-listen for anyone who has ever asked themselves, "Why do I hide my faith?" or "Am I really living out what I believe?" This is a challenging reminder that silence is an action, and our bold, authentic faith is needed now more than ever to point a hurting world to Christ. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: Public vs. Private Faith: Explore the biblical basis for why faith is both a deeply personal relationship and a public witness meant to be a "city on a hill." The Action of Silence: Understand why not saying anything is still a choice and how silence can sometimes create a bigger rift than speaking the truth in love. Performance vs. Growth: Discover the critical difference between a "performance-based religion" that manages an image and a "growth-based religion" that transforms the heart from the inside out. Overcoming Vulnerability: Learn why the fear of appearing weak or unequipped holds believers back and how to embrace the vulnerability that comes with an authentic faith journey. The Power of Forgiveness: Be inspired by the profound example of public forgiveness and what it means to live out Christ's teachings in the face of unimaginable tragedy. Authentic Witnessing: Get practical ideas on how to be a "light to the world" in everyday life, from giving a genuine compliment to being led by the Holy Spirit to pray for a stranger. A Faith That Speaks: Unpack the core questions of why believers often stay quiet and why politics can become a more common topic than faith, and how to change that narrative. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Kersha: "Even some people are rooted in Christ, but they're not living for Christ. There is a mass difference that happens there." Brian: "When we stop talking, we stop sharing these things, debating, whatever. That's when bad things happen." Kersha: "Silence is an action. I think that's where so many people get it confused... sometimes being silent is the rift." Kersha: "It becomes a performance based religion rather than a growth based religion." Brian: "If you don't know how to pray, just speak the name of Jesus. And he will come." Kersha: "That tension rests between being authentic in our faith, that is humble enough, privately, yet visible enough publicly to point others to Christ." Brian (quoting a friend): "Are you reading the Bible? And it was like this gut check moment of like, no, I, wow, I'm doing all this external, but I'm not reading the... one book, the true foundation." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself Are you living a "performance-based" faith focused on image, or a "growth-based" faith focused on genuine heart transformation? In what areas of your life has silence become your primary action? Is there something God is calling you to speak up about with boldness and love? Where is the line for you between your private relationship with God and your public witness for Him? How can you be more of a "city on a hill" this week? Is a fear of vulnerability (appearing weak, unequipped, or judgmental) holding you back from stepping out more boldly in your faith? Are you more comfortable discussing controversial topics like politics than you are discussing your faith? Why do you think that is? What is one practical, public action you can take this week—big or small—to point someone to Christ? Scripture Focus: This episode is a practical application of key biblical principles, including: Public Witness (Matthew 5:14-16): The episode unpacks the call for our faith to be a "city on a hill" and a "light to the world." Strength in Christ (Philippians 4:13): This verse is mentioned as the ideal we strive for, even when we feel weak or vulnerable in our faith walk. The Foundation of Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13): The Lord's Prayer is highlighted as a foundational tool for anyone who doesn't know how to pray. Humility and Self-Reflection (Matthew 7:5): The principle of removing the plank from your own eye before judging others is alluded to in the discussion of taking care of your own heart first. Wisdom and Guidance (Proverbs): The Book of Proverbs is mentioned as a source of wisdom for leadership and daily living. 🙌 Join the Movement If you have ever felt hesitant to share your faith, struggled with feeling "put together" for church, or wondered if you're making a real impact, this episode is for you. Brian and Kersha's conversation is a powerful call to move beyond a comfortable, "vanilla" Christianity and into the bold faith God has designed for us. This is a challenge to stop hiding and start living a faith that is both privately authentic and publicly visible—not for our own glory, but to point a lost and hurting world toward the hope of Christ. Your faith was meant to be an action, not just a quiet belief. 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and find links to the resources mentioned in today's show, including the Ryan Leak podcast. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this powerful episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha sit down with their pastor and friend, Shawn Phillips, the founding pastor of Journey Church. This isn't just a conversation; it's an intimate look into the heart of a leader who has walked through the wilderness and come out with a profound understanding of what it means to truly follow God. Pastor Shawn gets vulnerable about the lies he had to overcome to step into his calling, including the deep-seated belief that he "wasn't a starter." He shares the raw, behind-the-scenes story of starting Journey Church, a journey that seemed bigger than him and his wife, Bekah, and how God used it to break off decades-old insecurities. The discussion goes deep into the practical—and often painful—realities of living a life of obedience. Pastor Shawn unpacks the crucial difference between knowing God's Word and truly living it out, especially when it comes to hearing God's voice amidst the noise of your own doubts. From the transformative power of Sabbath and rest to the necessity of having a thick skin and a soft heart, this episode is a guide for anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by God's call. It's a must-listen for leaders, dreamers, and anyone who has ever questioned if they're truly making a difference. This is a profound reminder that the most important question isn't "What difference am I making?" but "Am I being obedient?" 🔥 What You’ll Learn: Breaking the Lies: Discover how a single, recurring lie can hold you back for decades and how a breakthrough in God often comes with an accompanying lie that gets destroyed. The Power of Obedience: Understand why God is more concerned with your obedience than your immediate results, and how your small steps of faith are part of His much larger, reverse-engineered plan. Thick Skin, Soft Heart: Learn the vital importance of staying vulnerable and teachable in leadership, even when it means getting hurt, and how to balance humility with strength. Sabbath as a Strategy: Hear how intentional rest and creating margins in your life is not just a spiritual discipline but a powerful tool for creativity, wisdom, and effective delegation. Hearing God's Voice: Get practical wisdom on how to discern God's voice from your own thoughts and why He often speaks in "nuggets" to invite you into a deeper process of trust. The Danger of Offense: Uncover why offense is one of the devil's most effective tools for derailing believers and keeping them from God's best. Leadership vs. Ownership: Gain insight into the mindset of a servant leader who views their role as a temporary assignment in a long line of future leaders, not a personal possession. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Pastor Shawn: "Every time you have like a major breakthrough in God, it comes with an accompanying lie that gets destroyed." Pastor Shawn: "Isn't that amazing that even the devil knows what to plant in you decades before that you're even called to do something." Pastor Shawn: "You have to have a thick skin, but a soft heart. I started to pastor people with a hardened heart and a thick skin. And God says, you can't do that." Pastor Shawn: "He's also a master of deception. He wants to get you deceived, so anytime he can get your eyes to try to fix the wrong problem, then it's not focused on where you're supposed to be going." Pastor Shawn: "The question you need to be asking is, are you being obedient?" Brian: "If somebody can do something 80% as good as you, why are you still doing it?" Pastor Shawn: "God gives us things to do that we have to do by faith. It wouldn't be faith if it was obvious to do. It's faith because we have to trust that God's ways are best." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself Is there a recurring lie from your past that might be holding you back from what God is calling you to do right now? Are you measuring your success by the immediate "difference" you're making, or by your simple obedience to what God has asked of you? When was the last time you intentionally practiced Sabbath? Where can you create margins in your life this week to rest and listen? Do you have a "thick skin and a soft heart"? Are you allowing yourself to be teachable and vulnerable with the right people? Are you holding onto any offense that might be keeping you from experiencing God's best for your life? What is the one "unobvious" thing God might be asking you to do in faith, even if you can't see the full picture yet? Scripture Focus: This episode is a practical application of key biblical principles, including: Hearing God's Voice (John 10:27): The discussion is centered on the core belief that "My sheep hear my voice," and the journey of learning to discern it. The Pain of Growth (Proverbs 27:6): Pastor Shawn's emphasis on receiving truth, even when it's painful, reflects the idea that "Wounds from a friend can be trusted." Servant Leadership (Mark 10:45): The principle of "the first will be last" is shown through practical examples like parking far away to serve others. The Danger of Offense (Luke 17:1): The conversation highlights the reality that offenses will come and the importance of navigating them with a soft heart. Obedience Over Everything (1 Samuel 15:22): The episode's central theme is a modern-day illustration that "to obey is better than sacrifice." 🙌 Join the Movement If you have ever felt unqualified, overlooked, or stuck in a season of wondering if you're making a difference, this episode is for you. Pastor Shawn's journey is a powerful testament that God doesn't call the qualified; He qualifies the called. This is a call to stop focusing on the fruit and start focusing on your faithfulness. It’s a challenge to embrace the process, trust God's timing, and understand that your obedience today is setting the stage for a harvest you may not see for years to come. Your story isn't about you; it's about being a willing participant in the incredible story God is writing.wdww About Our Guest: Shawn Phillips is the founding and lead pastor of Journey Church in Liberty, MO. He has been married to his wife, Bekah, for 29 years and counting. They have 5 kids, a daughter-in-law, and 3 grandchildren. You can learn more about his ministry at Journey Church: https://journeykc.com/ 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and find links to the resources mentioned in today's show. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this deeply personal episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha Owen get vulnerable about one of life's most challenging seasons: when it feels like everything is falling apart. They tackle the profound idea that your breaking point might actually be your breakthrough point. This isn't just a theoretical discussion; it's a raw look into their own journey of radical obedience, including the story of being led by God to put money down on a piece of land, go all the way to the closing, and then walk away. It's a candid conversation for anyone who has ever felt like God's plan is uncomfortable, illogical, or even downright crazy. The conversation unfolds into a practical guide for navigating seasons of uncertainty and trial. Brian and Kersha share the vital lessons they learned about the difference between just knowing God's Word and truly applying it. From the importance of asking, "God, what do you want me to know?" to the power of inviting the right people to your "table," this episode is a masterclass in standing firm when faith is the only thing you have left. This is a must-listen for anyone in the middle of a struggle, questioning God's direction, or needing to see the blessing hidden within their battle. It’s a powerful reminder that while you’re focused on building a home, God might be focused on building a community within you. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: Your Breakthrough Point: Discover how what feels like your breaking point can be the very place God orchestrates a breakthrough. Applying vs. Knowing: Learn the crucial difference between absorbing God's word and actively applying it, turning information into transformation. The Blessing in the Struggle: Get practical steps for shifting your mindset from a "woe is me" mentality to finding the hidden blessings in your challenges. Two Critical Questions: Uncover the two questions—"What can I do?" and "What do you want me to know?"—that can change your perspective in any season of trial. Obedience Over Outcome: Understand why God is often more concerned with your obedience on one side than with the harvest you're expecting on the other. The Power of Your Table: Hear why it's vital to be intentional about who has a seat at your table and the role community plays in confirming God's call. Faith When it Feels Crazy: Gain encouragement for when God asks you to do something that feels absurd to you and looks even crazier to the outside world. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Kersha: "We taught God that he could push us to a place where we thought it would be our breaking point. But really it was our breakthrough point." Brian: "As you're going through the struggle, as you're going through the challenge, it is very difficult to view it as a blessing." Brian: "I've read it and have not applied it. We absorb tons of information. But we never do anything with it." Kersha: "You know that you know that you know, and nobody is gonna talk you out of that." Kersha: "That's exactly what God asked us to do, is he asked us to put money down on land to go all the way to the very end and not purchase it." Brian: "If you don't evaluate and learn from them and make slight adjustments... you're in a totally different destination point." Kersha (on God's plan): "God wants you to reap a harvest over here. He just wants to see your obedient over on the other side." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself Are you in a season where things feel like they're falling apart? How can you begin looking for signs that they might be falling into place? Are you "learning to know" or "learning to learn"? Where can you move from simply reading scripture to actively applying it this week? When facing a struggle, is your first instinct to ask "Why me?" or "God, what do you want me to know?" Who has a seat at your table? Are they people who can offer godly counsel, confirmation, and help you see your blind spots? What is the "uncomfortable" or "crazy" thing God might be asking you to do right now in faith? Can you look back on a past trial and now see the blessing or breakthrough that came from it? Scripture Focus: This episode is a practical application of key biblical principles, including: Trusting God's Plan Over Our Own (Proverbs 19:21): The entire story of the land purchase is a real-world example of surrendering personal plans to God's mysterious, unfolding will. Character Through Suffering (Romans 5:3-5): Brian and Kersha's experience shows how trials produce perseverance, character, and hope. Faith is an Action (James 2:17): The episode emphasizes that faith isn't just a belief but something that must be walked out, even when it’s difficult. The Importance of Wise Counsel (Proverbs 15:22): The discussion highlights the need for a trusted community to provide confirmation and perspective. 🙌 Join the Movement If you are in a season of confusion, challenge, or what feels like failure, this episode is your reminder that God’s perspective is bigger than our own. Brian and Kersha’s story is a testament to the fact that God’s greatest work in us often happens when our own plans are completely dismantled. This is a call to trust the process, even when it doesn't make sense, and to believe that every moment of obedient struggle is building something eternal. Your breakdown doesn't have to be the end; it can be the foundation for the life, community, and faith God is building for you. 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, submit a prayer request, and find links to the resources mentioned in today's show. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this powerful episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha Owen sit down with education leaders Dr. Jim Cummins and Dr. Nathan Manley to tackle a profound question: What happens when God asks you to leap out of the boat? This isn't just a discussion about career changes; it's a deep dive into the nature of radical obedience. From leaving a secure CPA profession for the classroom to walking away from a 21-year career to start a new venture, our guests share their personal stories of trusting God's "tug" over worldly logic. This is a raw conversation about what it truly means to step out in faith when comfort and security are on the line. The conversation unfolds into a masterclass on servant leadership and unwavering faith in the face of crisis. Jim shares his vulnerable journey of leading a school district while battling a life-threatening diagnosis, revealing how his steadiness became a powerful testimony that impacted his family and colleagues. Nathan provides a firsthand account of witnessing that faith and explains how it shaped his own leadership and courage to take his own leaps. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling called to something more, facing a daunting career decision, or navigating a personal storm. It’s a candid look at how our private faith has a public impact and how true leadership is forged in the fires of trust and obedience. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: Leaving the Lifeboat: Hear the incredible story of leaving a secure, high-paying CPA career for the uncertainty—and purpose—of becoming a teacher and coach. Trusting the 'Tug': Learn how to recognize and respond when God is pulling you out of your comfort zone, even when it doesn't make logical sense. Leadership Through Crisis: A powerful testimony of leading with steady faith through a life-altering health diagnosis and its profound ripple effect on others. The Heart of a Servant Leader: Discover what it means to lead like Jesus, fostering a culture of grace, purpose, and shared mission in the workplace. Find a Way, Not an Excuse: How to adopt a powerful mindset shift that focuses on faithful action over justifying inaction in the face of challenges. The Ripple Effect of Your 'Yes': Understand how your personal obedience and the way you walk through trials can be the very thing that leads someone else to faith. God Equips the Called: Practical encouragement for when you feel unworthy or unprepared for the task God has given you. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Jim: "That was certainly a time where I felt like God pushing me in a direction, and I knew I kind of jumped out, leave the lifeboat and see if I could swim in another way." Nathan: "All those people in those relationships that you're worried about, it's not your job to take care of them. It's mine." Nathan: "God for me knows that I don't just need a push. Sometimes I might need a jackhammer." Kersha: "These stories are for you to have light shone into your dark places. To know that you're not alone, even in that darkness." Nathan: "If you chose me for this, then I'm gonna do it. I'm gonna go all in." Nathan: "Find a way or find an excuse." Jim (on what makes a successful life): "If you can count those solid friendships, solid relationships that you've had, you've lived a successful life." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself Where is God asking you to "leave the lifeboat," and what fears are holding you back? Are you listening to God's persistent "tug," or are you letting logic and comfort drown out His call? In your current sphere of influence, are you a positional leader or a servant leader? How can you better serve those around you? How can your response to personal challenges become a testimony of faith for others to witness? Are you in a season of "finding excuses"? What's one step you can take today to "find a way" forward in faith? Who have you invited to your "table" to pray with you and for you through the rocky waters of life? Scripture Focus: This episode is a practical application of key biblical principles, including: Servant Leadership (John 13:1-17): The episode is a real-world example of leading by serving, mirroring Jesus washing the disciples' feet. God Works for Good (Romans 8:28): Quoted by Nathan, this verse is the anchor for trusting that even difficult paths are part of God's purpose. Walking by Faith, Not by Sight (2Corinthians 5:7): Both guests made life-altering decisions based on a calling they couldn't fully see, embodying what it means to walk by faith. God Qualifies the Called (cf. 1Corinthians1:27−29): The theme of feeling unworthy but stepping out anyway rests on the truth that God chooses and equips us for His mission. 🙌 Join the Movement If you’ve ever felt that God's plan for your career or life seems illogical, risky, or just plain crazy, this episode is for you. Jim and Nathan’s stories are a testament that our greatest impact often lies on the other side of our biggest fears. This is a call to redefine success not by your title or salary, but by your obedience and the quality of your relationships. It’s an encouragement to lead with grace, navigate crises with steady faith, and trust that your "yes" to God can create ripples you may never see this side of heaven. Meet Our Guests Dr. Jim Cummins brings together a decade of CPA experience and over 25 years in education leadership, having served as a teacher, coach, principal, superintendent, and college Vice President of Finance. He is passionate about helping education leaders grow through financial consulting, leadership coaching, and practical tools. Known as a jock in high school, many find it amusing that he once modeled band uniforms for a local company and played a comedic role in Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream. Dr. Nathan Manley has over 20 years of K–12 leadership experience, including roles as a teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent. He partners with school leaders to build people-first cultures and is passionate about empowering educators with the vision and skills to foster thriving schools. Fun fact: he can juggle—an unexpected skill that always surprises his colleagues. 💼 Consulting Business Jim and Nathan also lead a consulting business that supports education leaders and organizations through leadership coaching, financial consulting, and strategic guidance. 🔗 Lifted Education Consulting 📧 Contact Info Nathan Manley – nathan.manley@liftededu.com Jim Cummins – jim.cummins@liftededu.com 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, community updates, and to find links to the resources mentioned in today's show. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this raw and vulnerable episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha Owen pull back the curtain on one of the most challenging topics for believers: finances. What do you do when God asks you to take a financial leap that defies all logic, especially during a global pandemic and a 20% pay cut? How do you battle frustration and doubt when the provision doesn't show up on your timeline? Brian and Kersha share their personal, unbelievable story of selling their home, paying off all their debt, and being called to build a new house they couldn’t yet afford. This isn't just a talk about budgeting; it's a powerful testimony about trusting God as the ultimate provider, even when you're down to the wire. The Owens unpack the emotional rollercoaster of their journey—from Brian’s “microwave mentality” of wanting instant results to the crushing disappointment of a failed job interview. They reveal the profound lesson they learned: their act of obedience wasn't just for them, but for the family God intended the house for all along. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling stretched by God, facing financial uncertainty, or struggling to believe that He will provide. It’s a candid look at how God qualifies the called, turning feelings of inadequacy and fear into a foundation of crazy, unbelievable faith. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: Navigating Financial Frustration: Hear how Brian and Kersha dealt with the feeling of "more month than money" and the intense frustration that comes with waiting on God's timing. The 'Microwave Mentality' Trap: Learn why wanting instant, "quick bake" results can block your view of God's much bigger, long-term plan for your life. Faith Over Financials: The incredible story of building a home with no clear path to affording it, and how God miraculously provided a new job just 15 days before closing. Seeing the Forest for the Trees: A powerful lesson in shifting your perspective from the overwhelming details of your struggle to the vastness of God's greater purpose. The Power of a Unified 'Yes': Discover Brian and Kersha's "triangle" principle for making major, life-altering decisions as a couple to ensure you're always on the same mission. The Ripple Effect of Obedience: Understand how your act of faith might not just be for you, but a crucial gift that opens a door for someone else down the line. From Inadequacy to Action: Practical encouragement for how to move forward when you feel completely unqualified and unequipped for the task God has given you. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Kersha: "If we build this house and we never move into it, we've done what God has asked us to do." Brian: "I wanted the microwave mentality, which is, I just wanna hit the button and it's done." Brian: "Can you just tell your God to talk to my God and, you know, get this thing worked out?" Kersha, quoting Pastor Sean: "Your obedience to sell your home, who's needing that? To be in the community... that's opening a door for them that could impact their life." Kersha: "God doesn't call the qualified. He qualifies the called." Brian: "God's gonna open the door, but it's on me to finish it." Kersha: "If God is calling you to start a business or calling you to give that gift, you don't know what the fruit is on the backside. And he will never leave you." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself Where is God stretching you financially, and are you responding with faith or frustration? Are you caught in a "microwave mentality," demanding instant answers instead of trusting God's timing and process? Do you feel inadequate or unequipped for something God is calling you to do? How can you lean on the truth that He qualifies the called? If you're married, are you and your spouse unified in your big decisions, moving together towards God's mission for you? Is there a major step of faith—starting a business, giving a gift, changing careers—that you're hesitating to take? What would it look like to "do it anyway"? Who have you invited to your "table" to pray with you and for you through your current challenges? Scripture Focus: This episode is a practical application of key biblical principles, including: God as Provider (Philippians 4:19): The core of the episode rests on the truth that God will meet all our needs according to His glorious riches, just as He did for Brian and Kersha. Walking by Faith, Not by Sight (2 Corinthians 5:7): Their journey is a powerful example of taking obedient steps without being able to see the final outcome. God's Perfect Timing (Ecclesiastes 3:1): The story highlights the importance of trusting God's season for everything, rather than demanding results on our own schedule. Unity in Mission (Amos 3:3): The "triangle" principle for marriage directly reflects the biblical concept that two must agree to walk together in purpose. 🙌 Join the Movement If you've ever felt that what God is asking of you is too big, too scary, or too financially impossible, this episode is your sign to press on. Brian and Kersha’s story is a raw testament to the fact that God’s provision often lies on the other side of our uncomfortable "yes." It's a call to stop letting financial spreadsheets dictate the size of your faith and to start living a life where obedience, not comfort, is the goal. Let go of the need to control the outcome and embrace the adventure of trusting Him completely. 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, community updates, and to find links to the resources mentioned in today's show. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this deeply moving episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha Owen welcome special guest Jerry for a conversation that will challenge everything you thought you knew about forgiveness. What do you do when an employee and friend steals a million dollars from you? How do you move forward when you've been betrayed in business? Jerry shares his unbelievable real-life stories of choosing grace over justice, not for the sake of the person who wronged him, but for the generations that followed. This isn't just a talk about saying "I forgive you"; it's a masterclass in living a life that is "blessable" to God. Jerry unpacks the profound wisdom he learned from his Amish mentor, rooted in Deuteronomy 28, and explains how simple acts of service—like picking up weeds on a sidewalk—can unlock a flood of God's favor. From confronting a salesman who tried to take over his company to showing compassion to an employee who embezzled funds, Jerry provides a powerful testimony to the freedom that comes from releasing bitterness. This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with unforgiveness, feeling stuck by past hurts, or wanting to understand how to truly live out God's call to grace in the most difficult circumstances. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: Becoming Blessable: Discover the secret to unlocking God's favor in your life through small, intentional acts of service, as taught to Jerry by his eighth-grade-educated Amish mentor. The Prisoner of Unforgiveness: A powerful perspective shift on how holding a grudge doesn't harm the other person—it imprisons you. Learn how to set yourself free. Grace Over Justice: Hear the incredible story of how Jerry chose to forgive an employee who stole over a million dollars, and the miraculous, generational impact that decision had on the man's children. The Windshield vs. The Rearview Mirror: Kersha's insightful analogy for why we must focus on the vast future God has for us, not the small reflection of our past. The Power of Proverbs: Learn how a daily habit of reading one chapter of Proverbs can radically transform your business, relationships, and mindset. The Ripple Effect of Grace: Understand that your choice to forgive might not just be for you or the offender, but for the innocent people caught in the crossfire. Taking the High Road: A practical lesson on why we should never "keep score" in our generosity, and the freedom that comes from always being the one willing to give. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Jerry: "To forgive is to set a person free and discover that the prisoner was you." Kersha: "Think about driving in a car. Your rear view mirror is small, but your windshield is big because you're not going backwards. You're going forwards." Jerry on forgiving the million-dollar theft: "We're not doing it for him, we're doing it for his kids." Kersha: "When you have the source of peace, your life will be peaceful. When you have the source of fear, your life will be fearful. You've gotta change where you're getting your source from." Brian, on John Maxwell's wisdom: "I will never keep track, never keep score of whose turn is it to buy or who did or didn't buy. I'm just always going to buy." Jerry: "Sin is sin, whether it's a little one or it's a big one. In God's eyes, it's all equal." Kersha: "Forgiveness is the cleansing of your soul... you are giving back to God for God to deal with instead of housing it and carrying that weight around." Jerry: "I didn't want to seem like a good businessman. I wanna be one." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself Who are you holding in a prison of unforgiveness, and are you willing to forgive them to finally set yourself free? Are you living life looking through the small rearview mirror of past hurts, or are you focused on the large windshield of the future God has planned for you? In what small way can you practice being "blessable" this week? (e.g., picking up a piece of trash, helping a neighbor, doing an unnoticed act of service). Is there a situation where you are demanding justice, but God might be calling you to extend radical grace for a bigger purpose? In which relationships are you "keeping score"? What would it look like to erase the tally marks and simply choose to be generous? How can you apply the "Proverbs Challenge" to your life by reading one chapter a day to gain wisdom and keep the "bad stuff away"? Scripture Focus: This episode is a practical application of key biblical principles, including: The Blessings of Obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1-7): Jerry's core principle of becoming "blessable" is rooted in God's promise to bless those who diligently obey His voice. The Power of Wisdom (The Book of Proverbs): The conversation highlights how the daily pursuit of wisdom found in Proverbs is a roadmap for success in life and business. The Mandate to Forgive (Matthew 6:14-15): The episode serves as a powerful illustration of the principle that we must forgive others as God has forgiven us. God's Grace is Sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9): Jerry's ability to extend grace in impossible situations reflects the truth that God's power is made perfect in our weakness. 🙌 Join the Movement If you've ever thought a hurt was too big to forgive or that grace was too costly to give, this episode is your turning point. Jerry’s story is a raw, unbelievable testament to the fact that God’s economy operates on a different level. It’s a call to stop letting past wounds dictate your future and to start living a life so full of grace that you become a conduit for God's blessings. Let go of the desire for revenge and embrace the freedom that is only found in forgiveness. Don't miss the resources mentioned in this episode, including Jerry’s recommendations: Wisdom for Today's Leaders and The Seven Pillars of Success. Get your copy here: https://resources.lared.org/product/the-7-pillars-of-success-a-model-for-triumph/ 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, community updates, and to find links to the resources mentioned in today's show. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this powerful episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha Owen sit down with author and speaker Chris Robinson to discuss the moments that define us. What happens when the success you’ve built falls apart? How do you find your God-given purpose when you feel like you're drifting? Chris shares his incredible journey from failed businesses, bankruptcy, and DUIs to becoming a "marketplace minister" and a New York Times bestselling author. This isn't just a story about bouncing back; it's a raw and honest look at what it means to be stripped of everything to find the one thing that truly matters. Chris gets vulnerable about the painful process of trading his Hummer and BMW for a life of purpose, and the critical choice he made to stop caring what his path to success looked like to anyone else. Using powerful personal stories, like how a simple bowl of ramen noodles came to symbolize a scarcity mindset, Chris provides a roadmap for anyone feeling stuck or defined by their past. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone ready to move from a life of drift to one of divine drive. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: The Stepping Stone vs. The Pinnacle: How to see past failures not as the end of the road, but as crucial stepping stones God uses to elevate you to your true calling. Letting Go of Status: The profound freedom that comes from releasing the need for external validation and status symbols (like cars and houses) to fully embrace God's plan. The Scarcity Mindset Trap: An insightful look at how our thoughts, symbolized by Chris's "ramen noodle" story, can either lead us toward scarcity or abundance. Becoming a Marketplace Minister: A practical guide to integrating your faith into your work and becoming a light in the corporate world, reaching people who might never step into a church. Praying Away Desire: The powerful testimony of how Chris prayed for God to remove the desire for alcohol, tackling the root of addiction and finding instant freedom. Finding God in the Phone Book: A humorous and inspiring story about how, at their lowest point, a search for a church in a phone book led to a life-changing divine connection. Hope for the Drifting: A heartfelt message of encouragement for anyone in a tough season, reminding you that God is always with you, even when you can't see the way forward. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Chris: "If I had held on to what I had built in my twenties, that would've become my pinnacle when God meant it to be my stepping stone." Brian: "Status means that you're still too arrogant to understand success." Chris: "It's the mindset that was attached to the ramen that helped me drift into that direction where I thought that I was going." Kersha: "There's healing that happens when we can look back and laugh at seasons of our lives, and we can find humor in the pain." Chris: "The choice was to not care what my path to success look like to anybody else." Brian on God's timing: "We're in that microwave... mentality of society. People want that." Chris: "I was called to be inside the marketplace. So I saw myself as a marketplace minister." Chris's encouragement: "If you're in a drift, if you're in a tough place... it's okay. God's beside you. He's with you. He's never left you, nor will he ever forsake you." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself What "status symbols" (a title, a car, a reputation) might you be clinging to that are preventing you from pursuing God's true calling for your life? Are you currently operating from a "ramen noodle" scarcity mindset or a mindset of divine abundance? Where do you need to shift your dominant thoughts? In what area of your life do you feel like you are "drifting"? What is one small, intentional step you can take this week to move toward "drive"? How can you view a past failure as a "stepping stone" rather than a final destination? What did God teach you in that season? Is there a destructive desire in your heart (addiction, envy, bitterness) that you need to start praying for God to remove? How can you be a "marketplace minister" in your unique sphere of influence—at work, in your neighborhood, or online? Scripture Focus: This episode is a practical application of key biblical principles, including: God's Unfailing Presence (Deuteronomy 31:6): Chris's core message of hope is a direct reflection of God's promise: "He will never leave you nor forsake you." Finding Purpose in All Things (Romans 8:28): The conversation demonstrates how God works all things—even failed businesses and personal struggles—together for the good of those who love Him. Working for the Lord (Colossians 3:23): The concept of being a "marketplace minister" echoes the call to "work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord." God Hears Our Prayers (Jeremiah 29:12): Brian's "God wink" moment reflects the promise that when we call on Him, He will listen. 🙌 Join the Movement If you've ever felt defined by past failures, worried about what others think, or stuck in a season of aimless drifting, this episode is your lifeline. Chris Robinson’s story is a powerful testament that God’s plan is often found on the other side of surrender. It’s a call to let go of the life you planned so you can embrace the one He has purposed for you, trusting that He is with you every step of the way. Don't miss Chris's book, From Drift to Drive, available September 2nd! 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, community updates, and to submit prayer requests. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this foundational episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha Owen tackle a question that sits at the heart of our character: Are you a giver or a taker? Moving beyond simple definitions, they explore how this dynamic shows up in every corner of our lives—from our finances and our time to our deepest relationships. This isn't just a conversation about money; it's a compelling call to examine the posture of our hearts. It's a must-listen for anyone wanting to cultivate a life of integrity, generosity, and true servanthood. Brian and Kersha get vulnerable about their own journey, discussing the seasons where it's necessary to "take" and be refilled, and how they've learned to grow together in their marriage instead of just parallel to one another. Using powerful analogies like money being a "brick" that can either build or break, they break down how to steward God’s blessings. This episode is a practical guide to closing the gap between your public and private life, learning to give without expecting anything in return, and trusting that 90% with God is more powerful than 100% on your own. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: Giver vs. Taker Defined: The core difference between an "others-focused" life and a "self-focused" life, and why it matters in your daily walk with God. The Three Currencies of Generosity: How to be a giver not just with your finances, but also with your time and your unique skills and gifts. The Necessity of "Taking" Seasons: An important discussion on why it's okay—and often necessary—to be a "taker" to refill your cup, especially when you feel depleted. Money is a Neutral Tool: The powerful analogy of a brick, showing how money itself isn't good or bad, but a tool that can be used for building foundations or for destruction. The Integrity Challenge: A compelling call to be the same person at work as you are at home, ensuring your actions and values are consistent. The Quid Pro Quo Trap: How to break free from a transactional mindset ("I'll do this for you, so you'll do that for me") and learn to serve purely out of love. Trusting God with 90%: A faith-building look at the principle of tithing and how trusting God with the first 10% unlocks His blessing on the rest. Growing Together, Not Apart: Insight into how couples can avoid drifting apart by communicating intentionally and committing to grow together through every season. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Kersha: "A giver is someone that is others focused, and a taker is someone who is just self-focused, focuses just on themselves, and what can they get or take versus what can they give." Brian: "Bricks can be used to build a solid foundation, solid structure... Or you could also take that brick and break a window." Kersha: "I think that's where a lot of families, couples go wrong. Is they kind of give up on growing together. And they just think that they're growing parallel." Brian: "I'd rather stand with God and be judged by the world than to stand with the world and be judged by God." Brian: "You can do more with 90%... plus God than you can do with a hundred percent on your own." Brian on the legacy of time: "When an old man dies, a library burns." Kersha: "I was taught do things for them so that they'll do for you. It was definitely a quid pro, pro quo type of a mentality." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself Are you the same person at work as you are at home? If there's a difference, what's one step you can take this week to live with more integrity? In which "currency"—finances, time, or skills—do you find it easiest to give? Which one is the most challenging for you? Are you currently in a season where your cup is empty? How can you give yourself permission to "take" and be refilled so you can serve from a place of abundance? Examine your relationships. Do you operate with a "quid pro quo" expectation, or do you give freely without expecting anything in return? Does your approach to money reflect trust in God's provision or a fear of scarcity? How could a shift in perspective change how you give? In your marriage or key relationships, are you actively growing together or simply moving on parallel tracks? What's one way you can connect more intentionally? Scripture Focus: This episode is a practical application of key biblical principles, including: Serving Others (Mark 10:45): Jesus set the ultimate example of being a giver, stating He "did not come to be served, but to serve." Tithing & Provision (Malachi 3:10): The discussion on tithing echoes the promise to "bring the full tithe into the storehouse" and see if God will not "pour out for you a blessing until there is no more need." Living with Integrity (Proverbs 11:3): The episode's challenge to be the same person everywhere reflects the biblical truth that "the integrity of the upright guides them." 🙌 Join the Movement If you've ever felt stuck in a transactional mindset, depleted from over-serving, or divided between who you are in public and in private, this episode is for you. Brian and Kersha’s conversation is a powerful reminder that a life of generosity, integrity, and trust is not only possible but is the key to true fulfillment. It's a call to build a legacy with the "bricks" God has given you, reflecting His character in every area of your life. 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, community updates, and to submit prayer requests. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this powerful episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha Owen sit down with guest Hunter Murray to discuss one of the most challenging acts of obedience: walking away from success. Hunter shares his incredible story of co-founding a company, building it for over 20 years, and then hearing God's call to leave it all behind without knowing what was next. This conversation is a profound exploration of identity, obedience, and trusting God when the path forward is unclear. It’s a must-listen for any leader, entrepreneur, or person who has ever felt that God is calling them to "something more." Brian, Kersha, and Hunter dive deep into the emotional and spiritual reality of detaching your identity from what you do and anchoring it in who you are in Christ. Hunter uses the beautiful analogy of his father's gentle invitation to "go fishing" to describe how God calls us to join Him. This episode is an inspirational guide for anyone navigating the "messy middle"—that uncertain space between letting go of the old and stepping into the new—and learning to find peace in God’s refining process, even when it feels like you're in the fire. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: The Invitation to "Go Fishing": A heartwarming analogy for how God gently invites us to join Him in His work, reminding us that we always have a choice to say yes. Identity vs. Accomplishment: The profound challenge of separating your self-worth from your career title and earthly success, and finding your true identity as a child of God. Navigating the "Messy Middle": What it looks like to live in the uncomfortable, in-between season after a major leap of faith, and how God uses this time to refine and prepare you. Obedience Over Logic: Why following God's call often defies conventional wisdom and how to handle the opposition—both internal and external—that comes with a radical act of faith. God as the Good Father: Hunter’s testimony of clinging to the promise that God will not ask you to leave something secure only to abandon you as an orphan. The Refiner's Fire: Kersha’s powerful image of how God sits with us in our trials, purifying us until He can see His own reflection in us. God Can't Steer a Parked Car: The critical importance of taking the first step of obedience, even when you can't see the entire staircase. Hearing God’s Voice: Practical insight into distinguishing God’s voice from your own thoughts and the noise of the world, especially when He asks you to do something you wouldn't naturally choose. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Hunter: "I think I finally realized he wants to tell his story through me." Kersha: "The messy middle is the digression of your flesh and the buildup of your spirit, more Christlike." Hunter: "I'm a good father. I'm not gonna ask you as my child to leave something and then leave you as an orphan." Brian: "God can't steer a parked car." Hunter: "Who am I apart from what I do or what I can produce? And that's a really scary thing to try to face." Hunter: "I had a great relationship with my dad. But... he would come into my bedroom on Saturday mornings and he would just whisper in my ear and he would say, 'Do you want to go fishing?'... That was the invitation. That's what it felt like from the Lord." Kersha: "When you are silver and you're placed over the fire the refiner... sits there and studies that piece of silver until he can see his reflection in it, and that's when he knows that the silver is purified." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself Is your identity more tied to what you do or who God says you are? How would you feel if your career or primary role was taken away tomorrow? Have you ever felt God whispering an invitation to you? Like Hunter's "go fishing" moment, what might God be inviting you to join Him in right now? Are you currently in a "messy middle"? Instead of rushing through it, how can you lean into God's refining process and trust that He is preparing you? What is one area of your life where logic and reason are preventing you from being fully obedient to what you feel God is asking? Hunter had to take the first step without knowing the destination. What is one step of faith you can take this week, trusting God to reveal the next one in His timing? Do you truly believe God is a Good Father who won't abandon you? How does that belief (or lack thereof) affect your willingness to take risks for Him? Scripture Focus: Jeremiah 29:11: This episode is a living example of God's promise: "For I know the plans I have for you... plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." John 14:18: Hunter’s story powerfully reflects Jesus' promise, "I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you." This episode also alludes to the Refiner's Fire (Malachi 3:3), reminding us that God's presence in our trials is for our purification and ultimate good. 🙌 Join the Movement If you've ever felt trapped by your own success, scared to take a leap of faith, or are currently walking through an uncertain "messy middle," this episode is for you. Hunter's story is a powerful testimony that saying "yes" to God's invitation is always worth it. It’s a reminder that our greatest purpose isn't found in a title or a company, but in our relationship with the Father who is lovingly refining us to reflect His image. 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, community updates, and to submit prayer requests. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this candid episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha Owen tackle a tough but essential topic: the people you surround yourself with. Using the powerful "crabs in a bucket" analogy, they explore how friendships and associations can either be a "rising tide that lifts all ships" or the very thing pulling you down as you try to grow. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who has felt the sting of jealousy from a friend, struggled to find their tribe, or is in a season of intense growth, whether in business, faith, or personal life. Brian and Kersha get real about the difficult process of assessing relationships, walking away from those that drain your energy, and the freedom that comes from being authentically yourself. They share personal stories of navigating friendships where they had to "tiptoe" to avoid triggering jealousy and the importance of having a core value system to guide your decisions. If you're an entrepreneur, rebuilding after a major life change, or simply trying to level up, this episode is a powerful guide to ensuring the people in your boat are rowing with you, not drilling holes in the bottom. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: The "Crabs in a Bucket" Analogy: An unforgettable visual for how even well-meaning friends can subconsciously hold you back from reaching your potential. Assessing Your Associations: The crucial difference between friends for a reason, a season, or a lifetime, and why it's okay to let some relationships go. The "Rising Tide" Principle: The power of surrounding yourself with people who genuinely celebrate your successes instead of resenting them. Authenticity vs. People-Pleasing: Red flags to watch for if you feel you have to hide your wins or "walk on eggshells" around certain friends or family. Let Go and Let God: The profound challenge of releasing control, trusting God's plan (especially when it's uncomfortable), and the importance of giving Him the glory. Sowing and Reaping in Relationships: Understanding why your biggest blessings might pop up in a completely different area than where you've been putting in the work. Shedding Your Old Skin: A powerful metaphor for leaving behind draining relationships and embracing the rebirthing process that comes with new seasons of life. Navigating Your Own Jealousy: Brian's candid admission about struggling with others' success and the mindset shift required to genuinely cheer for them. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Kersha: "It is okay to give yourself permission to assess the fruit from those friendships. Not every friendship bears fruit." Brian: "If you throw a dart anywhere and then draw a circle around it, you can say you made it. But if you have a value system, a moral and ethical system in which you make decisions through, then you can draw the circle and make sure that your target is headed to make that bullseye." Kersha: "We spent more mental energy trying to figure out what not to say, to make them jealous than to be authentically ourselves." Brian: "Yeah, you're gonna get knocked down in life. It's just a matter of... get knocked down and just stay down." Kersha: "As Christians, we're okay, we're gonna follow Jesus and we're gonna let him lead us in our life, but we hold on for control rather than let it go and let God." Kersha: "In there, you learn who is willing to encourage you, who's willing to give you hope and sow into you and help you in any way, shape or form." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself Think about your closest friendships. Are they a "rising tide" that lifts you up, or do you feel like you're in a bucket, constantly being pulled down when you try to climb? Have you ever felt like you had to "tiptoe" or hide your successes from a friend or family member? What does that signal about the health of that relationship? Brian and Kersha talk about "assessing the fruit" from friendships. What kind of fruit are your current relationships producing? Is it encouragement and light, or something else? In what areas of your life are you holding on with a closed fist (seeking control) instead of an open hand (trusting God)? Who in your life allows you to be 100% authentic, wins and all? How can you intentionally cultivate more of those relationships? When faced with a big decision, do you have a "moral and ethical system" that helps you aim for the bullseye, or are you just throwing a dart and drawing the circle afterward? Scripture Focus: Psalm 23:2: "He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters." This episode also alludes to Psalm 139:13-14, reminding us that God "knitted you together in your mother’s womb" and "made you perfect." 🙌 Join the Movement If you're an entrepreneur feeling isolated, a person rebuilding your life after a major change, or anyone who has felt the pull of "crabs in a bucket," this episode is for you. It's a powerful reminder that your associations matter and that God calls us to surround ourselves with people who bring light, encouragement, and hope. True community celebrates your growth, and it's okay to shed the relationships that don't. 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, community updates, and to submit prayer requests. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this candid episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha Owen tackle a tough but essential topic: the people you surround yourself with. Using the powerful "crabs in a bucket" analogy, they explore how friendships and associations can either be a "rising tide that lifts all ships" or the very thing pulling you down as you try to grow. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who has felt the sting of jealousy from a friend, struggled to find their tribe, or is in a season of intense growth—whether in business, faith, or personal life. Brian and Kersha get real about the difficult process of assessing relationships, walking away from those that drain your energy, and the freedom that comes from being authentically yourself. They share personal stories of navigating friendships where they had to "tiptoe" to avoid triggering jealousy and the importance of having a core value system to guide your decisions. If you're an entrepreneur, rebuilding after a major life change, or simply trying to level up, this episode is a powerful guide to ensuring the people in your boat are rowing with you, not drilling holes in the bottom. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: The "Crabs in a Bucket" Analogy: An unforgettable visual for how even well-meaning friends can subconsciously hold you back from reaching your potential. Assessing Your Associations: The crucial difference between friends for a reason, a season, or a lifetime, and why it's okay to let some relationships go. The "Rising Tide" Principle: The power of surrounding yourself with people who genuinely celebrate your successes instead of resenting them. Authenticity vs. People-Pleasing: Red flags to watch for if you feel you have to hide your wins or "walk on eggshells" around certain friends or family. Let Go and Let God: The profound challenge of releasing control, trusting God's plan (especially when it's uncomfortable), and the importance of giving Him the glory. Sowing and Reaping in Relationships: Understanding why your biggest blessings might pop up in a completely different area than where you've been putting in the work. Shedding Your Old Skin: A powerful metaphor for leaving behind draining relationships and embracing the rebirthing process that comes with new seasons of life. Navigating Your Own Jealousy: Brian's candid admission about struggling with others' success and the mindset shift required to genuinely cheer for them. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Kersha: "It is okay to give yourself permission to assess the fruit from those friendships. Not every friendship bears fruit." Brian: "If you throw a dart anywhere and then draw a circle around it, you can say you made it. But if you have a value system, a moral and ethical system in which you make decisions through, then you can draw the circle and make sure that your target is headed to make that bullseye." Kersha: "We spent more mental energy trying to figure out what not to say, to make them jealous than to be authentically ourselves." Brian: "Yeah, you're gonna get knocked down in life. It's just a matter of... get knocked down and just stay down." Kersha: "As Christians, we're okay, we're gonna follow Jesus and we're gonna let him lead us in our life, but we hold on for control rather than let it go and let God." Kersha: "In there, you learn who is willing to encourage you, who's willing to give you hope and sow into you and help you in any way, shape or form." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself Think about your closest friendships. Are they a "rising tide" that lifts you up, or do you feel like you're in a bucket, constantly being pulled down when you try to climb? Have you ever felt like you had to "tiptoe" or hide your successes from a friend or family member? What does that signal about the health of that relationship? Brian and Kersha talk about "assessing the fruit" from friendships. What kind of fruit are your current relationships producing? Is it encouragement and light, or something else? In what areas of your life are you holding on with a closed fist (seeking control) instead of an open hand (trusting God)? Who in your life allows you to be 100% authentic, wins and all? How can you intentionally cultivate more of those relationships? When faced with a big decision, do you have a "moral and ethical system" that helps you aim for the bullseye, or are you just throwing a dart and drawing the circle afterward? 🙌 Join the Movement If you're an entrepreneur feeling isolated, a person rebuilding your life after a major change, or anyone who has felt the pull of "crabs in a bucket," this episode is for you. It's a powerful reminder that your associations matter and that God calls us to surround ourselves with people who bring light, encouragement, and hope. True community celebrates your growth, and it's okay to shed the relationships that don't. 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, community updates, and to submit prayer requests. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

What happens when you’re certain you’ve heard from God, you walk in obedience, and the door slams shut in your face? In this raw and transparent episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha Owen get real about a recent and painful journey of disappointment, self-doubt, and major course correction. They share the story of following what they believed was God’s plan to buy a property—twice—only to have both paths lead to a dead end. This episode is a powerful look at the messy middle of faith—the part where your timing isn’t God’s timing, where your expectations clash with His plans, and where the most important lesson isn’t about acquiring a new home, but about achieving true unity as a couple. If you’ve ever questioned if you were hearing God’s voice correctly, felt angry or let down by an outcome, or struggled to get on the same page with your spouse, this conversation is a crucial reminder that God’s preparation often comes through pain, and His greatest blessings can be found in the reset that follows a setback. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: Trusting Yourself vs. Trusting God: How to discern the difference between God’s will and your own desires, especially when you feel like you’ve gotten it wrong. The Danger of Delayed Obedience: Why putting off what God is calling you to do is still a form of disobedience. Navigating Spiritual Disappointment: How to process frustration and anger with God when a plan you were sure was from Him falls apart. The 100/100 Marriage Rule: The critical importance of being in complete unity with your spouse before making major life decisions. Recognizing the "Red Lights": How to identify and respect the warning signs God sends, even when your emotions are pushing you forward. The Purpose of the "Preparation Phase": Understanding that challenging seasons are often God’s way of preparing you for a bigger blessing you can’t yet see. Why a Marital Reset is a Miracle: Discovering how a hardship that seems to pull you apart can actually bring you back together, stronger than before. Stop Boxing God In: A powerful lesson on releasing your own expectations of how and when God should work in your life. 💬 Memorable Quotes: Kersha: "It's not God you don't trust. It's you have a trust issue with yourself." Brian: "God asks for our obedience, not our opinion." Kersha: "Delayed obedience is still disobedience. So if you're putting off what God is calling you to do, you're delaying it and it's still disobedience." Brian: "If it's not crazy, it's not from God. Just remember, Noah built an arc." Kersha: "Miracles happen in hardships." Kersha: "This pain is for a bigger purpose." Kersha: "I put his miracles inside of a box. I boxed him and I said, okay, God, if you're gonna do a miracle, you can only do it one of these ways." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself Have you ever felt deeply disappointed when a plan you believed was from God didn't work out? How did you navigate those feelings of doubt or anger? Think about a major decision you're facing. Are you and your spouse truly "on the same page" and "hand in hand," or are you just moving in the same general direction with different perspectives? When was the last time you recognized a "red light" from God? Did you stop, or did you push through because of your own desires? In what areas of your life might you be "boxing God in" by expecting Him to work only in ways you can imagine? Can you look back on a past hardship and see how it was actually a "preparation phase" for a blessing or lesson you needed later on? Is there an area where you are practicing "delayed obedience"? What is holding you back from taking that step of faith? 🙌 Join the Movement If you've ever felt like you were losing your mind trying to follow God, you're in the right place. This episode is proof that faith isn't about getting everything right the first time. It's about learning, growing, and trusting God through the process—even when it's painful. It’s a powerful testimony that when we allow Him to, God can use setbacks to strengthen our faith and our most important relationships. 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, community updates, and to connect with Brian and Kersha. 📩 Want to be a guest on the podcast? Check the show notes for more information on how to share your story. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others find hope and encouragement in their own faith journeys. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this special solo episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian Owen takes the mic while Kersha is out supporting their daughter at a homeschool event. Stepping into the conversation from his perspective, Brian shares a heartfelt and practical message for parents and partners navigating the beautiful chaos of family life. He offers a dad's take on the realities of "single-parent mode," the crucial need to cherish time before it flies by, and the powerful framework that shapes his and Kersha's marriage. This episode is a candid look at the partnership behind the faith journey. Drawing from funny grocery store encounters, the wisdom of mentors like John Maxwell, and the raw emotion of watching his kids grow up, Brian unpacks what it means to be a team. If you’ve ever felt like you're just trying to survive the day-to-day, this episode is a powerful reminder to pause, get on the same page with your partner, and find joy in the uphill climb of a life lived with purpose. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: Surviving "Single-Parent Mode": How to navigate the challenges and hilarious societal perceptions of parenting solo, even when you're married. The "I'll Do It in a Minute" Trap: A crucial reminder (with a shout-out to Chris Decker) to be present with your kids and prioritize moments over tasks. Why Time Flies: A heartfelt reflection on how quickly children grow up, from bringing them home from the hospital to seeing them become freshmen. Submission Redefined: A powerful reframe of submission in marriage as being "under one mission"—working together towards a common goal. The 100/100 Partnership: Why a strong marriage isn't 50/50 but two partners each giving 100% in their lanes. Your Family's Filter System: How Brian and Kersha prioritize their life: God first, their marriage second, and their children third, to ensure a strong foundation. The Power of Teamwork: The importance of uplifting your partner, staying in sync, and pulling each other up on the hard days. Embracing the Uphill Climb: Leaning on John Maxwell's wisdom that "everything worthwhile is uphill" and understanding how God stretches you to increase your capacity. 💬 Memorable Quotes: "The way Kirsha and I perceive submission as being under one mission." "It's not 50/50 'cause we're not just getting half of each other. We get a hundred percent of each other." "She is my rock. And I think she would say the same thing, that I'm her rock in this whole journey that we're on." "This can wait. I want to go do this with my kid because if I don't, I may never get this minute or this moment or anything with them." "She would always say, you know, babe, you're gonna look back as you get older and you're gonna miss these things. And honestly, she was wholeheartedly right." "God will never give you more than you can handle. He will never stretch you further than you're allowed." "Why are we letting these... these molehills turn into mountains right now." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself How do you and your partner practice being "under one mission"? Are your goals aligned? Are you guilty of the "I'll do it in a minute" excuse with your family? What's one small change you can make this week to be more present? What is your family's "filter"? Do you put your marriage first after God to create a strong foundation for your children? Think of a time you were in "single-parent mode." What did it teach you about your own strength and your partnership? How can you intentionally uplift and edify your partner today, reminding them that you are on the same team? What "uphill" battle are you facing right now? How can you reframe it as something worthwhile that is stretching your faith and capacity? 🙌 Join the Movement If you're a parent trying to find balance, a spouse looking to strengthen your teamwork, or anyone needing encouragement for the "uphill" parts of life, this episode is a reminder that you're not alone and that a strong partnership makes the journey worthwhile. 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, community updates, and exclusive access to Kersha’s upcoming book. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this moving solo episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Kersha Owen comes to you from the beautiful shores of Puerto Rico. Brian is away, but the inspiration is flowing as Kersha shares a powerful message God laid on her heart about what it truly means to trust Him and give generously. Using the vastness of the ocean as a stunning metaphor for God's all-consuming love, Kersha invites listeners to stop dipping their toes in the water and to dive headfirst into the life God is calling them to. Drawing from her own struggles with answering the call to homeschool and recent inspiration from a John Maxwell event, this episode is a lifeline for anyone feeling hesitant, afraid, or doubtful about their purpose. If you're standing on the shoreline of a big decision, this episode will give you the courage to swim out into the deep with God. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: The Ocean of God's Love: How to embrace being "all-consumed" by God's grace, character, and faithfulness, just like being in the ocean. Overcoming the Fear of "Yes": Recognizing and pushing past the doubts and fears that keep you from stepping into your unique calling. Trusting the Unseen Plan: Why God's plans rarely match our expectations and how to find peace in His mysterious and magnificent ways. From Reluctance to Obedience: Kersha’s personal testimony of wrestling with and finally embracing the call to homeschool her children. The Power of Radical Generosity: Lessons learned from John Maxwell on the impact of giving freely and adding "legs to your legacy." Don't Just Dip Your Toes In: The danger of a "halfway" commitment and the beauty of going all-in with God. His Strength in Your "Yes": The assurance that God provides the perseverance, mercy, and grace for every task He calls you to. Future Guests: A sneak peek at future episodes featuring guests with their own "crazy God stories" from the EQUIP community. 💬 Memorable Quotes: "Be all consumed by his love, his glory, his faithfulness, his character, he loves you and he will never let you drown in that water." "Sometimes the only pain that we have is when we thought God was gonna do it this way and it didn't happen this way, but that was us placing expectations on God." "God will give you the strength you need to say yes in whatever he's calling you to do. He will give you the perseverance, his hand, his mercy, his grace, and his love." "Legs to your legacy. That is a quote straight outta John C. Maxwell's mouth." "Take a dive. Go swimming with God. Let him love on you. Let him rejuvenate your soul. Trust him." "Our heart behind this podcast is reaching those souls, the souls that maybe are afraid to step out into the water." "God doesn't make mistakes." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself What is the "water" God is calling you to step out into right now? What fears are keeping you on the shore? Are you trying to live "halfway" for God, just dipping a toe in? What would it look like to dive in completely? Where in your life have you placed your own expectations on God's plan? How can you surrender those expectations to Him? Think about a time God "stretched" you. How did that experience shape your faith and obedience? How can you practice radical generosity this week? What gift, big or small, can you give to bless someone else? In what area of your life do you need to trust that God will lead you beside "still waters" and give you rest? 📖 Scripture Focus: Psalm 23:2: "He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters." This episode also alludes to Psalm 139:13-14, reminding us that God "knitted you together in your mother’s womb" and "made you perfect." 🙌 Join the Movement If you are doubting the special call God has for you, if you're afraid to step out in faith, or if you just need a reminder of God's all-consuming love, this episode is your encouragement to take the plunge! 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, community updates, and exclusive access to Kersha’s upcoming book. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.

In this insightful episode of Crazy Unbelievable Faith, Brian and Kersha Owen welcome special guests Chris and Taylor Decker from Texas to dive deep into the world of homeschooling. This conversation goes beyond textbooks, exploring the emotional, spiritual, and practical aspects of educating children at home. Brian and Kersha, along with Chris and Taylor, share their personal experiences, struggles, and triumphs in their homeschooling journeys. From unexpected callings to embracing a more natural family rhythm, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on how faith and flexibility can redefine education. If you've ever considered homeschooling, are currently on the journey, or are simply curious about alternative education paths, this episode offers valuable insights and relatable anecdotes. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: Challenging the "Public School at Home" Myth: Why trying to replicate a traditional school environment within homeschooling can be counterproductive. Child-Led Learning: Understanding how children's individual pace and interests can guide the learning process in a homeschool setting. Emotional & Spiritual Guidance: The crucial role parents play in helping children navigate their emotions and foster a deeper relationship with God. The Freedom of Flexibility: How homeschooling allows for adaptable schedules and spontaneous learning opportunities, like impromptu trips. Life Skills Beyond Academics: Emphasizing the importance of teaching practical life skills, chores, and initiative alongside traditional academics. Resourcefulness Over Perfection: Practical tips on utilizing everyday objects and simple methods for effective learning without a "Pinterest-perfect" setup. Overcoming Parental Insecurities: Addressing the common fear of not being "smart enough" or "equipped" to homeschool, and finding strength in God-given qualifications. The Power of Community: The importance of leaning on a network of homeschooling families for wisdom and support. 💬 Memorable Quotes: "Public school is the school leads the curriculum and the standards. Homeschool the children lead." "There's no testimony without the test. There's no success without the suck." "Our calling as parents is to bring our children to know Jesus Christ." "Learning can only happen in the classroom... you can teach anytime." "The level doesn't equate to the grade. The level equates to the information you're now ready for." "We are the solution to our children's education because God uniquely equipped and qualified us to understand them." "Increasing our dependence and our reliance on... God ultimately for him to show us." "It's about being as resourceful as you need to teaching your child what they need to do." 🛑 Reflect + Apply: Questions to Ask Yourself What preconceived notions do you hold about homeschooling, and how might they limit your perspective? How can you empower your children to lead their own learning in ways that align with their unique strengths and interests? In what areas of your family life can you embrace more flexibility and a "natural rhythm" to foster deeper connections and learning? What practical life skills are you actively teaching your children, and how can you integrate them into their daily routines? What resources can you tap into within your community or online to support your family's educational journey? How can you trust in God's equipping for your role as a parent and educator, even when you feel inadequate? 📖 Scripture Focus: Proverbs 22:6: "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." Let this episode inspire you to rethink education and embrace the incredible journey of raising and teaching your children with faith, freedom, and intentionality. 🙌 Join the Movement If you're seeking to explore alternative education paths, desire a deeper connection with your children, or want to learn how faith can transform your parenting, this episode is for you! 💻 Visit crazyunbelievablefaith.com to sign up for behind-the-scenes content, community updates, and exclusive access to Kersha’s upcoming book. 📩 Got questions or want to connect? Brian and Kersha would love to hear from you. 🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share this episode to help others experience the same encouragement you just received. Crazy Unbelievable Faith: Because the life God calls you to isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it.